The Hunt Backcountry Podcast · by Exo Mtn Gear

MM 286 | Steve's Moose Hunt (and Gear), Wet Rifles, InReach Questions

October 13, 2025·37 min·3 clips

Steve reveals how a sudden storm turned his Idaho moose hunt into a muddy, freezing ordeal with non-stop rain.

This Monday Minute episode features hosts Steve and Mark discussing Steve's recent Idaho moose hunt and answering listener questions about gear and Garmin inReach devices. Steve shares the challenging details of his unsuccessful hunt, which was hampered by severe weather and difficult terrain. The hosts also provide practical advice on protecting rifles in wet conditions and whether to buy an inReach Mini 2. Steve's hunt took place over four days in Idaho, where persistent rain and snow created muddy, difficult conditions. He and his partner saw only three moose, including a small bull with six-inch antlers, despite covering significant distance and glassing extensively. Steve admits he underestimated the thickness of the brush and his lack of understanding about moose behavior compared to elk or mule deer. The hunt's high historical harvest rate of around 60% contrasted sharply with their experience, leading Steve to believe most successful hunters likely operate closer to roads. One major insight was Steve's realization about the importance of comfort during cold, wet glassing sessions, wishing he had packed items like puffy pants, a beanie, and a thermos. The inReach weather forecast proved highly inaccurate, failing to predict the severe storm that arrived. Steve plans a solo return hunt with a revised "stick and move" strategy, glassing at first light and moving to new vantage points midday. He notes the area's surprising beauty, with autumn colors and snow creating a Colorado-like landscape. The hosts recommend buying an inReach Mini 2 if on sale, as current satellite messaging in phones isn't a reliable alternative for backcountry safety. They clarify that while new Garmin products may be coming, the Mini 2 remains a capable device. For navigation, both Steve and Mark use onX maps exclusively in the field, not their inReach devices. Regarding rifle protection in rain, Steve simply tapes his muzzle and uses scope covers, while Mark sometimes adds a scope and action cover for very wet or cold conditions. The tone is informal and conversational, reflecting the show's Monday Minute format as two experienced hunters debrief a tough trip and answer community questions. This episode is ideal for backcountry hunters interested in moose hunting strategies, gear for wet conditions, and practical electronics advice. Listeners seeking a highly produced narrative or those uninterested in hunting gear specifics might want to skip it.

As heard by us

A blunt cold weather hunt recap that puts snow, glassing, and gear comfort ahead of polish.

Steve's Idaho moose tag turns into a plainspoken cold weather hunt recap after a rough day in the field. The focus stays on what actually mattered once the snow showed up and the mornings sat in the high 20s: puffy pants, gloves, a beanie, a coffee thermos, and the small choices…

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Why you'd press play

If you want a blunt Idaho moose-hunt debrief with cold-weather gear lessons.

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