The Top Ten Items to Pack for Still-Hunting in the Big Woods

Packing for a hunt in the big woods before the snow falls can require a much different strategy than the lightweight approach on the track. The ten items in my hunting fanny pack that never change when I plan to still hunt are as follows: 

1. Compass

Number one as always is a compass. To be honest this hardly gets used because I use the OnX app on my phone when I want to figure out where I am or how to get out. Even though this is very convenient, it would be foolish to trust solely in an electronic device. I will also place my phone in a ziplock bag to prevent water damage. 

2. Doe bleat can

The third item I will always have when it pertains to still-hunting is some sort of doe bleat. I like the can style myself, but as long as you know how to use it properly, the style of call doesn’t probably doesn’t matter much. Using a doe bleat can be surprisingly effective, even early in the season. 

3. Grunt tube

A grunt tube is another tool I’d feel lost without. I don’t necessarily use any one of these things ALL the time, but I use them often enough to not want to be caught without it. 

4. Rattle bag

A rattle bag is also going to be with me. When you are still-hunting, you are constantly changing the dynamics of the hunt by placing yourself in new areas all day. If you find a spot that has all the sign you were looking for, you will have the option to play out a scenario you can think of to get that buck to come to you. 

5. A multi-tool

Another item that is a must have is a multi-tool. From building a quick ground blind to repairing a piece of equipment, a multi tool can be one of the most useful things you bring along. 

6. Extra pair of wool socks and gloves

Once I’ve packed all these items that are going to help me with specific parts of a hunt in the big woods, I focus on daily comfort items. An extra pair of wool socks and wool gloves can be the difference between staying all day or calling it quits early. Even if you aren’t soaked to the bone, a mid-day sock change can do wonders for mental endurance. 

7. Food

Food is an important part of my day in the deer woods. If I am tracking a buck, my mind stays occupied and I hardly think about eating, but when I’m still-hunting, I like to eat often. I will make sure I have a good trail mix or jerky to snack on throughout the day. I’m also a fan of fatty foods like spam during hunting season. For me, sandwiches with spam and cheese will stick with me for longer. Obviously, I understand that most people have a much more refined palate than I do, so you’ll have to find what sustains you and keeps you hunting longer.

8. Headlamp

The last few things I always have with me while still-hunting are self-explanatory but worth mentioning. I don’t carry a handheld flashlight anymore. A head lamp, on the other hand, can make all the difference. In my opinion, having your hands free when you’re walking out of the woods, or dragging your buck after dark, is a necessity. 

9. Garmin InReach

Last but not least. I carry a Garmin InReach. This has one specific reason—it’s not just a backup GPS. This is my ticket to getting help dragging a buck out of the woods! 

10. Hunting Fanny Pack

Of course, no list of what to pack would be complete without mentioning the pack itself.  The Big Woods Bucks Large Hunting Fanny Pack can be a great choice for a full day out hunting on bareground. And for those who like to pack lighter, the Big Woods Bucks small “Noonah” hunting fanny pack will get the job done.

No matter what you pack, just try to think about the day you plan to have and pack accordingly. You will find that there are things you can’t still hunt without and some things you’ll never bring again No matter what you choose, most importantly, have fun and good luck!

Ben Allen is a Big Woods Bucks team member and a registered Maine Guide who guides with Big Woods Outfitters and Epic Adventures Guide Service