b'the time of year, I will ask myself a key question; will I survive the night? This means if I get lost or injured, do I have the means to get by until I can get help or find my way out in the morning. Nobody wants to spend an unexpected night out, but it does happen. THE FOLLOWING THREE ITEMS I BELIEVE ARE ESSENTIAL:Personal Locator Beacon: It doesnt matter if Im hunting deer, shooting ducks or up a river doing some fishing I will always be wearing my PLB. For around $350-$500 this is the best insurance policy youll buy. These are also available to be hired on a daily rate. Fire lighting equipment: This really goes without saying and I carry a small strip of rubber (cut pieces of bike inner tube) to use as a fire lighter. It will burn whether its wet or not. A fire will not only keep Hamish Strachan scored a goodyou warm but can be used as a signal meat animal hunting in spring. to help direct someone coming to your rescue. Also, when Im hunting, Ill carry my lighter in my top pocket so I can see which way the wind is going to avoid spooking animals.Spare warm layers: Take something other than what you expect to wear on the hunt, waterproof coat or jacket. A puffer jacket can be a great option as they provide maximum warmth but take up minimum space. Just remember most puffers dont like moisture and will be useless if they get wet.Remember hunting is about the journey. Hunting is not all about pulling the trigger and in my mind is actually a very small part of what I believe being a hunter is. It makes me sad when a so-called hunter returns from a trip gutted, they didnt deck an animal as theyve missed the whole concept of hunting. Yes, I agree a lot of money, time and hard work goes into getting out and to return home empty handed sometimes is hard and frustrating. However, success can be achieved in so many other ways than just letting a bullet fly. It could be as simple as finding a new area that will set you up for future hunting, taking great photos of an animal, landscape or even watching your young pup thrive. With springtime coming, get some maps out, recheck your rifle and dust off the pack. Planning and preparation will help Carrying the meat out of publiclead to success and hopefully meat in the land after a successful spring hunt. freezer for your family.FIGZ /FISHINGINGODZONE87'