Cold Weather Hunting: How to Handle Sub-Zero Temperatures

Hunting in the cold weather is not for the faint of heart, nor is it something that everyone can handle. I have more of a tolerance for the cold that many of my buddies, so I often hunt in the northern states by myself. It requires a ruthless desire to hunt as well as a singular tolerance for the cold, which some people have and some people don't. If you want to try cold weather hunting, however, here are a few tips for handling the sub-zero temperatures you're likely to encounter.

Generate Body Heat and Blood Flow

The worst thing you can do while cold weather hunting is sit still for long periods of time. As the body temperature lowers and the blood flow begins to slow, you'll start to shiver and you won't be able to get a shot off to save your life. Plus, you'll be miserable. When sub-zero temperatures set in, start doing little exercises to stay limber, even if you're hunting from a stand. Flexing muscles, stretching arms and bending knees can help keep you warm.

Keep Your Skin Warm

The most important layer of clothing you wear during cold weather hunting is the one right next to your skin. Thermal underwear and insulating material can help retain body heat without creating too much bulk. Check out the clothes offered at Web sites like UnderArmour and Patagonia. This is great for hunters who are constantly on the move because it absorbs perspiration while retaining heat; you don't want to get overheated while hunting.

Go with Fleece Lining

Jackets like Helly Hansen's Polartec Fleece can keep you warm regardless of where you're doing your cold weather hunting. When it comes to sub-zero temperatures, I trust nothing else. It will not only keep the heat from escaping, but it is also good for navigating snow when you need as much agility as possible. It keeps you warm without binding, which is essential for this sport.

Use Practical Gloves

Thick, puffy gloves simply won't do for cold weather hunting because you won't get an adequate grip on the trigger. As hand wear goes, I prefer would gloves with fingertips that flip open on the ends so that I can react quickly to game as it passes my stand. I also prefer wool hats whenever possible that cover my ears so I don't have to worry about ear muffs.

Consider Footwear

It is never a good idea to pursue cold weather hunting without proper footwear. In most cases, sub-zero temperatures means that there will be snow on the ground, and protective footwear will keep your toes from literally freezing off. My personal favorite is Sorel's Caribou line of Thermo Plus insulated boots, which aren't much to look at, but they do keep your feet warm. Wool socks don't hurt either, and you can find a fairly inexpensive pair at Bass Pro Shop.