If you fall into cold water while hunting from a boat, what should you try to do?

When you fall into cold water while hunting from a boat, the best option is to reboard the boat. This is because staying close to the vessel provides the greatest chance of survival. The boat offers stability, warmth, and a much lower risk of hypothermia compared to being in the water.

Attempting to swim away from the boat can exhaust you quickly, especially in cold water, where your body loses heat rapidly. While signaling for help may seem like a good strategy, it should not be the primary action you take when you have the means to get back to safety. Waiting for rescue can be dangerous in cold water, as exposure can lead to life-threatening conditions. Therefore, hoofing back to the boat is generally the best course of action to ensure your safety.