When you’re out hunting, you sometimes have to travel further than you may like. This can waste a lot of time and energy if you have to travel the distance on foot. However, there’s a solution! Trailer up your all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and bring it out on the hunt with you next time. ATVs make excellent hunting transport because they can traverse muddy terrain, wet leaves, and shallow creeks with ease. Quads can even be fitted with accessories to make hauling your weapons and game much easier.

Not sure how to prepare for hunting with your ATV? We have provided our top tips for hunting with your quad so you can have a successful and enjoyable trip!

Scout the Location

First, you should drive out to your ideal hunting grounds during the day to scout them out before you bring your guns and ammo at the crack of dawn. You’ll want to figure out where your prey will be, and you can sometimes see their movement in the form of deer paths and trails. Look for the types of plants that your prey likes to eat. Next, you’ll want to determine the best spot in the area to hunt from. Your ATV will allow you to ride around the area and scout out many locations quickly, particularly in areas that your SUV or pickup truck cannot access.

Pack the Right Gear

It’s important to bring the right gear with you to be successful on your hunt. A reflective vest or jacket will ensure you are visible to other hunters. Wear gloves with a good grip so you can easily manipulate your weapon and wear a snug-fitting hat that covers your ears to keep you warm. Outside of this, you’ll want to make sure that you bring your guns and sufficient ammo, a tool kit, a first-aid kit, an emergency radio, your phone and charger, a GPS, food and water, and a paper map of the area in case you can’t get a signal.

Leave Plenty of Daylight

Even if your ATV is equipped with LED headlamps, you never want to be out in the forest after dark. Make sure that you stop your hunt and dress your game in the afternoon, well before the sun sets, so you have time to drive your ATV safely back to your truck and trailer it up. You’ll likely be going more slowly due to the extra weight of your game. So, don’t try to bag another trophy if you can sense the sun nearing the horizon. Be smart and pack things up so you can get home safely.

Still in search of the perfect ATV for hunting and recreational riding? Stop by Nielsen Enterprises in Lake Villa, IL, to check out our selection of ATVs for sale. You can take advantage of our financing options to get the four-wheeler you need. We proudly serve all those in Chicago, IL, and Milwaukee, WI.