While the number of hunters in the U.S. is on the decline, according to a 5-year study by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, dropping from 13.5 million to 11.5 million, there are still plenty out there, and if you’re one of them, you’re probably getting excited about the upcoming season and are already on the lookout for new AR-15 upper receivers to upgrade your gun for smooth transitions during the hunt. For the best odds of success, consider these tips so that you’ll be well-prepared when open day comes.

Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute to Get Your License

Be sure to obtain your hunting license well in advance of opening day to avoid red tape ruining the hunt. If you’re traveling out of state, it’s even more important as you’ll want to allow for lots of extra time in case of delays. Each state handles the way they process hunting licenses differently, with some taking much longer than others, not to mention the possibilities for delay through the U.S. postal service.

Review Regulations

Whether you plan to hunt in or out of state, it’s important to review hunting regulations as they can vary from season to season, as well as from state to state. Double check bag limits as well as opening and closing dates.

Utilizing Private Land

If you use private land in Michigan or anywhere else to hunt, never take the landowner or the land for granted. It shouldn’t be just a one-way street – offer to share meat or do chores as well as stop by occasionally for friendly visits, well before the season begins. If you have a lease on the land, be sure that it’s up to date and ready to go.

Conduct an Aerial Review

Viewing the land from above by using a physical topographical map or Google Earth is important for marking out map points to scout out. It offers a new prospective and may also open up new opportunities by checking the contours of the land, looking for hidden corridors that deer often travel through or use as cover. If you mark points of interest it can help you stay better organized so that you can make the best use of your time. Don’t forget about other hunters either, one of the biggest challenges when hunting on public land. Get an idea as to where they might enter the field to help you predict where the animals will move under pressure.

Prepare Your Rifle or Bow

Don’t wait until the week before the season opens to sight your bow or gun. Give yourself lots of time to tune your rifle or bow before then to ensure good, clean shots. If you’re using a gun, remember to check for loose screws and stock up on ammunition. A bow should be given a thorough once over, replacing strings and cables if necessary.