4950 State Hwy. 210 S.W.
Pillager, MN 56473
866-456-6806
218-851-2093 Gary Tank
mrdeer@brainerd.net
Equipment List
Below is a recommended equipment list based on our experience both outfitting for and hunting for Minnesota black bears. The list provides specific brand products that we have found to be extremely useful and contribute to the success of many of our hunters. Although they are not required, it is strongly suggested that you come prepared with these items. The first list is for all hunters, the second is for bowhunters, and the third list for all gun hunters.
All Hunters
o Scent Elimination Suits - Perhaps one of the most important investments you can make in your hunting gear. They make excellent lightweight garments as well as garments with Rain and Bug Proof materials. Be sure to pick up a hat and hood combo (they come as one unit), it's very comfortable to shoot in but bowhunters be sure to practice in it before coming on the hunt.
o Raingear - Although bears don't move much in the rain, if you plan on being on stand, no other fabric can guarantee that you stay dry and maintain good breathability better than Gore Tex.
o Lightweight Bug Suit - Bugs are not normally a problem in our area, however, if we have an unusual warm spell they can be more than annoying. Although we haven't used one yet, there is a company out there that makes a small keychain device that is supposed to repel bugs that comes highly recommended from other bear guides. Bug sprays stink, even the ones that say "Sportsmen Formula" and "Unscented"
o Rubber or Scent Proof Boots - Muck Boots and other companies make some great boots in this category
o Gloves - since your hands move more than any other part of your body when coming to full draw, you should be sure they are camoed up.
o Safety Belt - Don't skip this one, it is MANITORY that you bring your own safety belt and know how to use it. We want this trip to be not only successful, but safe and enjoyable as well.
o Optics - Choose those with low-light capabilities. You get what you pay for in optics. If you choose lesser models, be look for ones with 8X magnification or less and Objective lenses (front lenses) 40mm or larger.
o Flashlight - Mainly for use around the camp and walking out of your bait site. Bring 2 flashlights. You can also purchase LED Heads for less than $10. They are ultra light dime sized lights that clip on your hat for hands-free use while climbing out of your stand and out of the bait site to the pick up spot. Blue lights seem to work the best.
o Game Transportation - If you are driving, make sure you bring large coolers to take your hides and meat home with you. If you are flying, you can check your airline regulations for specific maximum size luggage requirements. If you pack your clothes in the large cooler, you can ship your clothes home in a box and bring your meat and hide back in the cooler. The extra weight charge on an airline is way cheaper than shipping your meat home.
Bowhunters
o Bow Rope/Hoist - Several commercial retracting ropes are available but you can get away with simple parachute cord or other material that will hold the weight of your bow after climbing into your stand to hoist it up.
o Range Finder - Always an ethical tool to have on you. Most sites will be under 30 yards from the bait, however if a follow up shot is needed, you may find this useful.
o Back-up Bow - There are no archery shops in the area so bringing a back-up bow ready to shoot that you have confidence in is a wise idea.
o Arrows - Bring 2 dozen, although we all hope to only need one, it's not a bad idea to have 2 dozen total. Accidents happen, bows get slammed in doors, quivers get stepped on, arrows get damaged practicing, and yes, ANYONE can miss - sometimes more than once!
o BROADHEADS - Make sure that all broadheads are tuned for perfect flight with all of your arrows.
o Sights - Mature bears tend to wait until last light to come into baits. Because of this, you may want to equip your bow with a sight with low light capabilities. Remember, we must still respect game laws and hunt only until daily designated state law hunting times.
o Treestands - Some select sites will have ladder stands already in place. The other sights will have multiple locations to hang a stand with steps leading up to where the platform should be placed. This is to utilize wind direction to give you the optimum chance at harvesting a trophy bear. We will have quick, quiet, and lightweight stands there for each hunter to use should you decide to hunt one of these baits. However, if you feel more comfortable bringing your own stand you may. Hockey tape your stand prior to arriving to keep metallic noise at a minimum.
o Hockey Tape - Not just for stands. Be sure to hockey tape anything metallic. The sound of metal touching metal is one of the most unnatural sounds a bear can hear in the Minnesota Northwood. Bringing an extra roll should be a serious consideration.
o Bowhunting Regulations - Please review all regulations. It is your responsibility to know the game laws and adhere to them during your hunt. These can be found at the Minnesota DNR's webite.
Gun Hunters
o Guns - Please review all regulations. You can find these regulations at the Minnesota DNR's website. It is your responsibility to know the game laws and adhere to them during your hunt.
o Ammunition - It is recommended that you bring 20 rounds specifically for hunting as well as an additional 20 for target practice when arriving in camp, especially if are flying in to hunt.
o Gun/Pack Rope - Bring a rope or retractable cord to raise and lower your gun or pack if needed from the ground to your stand.
o Best Bear Gun - 12 gauge slug gun with small optics.
Non Hunting Gear
o Fishing Gear - The most popular game fish are smallmouth, walleye, and northern pike, although muskies are present in the waters as well. Most fishing is done by boat. Boats will be available for use on a limited basis and only while not engaged for hunting purposes. Boats are available for rent from the lodge or a docking fee of $10 per day can be utilized if you bring your own boat.
o Cameras and Film - Some hunters may be filmed professionally for use in advertising and possibly television shows. It is strongly suggested though that you also bring your own cameras, both still and video. We will have a digital camera that can capture your trophy photos.
o Radios - Any radios are used only for early pick up times and emergencies. There are very specific guidelines for radio usage during hunts in Minnesota.
