FeatherNett Outfitters Pre-Hunt Guide!

Thank you for choosing FeatherNett Outfitters as your destination to hunt free-range whitetails and turkeys hunts in Fairfield & Perry Counties. Now that your hunt is booked, it’s time to prepare. We are excited to help you prepare for a successful and unforgettable hunting experience. To ensure you make the most of your time with us, we’ve compiled all the essential information, policies, and guidelines you’ll need. Our goal is to have you fully informed and ready to step into the woods with confidence, setting the stage for a truly memorable hunt.

License and Tag

All hunters must purchase a valid Ohio hunting license and the required deer tag before arriving at camp. Ohio licenses and tags are available over the counter (no lottery or draw required). Ensure you have printed copies of your license and tag with you upon arrival.

Purchase Options: We recommend Downloading the “Hunt Fish OHIO” App – Available on IOS & Android

Non-Resident Hunters:

Non-residents will need to purchase:

  1. Non-resident hunting license
  2. Non-resident either-sex deer tag

Follow the online prompts to create an account and complete your purchase. NOTE: You can download the OHIO ODNR “HUNT FISH OHIO” App on IOS & Android

Preparation for the Hunt

1. Equipment Proficiency

We strongly recommend that you’re proficient with your equipment before heading into the field. Proper preparation ensures your success and allows us to fix any potential issues beforehand.

  • Archery Shots: Practice at distances of 20-40 yards, as most stands are positioned within this range of bait sites.
  • Firearm Shots: Practice shooting at distances up to 150 yards, with many setups closer to 100 yards.

2. Recommended Gear

  • Broadheads: We recommend a quality broadhead with a high-penetration-rate mechanical or Fix Blade broadhead. Confidence in your accuracy is critical to your success! Most unrecovered animals result from a lack of penetration, so prepare accordingly. Check out our Partner REK BROADHEADS as they offer trusted Broadheads for the FeatherNett Community!
  • Lighted Nocks: While not mandatory, lighted nocks are highly recommended for tracking and recovering game. If using for the first time, practice with them before your hunt to adjust to any changes in arrow flight.

Click HERE to purchase our recommended lighted nocks!

3. Mandatory Equipment

  • A four-point safety harness is required. Adjust it to fit properly before arriving. We love Our Malta Hunting Safety Harnesses!
  • Bring your own retractable pull-rope and, if bowhunting, a bow hanger.
  • Download the OnX Hunt App to use as a GPS and stand-locating tool during your hunt. We will guide you on how to use the app during orientation.

4. Smartphone App

Download the ONX-HUNT before your hunt. This app will serve as your handheld GPS for stand locations. 

Premium Single-State Membership: Access detailed maps and features for one state at $34.99 per year.
onX Maps

  • Premium Two-State Membership: Includes all Premium features for two states at $49.99 per year.
    onX Maps
  • Elite Membership: Provides nationwide access to maps for all 50 states, along with exclusive tools and resources, priced at $99.99 per year or $14.99 per month.
    onX Maps

Each membership includes access to the onX Hunt App on iOS, Android, and desktop platforms. We will cover the operation of this app during orientation! 

Weather and Scent Control

Weather Preparedness

Ohio weather is unpredictable. You may experience snow in October or 85°F during peak rut. Check the forecast and pack layers to ensure comfort.

Scent Consciousness

To minimize detection:

  • Wash hunting garments in scent-free detergent and store them in scent-free containers.
  • Hunt the wind whenever possible.

Explore recommended scent control products here!

Physical Limitations

Please inform us of any physical limitations when completing your pre-arrival questionnaire so we can accommodate your needs.

Packing Checklist

We foster a positive camp environment. Enjoy your time in the woods and remember the true meaning of hunting: having fun.

Arriving at Camp

At FeatherNett Outfitters, we strive to provide a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere. As a semi-guided outfitter, hunters are responsible for their own lodging, meals, and transportation.

Arrival Time

Plan to arrive by 3:00 PM the day before your hunt. This will allow time to:

  • Meet our team and review your hunt plans.
  • Discuss stand locations, access points, and property boundaries.
  • Confirm Your Equipment is Sighted in!

The Hunt

We aim to provide you with a hunt of a lifetime. Our land management and  harvest guidelines ensure a healthy population of mature whitetails.

Antler Minimums

  • 100″ minimum is recommended to focus on harvesting mature bucks.
  • First-time hunters: No fines for smaller harvests—we want you to enjoy your experience.
  • Returning hunters: A $200 fine applies for bucks under 100 inches, encouraging the harvest of mature deer.

Stand Assignments and Safety

At FeatherNett Outdoors, we assign stands and blinds based on your shooting abilities and our scouting efforts. All setups are strategically placed to maximize your opportunities.

  • Treestands and Blinds:
    • We utilize ladder stands, hang-ons, ground blinds, and shooting houses. Treestands with lifelines are provided for safety.
    • Stand heights range from 18-28 feet. Please let us know in advance if you have height limitations.
  • Access Rules:
    • Hunters must only walk directly to and from their assigned stand locations.
    • It is strictly forbidden to roam the property or sit at the base of the stand.
    • Most clients walk themselves to and from stand locations.
    • We provide side-by-sides and 4-wheelers for recovery only.

Safety Rules

  • Walk directly to and from assigned stands only.
  • Ethical shots only; we’ll guide you on scoring and aging bucks during orientation.
  • All hunters must abide by state and federal game laws.
  • Smoking and alcohol consumption are strictly prohibited in the field.
  • No Deer-Drives are permitted on the property for safety reasons.

After the Shot

Notify your guide immediately after shooting. Do not pursue animal until instructed. A guide will assist with recovery, and we’ll document your success with photos and videos.

  • Drone Recovery: We offer drone recovery services to aid in tracking your game for additional costs.
  • Meat Processing and Taxidermy:
    • Processing services are available for an additional cost.
    • Capes must be free of brain matter, and meat must be deboned for travel.

Gratuities

Our team works hard to ensure you have an incredible experience. Gratuities for hosts are greatly appreciated. We recommend:

  • Hosts: 5-% of your hunt cost

Final Steps

Please complete our online questionnaire to help us prepare for your arrival.

DOWNLOAD OR PRINT OUR FULL GUIDE HERE

We look forward to hosting you and making your hunting dreams a reality. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates, trail camera photos, and more. Let the adventure begin!