Organizing your Hunting Supplies like a Pro
Hunting season is here, and it's time to get your gear in order. Starting the season with clean, organized hunting supplies can make all the difference between a frustrating search and a successful hunt.
Organize Your Hunting Clothes
Organizing your hunting clothes is essential. To start, wash your hunting clothes with an odor-eliminating detergent. This removes unwanted scents. Be sure to air-dry them instead of using a dryer, as the heat can lock in odors.
Next, store your clean clothes in a scent-free plastic bag or bin. This keeps them away from household smells like cooking odors or perfume. For added protection against moisture and odors, place an open box of baking soda in the bin.
Finally, keep all your hunting clothes away from the kitchen. A garage, basement, or shed are great option. A climate-controlled area is best to prevent damage from freezing or overheating. If you don't have a covered porch or mudroom, a scent control hunting bag is another effective option for storing your clothes.
Store Animal Scents and Lures
Animal scents and lures need to be stored properly to maintain their effectiveness. The key to storing scents is keeping them in a cool place, like the refrigerator. Place your scent bottles in a resealable plastic bag before you put them in the fridge. This adds an extra layer of protection in case of a spill.
Many people think urine lures attract animals because of the scent of urine itself. However, what really attracts the animal is the pheromones. As urine breaks down into ammonia, those pheromones can change, so proper storage is critical to keeping the product working as intended.
Organize Other Hunting Gear
Once your clothes are squared away, it’s time to take care of the rest of your equipment. A few simple tricks can save you time and hassle, whether at home or in the field.
Use the Right Containers. Use clear, labeled plastic totes to store gear by type, such as ammo, calls, or survival gear. This helps you find what you need quickly and protects it from pests and dust. For smaller items, use tackle-box style organizers to keep everything in its place.
Organize Your Backpack. Before a hunt, take a moment to organize your pack. Place frequently used items, such as binoculars, a rangefinder, or a first-aid kit, in easily accessible pockets. Use smaller pouches or bags inside your pack to keep gear from shifting around.
Don't Forget Your Boots. After each trip, clean your boots of any mud or debris. Let them air-dry completelybefore storing them. Keeping them upright in a boot rack or in a container with baking soda can help prevent odors and extend their lifespan.
Off-Season Maintenance
Once the hunting season is over, take some time to do a full inventory and clean your gear. Check for any worn-out items, make necessary repairs, and restock supplies so you’re ready for the next season. Taking care of your equipment now means less work later.
