If you ever get the opportunity to hunt Canada, you’ll realize, depending where you are, that the terrain is either really manageable, or really unforgiving. You’ll also realize, that the weather can change in an instant. This year was my first year hunting Canada…first New Brunswick, then Newfoundland. I learned quickly that while the sun may be shining after breakfast, the weather goes downhill…fast!
While in both territories, I experienced sunshine, followed by torrential downpour, followed by more sunshine and then pockets of snow and hail. And yes, this was both in May AND October! Having never ventured to these places before, and armed only with the gear list an outfitter provided, I figured I’d offer more insight for someone venturing North.
From the Outside In:
Drake Waterfowl EST Waterproof Over Pants and Heat Escape Hoodie 2.0 Full Zip : Both items were completely waterproof, light weight, packable, and easy to slip on and off over other layers…a 100% necessity to keep you dry and in the hunt all day long.
Drake Non Typical Endurance Full Zip jacket and pants with Agion Active Scent Protection: When not covered in rain gear, this outermost layer is quiet, breathable and lightweight, but still keeps you warm enough into the low 30’s. Extra pockets are also key.
First Lite Sawtooth Hybrid Jacket: Probably my favorite base layer, that can also be worn as an outer layer. Warm enough to keep you insulated when temperatures drop well below freezing, but also light enough to be comfortable in the mid 50’s.
Drake Waterfowl MST Base Layer tops and bottoms: These base layers range in thickness from early to late season. The MST or Mid Season work well into the sub 30 degree temps and are very affordable.
Thermal Socks: Thick, knee high thermal socks…the EASIEST way to get knocked out of a hunt is from cold or wet feet. Carry 2 extra pairs in your gear pack.
Muck Boots: Or whatever your favorite waterproof, insulated, knee high hunting boot is. I blew through 2 pairs of different brands of boots simply from slogging through marshes, bogs, and clear cuts. Be mindful of the fact that they offer very little ankle support, and the weak spot will always be where the rubber meets the fabric of the boot…that’s where I blew out 2 pairs of boots thanks to sharp sticks in the clear cuts.
Kuiu Icon Pro 3200 Pack: So let me tell you…after hiking Montana back country for 12-15 miles a day, I realized the need for a REAL back pack…one that can carry and distribute weight and not destroy your back, and fatigue you in ways you never thought possible. This pack will hold enough to camp out for a few nights, and also allow you to pack out at least a quarter of your animal (depending on size) if not more. Its rugged, light, and well supported with a carbon fiber frame and suspension sytem. I kept water, food, toiletries, fire starting gear, extra clothes, knife and skinning kit and first aid supplies in it.
FHF Gear Bino Harness with GPS & Rangefinder Pouch: I never knew I needed a bino harness until I got one. The FHF gear harness is simple, rugged, and keeps everything you need for glassing and navigation right where it needs to be. Easy access, comfortable to wear all day and 100% American Made. It beats digging into your pack every time you want to check a route or range a target.
Henry All – Weather with Sightmark CORE and Underwood Ammo: Your rifle and scope caliber can be whatever you prefer, but if you’re covering ground, remember: ounces equal pounds, and pounds equal pain. This is a resilient and handy combo, and packing the punch of the Lehigh Defense Xtreme Hunters loaded by Underwood Ammo, this 45/70 will take anything in North America. Clear optics, the right ammo and a good rifle are the keys to success when you don’t know the size of the beast you may need to tame. This set up persevered through a week of rain, snow and mud and came out unscathed.
Black Dirt Diaries 