How to Track the Apache Way
The Native American Apache tribe has always been associated with the ability to track and hunt with superior skill. The Apache employed a particular skill set that allowed the tribe to create an element of surprise when ambushing prey. With a combination of patience, physical fitness and strategy, the Apache were both respected and feared for their prowess in tracking and hunting both prey and tribal enemies. This tracking and reconnaissance information provides historical reference and can also be used in hunting for game or for war/paint ball gaming purposes.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Tent or handmade shelter
- Camouflage clothing
- Compass
- Hunting tool or weapon
Instructions
-
Building a Base Camp
-
1
Establish a base camp. The Apache Indian tribe was a nomadic tribe that originated from the Alaskan Peninsula and roamed in the North American Southwest. Carefully choosing an area for a temporary settlement requires ample access to a water source, escape route and cover.
-
2
Pitch a tent (preferably lightweight and compact) or build a temporary shelter. A shelter provides not only protection from nature's elements but can offer storage for the items you won't need while tracking
-
-
3
Outfit yourself in camouflage clothing suitable for the terrain and weather conditions so you can stay hidden while tracking. The base camp provides a rendezvous point for your group and a place to prepare for your tracking mission.
Scouting and Attack
-
4
Scout an area determined by your prey. The Apache employed what is referred to as recon pull tactics, which exposes the enemy's weaknesses. A perimeter of attack should be explored for its cover, access or lack thereof for the prey to escape, and for possible points of attack. Use a compass to determine directional weather patterns and to orient yourself.
-
5
Explore the flanks of the perimeter with caution. Do not disturb or disrupt prey while maintaining your covert position. Flanking your prey allows for better reconnaissance data and a more informed plan of attack.
-
6
Use predetermined grunts, calls or hand signals to help identify yourself and others as well as to communicate within your tracking group.
-
7
Establish a plan of attack based upon the data you collected through reconnaissance. The attack should be planned to keep your group's exposure to a minimum. Your prey should be set up for ambush, using the element of surprise to maximize success.
-
8
Execute the plan of attack with the appropriate hunting tool or weapon.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Apache Indians lived off the land and relied on their physical abilities as well as their mental acuity. Tracking requires one to be in peak physical condition as well as to be aware of natural elements and terrain.
