What is the safe procedure for a solo hunter boarding a watercraft for a hunting trip?

The safe procedure for a solo hunter boarding a watercraft for a hunting trip involves loading all firearms and equipment before boarding. This method is critical for ensuring safety and stability while on the water. By securing the firearm and equipment before you step onto the boat, you reduce the risk of accidents that can occur from handling firearms on a moving or unstable surface.

When a hunter boards a craft, the movement can affect balance. Handling firearms while trying to maintain stability increases the chance of an accidental discharge or dropping a firearm. By ensuring everything is loaded and secured prior to boarding, the solo hunter can focus on safely entering the watercraft without the distraction of managing equipment.

Keeping firearms secured in a case is also important for safety, but it must be done in conjunction with other safety measures like loading before boarding. Loading firearms once on the boat can lead to potential hazards and is not considered best practice. Leaving firearms on shore would not be practical for an actual hunting trip, as the hunter would need access to firearms once they are on the water to engage in their activity.