It’s that time of year again, when with all good intent we make resolutions. It works in theory, but in practice and perseverance we too often fall short, and as the days and weeks pass, we lapse back into bad habits.

Carrot sticks are replaced with pretzel sticks and fruit bowls with breakfast sandwiches. What if there was a better carrot to whet your appetite for better living, to keep your resolve before it dissolves? Hunting just might be the best way to help accomplish your goals for a happier, healthier new year.

One of the most commonly made, yet too often underachieved resolution is to get in shape. Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year represent a lengthy period of indulgence and as we turn the calendar, we find ourselves overweight and out of shape. So we join a gym, but the cost in time and money becomes inconvenient. If only there were a way to get in shape doing something you really enjoy.

Grab the shotgun, strap on the snowshoes and head for the woods. A day tromping through snow is a great way to burn off calories in the fresh air as opposed to a malodorous, sweaty gym. There are hunting seasons in the winter, spring and fall, and you can fill in the gaps with other outdoor activities like scouting, fishing, gardening and gathering wild edibles.

Improving your diet is another common resolution, and what better way than acquiring your own free-range organic protein? Wild game is far better for you than any processed food, industrial crops or domestic meat products in the grocery store. It contains no preservatives, additives, synthetic hormones or saturated fats, and has many of the proteins, vitamins and minerals a healthy body needs. That means you can also save on supplements and burn calories “shopping” for it.

Yet another oft-made resolution — often while enjoying holiday spirits — is contributing more to worthy causes, like conservation. There are many out there but those associated with hunting, like Ducks Unlimited, The National Wild Turkey Federation and The National Deer Association, to name a few, do the most to conserve our natural resources. Even the simple step of purchasing a hunting and fishing license adds money for managing wildlife.

If you’re already a hunter, you could resolve to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. Maybe this is the year you finally take up bowhunting. Depending on where you hunt, it could add a month or two to your season, which means even more exercise and potential protein. Forget the fad diets and the sure to be short-lived gym membership. Make a resolution you know you’ll keep and hunt more in 2026.

Bob Humphrey is a freelance writer and Registered Maine Guide who lives in Pownal. He can be reached at: [email protected]