What should you do if you are lost in the wilderness while hunting?

Staying put and signaling for help is the best choice when you find yourself lost in the wilderness while hunting. This strategy is based on the principle that it is often easier for rescuers to locate a stationary individual than someone who is continually moving. Movement can lead you further away from your original position and may complicate rescue efforts.

By staying put, you minimize the risk of becoming more lost and increase the chances of being found by searchers who may already be aware of your last known location. Signaling for help, whether by creating noise, using a whistle, or employing visual signals like a bright-colored piece of clothing, can attract attention from potential rescuers.

While other options like climbing a tree to look for landmarks, using a phone to call for help, or continuing to walk might seem logical, they come with their own risks and challenges. Climbing a tree may not guarantee a clear view and could be unsafe. Using a phone is only viable if you have signal, which may not be the case in remote areas. Walking without a clear direction often leads to increased disorientation and difficulty in retracing your steps.