1st story

skein · 01-28-2003, 12:02 PM

Stingray,

Good story - one that all of us should read. My wife and I wear our (survival) day packs religiously when we're out hunting, just like we wear our lifejackets when we're fishing. We grab 'em even when we're just going to scout a skid road or something. You never know when you're going to see that buck and get led on a goose chase - just like you did.

Glad it turned out okay, and thanks for the reminder.

Skein

BlindSquirrel · 01-28-2003, 12:18 PM

Good story Stingray. It's a timely reminder for us all to be prepared.

Not to minimize the basic survival essentials, but carrying/using a GPS will stop problems like you describe. GPS's are nearly foolproof, mostly just requiring marking camp (or known spot) and ensuring sufficient battery life. OK -- you have to remember to take it, know how to use it, and not drop it in the drink or off a cliff too.

They are so small and cheap (basic versions < $100) these days -- I would consider them a necessity.

The people stuck on Mt Hood a few weeks ago had a locator beacon and cell phones -- but no GPS's among 4 "experienced" climbers??? It makes you wonder.

I think most people who spend extensive time in the woods have a story like yours at least once in their life. I had my share of getting turned around when in unfamiliar territory before GPS -- but since carrying my GPS -- it's amazing how quick you find your way - even when you don't believe it at first.

Anyway, a long winded welcome to Ifish.

Blind Squirrel

STINGRAY · 01-28-2003, 02:04 PM

Yes, I now carry a GPS but once when SuaDAM H. was startin some stuff the government shut off all GPS sattilites so dont put all your trust in a GPS but a compas is good to learn.

Gun Rod Bow · 01-28-2003, 05:17 PM

Welcome Stingray!

I also carry a GPS on my belt now. They are a great way to cheat in new country. Allows you to "boldly go where"...you know.

I once took a "meat run" out riding my old saddle horse leading my mule and a friends horse each loaded with a quartered spike elk. My stupid mule tried to kick that horses head off all the way out. I think the lead line increased 18" in length. I got tired of fighting her and re-packing so I stopped in a creek and filled her paniers with rocks, then hauled ass (quite literally) up switch backs. There was so much steam coming off her that I could't see the horse in back.

Anyway, ended up staying out at the trailhead overnight and riding back the next morning. When I rode in, my buddy was drinking coffee and wearing my coat and slippers and yelled.."OK everybody put his stuff back, he's not dead afterall". I didn't even see a hint of a tear.

I've got a horse now that I'd trust in the dark, and keep a chain through my mules halter and we all get along just fine. Just brought back that memory.

Welcome

GRB

STINGRAY · 01-28-2003, 11:35 PM

This is my story about getting lost�my buddies and I were hunting �High Cascade� unit several years ago off Hwy. 44 (Dufur Hwy) we went out for the eve. hunt about 4:00 p.m. near High Prairie, when we got out of my jeep one friend asked if I had any matches so he could smoke a cig. before we went in the woods so I gave him my only book of matches, as I walked through some blow down timber I spotted a 3x4 buck walking�I started stalking him, checking the wind and trying to figure where he was headed, I lost track of him and the area I was in, I soon ended up on a road which I thought was the road my jeep was on so I went to the right about � mile then the road dead ended!!!I knew something was wrong, It was getting dark so I went the other way, soon it was pitch black and my mini mag flashlight bulb blew out and I dropped the spare!! I walked to a main road 4hrs later ( lions,tigers&bears) then some state police seen me and asked me if I was lost, he knew I was lost, he gave me a ride 15 miles back to my camp!! The name of the area I was in is �Dead Man�s Gulch�, the Pacific NW�s mountains finger off in many directions and this happens easily�I now carry a pack with an overnight�s worth of stuff!!!! When I got back to camp my friends were out looking for me. When they got back they said they were firing their guns and honking the horn, I never heard any of that! My one friend started crying then gave me a hug and gave me back my matches....My moral....BE PREPARED!!!!!

maggot · 01-29-2003, 01:05 AM

crying?....oh man...I wasnt crying....

STINGRAY · 01-29-2003, 01:29 AM

Maggot... I said my friend hahaha

STINGRAY · 01-30-2003, 01:51 AM

Maybe I should of told the story about the guy who broke the toilet at elk camp after 5 guys who ate well had used for 3-4 days, glad maggot was sleeping in another tent!

Reel Crazy · 01-30-2003, 03:16 AM

GPS's are great but I have heard of stories of them breaking, battery issues, or even losing them. It is best if you still keep a good map and compass with you. A GPS will tell you where you need to go, but along with a map you will be able to see exactly where you are.

Welcome aboard Stingray