Anytime I make a post or a video related to saddle hunting I frequently see similar comments.  Typically, some are focused on how physically difficult this might appear to be. 

Those comments, to some extent, are true.  But the reality is that the purpose of lightweight mobile hunting is not to be an easy, convenient hunt that requires no effort. The purpose of saddle hunting or hunting with any of the lightweight mobile methods on the market today is the adventure-the ability to go farther and deeper than most hunters are either willing or able to do.

I frequently hunt from ground blinds, traditional ladder stands, or from hang on stands. Another favorite is simply sitting down in a small dip or brushed into a corner behind a tree.  All of these methods have a place and a time to be used. 

Mobile hunting, especially mobile lightweight hunting, requires a certain level of physical fitness.  There’s simply no denying that.  I have found myself kayaking across a lake only to hike a steep hill, then have to climb a tree to hunt.  That is not the type of adventure that you undertake if you’re wanting an easy hunt or aren’t physically prepared to.  That is the type of adventure you undertake if you want to go to the deepest parts of public land and hunt knowing that few have what it takes to do it.  

There are ways to prepare yourself for this type of hunting. Although you don’t have to be a serious fitness enthusiast I certainly am not in order to enjoy this type of hunting you do have to be willing to put forth a little more effort than some of the more traditional or stationary methods.  

First, you must be able to walk farther than average distances, usually carrying some weight on your back.  If you prefer an approach by water, and choose to use a kayak or canoe, then you should be able to make that walk after you’ve paddled your craft to the landing point.  I would encourage anyone who is considering mobile hunting to seriously consider what it is they will be physically required to do before striking out on such an adventure.  A little planning and even some moderate exercise or physical preparation will leave you much better prepared for the hunt