I try to hunt coyotes a couple of times during the month. I carry a heavy backpack with 40-50lbs of water, food, first aid kit, extra bullets and survival gear. A range finder and binoculars.
Once I've confirmed that I'm successful in the out of state draws for elk. I hike the hills around my home, go into my favorite local deer hunting spots and scout for sign and activity. Since I'm already out there I carry my 243 and hunt for coyotes, ground squirrels and jack rabbits.
The terrain is mixed with coastal mountains, high desert and desert dunes. It's a combinations of deep rugged canyons, ridges, draws and steep uphill climbs.
I get a serious burn by the time I get back to my truck.
By the time deer season opens here in San Diego I'm in good shape. Hunt my butt off with my younger friends. By late November I've packed my utility trailer and my truck for travel to Utah, Colorado, Arizona or Northern California for deer or elk, which ever state I draw. I prefer to hunt the late seasons for elk and pray for snow.
This season I drew a buck tag for San Diego and a anterless elk tag for Utah. So I've got allot to prepare for.
Gonzo
SEMPER FIDELIS