Make the most of your summer by following these tips.

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Don’t let the weather stop you

This is listed number one for a reason. You may be tempted to think of a cloudy, rainy, or windy day as a day to stay home. But there’s always something you can do, even in less-than-ideal weather. Put down excuses, put on your raingear, and get out.

Find new spots

Explore! Even if you’re not actually getting into the woods, think of all the things that may prevent you from getting out sooner on nice days. For example, on rainy days, drive out to find the access point for a fishing spot. Or, on windy days, look for that game trail hidden somewhere along an overgrown dirt road.

Make the most of the mornings or evenings

The edges of that day can be ideal times to get to the river or hop into the woods. If you’re used to driving an hour to get to your favored haunt, try finding something a little closer. A spot that’s closer may not be as interesting, but if you want to be outside as much as possible, you might have to be less picky.

Drag your friends and family into the woods

There is such a thing as positive peer-pressure. When family or friends want to do a cook out or have a get-together, try to get them out to the state park or a spot near a river or lake, where you can do a little fishing while waiting for everyone to show up.

Get out no matter how you feel

Long week at work? Drink too much last night? Exhausted from taking care of the kids? Even though getting outside can be relaxing, sometimes it can feel like “one more thing” to get done. Remind yourself that you’ll feel better once you’re out.

Make gear purchases a priority

Don’t get caught waiting until a store opens to get your stuff. When making your shopping lists, be sure to take note of what you’ll need for your next few trips. You may need to buy in bulk or think several weeks ahead to make sure you have the essentials.

Tell people “no”

This isn’t always possible when it’s your best friend’s birthday, or the kids have a recital, or it’s your anniversary. That said, remember you have to take care of yourself, too. Plan for the times when you want to get outside and if something comes up, remind people that you need a little more lead time on plans. Make getting outside your priority and don’t let someone else sidetrack that goal.

Get over your fear: Take a class or practice a skill

For women who are new to fishing and hunting, this can be a very real barrier. However, the best cure for fear is experience. Do some research about safety precautions and talk to experienced outdoors men and women, even if it’s online. But don’t let your inexperience stop you. Many of the most avid hunters and anglers will tell you that trial and error is one of the best ways to learn.

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