Early season is a balancing act.
Temperatures are still warm, vegetation is thick, and the temptation to overpack is stronger than ever. Every extra pound feels heavier by the end of the hunt, and every unnecessary item becomes one more thing to manage when it's time to make a move.
Some make the hunt more comfortable. Some make it more efficient. And one has earned its place simply because it always seems to be there.
Here are Alex's five early season must-haves.
1. Maverick Saddle
When temperatures are still climbing, comfort starts with what you're wearing.
The Maverick Saddle earns its spot thanks to its lightweight, breathable design. It keeps heat and bulk to a minimum while walking in, yet provides the comfort needed once it's time to settle into the tree. For early season hunts where every ounce and every degree matter, it's the saddle Alex reaches for.
2. Permethrin
Early season means tall grass, warm weather, and plenty of ticks.
Treating clothing with permethrin before the season has become a non-negotiable part of Alex's routine. It helps keep ticks and other insects off your clothing, allowing you to focus on the hunt instead of constantly checking your legs every few hundred yards.
It's one of those things you appreciate most when you don't have to think about it.
3. The Sweat-Stained Lucky Hat
Every hunter has that one piece of gear.
The faded hat that's seen countless mornings, the one that's somehow become part of every successful hunt. Maybe it isn't actually lucky, but after enough seasons it's earned a permanent place in the rotation.
For Alex, it's his sweat-stained lucky hat. Sometimes confidence comes from the simplest things.
4. A Low-Profile Pack
Whether it's the Flyer, Ranger 11, or a Ranger 22 without the waist belt, Alex prefers keeping things compact during the early season.
A smaller pack naturally limits what you bring, forcing you to prioritize the essentials instead of packing for every possible scenario. The result is less weight, less bulk, quieter movement, and the ability to adapt quickly when a hunt doesn't go according to plan.
5. A Quiet Water Bottle
Hydration is essential, but noisy gear has ruined more than a few opportunities.
Alex prefers Smartwater bottles because they're lightweight, durable, and much quieter than the typical disposable plastic bottle. It's a small upgrade that eliminates one more unnecessary sound when deer are close.
One More Worth Mentioning
If Alex had to sneak in one more item, it would be a 3 pack of the Carbon Synergy™ Climbing Sticks.
Early season often means covering more ground, hunting fresh sign, and making multiple moves before finding the right tree. Lightweight gear becomes even more valuable when every hunt starts with a long walk or ends with a hike back to the truck.
The Carbon Synergy Climbing Sticks complement the rest of Alex's system perfectly. Their lightweight carbon construction keeps weight to a minimum.
Keep It Simple
The best early season setups aren't built around carrying more gear. They're built around carrying the right gear.
Alex's must-haves reflect that philosophy. Stay comfortable, stay mobile, and eliminate distractions so you can focus on making good hunting decisions. Whether it's a breathable saddle, a compact pack, or simply a water bottle that won't give you away, the little details often make the biggest difference once the season begins.
Why Lighter Wins