What should a hunter do if they become lost in the field?

Staying calm is crucial for a hunter who becomes lost in the field, as panic can cloud judgment and lead to further disorientation. The best course of action is to retrace your steps while using familiar landmarks or a compass to regain your sense of direction. Familiar landmarks help provide a visual reference, while a compass can guide you back to your starting point or a known location. This method reduces the risk of getting further lost and increases the chances of safely finding your way back.

In contrast, immediately walking in one direction may lead you further away from safe areas or your original route, increasing confusion and the potential for becoming even more lost. While calling for help is an option in an emergency, it should not be the first step taken immediately upon realizing you are lost, especially if you can navigate back on your own. Finally, finding a high point and signaling for assistance can be effective in a search and rescue scenario but is typically a strategy to be used after establishing that you need help and cannot find your way back, rather than the first action to take when realizing you are lost.