A Guide to OnX Hunt, HuntStand, and HuntWise: The Best Hunting Apps Compared

By Derrick R. Stallings – HuntingOfficer.com

Hunting has always required keen knowledge of terrain, understanding animal behavior, and efficient planning. In the digital age, apps like OnX Hunt, HuntStand, and HuntWise make this process easier, enhancing a hunter’s effectiveness in the field. Each of these apps offers distinct features that cater to various hunting styles and needs, but which one is best suited for you? Let’s dive into each app’s key features, strengths, and comparisons.

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1. OnX Hunt

Description

OnX Hunt has quickly become a top choice among hunters due to its reliable mapping technology, advanced features, and user-friendly interface. Originally developed for hunters in the U.S., it’s a GPS-based app that provides valuable information about land ownership, public and private boundaries, and more. It’s particularly popular with hunters who want detailed and accurate topographical data.

Key Features

• Land Ownership Data: One of OnX Hunt’s biggest strengths is its land ownership data, showing clear public and private land boundaries and information on landowners’ names and property details.
• Offline Maps: Allows hunters to download maps for use without cell service, which is ideal for remote hunting locations.
• Custom Waypoints: Mark areas with different symbols (e.g., tree stand, water source, feeding areas), making it easy to organize and reference hunting spots.
• Weather Forecasts: Provides current and forecasted weather data, including temperature, precipitation, and wind direction.
• Trail and Terrain Info: Includes trail data, slope angle shading for assessing terrain difficulty, and 3D maps for visualizing elevation.

Best For

Hunters who need reliable data on land ownership, private boundaries, and precise mapping for exploring remote or complex terrains. OnX Hunt is especially useful for those who hunt on both public and private lands.

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2. HuntStand

Description

HuntStand is another comprehensive hunting app designed to be an all-in-one tool for land management, mapping, and hunting data. It combines mapping features with hunting-specific resources to help users manage and monitor hunting areas effectively.

Key Features

• Property Boundaries and Landowner Info: Like OnX, HuntStand offers property boundaries and landowner data, though it may be slightly less detailed in some areas.
• Map Layers and Customization: Includes multiple layers, like satellite and hybrid views, public land boundaries, and more. You can customize maps by adding markers for stands, trails, and cameras.
• Stand Reservation System: HuntStand lets hunters reserve hunting stands to avoid overcrowding, ideal for groups or managed properties.
• Weather and Solunar Data: Provides accurate weather information as well as solunar data to help determine animal activity times based on moon phases.
• Wildlife Management Tools: Features like food plot management, harvest logging, and tracking tools are aimed at hunters managing private land or participating in land conservation.

Best For

Hunters who want comprehensive land management tools, wildlife tracking features, and easy-to-use mapping. HuntStand appeals to those with larger hunting groups or those who own/manage their hunting land.

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3. HuntWise

Description

HuntWise is a hunting app that emphasizes game predictions and social networking among hunters. It combines mapping, weather data, and a prediction model to help hunters determine the best times and locations to hunt based on real-time data and animal behavior trends.

Key Features

• HuntCast Prediction System: HuntWise’s HuntCast technology uses weather data, barometric pressure, and other environmental factors to predict peak hunting times and locations for specific game animals.
• Mapping and Land Boundaries: Provides access to satellite maps, property lines, and landowner information, along with customizable markers.
• Community Features: HuntWise has a social component, allowing hunters to connect, share experiences, and discuss strategies.
• Weather Forecasting: Offers detailed weather forecasts, including wind, temperature, and precipitation, with a focus on how these factors impact hunting.
• Discounts on Hunting Gear: HuntWise users can access discounts on gear and equipment from various brands, which can be valuable for frequent hunters.

Best For

Hunters interested in predictive hunting technology and community engagement. HuntWise is particularly suitable for those seeking insight into the best times to hunt based on environmental conditions and animal activity.

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Feature Comparison

Feature	OnX Hunt	HuntStand	HuntWise
Land Ownership Data	Extensive and accurate	Moderate	Moderate
Offline Maps	Yes	Limited	Yes
Custom Waypoints	Yes	Yes	Yes
Weather Forecasts	Basic	Basic + Solunar	Advanced with HuntCast
Stand Reservation	No	Yes	No
Predictive Technology	No	No	Yes (HuntCast)
Social/Community Tools	No	No	Yes
Discounts on Gear	No	No	Yes

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Pros and Cons of Each App

OnX Hunt

• Pros: Excellent land ownership data, accurate boundaries, and reliable offline maps.
• Cons: Lacks predictive tools and community/social features.

HuntStand

• Pros: Great for land management with tools for larger groups and comprehensive mapping features.
• Cons: Weather data is more basic; land ownership details aren’t always as comprehensive.

HuntWise

• Pros: Advanced predictive technology and a social network for hunters, plus discounts on gear.
• Cons: Less detail in land ownership data, and limited customization options compared to the others.

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Final Thoughts

Each of these hunting apps brings something unique to the table:

• OnX Hunt is ideal for hunters focused on reliable and precise mapping, especially if they frequently navigate between public and private lands.
• HuntStand is perfect for hunters managing or monitoring large tracts of land, making it an excellent tool for private landowners and group hunting.
• HuntWise appeals to hunters interested in predictive hunting technology, and it’s a good option for those who want to engage with a hunting community.

Ultimately, the best app will depend on your personal hunting style, the type of land you hunt on, and the specific features you prioritize. Some hunters even use a combination of these apps to maximize their advantage in the field. Whichever app you choose, it’s clear that modern technology has made it easier than ever to plan, track, and enjoy a successful hunting experience.

*AI was used to create this article