Equip Your Ride With These Accessories Before Heading Out on Your Next Hunting Trip

For hunting trips that cover plenty of ground, ATVs provide a great advantage. Many hunters consider these four-wheel machines an essential part of their hunting trips. Of course, an ATV alone isn’t going to net you a successful hunt. You’ll want to equip your quad with the right gear before your next hunting escapade.

Why Hunters Love ATVs and UTVs

Overall, four-wheelers make hunting easier. These vehicles remove some of the bothersome aspects of hunting, giving hunters more time and energy to focus on the parts they love. Examples of benefits include:

  • Can be taken for long-distance hunts
  • Reduces time on foot
  • Can easily carry your prey home
  • Can store plenty of gear

The Importance of Having the Right Gear and Accessories

There are plenty of tools specifically designed to improve your hunting abilities. Some of these tools make hunting easier or more enjoyable, while other pieces of gear are important for storage or safety purposes. You don’t need a massive ATV just to hunt well – with a quality set of accessories, you’ll be able to hunt more effectively than on your own.

Fill up your set of gear with our recommendations below, and you’ll become a truly triumphant hunter.

READ MORE: Must-Have Tools for ATV and UTV Maintenance

Key Hunting Accessories You Should Equip Your ATV With

Baskets

A basket is a simple addition that can go a long way. Attaching a basket to your ATV or UTV gives it extra storage space, which can be used to store small- and medium-sized items away from exhaust fumes, sweat, and other odours.

Gun Case or Rack

Depending on your local hunting laws, you’ll want to keep your gun in a case, boot, box, or on a rack. In any instance, a gun holder should store your gun (or guns) safely and properly. With a rack mounted onto your ATV, you’ll be ready for each and every hunting trip.

Winch

This device, which includes a cable wire, motor, drum, and gear train, isn’t something you’ll use every time you hunt. But when you find that your ATV is stuck in the mud, or game is caught in a steep ditch, you’ll be glad you have a winch to pull it out.

READ MORE: ATV Hunting Tips

Gear Bags

A simple way to organize your hunting gear is to use a good gear bag. Choose one that closes securely, and has plenty of pockets perfectly fitted for item storage.

Power Loader

With a sturdy power loader, you’ll be able to turn multi-man jobs into effortless tasks. Consider attaching a power loader to your winch – you’ll be able to load and haul hefty game, tree stands, and much more.

Backpacker Cart

This option provides an alternative to the power loader. This handy accessory will typically weigh under 100 pounds, but allow one person to carry more than 800 pounds.

GPS/Phone Mount

As a hunter, you may consider using your mobile device for its GPS function, mapping, or a handful of hunting apps. Instead of loosely letting your device roam around your vehicle’s interior, mount it for easy access. Just make sure to keep your eyes on the road, and use the device only when the vehicle is parked or pulled over.

Camo Wrap

Hunters who use ATVs and UTVs often face one major problem: scaring off the prey with their vehicle. You’ll want to make your quad more discrete, and wrapping or painting the exterior with a camouflage definition is a great way to do that.

READ MORE: Features To Look For in a New ATV Purchase

Gun Boot

Even if you already use a gun rack, a gun boot is a key part of a hunter’s gear set. A good gun boot should store your firearm securely, and allow easy access.

Storage Box

A solid storage box is an essential for hunting trips. The box should have plenty of components for many items, big and small. Without one, you’ll find yourself with plenty of loose items, which is disruptive, and makes items easy to lose.

Track Kit

Hunting during the winter? A track kit is a must-have. Your quad’s tires can handle plenty of terrain styles, but snow is a whole other beast. A good track kit will provide safe and easy travel over snow and ice.

Spotlight

For your own safety, your ATV should be equipped with a light. This is particularly beneficial for dark settings or settings with tall trees that block sunlight. When choosing a light, a good rule of thumb is “the bigger, the better.” Mount your ATV with a bright LED spotlight, and don’t forget to bring extra flashlights, just in case.

With a well-equipped ATV or UTV, you’ll be ready for a worthwhile hunt. Make sure to keep your quad and its gear in good condition, regularly cleaning and checking that everything functions smoothly.