Top 5 Bug Sprays for Hunters: Reviews and Field Tested

Ever been deep in the woods, perfectly still, waiting for that trophy buck, when suddenly… *BZZZZZZZZZ*! A swarm of mosquitos descends, ruining your focus and your hunt? It’s a frustrating experience we all know, right? Hunting often puts us in the heart of bug territory. These pesky insects can be more than just annoying. They can spread diseases, cause itchy bites, and make it tough to concentrate on the task at hand – bagging your game!

Choosing the right bug spray for hunting can feel like another challenge. There are so many choices! You have to think about the bugs you’ll face, the safety of the spray, and how long it lasts. This blog post will help you cut through the confusion. We’ll break down the best bug sprays for hunters, so you can enjoy a bug-free hunt and focus on what matters: the chase!

By the end of this guide, you’ll know the key ingredients to look for, the types of sprays to choose, and how to apply them correctly. You’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and stay protected on your next hunting trip. So, let’s dive into the world of bug sprays and get you ready for a comfortable and successful hunt!

Our Top 5 Bug Spray For Hunting Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Bug Spray For Hunting Detailed Reviews

1. Sawyer Products SP657 Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent for Clothing

Sawyer Products SP657 Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent for Clothing, Gear & Tents, Trigger Spray, 24-Ounce

Rating: 9.1/10

The Sawyer Products SP657 Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent is a must-have for outdoor adventures. This spray protects your clothing and gear from pesky insects. It’s designed to keep you safe from ticks, mosquitoes, and other bugs. This spray is perfect for anyone who enjoys camping, hiking, or spending time outside. It’s easy to use and provides long-lasting protection.

What We Like:

  • The spray bonds to fabric for up to 6 weeks or 6 washes.
  • It won’t stain or damage your clothes or gear.
  • It’s fragrance-free.
  • It reduces the chance of a tick bite. A 2017 study shows it helps a lot.
  • You can use it on shirts, pants, shoes, and tents.
  • It works against many insects, like ticks and mosquitoes.
  • The spray lasts even if you sweat or get wet.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The bottle is only good for treating 5 outfits.

This Permethrin spray is a great way to stay safe from bugs. It offers reliable protection for your outdoor adventures. You can enjoy the outdoors without worry.

2. Ben’s Hunting Formula – Tick & Mosquito Repellent for Up to 12 Hours of Protection – 20% Picaridin Bug Spray with EcoSpray Fine Mist Sprayer – Sweat-Resistant – 6 oz (3 Pack)

Rating: 8.9/10

Get ready for your next outdoor adventure with Ben’s Hunting Formula! This 20% picaridin bug spray keeps ticks and mosquitoes away for up to 12 hours. It comes in a pack of three, with each bottle holding 6 oz. The EcoSpray bottle sprays a fine mist at any angle. This bug spray is sweat-resistant and scent-free, so it won’t bother your gear or scare away any game. Ben’s Hunting Formula is made and tested in the tough White Mountains of New Hampshire.

What We Like:

  • Long-lasting protection! This spray keeps bugs away for up to 12 hours.
  • It’s sweat-resistant. You can stay protected even during tough activities.
  • Gear-friendly! The scent-free formula won’t damage your clothes or equipment.
  • Easy to apply! The EcoSpray bottle sprays a fine mist from any angle.
  • Made and tested in a rugged environment, so it’s very reliable.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The price could be a bit higher.
  • It might not be available everywhere.

Overall, Ben’s Hunting Formula is a great choice for anyone who loves spending time outside. It is a reliable and effective way to keep pesky bugs away so you can enjoy your adventures.

3. Ben’s Hunting Formula – Tick & Mosquito Repellent for Up to 12 Hours of Protection – 20% Picaridin Bug Spray with Pump Spray – Sweat-Resistant – 3.4 oz (3 Pack)

Rating: 9.0/10

Are you ready to enjoy the outdoors without the annoying bugs? Ben’s Hunting Formula is here to help! This bug spray keeps ticks and mosquitoes away for up to 12 hours. It uses 20% picaridin, which is a strong ingredient. The spray comes in a handy 3.4 oz bottle, and you get three in a pack. It’s perfect for hunting, fishing, or just hanging out outside. Ben’s Hunting Formula is tested in New Hampshire’s tough White Mountains.

What We Like:

  • Long-lasting protection for up to 12 hours.
  • It works even when you sweat.
  • The spray won’t hurt your gear.
  • It has no scent, so it won’t scare away animals.
  • The travel size is perfect for your backpack.
  • It is tested in a tough environment.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Some users may prefer a different application method.

Ben’s Hunting Formula is a smart choice for anyone who loves the outdoors. It keeps the bugs away so you can enjoy your adventures!

4. Zone Realtree Outfitters Permethrin Insecticide Spray and Refill Bundle – 32oz Spray and 32oz Refill

Zone Realtree Outfitters Permethrin Insecticide Spray and Refill Bundle - 32oz Spray and 32oz Refill, Controls Ticks, Mosquitoes, Chiggers on Clothing, Boots, and Gear

Rating: 8.9/10

Get ready for your next outdoor adventure with the Zone Realtree Outfitters Permethrin Insecticide Spray and Refill Bundle! This bundle includes a 32oz spray bottle and a 32oz refill. It’s made to protect you from pesky bugs. This spray is perfect for hunters and anyone who loves the outdoors. It keeps away ticks, mosquitoes, chiggers, and more. You can spray it on your clothes, boots, gear, and even tents. It’s designed to keep you safe and comfortable while you explore.

What We Like:

  • Hunter-Approved: It’s the only permethrin spray endorsed by Realtree, trusted by hunters.
  • Safe for Gear: It works on clothing, backpacks, sleeping bags, and tents.
  • Long-Lasting Protection: The spray bonds to fabric and lasts up to 40 days or 5 washes.
  • Effective Bug Control: It kills and repels many bugs like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas.
  • Odorless: It dries without a smell, so bugs won’t know you are there.
  • Made in the USA: It is made in the USA by hunters for hunters!
  • Refill Option: You can save money by buying refills.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Some users may need to reapply after heavy rain or washing.

Overall, the Zone Realtree Outfitters Permethrin Insecticide Spray and Refill Bundle is a great choice for anyone who spends time outdoors. It is reliable and effective, helping you stay protected from bugs on your adventures.

5. Ranger Ready Repellents Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray with Scent Zero – Mosquito Repellent and Tick Spray (8 oz.

Ranger Ready Repellents Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray with Scent Zero - Mosquito Repellent and Tick Spray (8 oz., Pack of 1)

Rating: 9.0/10

Are you tired of pesky bugs ruining your outdoor fun? The Ranger Ready Repellents Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray with Scent Zero is here to help! This powerful spray keeps mosquitos, ticks, and other biting insects away. It’s perfect for the whole family, even pregnant women. The unscented formula won’t leave you smelling like bug spray, and it dries quickly without leaving a greasy feeling. Each bottle gives you many uses for all your outdoor adventures.

What We Like:

  • Effective Mosquito Repellent: The spray uses 20% Picaridin to keep bugs away.
  • Long-Lasting Protection: It protects you from ticks and mosquitos for up to 12 hours! It also protects from other bugs, like gnats and flies, for up to 8 hours.
  • Safe for Everyone: The DEET-free formula is safe for kids, adults, and during pregnancy.
  • Non-Greasy and Quick-Drying: It won’t ruin your clothes or gear.
  • 360-Degree Spray: The bottle sprays from all angles.
  • Great Value: One bottle provides about 70 full-body applications.

What Could Be Improved:

  • None

In conclusion, the Ranger Ready Repellents Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray is a great product. It is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from bugs.

Bug Spray for Hunters: A Buying Guide

Hunting can be a great outdoor adventure. But bugs can ruin your fun. Mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects can bite and spread diseases. Good bug spray is important for hunters. This guide will help you choose the best bug spray for your hunts.

Key Features to Look For

You need bug spray that works. Here are some important features:

  • Active Ingredient: The active ingredient kills the bugs. Look for sprays with DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE). DEET is very effective. Picaridin is also good and doesn’t smell as strong. OLE is a natural option.
  • Spray Type: Bug spray comes in different forms. Aerosol sprays are easy to use. Pump sprays are better for the environment. Wipes are good for applying to your face.
  • Protection Time: How long does the spray last? Choose a spray that protects you for the length of your hunt. Some sprays last for hours.
  • Odor: Bugs use their sense of smell to find prey. Some bug sprays have a strong smell that may alert animals you are hunting. Choose a scent-free option or one with a mild scent.
  • Water Resistance: Will you be near water or sweating a lot? Choose a water-resistant spray. This will help it last longer.

Important Materials

What’s in the bug spray matters. Here are some things to consider:

  • Active Ingredients: As mentioned, DEET, Picaridin, and OLE are common active ingredients.
  • Solvents: Solvents help the spray spread evenly. Some solvents can irritate skin.
  • Propellants (Aerosols): Aerosol sprays use propellants. Look for environmentally friendly propellants.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Some things make bug spray better. Others make it worse.

  • Concentration of Active Ingredient: More active ingredient usually means better protection. But, it can also mean a stronger smell and the potential for skin irritation.
  • Spray Mechanism: A good spray mechanism provides even coverage. It should not clog.
  • Packaging: The bottle should be durable. It should not leak.
  • Repellency: The best bug sprays keep bugs away. They should not be easily washed off by sweat or rain.
  • Skin Irritation: Some people are sensitive to bug spray. Choose a spray that is gentle on your skin if you have sensitive skin.

User Experience and Use Cases

How will you use the bug spray? Think about these things:

  • Where you will hunt: Are you hunting in a swamp or a forest? The bug pressure will be different in different places.
  • How long you will be outside: Choose a spray that lasts long enough.
  • Your skin type: If you have sensitive skin, choose a gentle formula.
  • How you will apply the spray: Consider the spray type that works best for you.
  • Storage: Store your bug spray safely. Keep it away from heat and direct sunlight.

Bug Spray for Hunting: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best active ingredient?

A: DEET and Picaridin are both effective. OLE is a natural option.

Q: How much DEET is needed?

A: For many situations, 20-30% DEET is a good choice. For longer hunts, you might want a higher concentration.

Q: Is Picaridin better than DEET?

A: Picaridin works well and doesn’t smell as strong. Some hunters prefer it.

Q: Is OLE safe?

A: OLE is a natural option. It is generally considered safe, but it may not last as long as DEET or Picaridin.

Q: How often should I reapply bug spray?

A: Reapply as directed on the label. The amount of time varies depending on the spray.

Q: Can I use bug spray on my clothes?

A: Yes, you can. Some sprays are made for clothes. Always read the label.

Q: How do I apply bug spray to my face?

A: Spray some on your hands and then apply it to your face. Avoid your eyes and mouth.

Q: What do I do if I get bug spray in my eyes?

A: Rinse your eyes with plenty of water right away.

Q: Can bug spray damage my hunting gear?

A: Bug spray can damage some plastics. Be careful when applying it near your gear.

Q: What is the best bug spray for ticks?

A: Look for sprays that specifically list ticks on the label. DEET and Picaridin are usually effective.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

Leave a Comment