August is the early season.
August is for antelope. August is for archery deer. And for the luckiest of us, August is for heading to Alaska.
Early-season hunts are hot and dry. You crawl through grass and sage stalking pronghorns. You avoid rattlesnakes and tarantulas along the way. You drive a side-by-side down dusty dirt roads to get to your favorite vantage point. You spend hours baking in the sun, looking for fuzzy antlered mule deer.
August and the early season hunts present unique challenges. You need careful preparation and the right equipment.
We've compiled our top five gear picks for early-season success. These items ensure you're ready to face the heat, the dust, and the demanding terrain that awaits.
Early season weather can be unpredictable. The Enclosed Chest Pack protects you from dust/debris while riding in an SXS or road hunting. It keeps moisture away from your optics during violent summer storms. One hand access means you don't have to set your weapon down to access your glass. The pack’s design allows you to open the lid for quick viewing and close it with ease.
The Rangefinder Pouch's forward-opening, magnetic stays-open lid is perfect for bow hunting. Keeping the lid open provides quick access for ranging, making your movements smooth and efficient.
Early season hunts are often sunny and hot. The Sun Tech Hoodie is designed to keep the sun off you. Its oversized hood provides extra shade while you’re glassing. Soft and lightweight, it’s the perfect companion for early season hunts.
"I love having the Cell Phone Pouch on my backpack hip belt. It’s convenient to have a dedicated pouch for my phone, keeping it out of my pants pocket. This setup reduces sweat and makes my phone easier to access compared to having it in my pocket."
- Cade Tropila
Being prepared for the hunt is crucial, whether you’re stepping out of your vehicle for the day or packing out of your tent in the morning. If you make a kill, you need to break it down and get it to a cooler quickly. Having a kill kit and game bags on hand is essential for successfully bringing the meat home.
Staying hydrated is non-negotiable during any hunt. While everyone carries some form of hydration, the Nalgene Water Bottle stands out as the ultimate choice. It fits perfectly in our water bottle pouch, ensuring it's always within reach. The bottle features convenient measurement lines, making it easy to track your water intake and measure for a meal.
