I did not go hunting this year but would really enjoy getting back to it next year, but will be banded (God willing) and am wondering if it is tough to expend all of that energy all day or if it is possible to handle it without problems, or at least minimal problems. I can pack protein drinks/food with me but generally when I am hunting, I forget to eat.

I'm not sure why it would be difficult to hunt after banding? I'll let you know for sure after deer season ends this year, but so far, no problems.

Even if you are not eating loads of calories, your body has plenty of stored fuel (fat) it can burn for your energy.

I just take some nuts, Water, the obligatory beer, and granola with me.

I don't think that it will be a problem. Your body will tell you if you need to eat. Make sure to pack lots of water cause I think banded people dehydrate faster. Have you ever heard of a platapus? It is a plastic bladder that holds water and has a tube running out that you can suck from. Hikers use it cause it is less weight and bulk than a thermos. Also cyclists use it, the carry it in a pack on their back the hose has a clip that can clip to you shirt infront for easy access. You can find them a camping stores. They are kinda pricey but the are really convienant. My husband is a firm believer in snickers bars when he goes hiking. He is not banded but he is type 1 diabetic. Snickers has protien and sugar to boot so when his blood sugar gets low he has himself a snickers. The chocolate gives an instant boost cause it takes a while for the protien to kick in. In my personal opinion I think you will be fine, plus you will get some killer exercise!! That is if you don't use a 4wheeler to get to exactly where you set up. Keep your food bag handy so you can eat when you want. I would also keep something with sugar, if you don't like snickers, so if you feel weak you could make it thru. Individual juice boxes are a good choice since it is natural sugar and it doesn't take long for the boost to kick in. You could pack those in a food bag, before hand removing the plastic from the straw that is attached since it is quite noisey. Most people don't know how many calories hunters use, but I know you burn alot. Most people think you just sit there all day. LOL. Of course the is in my opinion, you should check with you medical professional before you go, he/she may have a better idea than me. Hopefully Happy Hunting!!!!

First year since living in Nevada, I finally got off my rear and took out a hunting license and drew a mule dear doe tag for an area just 3 hours from home (Ely, NV). Guaranteed kill, virtually. Road-kill does laying all over the place.

Then my PCP rather strongly enourages my 'lardness' get banded- or die younger than I should. Surgery was 9/6, my tag was for 9/22.

I was sure I had the energy, but the healing process was just too distracting (getting back in the gym, etc.) So no hunt.:cry

Next year (if I get lucky in the draw), I'll be the much skinnier person, effortlessly dragging a deer or something back down to the truck. :eek:

LOL, you are too funny. Congratulations on being banded however. I should be banded between now and Christmas, I hope. Waiting for insurance authorization. It is sad what you said about deer laying all over. In Wyoming, if your not gonna eat it, don't kill it!!! But, that is Wyoming. I wish you the best.

I haven't deer hunted for several years and in my area...it was shooting, not hunting. But my husband and I bird hunt. Either on foot with a couple of dogs or via horseback (American Field Trial type). I am very active and have had no trouble running out of energy. This summer I was walking (inconsistently) four miles a day. I have more leg strength and energy than I've had in years. I think if you are through "healing" you will have a great hunt! I suggestions of food and water are important. Think and plan ahead.