The Complete Guide to Hunting with Your ATV | High Lifter

The Complete Guide to Hunting with Your ATV

Are ATVs good for hunting?

There are two things hunters know: there’s always a bigger trophy, and there’s always better gear. 

Hunting with an ATV means hunters can easily haul supplies and game in and out of their favorite hunting spots. So—what are the keys to a great hunting experience with an ATV? Today we’re going over ATVs and UTVs for hunting, including in-depth pros and cons and a gear guide guaranteed to improve any hunter’s experience.

Are ATVs or UTVs better for hunting?

They both have their own advantages. Typically, ATVs are a better fit for most hunters. 

  • Smaller footprint
  • Quieter on the trails
  • More affordable

Hunters love ATVs because of their smaller turning radius and overall width. Tighter turning capabilities allow them to fit into more confined trails, giving riders additional options for vantage points. Plus, if it does end up getting stuck, a lighter vehicle is much easier to winch out.

An ATV is going to ride and idle much quieter than a larger UTV. With less noise, there’s less likelihood of scaring off game. A quieter engine also allows you to better hear the surrounding wilderness. For deer or duck hunting with ATVs, a quieter engine can be the difference-maker.

ATVs were the first to the market. Side by sides came out a couple decades later. That alone means the used market is significantly larger. The market for replacement parts follows the same trend, with a lot of aftermarket options available. On top of that, the sheer size of a UTV means that it’s usually going to cost more used or right off the lot.

Can you hunt from your ATV?

You CAN NOT hunt from your ATV—whether it’s stationary or not in most states. Some states like Iowa will allow you to discharge a firearm if you are non-ambulatory (not able to walk). At High Lifter, we would never advocate anybody risking their safety on the trails. We’re also not going to make assumptions about what is legal and safe for you. So, it’s important to check your state’s local laws.

Can deer smell ATV fumes?

Deer can smell just about anything, which means they can smell the fumes from your four wheeler. So, for those looking to ride into their chosen territory, be sure you’re not sending smells downwind.

When Shouldn’t You Bring an ATV Hunting?

A four-wheeler can be a lifesaver in just about any situation. Sometimes, however, it’s more of a hassle than it’s worth. Here’s when you shouldn’t bring your ATV hunting:

  • Local Laws and Regulations ban it.
    • Always know before you go, and don’t risk the ticket.
  • The terrain is too advanced for your vehicle.
    • If you don’t think you can confidently ride, it’s best to leave it behind.
  • You’re not confident the ATV can make it out.
    • Engines seizing up at mid-day are no good.
  • The game you’re hunting spooks easily.
    • Deer are notoriously skittish, and engines of any size can send them bolting.

Who Makes the Best ATV for Hunting?

The debate can go on for years, so we’re going to keep this list to three of our favorite hunting ATVs from Polaris, Can-Am, and Yamaha released this year. .

Polaris Sportsman XP 1000 Hunt Edition

This model was made with the most discerning hunters in mind. With a built-in gun scabbard, front and rear rack extenders, front and rear brush guards, and Kolpin Ratchet Claws, the Sportsman is ready for anything. The Hunt edition can handle a 575lb payload and offers 6 gallons of personal storage space as well. A 90 HP engine boasts 1,500lbs of towing capacity, and 26” A/T tires give 11.5” of ground clearance.

Pros:

  • Good sized engine
  • Great storage space
  • Great towing capacity

Cons:

  • Power Steering tuned for lower speeds
  • Dash/Usability Issues
  • Suspension a bit wobbly at high speeds

Can-Am Outlander Mossy Oak Edition 450/570

With the V-Twin, Liquid-Cooled engine, the 48hp it puts out is designed for optimal hunting performance. Selectable 2WD/4WD, a locking front differential, and tri-mode power steering provide a supremely responsive ride. 

Features like a 3,500lb winch included show the attention to detail put into this model. From the Mossy Oak Break-Up Country Camo exterior to the heated grips, heavy-duty bumpers, and 360lb of available rack storage, they made a great hunting ATV.

Pros:

  • Locking front differential limits slippage
  • Heavy-duty bumpers, winch included
  • Responsive Tri-Mode Power Steering

Cons: 

  • Front end is known to bottom out at higher speeds, and washboards are too much for suspension to handle
  • Tires not suited for more vertical climbs

Yamaha Grizzly EPS XT-R

If hunters are looking for the quietest ATV for hunting, the Grizzly is top-of-the-list. Fans love the ultra-responsive transmission, and the 686cc engine doesn’t lack power, either. The Limited-Slip 4WD setting is a favorite of the hunters here at High Lifter.

Maxxis Zilla tires are great for any trail condition, and 11.8” of ground clearance gives it the best on the list. The factory-installed winch, lightweight aluminum wheels, and preload-adjustable shocks make it one of the smoothest rigging four wheelers for hunting.

Pros:

  • Lightweight (almost 100lbs lighter than the competition)
  • Quiet engine
  • Ultra-responsive 4WD

Cons:

  • Stock tires not ideal for rocks and desert
  • Gear Lever hard to reach from certain positions
  • Shorter wheelbase causes some bouncing 

Any ATV you pick, you’re going to have a good time as long as you keep up on maintenance, and can find the parts you need. Thousands of riders are customizing their quads for hunting every day.

How Can You Trick Out Your ATV for Hunting

Tires 

One of the easiest ways to boost the performance of your ATV while hunting is by upgrading your tires. Depending on the conditions you’re going out in, the tread type, size, and offset can make or break how your ATV handles. At High Lifter, we swear the best ATV tires for hunting are A/T Tires, but there are tires for every riding style here

Gun Racks

An essential for safe hunting is securing your firearms properly. Easily attachable to the back of your ATV, the sturdy, reliable, Seizmik gun racks are a fan favorite. They’re designed to fit any vehicle, so you won’t have to worry about make/model. Get your ATV Gun Rack here

Lift Kits

Hunting trips should never be cut short because of an issue with ATV clearance. ATV lift kits help hunters cover more territory without the worry of getting stuck. Trees, stumps, rocks, etc. are always going to be a part of trail riding. With the right lift kit, hunters can ride right over obstacles like these.  Additionally, the added clearance keeps the undercarriage safer from debris and rocks. See the best Lift Kits for ATvs here.

Better hunting with an ATV

With the ability to cover more ground, pack more essential gear, and haul out your game easier, there are almost no downsides to hunting with an ATV. Get the parts you need to make your ATV better for duck, deer, pheasant, squirrel, or fox hunting with High Lifter today. 

With the decades we’ve spent making tires, wheels, lift kits for hunters, and more, we’re always excited to hear about what our customers are up to. Be sure to like, follow, and tag High Lifter on social!