Life is busy. Whether it be work, family, hobbies, or more likely a combination of them, it doesn’t often take long for the calendar to fill up. Everyone has different priorities, but chances are if you are reading this you try your best to find time to be outdoors throughout the year. With three young kids at home, these last few years have helped me learn some lessons in prioritizing and optimizing my time outdoors.
The first way to think about this challenge is to find or make time in your schedule that isn’t going to affect other priorities. We all love spending a full day on the water or in the bush, but that’s easier said than done. Here are a few efficiency tips I have found and used:
• If your free time doesn't start until dishes are done and kids are in bed, odds are the sun has already set. While most hunting is out of the question, other tasks are not restricted. Hanging tree stands, checking trail cameras, prepping fishing gear, etc. are things that could be done after dark.
• Fall hunters can try spring and summer opportunities. These give you longer daylight hours compared to the fall. Listening to turkey’s gobble on the roost at 5 a.m. is not only a blast but it also may mean you can get two hours of hunting in before the rest of the family is even out of bed.
• Try getting out for some before or after dark shore fishing. No need to tow and launch a boat, casual shore fishing for carp, bass, or catfish with a headlamp can be a lot of fun.
• If you commute to work, try multitasking. Practise your diaphragm calls or listen to your favourite hunting or fishing podcast.
We all enjoy some alone time outdoors, but the best memories are often made when family or friends are present. You’ll also have a lot more support for getting outside.
Not all kids will be excited to follow you to the duck blind in negative degree weather at 5 a.m.
Start small. Hikes are a great opportunity to teach them about tracks, animal scat, wildflowers, or whatever they might find interesting that day. Fishing for panfish is another exciting way to keep them engaged.
Involving a significant other can also be rewarding. If they are showing any interest in your hobby, ask them to join. Being a mentor will help improve your own skills and may result in a newfound hunting or fishing partner.
The best way to not fall victim to a full calendar is to make plans well ahead of time and ensure your family is aware. Whether it is the trout opener or whitetail rut, if it is a priority for your season, reserve your time and give lots of notice. Planning and organization help avoid conflict. Physically writing things down increases the likelihood of accomplishing tasks and goals.
Whether it be alone or with family and friends, get outdoors when you are able and enjoy it while you still can. You won’t regret making it a priority in your life.
Originally published in the Fall 2025 issue of Ontario Out Of Doors
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