This is the full gear list from a recent river-based whitetail hunt in Wisconsin’s Driftless region. This hunt took place during the peak of the rut, with ideal weather ranging from the low 30s to the mid-50s. Perfectly rutty.
We took small motorboats to an island to camp and used the boats to access different spots along the river we were on. This packing list is fairly similar to what I’d bring on a backcountry hunt but, since I could carry more weight in, I added more luxuries. I left out food specifics since, with some food allergies, my diet’s a little different than the normal guy’s.
Without further ado, here’s my list.
Clothing
Layering is key when hunting in the rut, where temperatures can swing significantly. Here’s what I packed to stay comfortable and dry.
- Kinetic Merino 150 Base Layer LS Crew
- This lightweight, moisture-wicking layer is a must for regulating body temperature during active hunts. I alternate between the crew and hooded versions depending on the weather.
- Kinetic Merino 250 Hoodie
- A staple.
- Kinetic Merino 250 base layer bottoms
- Warm and soft.
- Aptitude Softshell Vest
- Quickly becoming a constant piece in my kit
- Clime Pants
- While the Velocity Pants are my favorite for most hunts, I chose the Clime Pants for their quick-drying material, knowing this hunt would involve wetter conditions. They delivered excellent comfort and performance throughout the trip.
- Clement Puffy Jacket
- A great jacket that keeps you warm and sheds light rain.
- Nivor Bib
- These things are awesome. Unbelievably warm, comfortable, and quiet. I regularly wear it with the Kinetic 250 and the softshell vest and stay toasty warm, even into the mid-30s.
- While I packed the Nivor Bibs for extra warmth, I ended up not needing them for this hunt. The other layers were sufficient to keep me comfortable.
- Ballistic Storm Jacket
- It rained a bit at the beginning and the end of the trip. I debated between this and the Aptitude Jacket. The Balistic would be more versatile in this situation.
- TUO Boot Gaiters
- Crispi Briksdal Pro SF GTX
- These stiff boots provide excellent support and reduce fatigue during long days in the saddle, especially when carrying gear or trekking over uneven terrain.
- 3 pairs of wool socks
- I’m a sucker for a pack of Costco wool socks
- 2 pairs of merino undies
- TUO Mountain Rope Hat
- It just looks cool.
- Deck shoes (instead of crocs)
- NRS Chinook life jacket
Sleeping
I try to keep this simple but comfortable.
- Kifaru Slick Bag
- Sea to Summit Comfort Plus Insulated Sleeping Pad
- Camping Pillow
Hunting Gear
Just the basics but with an eye toward being prepared for anything.
- Kifaru Maniml Pack
- For much of the hunt, I just used the Cinch pack. Very light and great for bringing up into a saddle.
- Kill kit
- Game bags, Outdoor Edge replaceable blade knife, gloves, paracord, rubber wire
- Graceful and Gritty pocket knife
- Primos Grunt Tube and a set of rattling antlers
- Latitude Maverik saddle
- Latitude Carbon SS Sticks
- Latitude X-Wing platform
- Camo netting and a cushion for ground hunting
- Kifaru Bino Harness
- Spot Hogg Wiseguy Release (as well as a spare in my pack)
- Hoyt RX9
- Redline 6-Arrow Quiver
- 10” Redline Stabilizer
- Kite Optics Stabilized 12×42 Binos
- Petzl Bindi headlamp
Camp Gear
- MSR Hubba Bubba 2P
- Hatchet
- Duct tape
- Med Kit
- Luci Outdoor 2.0 Light
- Toilet paper/Wet wipes (I run a clean ship)
- Kifaru Sheep Tarp
- Peroxide wipes
- Old Block Target
- Camp stove/Fuel
- Long-handled spoon
- Toothbrush/toothpaste/deodorant
- Dark Energy Charger with cords
Food: a mix of backcountry meals, snacks and booze. Not a bad way to live.
This gear setup made all the difference for a successful and comfortable river-based whitetail trip. While some pieces stayed in the pack this time, having the right tools for the hunt, especially during the unpredictable rut, ensured I was prepared for anything the river and woods could throw at me. Whether you’re hunting in Wisconsin or planning your next backcountry trip, I hope this list gives you some direction and helps with planning!
