Gear & Prep Guide for Your Twisted Forest Hunt

Heading out for a self-guided DIY hunt at Twisted Forest Hunting in Eastern Oregon? Whether you’re chasing chukar, quail, pheasant, sage-grouse, wild turkey, or ducks coming prepared will make your trip more enjoyable, comfortable, and successful. Here’s our expert guide to the gear, clothing, and prep steps we recommend.

1. Firearms & Ammunition

Shotgun – A 12- or 20-gauge is ideal for most upland birds and waterfowl.
Chokes – Modified or improved cylinder for upland birds; full or modified for longer shots on waterfowl.
Ammunition – Use appropriate shot sizes:
- Upland: #6 shot for pheasant and chukar; #7.5 or #8 for quail.
- Waterfowl: Non-toxic shot (e.g., steel, bismuth) in #2 to #4 for ducks and geese.
Gun case – Protects your firearm during travel and storage.

2. Clothing & Footwear

Eastern Oregon’s weather can shift quickly, so layer up.

Base layers – Moisture-wicking long underwear in merino wool or synthetic fabric.
Mid layer – Insulating fleece or down jacket.
Outer layer – Waterproof, windproof shell or hunting jacket.
Pants – Durable upland brush pants for chukar country; waders or hip boots for waterfowl hunting.
Boots – Waterproof, broken-in boots with good ankle support.
Socks – Wool or synthetic blends; bring extras.
Gloves & Hat – Warm but breathable. Blaze orange is recommended for safety during upland hunts.

3. Hunting Accessories

Game vest or pack – For shells, water, snacks, and harvested birds.
Eye & ear protection – Essential for safety.
Calls – Duck calls if targeting waterfowl.
Dog gear – If you’re bringing your own hunting dog, pack water, first-aid supplies, booties, and a GPS/tracking collar.
Cooler – For transporting game meat.

4. Navigation & Safety

GPS or mapping app – OnX Hunt is great for tracking location and land boundaries.
Compass & paper map – Backup in case your electronics fail.
First-aid kit – For you and your dog.
Headlamp or flashlight – With extra batteries.

5. Pre-Trip Prep

Licenses & tags – Make sure your Oregon hunting license and any required bird stamps are purchased before arrival.
Pattern your shotgun – Test different loads and chokes so you know your effective range.
Physical prep – Chukar hunting especially can be physically demanding—some cardio conditioning will help.
Check weather – Pack accordingly for temperatures, precipitation, and wind.
Plan your meals – Our lodging has amenities, but bringing quick, easy meals will maximize your hunting time.

6. Lodge Comfort Extras

Casual clothing for evenings.
Slippers or indoor shoes.
Camera or GoPro for capturing the adventure.
Your favorite drinks and snacks.

Final Tip

A successful hunt starts before you ever set foot in the field. The more prepared you are, the more you’ll enjoy the rugged beauty of Eastern Oregon and the thrill of the hunt. If you have questions about gear or conditions before your trip, contact us — we’re happy to help you get ready.

Basic Gear and Prep Guide