You’re deep in the woods on a crisp spring morning, heart pounding as a gobbler sounds off in the distance, everything about the hunt feels perfect… until the buzzing starts. Mosquitoes swarm your face net, and later that evening, you discover a tick latched behind your knee. It’s a frustrating and all-too-common reality for hunters who overlook insect and tick prevention. Staying safe in the field goes beyond camouflage and calling. Diseases like Lyme and Rocky Mountain spotted fever are real threats, and itchy distractions can ruin an otherwise ideal hunt. Let’s break down essential “hunt friendly” insect repellent products like Thermacell, Sawyer’s Permethrin, and the Tick Mitt, along with key health concerns every hunter should be aware of; because when it comes to time outdoors, prevention is part of preparation.
Why Insect & Tick Prevention Matters
The outdoors offers plenty of rewards, but it also comes with risks, especially from mosquitoes, ticks, and biting flies. These tiny pests aren’t just a nuisance; they can carry serious health threats that impact hunters long after they’ve left the field. Ticks, in particular, are known carriers of Lyme disease, which can cause chronic fatigue and joint pain if left untreated, as well as Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, a potentially fatal illness if not caught early. One emerging concern in the hunting community is Alpha-Gal Syndrome, a tick-borne allergy to red meat that’s linked to Lone Star tick bites, an especially troubling diagnosis for those who live off the land. The truth is, once you’ve been bitten, the clock starts ticking. That’s why prevention is far more effective than dealing with these issues after the fact. A few extra steps before your hunt can mean a safer, more enjoyable experience outdoors.
Thermacell: Your First Line of Defense in the Blind
When you’re posted up in the turkey woods or an early-season deer stand, the last thing you want is a cloud of mosquitoes buzzing around your face. Thermacell units use a butane cartridge to heat a repellent pad, creating a 15-foot zone of protection without any sprays or mess. Hunters swear by Thermacell for its scent-free, hands-free, and whisper-quiet performance, making it a perfect companion for stationary hunts where staying still and undetected is key.
Sawyer Permethrin: Treat Your Gear Before You Go
Permethrin is a game-changer when it comes to preventing tick bites in the field. Unlike traditional repellents, Sawyer Permethrin is designed to be applied directly to clothing, boots, and gear, especially pants, socks, and packs where ticks are most likely to hitch a ride. One treatment lasts up to six washes or six weeks, making it a smart, long-lasting layer of protection you can apply well before your hunt even begins. This is my go-to treatment during spring turkey season!
Tick Mitt: Detection After the Hunt
I discovered the Tick Mitt during the 2025 SHOT Show. The Tick Mitt is a simple but powerful tool designed to help you detect ticks before they become a problem. After a hunt, just run the mitt over your clothing and exposed skin, especially around ankles, waistlines, and behind the knees, where ticks like to hide. It’s an easy way to catch hitchhikers early and is especially useful for checking kids, pets, and gear after time spent in tick-heavy brush or tall grass.
When preparing for a successful spring hunt, it’s easy to focus on gear, tactics, and terrain—yet it’s often the smallest things that pose the greatest risk. Insects and ticks may seem like minor nuisances, but their impact can stretch far beyond the discomfort of a bite. Diseases like Lyme, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and Alpha-Gal Syndrome are real and increasing threats that can derail not only your hunting season but your health for years to come. The good news is that hunters today have more options than ever to stay protected.
Using a Thermacell in the blind keeps mosquitoes at bay without the scent or mess of traditional sprays. Treating your gear and clothing with Sawyer Permethrin can create a protective barrier that works in the background without requiring extra effort once applied. And a post-hunt sweep with the Tick Mitt offers peace of mind and practical prevention before ticks have a chance to embed and infect. These tools, used together, create a strong line of defense for hunters of all ages and experience levels.
Ultimately, incorporating insect and tick protection into your routine is about preserving more than just your comfort, it’s about safeguarding your ability to spend time outdoors doing what you love. A few simple steps before and after your hunt can help ensure that your only souvenirs are good stories and lasting memories. As stewards of the outdoors, protecting ourselves allows us to better protect the traditions, wild spaces, and future adventures we hold dear.
