Predator Hunting Gear Checklist

Predator hunting is one of the most thrilling and challenging outdoor pursuits. Of course it requires skill and strategy, but it’s also important to have a good variety of predator hunting gear. Let’s look and see what all you might need for a predator hunt.

Clothing and Footwear

With any type of hunting, blending in with your environment is essential. So when you’re choosing camouflage, be sure to pick a pattern that helps you do just that. Predators are wary and sharp eyed, so it shouldn’t be a surprise if they notice something off in their environment.

To maintain comfort and mobility with long hours in the field, invest in insulated boots. Try to choose a pair that has a good tread and will keep you dry. Depending on your location and the time of year you’re hunting, clothing and footwear choices can change. It’s a good idea to keep several sets of camouflage handy in case of rain, or extreme hot and cold temperatures.

Concealment doesn’t stop with basic camouflage. When predator hunting, wearing gloves and a face mask is just as important to stay blended in.

Hunting Equipment

A high-quality rifle or bow should be an essential element with predator hunting gear. No matter what it is, be sure it’s something you’re comfortable using. When it comes to rifle caliber choices, a .223 or .243 is typically best.

Predator hunts can be somewhat unpredictable, so it’s best practice to keep a sufficient amount of ammo or arrows on hand.

Another vital piece of predator hunting gear is a good optic. Whether its a scope, pair of binos, or both — these tools can help with accuracy and allow you to spot predators from miles away. We recommend TRACT Optics if you’re looking for high-quality glass.

Calls and Decoys

When hunting predators, bringing them in close range is no easy feat. Two types of predator hunting gear that can help with this are calls and decoys.

Distress calls, specifically fawn distress calls during fawning season, can help bring predators close — as they think an easy meal is waiting for them. Add a decoy in the mix, like Fawnzy, to include a visual in your call setup. Decoys can be used just as well without calls and are a great tactic to pique a predator’s interest.

Add a decoy in the mix to include a visual in your call setup.

Field Gear

Being in the field requires preparation, organization, and good quality gear to store it all. So when you think of your essential predator hunting gear, don’t forget about a backpack.

It’s crucial to have a high quality, comfortable, and durable backpack — especially if you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Finding one that’s waterproof is ideal too, in case of rain. As far as what to keep in your backpack, consider having water, snacks, personal items, and any other essentials we’ve mentioned.

Don’t forget your field dressing kit for processing your game. This could include a skinning knife, gutting knife, bone saw, and gloves.

And if you’re carrying a knife around, it’s also good to have a first aid kit on hand for minor injuries or anything else unexpected.

Navigation & Communication

It’s easy to get lost in the great outdoors. Having navigation tools and a communication plan is important, especially if you’re hunting with a partner.

A GPS is probably your best option for navigation. You can purchase a handheld GPS, or consider using a navigation app on your phone. These apps typically offer offline maps, GPS tracking, and location sharing. However, you should always include a compass on your predator hunting gear checklist just in case.

Communicating effectively with your hunting partners is crucial for safety and, of course, the success of your hunt. Two-way radios are a great option in these scenarios because they provide an instant form of communication over short distances. Sure, you have a cell phone. But when you’re deep into a hunt with no cell coverage, you’ll be glad you had a two-way radio on hand.

Consider using a navigation app on your phone as a GPS option.

Safety Equipment

If you do happen to get lost, use an emergency whistle to alert your hunting partner or others that may be around. Thankfully, it’s easy to attach to your backpack or clothing.

On the topic of clothing, wearing orange hunting gear is essential for safety in areas that require increased visibility to hunt. It’s also just good practice to wear some orange when hunting. It helps you distinguish yourself from wildlife and can prevent an accidental shooting.

Just as it is for any other hunt, having essential predator hunting gear is important. Before you get back out there this season, or maybe even for the first time, make sure you’re prepared to have the most fun and safe hunt possible.