man holding a hunting drone

Thermal Drones for Hunting: What You Need to Know Before You Fly

Thermal drones for hunting have been gaining traction lately—and it’s easy to see why.

With how far drone tech and thermal imaging have come, hunters in some states now have access to a tool that can seriously shift how they scout, recover, and, sometimes, even hunt game.

While some see this as a groundbreaking step forward, others argue it walks a fine ethical line.

In Arizona, where I hunt, using a thermal drone for hunting is not allowed. Yet, I think about how helpful it would be every season—especially when recovering a wounded animal.

I’ll share some thoughts on the topic based on my experience, explore current regulations, ethical considerations, and why hunters across the country would consider using a thermal drone for hunting.

Let’s break it down.

hunting drone in the woods

Drones have increased in popularity with some hunters… here’s why…

Why Hunters Are Using Thermal Drones

  • Game Recovery: A thermal drone for hunting is often used after the shot to locate a wounded animal. This tech can detect heat signatures even in thick cover or at night.
  • Scouting: Some hunters use drones to identify bedding areas, find possible trails, or view groups of animals from above.
  • Predator Control: In certain states, a thermal drone for hunting is allowed for invasive species or predators like coyotes and even hogs.

In my case, I could’ve used one during an August archery hunt. I took a close-range shot on an archery buck—up in a tree at just 15 yards.

The shot hit high and right, and I knew right then that finding this deer would be tough. I spent hours tracking with no luck. Had a thermal drone for hunting been legal in Arizona, that recovery might have gone very differently.

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Real-World Advantages of Thermal Drones

  • Heat Signatures: Much like their use in law enforcement (think helicopter chases with FLIR cameras), drones with thermal imaging can pick up a heat signature through thick brush or even under snow.
  • Quick Recovery: For ethical hunters, fast recovery of an animal increases the chances of salvaging the meat.
  • Low-Light Visibility: Drones help overcome low-light challenges at dawn, dusk, or during overcast days.

I remember a police chase video where a suspect hid under a child’s plastic pool. Officers on the ground didn’t see him, but thermal mounted on a helicopter picked him up instantly. The same principle applies to game recovery.

Legal Considerations: Where Are Thermal Drones Legal?

hunting drone flying over countryside

You must do your due diligence and research state and local regulations before considering buying a drone for hunting. Understanding local laws is critical, as a thermal drone for hunting might be legal in one state and banned in another.

Common State-Level Restrictions:

  • Arizona: Arizona Game and Fish does not allow the use of drones (thermal or not) to hunt or recover an animal.
  • Colorado & Alaska: Similarly, drones are not permitted for hunting to preserve fair chase ethics.
  • Texas: Allows drone use for certain invasive species but requires a permit.

Always check with your local game and fish department regarding the use of drones. Regulations can shift, especially with rapid tech innovation.

To learn more about regulations, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service offers helpful resources on federal-level hunting laws. At the same time, the Arizona Game and Fish Department provides detailed guidelines for residents like me.

Ethical Concerns: Do Drones Undermine the Hunt?

Many hunters argue that using a thermal drone for hunting crosses an ethical line.

  • Fair Chase: Traditionalists believe hunting should remain a ground-level sport that involves tracking, scouting, and skill.
  • Overreliance on Tech: The concern is that as gear becomes more advanced, the skill element of hunting gets diluted.
  • Slippery Slope: Just as trail cameras became heavily used (and ultimately banned in Arizona), drones may follow a similar pattern.

I’ll be honest—when Arizona banned trail cameras, I wasn’t too upset. On one trip, we hiked deep into a canyon to find a water hole we thought was too remote for others. We found five trail cameras already set up. It felt like a technological arms race, not a hunt.

When Would I Use a Thermal Drone?

I wouldn’t use a thermal drone for hunting during the actual pursuit of an animal. I prefer to keep things challenging and traditional—spot and stalk, tracking signs, and glassing—because that’s what I love most about hunting. However, I might consider one strictly for recovery if it were legal.

I’d also consider using a thermal drone in a survival situation. It could help locate animals and water sources or enhance home security on large rural properties. But, for now, I’m content doing things the traditional way.

What I Would Look for in a Thermal Drone

Key features if you’re considering purchasing a thermal drone for hunting and only after checking your local regulations:

  • High Thermal Resolution: Better target identification.
  • Flight Time: 30 minutes or more is ideal – with a spare battery pack and mobile charger.
  • Range: Look for at least 1.5 to 2 miles.
  • Durability: Weatherproof and field-ready.
  • Ease of Use: Simple interface and reliability in the field.

Companies like DJI Enterprise and Autel Robotics are leading the way in drone and thermal imaging technologies.

Hunting With Drones: Is the Future Already Here?

The topic of using a thermal drone for hunting is controversial and evolving.

While I don’t currently use one due to legal restrictions in Arizona, I understand why others do.

These tools can be a massive advantage for ethical recovery and wildlife management. However, they must be used responsibly and within the boundaries of the law.

What are your thoughts on thermal drones for hunting?

tom guzman author

Tom Guzman is the founder of Trophy Pursuit ( https://trophypursuit.net/ ), a blog focused on hunting, backcountry preparedness, and outdoor gear. With a background as a Marketing Director and expertise in SEO, he combines field experience with digital strategy to deliver practical, well-researched content for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

 

Backpack Hunting And Hiking Gamechanger | [The What, Why and How of MOLLE Webbing]

Perhaps you’ve hear the term “MOLLE webbing” and wondered, “what in the world is that?”

What does MOLLE stand for?

Before we look at what MOLLE webbing actually is, let’s first cover what the acronym itself stands for.

MOLLE stands for (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment).

Kifaru Shape Charge inner MOLLE webbing

MOLLE webbing is a widely used system that is designed for modular gear attachment. It typically consists of heavy-duty nylon or polyester straps that are stitched in a grid-like pattern onto backpacks, vests, and other tactical or outdoor gear.

The MOLLE webbing system allows users to attach compatible pouches, holsters, and other accessories in a secure and customizable way.

For the backpack hunter, MOLLE webbing offers a significant advantage over regular packs by enabling the hunter to organize and carry essential gear such as ammo, rangefinders, knives, and first-aid kits without cluttering the pack’s main compartments. The webbing enhances both accessibility and weight distribution of the pack, making long treks through rough terrain more manageable for the user.

The Origins of MOLLE Webbing

The MOLLE system was developed by the United States military in the late 1990s as an upgrade to the older ALICE (All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment) and ILBE (Improved Load Bearing Equipment) systems.

Kifru Shape Charge Backpack with lock on and steps

The key feature of MOLLE is the PALS (Pouch Attachment Ladder System), which consists of horizontal rows of webbing stitched at regular intervals. These rows of webbing allow gear to be woven and secured using straps, creating a stable and reliable attachment system.

Designed to improve modularity and adaptability in the field, MOLLE was officially introduced in 1997 and it rapidly became the standard for military load-carrying gear.

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How MOLLE Webbing Works

MOLLE webbing functions by way of a simple, yet effective, interwoven strap system. When attaching pouches or accessories, the user threads straps through both the MOLLE webbing on the backpack and the attachment points on the accessory itself. This weaving pattern ensures that gear remains secure, preventing excessive movement or detachment during strenuous activity.

Kifaru Shape Charge MOLLE webbing on waist straps

MOLLE-compatible pouches and gear often include reinforced straps, as well as snap closures to further secure the attachments. The result is a load-bearing system that offers hunters, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts the flexibility to configure their pack to suit different hunts, missions, or hikes/treks.

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Why MOLLE Webbing Is Useful for Backpack Hunters

For backpack hunters specifically, weight distribution and gear accessibility are critical.

MOLLE webbing provides the ability for the user to carry extra gear externally, keeping essential items within reach without overloading the interior of the backpack.

Some key benefits of MOLLE webbing include:

  • Customization: Hunters can attach only the gear they need for a specific hunt, reducing unnecessary weight.
  • Efficiency: Quick access to essential items like a knife, GPS, or survival/first-aid kit without digging through the main compartment.
  • Durability: Made from heavy-duty materials, MOLLE webbing is built to withstand harsh environments and tough conditions.
  • Versatility: Can be used to carry everything from extra ammunition to survival gear, making it adaptable for various hunting scenarios.

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The MOLLE Revolution

MOLLE webbing has changed the game for how hunters, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts carry their gear.

Originally developed for the military, MOLLE webbing has reach the masses, largely by way of the outdoor industry and has since become a staple in outdoor and tactical gear, offering superior customization, organization, and durability.

For backpack hunters, integrating MOLLE-compatible equipment into their setup can mean the difference between a well-prepared, efficient hunt and a frustrating, disorganized experience in the field. MOLLE webbing provides a way to secure all types of outdoor gear such as pouches, portable stoves, first aid kits, and more.

So, whether you’re heading into the backcountry for days on a hunt or a hike, or just needing quick access to essential gear and accessories, MOLLE webbing is a game-changer for sure.

 

nukem turkey hunting blind review header image

Grab It And Go! | Nukem Hunting Blind Review

I’m Josh, and I got my hands on a hunting blind made by Nukem… it’s called the Grab & Go Hunting Blind.

This blind is supposed to be more for the run and gun type hunter, which sometimes I am, and sometimes I’m not. But, I’ve got young boys that I am trying to familiarize with the turkey woods, so I was excited to see how this worked with them.

The Nukem Blind’s Ease Of Assembly

I was able to put the Nukem Grab and Go blind together very quickly (and I didn’t even read the directions!) The poles are like tent poles. They just connect together and have a bungee inside to hold them together once you get them fastened. There’s a bushing in the center on each one. There’s one along each side, and there’s one in the middle to keep it rigid.

The Nukem blind is adjustable to the height that you need it to be, based on the position you’re sitting. You can widen it out to shoot through it from a lower position. And then, if you’ve got a chair or something, you put it up higher.

setting up the double up nukem hunting blind

This was as I was putting together the “double up” Nukem system…

connecting the nukem double up blinds middle section

There is a center piece that attaches in the middle of the two blinds to connect them… it is attached to the leafy camo cover.

Nukem double up grab and go hunting blind after connecting mesh camo

Here’s a look at what the double system looks like after connecting the two blinds. My first impressions on putting it together was that I was really impressed. I love the leafy camouflage. This is the Mossy Oak Country Roots color, but there are four or five different colors that Nukem has in this blind.

I’d say the whole setup only took about three or four minutes to set up, and that was my first time ever doing it! So, I’m sure you can do this in the woods in less than a couple of minutes.

aiming to the side of the Nukem hunting blind

I could tell that you’d want to be able to shoot to the sides of it if you can. I can see me back here with the video camera, videoing. I’d maybe have the boys a little bit closer so they can still shoot out the side, but so they’re more concealed. But, I really liked the way it was set up.

Trying Out The Double Up System In The Woods With Kids

hunting with kids in Nukem huntin blind

As you could tell, those two little boys blended in real nicely behind this blind. And I don’t believe any a wily gobbler would have been able to pick them off (as long as they sit still!)

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The Nukem Hunting Blind Is Solid

If you’re like me and you got kids that you’re going to be taking hunting this Spring, or even if you’re going to be videoing and doing a lot of moving behind the blind in the turkey woods, the Nukem Hunting Blind is a great option for turkey hunters.

Nukem hunting blind review in the woods

This Nukem Grab & Go double up system really has impressed me. I don’t know what the woods look like where you are, but here in central Georgia, the Mossy Oak country roots pattern blends in really well. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a blind blend in better than this Nukem Blind does in the Mossy Oak country roots.

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kid carrying turkey out of the woods after hunting

Hope this is what your walk out of the turkey woods looks like this Spring!

Overall, I was really impressed with Grab and Go double up system from Nukem. I definitely recommend it!

Good luck hunting in the turkey woods!