Know where you stand

The phrase “know where you stand” is the ad line for the Missoula based cell phone app used by millions of hunters to assist them in hunting. It is called OnX Hunt. I don’t know for sure, but I think at least 80-90% of all Montana hunters use this cell phone app that provides hunters with unbelievable field data. 

This low-cost app provides the hunter with satellite maps of the place where the hunter is standing and the surrounding area. These digital satellite maps, on your cell phone, are similar to standing hundreds of feet above the ground and looking down at your hunting location. These satellite maps can be enlarged to show every single tree or bush on the mountain or prairie. These photos can show great details of your specific location or expand to show your neighborhood. Your position on the satellite map is generally shown as a blue dot. 

The satellite photo map can be overlain with topographical contour lines. So not only can you see the ridges and valleys, but you can see elevation changes and slope. It also can help lay out your intended route of travel and will show you where you have just walked. One of the most impressive features of this app is that it shows land ownership. Not only whether the land is public or private, but usually the name of the landowner. Let me assure you that I am not a high-tech guy, but this app is an absolute must have for any serious hunter or outdoor person. Last summer, I used this app to help me locate a metal property corner post on my farm.