The Ultimate UTV Hunting Guide | High Lifter

Product Highlights | August 27, 2025
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The Ultimate UTV Hunting Guide

Are UTVs good for hunting?

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

Hunting with a UTV 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 a UTV? 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.

One of the potential disadvantages to hunting in your side by side is also one of it’s main advantages, the size.

  • More Cargo Capacity
  • More Room for Passengers
  • More Accessories
  • Easier Game Retrieval

For many hunters the benefits gained from using a larger side by side far outweigh the negatives. Utility side by sides usually have a dump bed that is excellent for storing gear and other equipment while out in the woods. You can also install a hood rack to add additional storage over the otherwise unused space above your UTV’s hood.

Even the smallest UTV’s can sit 2 people more comfortably than you could ride 2-up on an ATV most times, and that’s not even including crew cab models that can sit up to 6 passengers in some instances. The ability to carry all of your gear and the whole hunting party in one machine could be a game changer for some customers.

Can you hunt from your ATV/UTV?

You CAN NOT hunt from your ATV or UTV, 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 UTV fumes?

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

When Shouldn’t You Bring a UTV Hunting?

A side by side 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 UTV 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 your UTV 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/UTV for Hunting?

The debate can go on for years, so we’re going to keep this list to two of the most popular brands Polaris and Can-Am.

Polaris Sportsman Hunt Edition

These 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 Mounts, these Sportsman is ready for anything. The Hunt Edition can handle a 575lb payload and offers 6 gallons of personal storage space as well. This special edition Sportsman is available as a 570 and an XP 1000 boasting up to a 90 HP engine with 1,500lbs of towing capacity, and 26” A/T tires giving an impressive 11.5” of ground clearance. All packed into a 48″ width so you can fit down those tighter trails.

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

Polaris Ranger XD 1500

One of the newest editions to the Polaris Ranger lineup, the Ranger XD 1500 is in a class of its own. With an impressive 110 HP ProStar 1500cc Engine and STEELDRIVE Transmission that boasts 3,500 lb Towing Capacity and 1,500 lb cargo capacity. The Northstar Trim package gives you a factory installed Heating and Air Conditioning System allowing you to stay warm on those cool early morning hunts. A factory installed 6,000 lb winch and electric lift dump bed round out the features that many hunters find helpful.

Pros:

  • Exceptional power and performance
  • Fully enclosed cab with HVAC
  • Enough payload to carry all of your gear in a single trip

Cons:

  • Large 65″ width could struggle in tight quarters
  • Larger engines usually mean more noise
  • Enclosed cab could decrease visibility and accessibility

Can-Am Outlander Pro Hunting Edition

With the V-Twin, Liquid-Cooled engine, the 50hp 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 factory Dark Wildland Camo exterior, heavy-duty bumpers, and 360lb of available rack storage, they made a great hunting ATV. Not to mention Can-Am’s other Outlander models like the 6×6 that comes equipped with a cargo box, and the all new Outlander Electric that has a 47 HP electric engine for nearly silent operation.

Pros:

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

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

Can-Am Defender

The versatile Can-Am Defender comes in many different trims so hunters can find the options that suit them the best. The DPS and XT both come in the available Dark Wildland Camo that Can-Am offers but the factory Compass Green and Stealth Black that are available on most models are also good choices for avid hunters.

The Defender is a proven platform with plenty of performance and a wide range of OEM and aftermarket accessories. With an available 65 HP liquid-cooled V-twin engine these side by sides are capable of 2,500 lbs towing capacity and a 1,700 lb payload rating. The Defender goes even further with the newly announced HD11. This newly announced machine is Can-Am’s most capable yet with a 95 HP engine and class leading cargo and towing capacity.

Pros:

  • Large cargo capacity for gear and game
  • Durability
  • Enough seating to carry the whole crew

Cons:

  • Louder than most ATVs and smaller UTVs
  • Overall size can be a hindrance on smaller trails
  • Heavy weight could cause it to sink into soft ground easier 

No matter ATV or UTV 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 UTV for Hunting? 

Tires 

One of the easiest ways to boost the performance of your ATV or Side By Side 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 roof of your UTV, the sturdy, reliable, Seizmik gun racks are a fan favorite. Additionally the Seizmik ICOS2 designed to fit in the seat of 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 ground clearance. A lift kit 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 your ATV or UTV here.

Headache Rack

High Lifter’s new N.O.M.A.D. Headache Rack for the Polaris Ranger 1500 is the ultimate hunting accessory. This rack comes standard with 1,500 lb winch installed to help you load heavy gear or game with either the rack mounted controls or the included wireless winch remote.

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!

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