#1: Learn To Move Slower
A good hunter knows when it's time to be patient and when to act, but he also knows that most of the time, standing still and moving slowly is the best way to catch the prey. Any sudden moves or noise (stepping on a branch, or snapping a twig) can raise the alarm and you can kiss your trophy goodbye.
So, to learn how to stand still for hours and how to move slowly enough use a watch as a guide. You'll notice that, at first, it will seem like forever to stand still for 5 minutes but in time you'll get used to the idea. Just make sure you keep quiet and observant of what is happening around you.
#2: Clear the Lanes
As a hunter, you must learn to think ahead and anticipate your prey's moves. So, when you get to a tree stand, don't just get in there and wait for the deer to come out! Do an imagination exercise and take up a shooting position for every direction from which the animal might come. If you see any branches blocking your view, remove them (of you can reach them) and do the same with any other obstacles.
Also, try to find the position that requires the least movement to turn in any shooting direction. This way, if you're surprised by the deer, you can move without scaring the animal away. This technique will be of great use in survival hunting as it teaches you to be prepared in any circumstances.
#3: Continuous Practice
After all, practice makes perfect, right? If you want to improve your hunting skills, it's important to implement various training exercises that will sharpen your shooting technique and keep your reflexes alive and ready.
Hunting requires hand-to-eye coordination, anticipation, and knowledge of the trade, especially if you're doing it for your survival. For this, try to use different weapons and even consider diversifying your portfolio – meaning changing the prey you usually chase.
#4: Use the Technology
In today's day and age there are a lot of accessories that can help improve your skills so don't be ashamed to use it. Get a high-quality scope, a laser pointer (if you have to), or a rangefinder. Anything that can help you get better should be in your kit.
As you get used to the gear and learn the environment and the techniques, you can give up some of the accessories, but as a beginner, it's best to have them.
#5: Learn, learn, learn
Finally the technique that most successful hunters apply is a curious mind. Keep curious and learn about new weapons, techniques, and try to team up with experienced hunters. Of course, it helps to be curious about other things that connect with hunting and may be helpful in a survival scenario, like fishing. Don't forget to always carry a handheld ham radio for communication purpose.
Overall, I think it's best to stay sharp and ready for action if we want to make sure our species will survive in an SHTF situation.
