There’s something special about the days leading up to hunting season. The anticipation builds with every cooler morning and every moment spent checking gear. But success in the field rarely comes from luck—it’s a result of preparation. At ICB Firearms, we know how important it is to be ready before opening day arrives. From licensing to practice, here’s how to make sure you’re set for a confident and successful hunt.
Double-Check Your Licenses And Regulations
Before you start loading up your truck or checking game cameras, make sure your paperwork is in order. Hunting laws often change year to year, and assuming everything’s the same can lead to serious fines—or worse, losing your hunting privileges.
Renew your hunting license if needed, and purchase any tags required for the game you plan to pursue. Regulations about season dates, shooting hours, and legal weapons can differ not just by state, but by game unit. A quick review of your state wildlife agency’s updates can save you a lot of headaches and keep you on the right side of the law.
Make Sure Your Firearm Is Field-Ready
If your firearm has been in storage since last season, now’s the time to get hands-on with it again. Clean every part—inside and out—and check for any signs of wear, rust, or loosened hardware. A poorly maintained rifle or shotgun doesn’t just underperform; it can put you at risk.
After maintenance, head to the range and make sure your scope is properly zeroed. What was dialed in last year may have shifted. If you changed optics or upgraded anything recently, don’t wait until the day before the hunt to make adjustments. Get comfortable again with your setup. Test how it feels when shooting from different positions—standing, kneeling, and prone. That real-world comfort is what counts in the field.
Secure The Right Ammo And Optics
Don’t wait until the last minute to buy ammo. Popular calibers disappear fast once the season nears. You want to train and hunt with the same load, so buy enough for both.
If you use a scope, make sure it’s clean and stable. Double-check that all screws and rings are snug. If you use a red dot or electronic sight, check the battery life. A dead optic on opening morning is the kind of mistake that ruins more hunts than most people admit.
Rangefinders, binoculars, and spotting scopes should also be checked. Foggy lenses or weak batteries won’t do you any favors once you’re glassing hills or watching a tree line.
Organize Your Clothing And Gear
Now’s the time to sort through your clothing and pack, not the night before your trip. Start with what you’ll wear. Make sure your camo still fits, has no rips or loud fabrics, and hasn’t faded. Wash your clothes in scent-free detergent, and store them away from household odors.
Boots should be broken in and waterproof. Don’t gamble on new boots on a multi-day hunt. Wet or blistered feet are a quick way to cut your trip short. Cold-weather accessories like gloves, beanies, and base layers should also be ready and within reach.
As for your pack, check that your flashlight works, your knife is sharp, and your first-aid kit is fully stocked. Bring extra batteries, waterproof matches, a few snacks, and whatever local laws require for carrying tags or ID. A little time spent organizing now means less fumbling around later when it really matters.
Scout Your Spot Before The Rush
Even if you hunted the same area last year, things change. Animals shift patterns, land use changes, and weather can impact everything. If you haven’t already scouted, now’s the time to do it—preferably multiple visits, at different times of day.
Look for signs: fresh tracks, rubs, feeding areas, bedding zones, and travel corridors. Bring binoculars or trail cameras if you have them, and mark key spots using GPS or a phone app. Pay attention to wind direction and terrain. If you plan to use a blind or tree stand, get it in place well ahead of time. The less disruption you cause just before opening day, the better your odds.
Train Like It’s The Real Thing
Target shooting at the range is great for accuracy, but it doesn’t fully prepare you for a real hunting scenario. Try to simulate actual field conditions. Practice with your gear on—including gloves or a sling—and shoot from positions you’re likely to use while hunting.
Also take time to walk with your full pack, firearm, and boots on. See how your setup feels after a mile or two of hills and brush. It’s better to discover an annoying strap or awkward holster placement now than on opening day.
Be Ready For The Aftermath
If the hunt goes well, you’ll need to act fast. Make sure you’re ready to field dress and transport game efficiently and cleanly. Keep your dressing gloves, game bags, and tags easily accessible in your pack. If you’re hunting big game, consider a bone saw or tarp for hauling quarters. You don’t want to scramble for supplies when daylight is fading and the work is just beginning.
Also, prepare your vehicle with a cooler and plastic liner. Even in cold weather, spoiled meat is a risk if your transport plan isn’t solid.
Final Thoughts
Opening day isn’t the time to be figuring things out—it’s when all your preparation pays off. Knowing your gear is solid, your firearm is zeroed, your spot is scouted, and your mind is clear lets you focus on the moment instead of the mistakes.
At ICB Firearms, we’re committed to helping hunters start every season with confidence. Whether you’re picking up a new rifle, checking your scope, or just need to stock up on ammo, we’re here to support your hunt from preparation to pack out.
