I’m finally preparing for my first big game hunt! A few questions -

[Redstar]

First off, great site, friendly people and lots of good information! I’ve been enjoying browsing around the site and sharing what I can.

So, I finally got off my butt and completed Hunters ED in February of this year. Which has given me over 7 months to anticipate my first deer season and basically just go stir crazy waiting to get out there… In that time, I’ve gotten my rifle dialed in, a few spots scouted out, gear inventoried and a couple good buddies lined up to go hunting with. I’ve also purchased my tags, I’m almost ready! But I’ve still got a few questions for the more experienced hunters. If you have a moment, please give me your suggestions.

#1 – Boots. I don’t really like the ones I have and I’ve learned from skiing and snowboarding that if your feet are happy you have a better day on the mountain. I plan to head to REI and try on a bunch, but I’m still interested to hear what brands people are actually using and liking.

#2 – Pants. It’s starting to get wet and icky. My bright yellow rain gear works great at keeping me dry, but it’s annoying and loud to hike in. My lighter snow pants are nice, but I think they’d rip once I started climbing through brush.  I’m interested in getting something that won’t rip, doesn’t weight a ton, won’t soak up lots of water like carharts/jeans, and is easy to move around in. What are you guys using? Or do I just suck it up and pack an extra pair of pants?

#3 – Camo? I’m not planning to get any this year, we have to wear bright orange anyway right? Or am I wrong and camo does make a difference?

#4 – Scent.  I really have no clue on this one. It seems some guys don’t care about it while others get way into scent control. I’m thinking about getting scent killer/scent free soap, deodorant, detergent and also keeping my hunting clothing in a separate plastic bag. Also, is cover up scent important? What about attractant scents - I feel a little weird about buying deer pee (and it’s expensive!), does it actually work/help? Basically, how important is scent control for modern firearm season?

#5 – Misc? Any things you wish you had brought on your first deer hunt?

#6 – The “now what?” question. If I find a deer, I think the real work is going to happen after I pull the trigger. I’ve never cleaned/skinned a deer… I’ve read through a lot of things on this site on how to do it, but additional pictures or video would help a lot. Can anyone point me to a link/video/dvd on how to field dress an animal? If anyone has some info on butchering you own game that would also be very helpful.

#7 – Wind direction. What do you guys use to check it? Those unscented powder things look a little gimmicky… This should be as simple as a piece of thread or picking up some dirt right?

Well, I think that about cover things. At least for today… Thanks in advance for you help!

[saylean]

wow...lots of questions.

I am NO EXPERT, so others will offer possibly better advice than I, but here goes.

1. I have a few pair of different boots. Some for summer hiking (light, minimum thermal insulation), some for fall, etc. I didnt buy these all at once, but kind of just acquired them throughout.

I like the "Irish Setters" that I have for winter. You are right, happy feet are a happy camper. Go try on some, get water proof and some with some thermal insualation in it, depending on when and where you are hunting.

2. Pants: I have camo cotton hunting pants. But we all know "cotton kills" once it gets wet. I always wear thermal underwear however that is either wool or wicks the water away. I need new pants for sure, as when they get wet, they get heavy. I would suggest spending some money on some water proof light pants than can slip over your other pants...if you have the money.

I also bought some heavier pants from cabellas (outfitters fleece with windsheer) that sure look like they will be quiet, but I have not field tested them yet.

I would like to go to a Value Village and pick up some wool pants and give that a try too. It really depends on how much rain you are expecting too. I will be deer hunting in eastern wa, so water proofing isnt a huge concern of mine.

3. Camo: This depends on who you speak with. If you are hunting deer or elk with modern firearm, or are in a GMU that is open for that, you must wear 400 cubic inches (vest that covers front/back). I would suggest a blaze orange hat too. I personally have had good experience with a simple burlap camo sheet that I have cut and drape over my body like a poncho (but I dont wear it deer hunting). It breaks up my outline and really seems to work out. I also think a face mask helps out. But again, you need to decide what fits best for you. Dont worry, deer are color blind anyway, so the flame orange wont alert them to you right away.

4. Scent: I dont use any scent covers with the exception of cutting some pine branches and rubbing the pitch on me on occasion. The biggest thing for me is watching the wind. Of course, I dont kill the bruisers (deer) that alot of guys do on here, so take it for what its worth.

5. MISC: If you plan on hiking alot, get some spandex that go down to mid thigh. This will help with chaffing and is something I wish I used a long time ago. If you are not experience hiking, make sure and use a GPS or compass to mark your way, look for land marks to remember, and look behind you while you are hiking to get familiar with the terrain and how it looks.

Always be prepared to stay the night in the woods, even if it is just for a quick "day hike".

6: Field dressing deer:

feature=channel_page

Practice by doing. The biggest thing is, you want to cool down the animal quickly and do not rupture the stomach or intestines, bladder, avoiding contamination of fecal matter on the meat.

7. Wind direction: I just use my body to check it, keeping it in mind. Or you can use the trees, leaves, grass, dirt on the ground (pick some up and drop it, seeing which way it goes).

Good luck and I hope this helps.

Saylean!~

[luvtohnt]

#1 – Boots. I don't really like the ones I have and Ive learned from skiing and snowboarding that if your feet are happy you have a better day on the mountain. I plan to head to REI and try on a bunch, but I'm still interested to hear what brands people are actually using and liking. This is very much correct. I would however go differentfeent sporting goods store and try to find boots with built in waterproofing, like gortex liners.

#2 – Pants. It's starting to get wet and icky. My bright yellow rain gear works great at keeping me dry, but it's annoying and loud to hike in. My lighter snow pants are nice, but I think they'd rip once I started climbing through brush.  I'm interested in getting something that won't rip, doesn't weight a ton, won't soak up lots of water like carharts/jeans, and is easy to move around in. What are you guys using? Or do I just suck it up and pack an extra pair of pants? Wool is always good, keeps you warm even if you are wet. Sitka gear seems to be very popular, althought to expensive for my taste. I have found lately that synthetic fibers are the way to go. The hold water out longer and when they do get soaked they dry much faster. Also very important is layering, make sure you have layers so you can add and subtract clothes as you hike or tepurature varies.

#3 – Camo? I'm not planning to get any this year, we have to wear bright orange anyway right? Or am I wrong and camo does make a difference? Camo helps conceal your outline, which is what animals can pick up on the quickest. Make sure the pattern you buy matches the surrounding flora and fauna or else it won't work. You do have to wear orange but only 400 square inches. I am not sure but Slider sells a vest that may meet this requirement plus they have a built in bino system. Something to look into.

#4 – Scent.  I really have no clue on this one. It seems some guys don't care about it while others get way into scent control. I'm thinking about getting scent killer/scent free soap, deodorant, detergent and also keeping my hunting clothing in a separate plastic bag. Also, is cover up scent important? What about attractant scents - I feel a little weird about buying deer pee (and it's expensive!), does it actually work/help? Basically, how important is scent control for modern firearm season? Personally I use unsented deodorant and usually use some sort of cover scent. I am not sure it is neccesary for rifle hunters, but the closer you have to be or want to be to the animal the more important it becomes. I don't beleive much in scent killers as the second you sweat you are producing more scent. It is much easier to mask your scent than try to eradicate it. Deer pee only if hunting the rut which general season you are not. Hunting clothes should be kept in a seperate location than others and don't use a fabric softner sheet when you dry. Also try to pick up some soap that is scentfree, or even soap specifically designed for hunting clothing.

#5 – Misc? Any things you wish you had brought on your first deer hunt? Better binoculars, and a really sharp knife.

#6 – The “now what question. If I find a deer, I think the real work is going to happen after I pull the trigger. I've never cleaned/skinned a deer… I've read through a lot of things on this site on how to do it, but additional pictures or video would help a lot. Can anyone point me to a link/video/dvd on how to field dress an animal? If anyone has some info on butchering you own game that would also be very helpful. Not sure of a source, my first animal I just called my dad and he walked me through it over the phone worked out great. when I got home he could tell everything I did wrong just by looking at it. He was a butcher for 15 years though so that is an unfair advantage.

#7 – Wind direction. What do you guys use to check it? Those unscented powder things look a little gimmicky… This should be as simple as a piece of thread or picking up some dirt right? I use the primos wind checker. The white scentless powder is more visable for a longer distance then dirt. Besides if the dirt is wet it won't drift in the wind unless it is violent. Plus dirt will pick up scent from your hand and then drift towards animal possibly. Threaad is the same wy it will absorb scent from the truck, the gun case, your hands when you tie it on, so on.

These of course are all my personal opinion that I came to upon trying many differnt things. So as you hunt more you may adjust these to your own liking but at least it gives you a place to start. Something I never had because my dad was handicapped before he ever got to take me out to teach me. So let the learning begin.

Brandon

[boneaddict]

#1 – Boots.  You are on the right track and boots is one of the most import pieces of gear so glad you put it on top.  Rates right up there with tires on the truck.  Lots of brands, lots of opinions.  I like Meindels.  You can get them from Cabelas.  They aren't cheap but you really don't want to scrimp on boots.  Danners, Kenetreks, whites, all brnads that have quality boots.
 
#2 – Pants.
If its snow and rain, wool pants will keep you out there.  It still beats all the synthetic, I don't care what people say.  Moth cloth works good.

#3 – Camo? Killed a lot of deer in a black and red plaid shirt or coat and in blue jeans.

#4 – Scent.  Stay downwind and save your money.  Put it towards your boots or next years tags.

#5 – Misc?  A sharp knife and a wetstone.  It actually amazes me how many folks I have had or bumped into or have heard of that didn't have a knife in their pocket while in th efiled.  I would throw a lighter in your pocket too.  You never know.  That and a small flashlite.  You need to be out there until last light if you are aserious hunter and a good light is always good security about getting home.
 
#6 – Ask about butchering once you get it done.  Study up on field dressing.  The rest can and will come naturally.   Try to make a clean shot.

#7 – talc is fine, fir needles work great. 

Feel free to ask more questions.  We never or better not ever fault you for asking now.  We will make fun of you later if you don't. LOL

[HUNT]

#1 – Boots. I don’t really like the ones I have and I’ve learned from skiing and snowboarding that if your feet are happy you have a better day on the mountain. I plan to head to REI and try on a bunch, but I’m still interested to hear what brands people are actually using and liking.  Get waterproof boots that fit.  You may have to try on many different pair before you get the perfect fit.  Also go with the merino wool socks.  Since I switched to them I have never had blisters from a pair of well fitting boots.

#2 – Pants. It’s starting to get wet and icky. My bright yellow rain gear works great at keeping me dry, but it’s annoying and loud to hike in. My lighter snow pants are nice, but I think they’d rip once I started climbing through brush.  I’m interested in getting something that won’t rip, doesn’t weight a ton, won’t soak up lots of water like carharts/jeans, and is easy to move around in. What are you guys using? Or do I just suck it up and pack an extra pair of pants?  Wool pants work great.  I also have some waterproof camo pants, but they were expensive.  Wool is the best bet for the money.  Only drawback is that they are heavy. 

#3 – Camo? I’m not planning to get any this year, we have to wear bright orange anyway right? Or am I wrong and camo does make a difference?Camo breaks up your outline.  Even if you are wearing Orange.  Not a necessity but I think it helps.

#4 – Scent.  I really have no clue on this one. It seems some guys don’t care about it while others get way into scent control. I’m thinking about getting scent killer/scent free soap, deodorant, detergent and also keeping my hunting clothing in a separate plastic bag. Also, is cover up scent important? What about attractant scents - I feel a little weird about buying deer pee (and it’s expensive!), does it actually work/help? Basically, how important is scent control for modern firearm season? I don't use the scents when rifle hunting. 

#5 – Misc? Any things you wish you had brought on your first deer hunt?  Good Binocs.  You will use them more than any other item you have. 

#6 – The “now what?” question. If I find a deer, I think the real work is going to happen after I pull the trigger. I’ve never cleaned/skinned a deer… I’ve read through a lot of things on this site on how to do it, but additional pictures or video would help a lot. Can anyone point me to a link/video/dvd on how to field dress an animal? If anyone has some info on butchering you own game that would also be very helpful.Just follow the things you've read on this site and you will be fine.  Just get the insides on the outside and keep it clean! 

#7 – Wind direction. What do you guys use to check it? Those unscented powder things look a little gimmicky… This should be as simple as a piece of thread or picking up some dirt right?  You should keep the wind direction in mind.  Especially when stalking an animal.  They can smell from a lot farther than you think. 

Well, I think that about cover things. At least for today… Thanks in advance for you help!

[croix]

#6 – The “now what?” question. If I find a deer, I think the real work is going to happen after I pull the trigger. I’ve never cleaned/skinned a deer… I’ve read through a lot of things on this site on how to do it, but additional pictures or video would help a lot. Can anyone point me to a link/video/dvd on how to field dress an animal? If anyone has some info on butchering you own game that would also be very helpful.

There are some pictures here

http://www.learn-taxidermy.com/deer_gut.htm

This one has some pictures AND some recipes - mmmmm

http://www.michigandnr.com/publications/pdfs/huntingwildlifehabitat/deer_field-dressing.pdf

This site has videos for gutting and skinning

http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-gut-a-deer-field-dressing-265250/

YouTube has some videos as well. Just search "how to gut a deer" from google and you will find plenty.

Good luck

[DOUBLELUNG]

Besides rifle, ammo and tag, I recommend:

1.  a good day pack.  I love my Badlands 2200. 

2.  The best binoculars you can afford.

3.  Sharp knife and sharpener.

4.  Fire starter, and a lighter.  I make mine by stuffing about 2" of dryer lint into the bottom of a quart freezer bag, and soaking it with paraffin.

5.  Map and compass, and the knowledge to use it.  A GPS is good too, but can be limited by dense forest cover.

6.  LED Headlamp.

7.  Camelbak-type hydration bladder.

8.  Comfortable Gore-tex boots with modest amount of insulation.

9.  An extra pair of socks.

10.  Calories - granola bars, gorp, single serve wrapped cured meats and cheese, dried fruit.

11.  parachute cord.

12.  A written description of where you'll be and when you expect to return, left with someone who cares.  Verbal coordination if hunting with others.

13.  A roll of flagging tape.

[Redstar]

Thanks for the help!


This is the only suggestion I'm unclear on so far:

13.  A roll of flagging tape

Is this to mark where you've walked?

[Little Dave]

3. Camo: This depends on who you speak with. If you are hunting deer or elk with modern firearm, or are in a GMU that is open for that, you must wear 400 cubic inches.

... 400 cubic inches is about a half dozen medium-sized oranges. 

I would say your best bet is to get out there now before you hunt and see for yourself.  Best way to get a deer is to have them patterned really well before the season starts.  I've seen a number of success pictures here that don't involve a lot of expensive brand new gear.  One of my favorites I think is BTKR? loading up a deer in the trunk of his car.

I'd say focus on the hunt more and accumulate top of the line gear over time.  Plus, its getting kind of late now to break in new boots unless you plan to walk several miles a day in the boots between now and then.  Mind the wind and the noise.  A cheap knife will go dull really fast. 

Good luck and have fun.

[saylean]

3. Camo: This depends on who you speak with. If you are hunting deer or elk with modern firearm, or are in a GMU that is open for that, you must wear 400 cubic inches.

... 400 cubic inches is about a half dozen medium-sized oranges. 

thats why i gave an example...

smart arse..hey! I work in video games, not construction...

[boneaddict]

Flagging tape is helpful when you are all hyped up, and you will be and you  tear off th emountiain to go get your buddies to help you pack.  then you don't have a clue where you shot your deer because in your hype you forgot to pay attention.

[mossback91]

Flagging tape is helpful when you are all hyped up, and you will be and you  tear off th emountiain to go get your buddies to help you pack.  then you don't have a clue where you shot your deer because in your hype you forgot to pay attention.

Also helps in the thick chit if you think your gonna get lost

[JackOfAllTrades]

Sent you a Pm, but now after I've read these responses, I think I'll throw in 'The Ten Essentials' for a hiker as an answer to #5.  

Map & Compass- (A GPS receiver is not a replacement for a compass)  -And know how to use them!

Sunglasses and sunscreen- (OK, not so much needed on the wet side), but throw in medications you need. Allergies will play hell on a hunt. A headache because you're looking so hard for that elusive buck will turn a morning to miserable. I keep some Tylenol and Ibuprophen on me.

Extra food and water- You need to replace the energy you burn when hiking. Nuf said...  

Extra clothes- Clothing in layers. Clothing for the environment and weather expected, and unexpected. Correct head gear.

Headlamp/flashlight- I carry two. One for the head that is in my day/fanny pack, one that is a survival light that stays in my pants pocket.

First aid kit- No, not all the ointment stuff. But something that can be used to cover a wound or cut in emergency. The bandana I keep in my pocket to wipe my glasses could be a pretty good bandage. I keep some medical tape in my bag and a couple bandaids in my wallet. I don't take my whole wallet hunting. My hunting wallet contains my tags, DL, Medical card, debit card, concealed carry permit, and a little cash.

Fire starter- Nuff said.  Know how to use it. You'd surprised at how many people can't start a fire on the wet side..

Knife- I carry two. Swiss Army knife in my pocket and a sheath knife on my belt. (sharp enough to shave with. dull knives are dangerous)

Signal device- No, your gun is not a signal device. It is limited by the amount of ammo you're carrying and is not precise when signaling. Whistle, mirror and or pen flare. I've seen the plastic whistles break apart at the mold seam so I prefer to have the old style metal one burried in my bag. Oh.. Uh that flashlight fits the bill. Extra batteries. The pen flare is a high end option and also not useful everywhere. I'll throw in the cell phone here.. Turned off, protected in my bag.

Emergency shelter. Even a cheep thin tarp works. Otherwise the space blanket can save your life. I carry the space bag. They are harder to find in stores.

I set these items up for my teenage boys as they started hunting. Anything can happen out in the woods. It's the unprepared that become the fatal news story. Those that are prepared seldom make the news.

-Edit to ad... Toilet paper and some baby wipes in a separate baggie.

-Steve

[Little Dave]

13.  A roll of flagging tape
Is this to mark where you've walked?

Yeah, toilet paper can be a good substitue for marking the blood trail.  Neat thing is that if you don't have presence of mind to remove your flagging tape and roll out the TP instead, nobody is going to know about it a few weeks later.

In a pinch, it has other uses too.

[mossback91]

Besides rifle, ammo and tag, I recommend:



12.  A written description of where you'll be and when you expect to return, left with someone who cares.  Verbal coordination if hunting with others.

Thats a GOOD one to do..........I seem to forget to do this alot

[Buckmark]

Good questions and great answers.
*
I'll add my opinions
The one thing i noticed missing was a camera, take lots of pics...
Good binos are an absolute must, 8x42 works great and a bino strap system like sliders vest or something like crooked horns system.
Print out the instructions you find online for field dressing and laminate them to take with you, or just put them into a ziplock bag. Better then trying to remember what you saw on a dvd. I thought that when you took hunters ed they gave a printed how to field dress?
Parachute cord to tie open the deers legs, helps alot if your learning how to field drees and all by yourself.
When you get your deer down the first thing to do is relax, calm down, admire the deer, take lots of pics, check out the entrance and exit holes, take a little bit to calm down and let the adrenilin rush subside before you get out your knife, cutting yourself can be bad, it's not a race take your time.
Have fun and good luck...

[boneaddict]

medications you need

ALWAYS have a benadryl in my pack.  Never know when that allergic reaction is going to happen and that can save you more than any other medication out there. 

[Bean Counter]

Since you're gun hunting, I wouldn't waste money on spendy camo. They're going to hear you or smell you long before they're going to see you.

keep that optimistic attitude when you hike out into the woods but dont' expect to kill a big deer on your first morning. it took me several years even though I was always excited to start a days hunt.

Ditto on the binos. Losing my cheap, $20 pair of  10x25s on my first year of hunting was the best thing that ever happened to me. Spent $250 on a pair of camo Nikon Monarch ATB's and have hunted with them for years.

If you're looking for a kick @$$ inexpensive knife, I wholeheartedly recommend the Gerber Gator II (i have the non-serrated blade). On sale at Cabelas.com for $25.

Ditto on the headlight. Bring an extra set of batteries and you'll be good to go.

[Bean Counter]

#6 – The “now what?” question. If I find a deer, I think the real work is going to happen after I pull the trigger. I’ve never cleaned/skinned a deer… I’ve read through a lot of things on this site on how to do it, but additional pictures or video would help a lot. Can anyone point me to a link/video/dvd on how to field dress an animal? If anyone has some info on butchering you own game that would also be very helpful.

Get the game processing video from the Kentucky DFG. It will teach you everything, including how to butcher, cut, and wrap, except for how to cape a buck.

[uncoolperson]

spare keys for your rifle.
one in my glove compartment.
one with your tag.

[Buckmark]

spare keys for your rifle.
one in my glove compartment.
one with your tag.

I got my rifle with the keyless entry feature 

[uncoolperson]

spare keys for your rifle.
one in my glove compartment.
one with your tag.

I got my rifle with the keyless entry feature 

http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,33783.msg401236.html#msg401236

[Alchase]

Whatever boots you pick ensure they are broken in already. I also pack liquid skin and the largish square bandages in case of hot spots.

Bino, best you can afford.

Pack, tons of good suggestions already, just depends on how long, how far, and how much gear you are comfortable with carrying. I use a Monster fanny pack (Badlands) when hunting close to camp, a day pack when more then a mile or two away. and a "larger" pack when out all day or over night.

Pants, I use various types depending on weather. REI or North Face cargo pants or military issue fatigues when nice out. REI Minstrel pants or Marmot when a good chance of rain or mixed snow. Rain gear when really pouring.

Camo, allot of my clothes are mixed types of camo, my blase orange is broken up with black camo, but that is not the main factor when buying. I place function over color but most come in some earth tones or black anyway.

Scent - nope, wind direction

Wind direction, as some said powders in squirt bottle work, an old friend use to have a small piece of yarn tied to his front swivel on his rifle that would give him wind direction and be in his line of sight when ready to shoot.

Misc. this stuff goes in each of my packs.
Extra set of keys with hunting partner, or one set in your pack one in your wallet? Hat, extra knife, mini-mag light, Leatherman, headlamp, firstaid kit, drag harness, GPS and compass, multiple bic lighters in ziplock bags kept in different locations. game bags, poncho or packable rain jacket (depending on weather), small roll of duct tape, para-cord, bright colored surveyors tape, cell phone and / or two radio, water and food.

[methowman]

I think alot of what your asking depends on what type of area you will hunt & what sort of weather you will be in. If you hunt the west side the chance of wet weather is much higher & because of the thick brush your equipement (mostly clothing) will be different than if you hunt east. I prefer the east side with wide open spaces &  beautiful scenery, not to mention less rain. Don't get me wrong both are awesome.

Boots: Again weather is a factor but If you can afford gortex boots that fit just right, with thinsulate thickness for the weather you expect to hunt in (try on many & you will know when you have the right pair on). I prefer a lighter 8" boot all leather, I have Rocky & Danner brands boots & both have worked well. You get what you pay for...

Pants/Camo: I have an assortment of pants including gortex, army surplus, cabellas brand camo, & jeans, ect.  Any of them work "but" ..will it be cold ? do you need long underwear ? are the pants large enough to fit with the long johns on? do the pants fit to tight,(jumping over fallen timber in tight jeans sucks) is it wet, will you be in brushy area or desert ,does the camo pattern match the terrain. Jeans work fine but if you have the money a light weight gortex coat & pants are worth every penny,buy a size big enough to layer underneath when its cold.

Scent: you need to be scent free as possible, use a scent free clothes wash, spray on scent cover,scentless soap & shampoo, & pit stick. If you smoke do not smoke with your hunting clothes near by. Don't hang around the camp fire in em either.you can toss in a tree brow with your clothes in a plastic bag it helps. It may seem a little over the top but I see more game when I take the time to do it right.

Misc: Good binoculars in eastern washington with 8-10 power, a backpack or fanny pack. The right food, as much water as you can carry,good small flashlight, GPS/ radio, first aid kit, matches, buttwipe. Be prepared... I have heard to many stories from buddies about getting lost & spending the night in the forest, if your prepared its no big deal if your not you could die.

Wind: The wind will change direction from morning to night throughout the day, If you stock or still hunt face into the wind when possible & for a couple of bucks the little plastic squeeze bottle of powder works great to check direction & lasts along time.

Hope this helps, have a great hunt

[GoPlayOutside]

#1 Boots-  For cold/bad weather, I use a gortex lighter weight hiking boot.  REI is the right place to find 'em.  I'm a climber/hiker freak, so I don't like the bigger heavier (Danner, Rocky, etc.) "work boot" feel.  If the weather is good, I will always wear regular sturdy running shoes (trail running).  They are just so much more comfy and make my day a lot easier and pleasant.

#2 Pants-  For cold/bad weather I wear Rivers West Pants and coat (soft/quiet camo).  Waterproof, tougher than heck, and warm.  In fact I Ski in my my Rivers West Gear.  Really Cold Weather- wool under my Rivers West.  Warm Weather- any lighter weight gear will due.  I used to hunt modern rifle in Jeans, but learned that it is a lot easier and more fun to hunt all day in the newer/better fabrics on the market.

#3 Camo-  I'm a huntin freak, I love camo.  If there's just a little possability that it could help my chances, I'll do it.  But then again, my Dad will kill a buck or bull in his flannels and Jeans???

#4 Scentkiller-  Again, I believe it helps.  If there's just a little possability that it could help my chances, I'll do it.  I use Scentkiller 99.9%.  I'm a bow hunter, and I also like to put either Deer or Elk piss on cottonballs and then tuck them into my bow and on my shoes laces.  I think it helps a ton!  My wife doesn't like it when I smell like pee though.
 
#5 Misc-  Don't get discouraged during the modern rifle season.  You might see a lot of hunters, you might not see a lot of bucks or deer.  But remember, a deer can pop out at any second of the day in the most unlikely of places.  Example, my little brother and I were discouraged during a modern hunt 7 or 8 yrs ago.  We stopped and had lunch on top of a rocky cliff, just because there was a beautiful view, and we hadn't seen anything all day.  We were loud, cussing, joking, grumpy, throwing rocks off the cliff.  After an hour or so...we were eating our Peanut butter sandwiches, and a 4x4 buck comes running from behind us and almost knocks us off the cliff face.  Something (probably a hunter) must of spooked him, and he crested a ridge and ran into us.  BAM!  within a second, my brothers sandwich was on the ground and so was the buck.  As I look back now, it was an awesome hunt...he got his first deer, and I'll never forget it. 

Good Luck!  Once you get out there a couple of times (heck...evertime) you will always learn what you like to take, and how you like to prepare.

In my Large Fanny pack system (Nimrod Packs) I carry:
Bone saw
2 knifes
sharpener
lighter
TP
5 pairs of latex gloves
water, snacks
1 truck tie down (typical 1" webbing about 4ft long)......I'm the only person I know that carrys this (most people use rope).  I just like the convenience of strapping a leg or quarter to a tree or bush when I'm gutting the animal.  Keeps the animal opened up for easy cleaning.  Then I can hang it in a tree by myself if needed.

[jagermiester]

THis is simple. You need a good wool shirt and Filson chaps over your jeans. Broke in Danner Elk hunters only use them for hunting, keep them oiled and they will last you a super long time. Get a orange vest with a built in pack and carry water rope and a snack. Push yourself. Bino Buddies rock. When you kill something keep it clean and get it cooled as quickly as possible. Most important its called hunting not killing so have fun but dont ever lose the fire killing a deer/elk is awsome it takes a lot of work push yourself. 

[ICEMAN]

Great questions.

1. Boots, I prefer to bring multiple pairs of footwear. Boots to hike in, sneakers or similar at camp. This lets the feet experience a change, plus lets the boots dry out. Bring athletes foot powder or creme. Baby your feet, wash them nightly with baby wipes and sleep without socks so they can dry completley and naturally. You do not want wet feet for three plus days... Boots dry best layed on their sides rather than standing up.

2. Pants. I will talk "Clothing", as with all clothing, no cotton, none. Even consider getting wicking type undies. Or if you are strapped for cash, bring enough undies to keep yourself dry. Consider thin poly liner socks under your other socks. Pants, I prefer 100poly pants, something that will not absorb water. Check the tags, dont buy cotton.

3. Camo, not necessary, but makes you "cooler". 

4. Scent control, save your cash, watch the wind, see #7 below.

5. Miscelaneous. Baby wipes, baby wipes, baby wipes. Your best friend are baby wipes. You friends will not bring enough and try to bum some off you, so advise them to bring alot too.....  Headlamp is essential. Don't know how I hunted without one before.... Gallon ziploc bags, from liver and heart storage, to keeping stuff organized, to keeping stuff dry, I live by the gallon ziploc bag. Extra tarps for camp. Extra game bags. Tie a key now, today, under your truck. Do not wait until later.

6. Game Care. Deer are basically a large furry trout with legs. Remove all the icky stuff from vent to mouth. Deer are food, so treat them as such. No hot sun, no dirt, get it cool, keep it clean.

7. Windicator. Vital. I prefer the primos type as others have mentioned. Easy to use, can see it at first light, always works for me. Best 3bucks you will spend.

Good luck!
 

[Redstar]

Wow, lots of responses, I appreciate the help!

Other than boots, I’m trying not to spend a lot because I’m not sure what I will actually need and want. I’m hoping to get boots this weekend and try to break them in before the 17th…

I will be primarily hunting the west side. My daypack always has a compass, water, energy bar or gel, space blanket, poncho, flashlight, batteries, knife, lighter & matches, bandages, hand wipes/sanitizer and TP. Thanks for the tips on some other good gear to have.

I have a good layered clothing setup for hiking and a colder setup for snowboarding. But, from getting off the trail scouting and chasing grouse this year I see I will need some tougher clothing. I think I’m going to try to find a pair of wool pants for now and see how they work for me.

Sounds like camo isn’t going to be too important for me this year. Money will go toward boots or binoculars

What do you guys recommend for cover scents?

Binoculars are coming up a lot, I’m looking into the zen-ray’s. They seem to be well liked and reasonably prices + a site sponsor.

The links are great, very helpful! I can’t find the Kentucky DFG video though. In hunters ed we did not get a printout, but there was a brief description on how to field dress. I think I’m just a little nervous about it since it will be the first animal I’ve cleaned with intestines about the size of mine… My thinking is that pictures and video will at least help me prepare mentally a little bit for the experience.

Got it, the powder stuff works and is worth the couple dollars. I’ll see if I can find some and try it out.

[runningboard]

All good advice, the guys and gals of this site are awesome. one thing that I saw while reading this thread that stuck out to me is a couple of guys mentioned thrift stores and army surplus as a way to get outfitted, sound wisdom for the budget-minded newbie. good binos are a must, no matter wet-side or eastside, they will help you turn that bush into a deer before he blows out of there.

I thought that when you took hunters ed they gave a printed how to field dress?

in my classes I always tell folks to find their own way, cuz as many hunter's as there that's how many "right" ways there are to do it. get a video or find a friend who can help, etc, etc.

[Alchase]

What do you guys recommend for cover scents?

If you are rifle hunting I would not waste my money. If you feel you really need a cover scent rub some pine tree or juniper leaves or needles (if that is what you are hunting in).

[Little Dave]

Binoculars are coming up a lot, I’m looking into the zen-ray’s. They seem to be well liked and reasonably prices + a site sponsor.

Next thing to watch out for is babysitting your gear.  Now that you are bringing along about a hundred items, you'll probably lose a few along the way.  Once you have a gear babysitting technique which works, maybe then invest in the more expensive gear.

Stuff falls out of pockets, clips fail, twigs snag stuff off of your pack... and worst of all, seems that gear left behind walks away on its own.