How the Most Successful Female Hunters Operate

Female Hunter with Turkey trophy.

Women in Hunting: Breaking Barriers and Finding Success

The increase in women in hunting is due in part to a shift in how the sport is perceived. Hunting isn’t just about the harvest; it’s about self-sufficiency, conservation, and the outdoor experience. More women are recognizing the physical, mental, and personal benefits of hunting, from the ability to source their own food to the confidence gained from mastering outdoor survival skills.

However, for many women, getting into hunting comes with unique challenges—finding the right gear, learning essential skills, and building confidence in the field. Fortunately, experienced female hunters have developed strategies that help them thrive, from expert scouting techniques to choosing the best hunting equipment. 

The Growth of Women in Hunting

Why More Women Are Hunting Than Ever Before

Hunting has become more inclusive, and women are joining the ranks in record numbers. Here’s why:

  • Hunting is empowering – Many women hunt as a way to provide their own food, practice conservation, and develop independence.
  • Community support is growing – Women’s hunting groups, mentorship programs, and online forums provide support, education, and camaraderie.
  • Hunting is a lifelong skill – Many female hunters enjoy the personal growth, challenge, and outdoor adventure that hunting provides.

These factors have helped more women become involved in the hunting space, leading to a strong and supportive community. 

Overcoming Common Barriers

Even though hunting is becoming more inclusive, there are still challenges female hunters may face when getting started. The most successful women in hunting have found ways to navigate these hurdles and thrive. Our ambassador Jennifer Danella-Homa talks about gaining confidence as a woman in hunting: “When I first started hunting in high school, I felt like an outcast because I was the only girl my age doing it. It wasn’t until later that I realized just how many women and young girls are out there hunting—and how social media has become a powerful tool for connecting us. There are so many online communities where women can share tips, experiences, and support each other in the field.  
 
Being a woman in a male-dominated industry doesn’t have to be a crutch—it’s only a barrier if you let it be. It’s crazy to think that I used to struggle with hanging a stand or walking to my stand alone in the dark. But over time, I gained the confidence and skills to push past those challenges. Get out there, connect with others, and take it one day at a time. If you’re struggling with something, you’ll be surprised how many women are right there with you—ready to help however they can!” 

Common challenges for women hunters can include: 

  • Finding a mentor – Many women don’t grow up in hunting families, making it hard to learn the basics.
  • Selecting the right gear – Ill-fitting firearms, oversized hunting clothes, and heavy equipment can make hunting uncomfortable.
  • Building confidence in the field – Learning to navigate the woods, scout animals, and process a harvest takes practice. 
Karli Gill at the National Deer Association next to a dow.Karli Gill at the National Deer Association next to a dow.

How Women Hunters Overcome These Barriers 

  1. Seek Out a Mentor: Joining a women’s hunting group or finding a mentor through a state wildlife agency or local hunting club can provide invaluable guidance. Many successful female hunters credit mentorship and community as key to their success. Karli Gill at the National Deer Association recommends groups such as the National Wildlife Foundation’s Artemis initiative as well as state wildlife agency’s Becoming an Outdoor Woman as great places to start.  
  2. Choose Gear Designed for Women: While some hunting gear is unisex, more brands are designing clothing, firearms, and accessories tailored for women. Investing in the right-fitting gear ensures a more comfortable and successful hunt. 
  3. Practice and Prepare: Confidence in hunting comes from education, practice, and preparation. Whether it’s improving shooting accuracy, learning how to field dress game, or studying deer behavior through trail camera scouting, practice is essential. 

Essential Gear for Female Hunters

EDGE 2 First Lite Specter Camo Edition in the back of a truck sitting on First Lite Camo, next to a bow.EDGE 2 First Lite Specter Camo Edition in the back of a truck sitting on First Lite Camo, next to a bow.

Choosing the Right Hunting Gear

Having the right gear can make all the difference in a successful hunt.

Clothing & Fit 
Women should look for hunting apparel that fits them best, whether that’s unisex, men’s, or women’s gear. Moultrie partners with First Lite to bring you the best hunting and fishing gear, including a line of women’s clothing to give you the most comfortable fit for long days in the field.

Firearms & Bows 
Many female hunters prefer lightweight rifles with adjustable stocks or bows with reduced draw weights for better control. Choosing a firearm with manageable recoil can improve shooting confidence and accuracy.

Hunting Accessories 
A well-fitted backpack, durable gloves, and a safety harness can improve comfort and performance. Trail cameras and feeders are also critical tools for tracking game movement and improving hunting success. Here are some essential items to bring with you on a hunt:

Binoculars or Rangefinder 
Extra clothing like jackets & scent control  
Hunting Pack with First Aid Kit, including a knife 
Flashlight or headlamp 
Snacks & water 
Backups like extra batteries, flashlights, ammo, etc.  
Hand and feet warmers, it can be cold in the mornings. 

And most importantly, your phone! Always tell multiple people where you’re going, share your location if possible, when you’re expecting to be back, and carry personal protectants 

Female Hunter looking at her phone as she sets up Game Plan and Feed Hub.Female Hunter looking at her phone as she sets up Game Plan and Feed Hub.

The Role of Trail Cameras in Scouting

Successful female hunters don’t rely on luck; they scout strategically before the season begins using trail cameras. 

Why Use Trail Cameras?

  • Monitor deer movement patterns without disrupting the area. The Moultrie App’s Game Plan feature uses data to forecast deer movement, allowing you to plan ahead.  
  • Identify the best stand locations based on real-time data.
  • Learn when deer are most active, improving shot opportunities. 

Best Moultrie Trail Cameras for Women Hunters:

  • EDGE series – Uses state of the art cellular trail camera technology, the EDGE series offers real-time scouting with automatic network selection, built-in memory (no SD card needed) and unlimited cloud storage, giving you access to your feed with no wait.

Using Moultrie trail cameras allows hunters to make informed decisions without spending excessive time in the field. 

The Benefits of Using Feeders

Game feeders create consistent deer movement patterns, making it easier to predict where and when deer will be present.

Best Moultrie Feeders for Women Hunters:

  • DEER FEEDER 325 STANDARD – Durable, programmable, and great for pre-season scouting. 
  • FEED HUB Kit – A smart feeder that allows for remote feed control, reducing unnecessary trips to the field.

Combining feeders with trail cameras is one of the most effective ways to track game activity and increase hunting success for all hunters, not just women. 

Macy Watkins aiming an EDGE 2 on a tree.Macy Watkins aiming an EDGE 2 on a tree.

Building Confidence as a Woman in Hunting

Confidence in the field doesn’t happen overnight—it comes with practice, preparation, and a willingness to learn. Whether you're new to hunting or looking to refine your skills, the key to feeling self-assured is spending time in the woods, understanding your gear, and learning from experienced hunters. Taking the time to scout effectively, practice shooting, and ask questions can make a huge difference in your success and overall hunting experience.  

Finding the Best Hunting Locations 

  • Use maps, satellite imagery, and trail camera data to find prime hunting spots.
  • Understand the difference between hunting public and private land.
  • Look for natural deer funnels and bedding areas to increase hunting success. 

Understanding Animal Behavior & Patterns

  • Analyze trail camera photos to predict deer movement.
  • Recognize how seasonal changes, moon phases, and weather impact game activity. 

Stand & Blind Placement Tips

  • Choose between tree stands and ground blinds based on comfort and efficiency.
  • Use Moultrie’s Ideal Wind Forecast feature to determine the best stand locations. 

Why Moultrie Supports All Hunters

Moultrie is committed to making hunting accessible for everyone, offering trail cameras, feeders, and scouting tools that help hunters of all backgrounds succeed.

Hunting is about more than just the harvest—it is about connecting with nature, fostering self-reliance, and supporting conservation. More women hunters means more people learning to appreciate and protect our natural resources. As more women take up hunting, the opportunities for growth, conservation, and outdoor adventure continue to expand. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, Moultrie is here to support you every step of the way with reliable, high-quality products designed to make hunting more efficient and rewarding. 

Women in Hunting FAQs

Q: What is the best way for a woman to get started in hunting? 
A: The best way for a woman to start hunting is to find a mentor, take a hunter safety course, and spend time learning about game behavior, scouting, and ethical hunting practices.  

Q: What’s the best gear for a female hunter? 
A: The best gear for a female hunter includes properly fitted hunting clothing, a firearm or bow suited to her size and strength, and essential tools like a trail camera, game feeder, and safety harness.  

Q: How can a woman hunt alone safely? 
A: A woman hunting alone should always inform someone of her location, carry a communication device, and use tools like cellular trail cameras to scout in advance. Practicing situational awareness, choosing safe hunting locations, and carrying personal protection can also enhance safety.

Q: Are there hunting clothes made specifically for women? 
A: Yes, many outdoor brands now offer hunting clothing designed specifically for women, featuring a better fit, improved mobility, and appropriate insulation for different weather conditions.