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Old 02-04-2011 | 03:43 PM
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txhunter58
Nontypical Buck
 
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 2,722
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From: Kerrville, Tx. USA
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Not sure what you mean by ATV hunting. No hunting is allowed on ATVs. In fact, you have to have your gun unloaded in a case when riding an ATV. And remember that ATVs can ONLY be driven on roads and specified ATV trails. They can NOT be used off road. They are great tools for getting to your hunting area but don't take them off road. The basic ticket for having one off road starts at $275 and up.

Do you have a backpack? If not, you will need to get one. If you get an elk down a mile or more from a road, you have to have a plan on getting it back to the ATV or truck. With elk, I have totally switched to the "gutless method" Do a search and you will find some links.

Some equipment that are essential in the mountains for a good hunt:

1) Good gore-tex boots and good socks (merino smart wool is my suggestion) are essential. You will be doing some steep hiking and if your dogs hurt or get blisters, you will not enjoy the hunt. I usually take two pair: one non insulated and one insulated with 200-400 gm of thinsulate. Unless you are going to be on a stand, you don't need more insulation

2) Good long johns. NEVER USE ANY WITH COTTON. Long johns are NOT to keep you warm. When you hike in the mountains you will sweat no matter how cold it is. The function of long johns is to wick moisture/sweat to your outer garments so your skin will stay dry. Buy quality polyester/wicking ones. Staying dry will keep you warm

3) Good raingear. I have a packable pair that I pull out when it rains (or gets real windy) that fits over any other clothes I may be wearing (including coats). My rain gear is non-insulated. I stay warm with other layers, this layer is just to keep me dry.

4) A good sleeping pad (I use thermarest) and a good sleeping bag. If you don't have a good pad you will not sleep comfortably and will get cold from the ground. If your bag doesn't keep you warm, you will be MISERABLE.

In other words, keep your feet happy and stay warm and dry and you will have a great time! I know you may want to skimp on costs, but if you skimp on any of these you are setting yourself up to be miserable. Eat crackers and peanut butter on the trip, but never buy cheap on the above mentioned things.

Good hunting

Last edited by txhunter58; 02-04-2011 at 03:47 PM.
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