If you plan to get an early jump on the season, there's some hunting gear you're going to want to buy.
Rejoice! Deer hunting season is finally upon us. After months of waiting restlessly, we can finally get back out in the woods for a chance at that big buck we've been spotting on our trail cameras all summer.
However, for those who have never taken to the deer woods before the opening of gun season, there are some different conditions you need to factor into your approach.
Not only is it warmer during archery season, but the trees still have leaves, mosquitos are still lingering around in some areas and the sun stays up for more hours in the day.
Here's some early-season gear that will make those first hunts a little more enjoyable.
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Scent Killer Antiperspirant and Deodorant
If you're a sweater, this is an absolute must in terms of your success. A deer's sense of smell is ridiculous, so if you're stinking up the blind and a light breeze blows your stench downwind, you can forget about any early-season success.
Additionally, no one wants to find themselves sweating profusely out in the woods, let alone smelling themselves for hours on end.
If you're planning on some early-season hunting this year, this a no-brainer, especially in southern states.
Thermacell Mosquito Repellent
You may not think mosquitos will be a problem in the fall, but if it's warmer than usual at the start of bowhunting season, you can find yourself in a truly miserable predicament.
There's nothing worse than sitting in a blind while fighting off mosquitos all morning, and that frustration can creep into your focus should a nice whitetail buck actually cross paths with you.
The Thermacell MR300 is a fine option for keeping them away, as it will create a 15-foot zone of protection against mosquitos for 12 hours. You can also replace your fuel cartridge if you're hunting for multiple days at a time.
First Lite Men's Wick Short Sleeve Crew
One of the easiest ways to stay comfortable during warm-weather hunts is to invest in some higher-quality hunting clothing. As far as camo hunting apparel goes, you typically want to avoid cotton, as it'll often have you sweating even if the weather's favorable.
As far as tops go, this First Lite shirt is a solid option. Made with ultralight 150gsm aerowool material, this shirt dries rapidly, provides odor resistance and maximizes ventilation.
First Lite Men's Guide Lite Pant
While hunting in warm weather, your choice of pants is just as important as the shirt, particularly if you're going to be taking a more active approach.
The First Lite Guide Lite Pant offers hunters the freedom of a stretch nylon pant but in a lighter-weight package. Using 37.5-enhanced stretch nylon fabric, these not only dry extremely fast, but they also make it really easy to move around on spot-and-stalk hunts or get comfortable in a blind or stand.
To top it off, they feature mesh-lined pockets for optimal air flow.
YETI Rambler One Gallon Jug
There's perhaps nothing more important than having water on a hunt, and when the weather's warm, you're going to want something cold.
Now, there are a lot of ways to carry water with you, but if you're planning to sit in a blind for a long time, you're going to need more than just something you'd take to the gym.
Not only is the YETI Rambler One Gallon Jug basically indestructible with 18/8 stainless steel construction, but it's also insanely effective at keeping your water cold with double-wall vacuum insulation.
You can also throw coffee in there and keep it hot if you'd rather.
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