First-Time Hunter Guide

Required by law in most states during firearm seasons

At minimum: bandages, tourniquets, antiseptic wipes

Non-negotiable if hunting from an elevated stand — TMA certified, most-reviewed pick

For pre-dawn setup and post-sunset retrieval

Signals for help if you're injured or lost — carries much farther than shouting

For wading into marshes, flooded fields, and blinds — chest waders for deep water, hip waders for shallow

Waterproof with 400g–800g insulation — match the weight to your climate and how much you'll be sitting vs. moving

Traps body heat; remove when moving to prevent sweat

Merino wool or synthetic — keeps sweat away from skin

Wind and rain protection; scent-control a bonus

Wicks moisture and stays warm even when damp — key for all-day boot comfort

Covers exposed skin for warmth and added concealment in cold weather

Keeps hands warm without sacrificing the dexterity you need to handle a weapon or call

The standard small-game round — bring more than you think you'll need

100–125 grain; practice with your chosen style

Match bolt weight and spine to your crossbow specs

A dozen or more decoys to bring birds within range — species and spread matter as much as count

Crucial for accurate shot placement at unknown distances

Federally required for waterfowl — lead shot is illegal and will get you fined

Pulls birds into range and gives them something to focus on besides you

The primary turkey load for most hunters — pattern-test your gun and choke with your specific shells before the season

Stabilizes shots; especially useful for new hunters

Sharp gut-hook knife and bone saw

Carries squirrels, rabbits, or birds out of the field and keeps your hands free

Sanitary protection during field dressing

For pulling deer — or a full-grown hog — out of the woods alone

Know property lines, mark waypoints, navigate out in the dark

Backup navigation if your phone dies

10,000mAh dual-port power bank — keeps your phone and GPS charged during all-day hunts

Avoid crunchy wrappers that spook game

Stay hydrated during cold all-day sits

Slip into pockets and gloves for all-day warmth

Foam insulation under you prevents cold transfer on long sits

Species-specific permit — required in virtually all states

Required annually for all waterfowl hunters 16 and older — sold at post offices and many sporting goods stores

Most states let you hunt coyote and other predators on a general license, but some require a furbearer license or have night-hunting restrictions — confirm before you go out after dark

Required for first-time hunters in most states

Hogs are unprotected/invasive in most states with no closed season or bag limit, but you still need permission on private land or the right permit on public WMA land

Must be on your person at all times while hunting

Most states require an additional waterfowl stamp beyond the federal duck stamp

Species-specific permit — required in virtually all states for turkey season

A single-reed or double-reed call to bring birds within range — practice before the season

Box calls are easiest for beginners

Spray clothes and boots before entering the woods