There’s nothing quite like packing up your gear, tossing a cooler in the truck bed, and heading out on a hunting road trip. Whether you're chasing gobblers in Tennessee, elk in Colorado, or whitetails in Kansas, hunting out of state adds a whole new level of excitement—and challenge—to the hunt.
But before you go burnin’ gas and dreams, there are a few things every hunter needs to know to make the trip worthwhile (and legal). Here’s a quick guide to help you plan smarter and hunt better, no matter where the road takes you.
1. Start with the Rules (Every State is Different)
Don’t assume what works in your home state flies somewhere else. License requirements, bag limits, blaze orange laws, tagging procedures—you name it, it’s probably different.
Head to that state’s wildlife agency website and dig in. Some states require hunter ed cards on you at all times, others might use phone check-ins or physical tags.
👉 Pro Tip: Print out or screenshot key rules and regs just in case you lose service in the middle of nowhere.
2. Apply Early (Especially for Big Game Draws)
Planning to hunt elk, mule deer, or even turkey in high-demand areas? You may have to enter a draw. These deadlines often fall months before the season starts. Miss it, and you’re sittin’ home watching hunting shows instead.
3. Map It Like a Local
Nothing replaces boots on the ground, but mapping tools come real close. Use onX, HuntStand, or good ol’ Google Earth to scout terrain, mark boundaries, and find public access. Look at pinch points, terrain breaks, and water sources—just like you would back home.
And don’t forget to check for private/public land lines. Trespassing laws can be stricter out of state, and one wrong step could cost you more than a bird.
4. Know the Terrain (and Train for It)
Hunting in Mississippi is a whole different game than hunting the mountains of Montana. If you're heading into higher elevations or rugged country, get your legs ready before you go.
Even a turkey hunt out west can turn into a hike real quick. The more prepared you are physically, the more enjoyable (and successful) the hunt will be.
Bring gear that suits the environment:
- Lightweight camo suited to that region
- Weather-proof boots
- Reliable deer grunts, turkey friction calls, or diaphragm calls
- A GPS or mapping app to keep you on track
5. Pack Smart, Pack Legal
Before you hit the road, double-check your gear. Are your guns or bows legal in that state? Can you use decoys or locator calls? What about ammo restrictions or plug requirements?
Some states have rules on transporting game or even what time of day you can hunt. Keep your gear in check and stay out of trouble.
6. Respect the Locals
Whether it’s landowners, game wardens, or fellow hunters—you’re a guest. Represent yourself (and your state) well. Be polite, clean up after yourself, and don’t crowd someone’s spot.
A little respect goes a long way. Who knows, you might even make a friend or get invited back next season.
7. Plan for Meat Care
Bagging a buck five states away is one thing. Getting it home without spoilage is another. Bring coolers, ice packs, and game bags. Check interstate transport laws—some places don’t allow you to bring home certain animal parts (like brains or spines) due to disease prevention.
Final Thoughts from Lyle
There’s a special kind of thrill in chasing game on unfamiliar ground. It humbles you. Teaches you. Pushes you. But with the right prep and a little patience, it might just turn into your best hunt yet.
If you’re planning to hunt turkeys out of state this coming season, take the time to prep, pack smart, and know the laws. And if you need a reliable, easy-to-use turkey call to bring in those birds across any terrain—well, we’ve got you covered right here at Houndstooth.
See y’all on the road,
~Lyle