The strong half of humanity is genetically programmed to be a breadwinner, so it is not surprising that the hobby of many men is hunting or fishing. This hobby can saturate our blood with adrenaline and give us something that is missing in everyday life. But, to pursue his hobby, a modern fisherman-hunter needs not only special equipment, but also no less special transport.
A car used for trips to reservoirs or forest wilds must meet a number of mandatory requirements, only in this case its operation will not spoil the pleasure of fishing and hunting. The first, quite obvious requirement is guaranteed cross-country ability over rough terrain and fords. This means that the car must at least have all-wheel drive, high ground clearance, sill protection, and underbody protection.
The second requirement concerns reliability. Far from civilization it is difficult to find a car service and any malfunction of the vehicle can lead to big problems. The third requirement is the presence of a large supply of free space in the car. Equipment for hunting or fishing needs to be stored somewhere, plus when traveling overnight, it is sometimes more advisable to sit comfortably in the car rather than pitch a tent. Taking into account the above, we will consider the TOP 10 vehicles that are best suited for hunting and fishing trips.
An honorable tenth place is awarded to UAZ 2206
For many fans of fishing and hunting, the UAZ 2206, popularly nicknamed the “loaf”, is the only preferred vehicle for outdoor trips. There are many examples of how fairly wealthy people who can afford to buy an expensive foreign-made SUV prefer to use the UAZ 2206 for their hobby. What is the secret of this car?
“Loaf” is a car that can go anywhere; for it there is no difference between asphalt and a taiga clearing. All-wheel drive, high ground clearance, good underbody protection, and an all-metal “impenetrable” body guarantee that the UAZ will not get stuck in the clay somewhere on the outskirts of civilization. The design of the car is as simple as a hammer; high-tech systems are absent in it as a class. Therefore, field repairs with a minimum set of tools are carried out without problems, as is the search for spare parts in the nearest settlement, even if it is a village of a dozen houses.
You can literally load a mountain of travel equipment into the cabin and still have room for a pleasant company. If necessary, you can spend the night in the cabin, and those who prefer to travel in comfort can easily carry out both interior and exterior tuning.
Land Rover Discovery
With this car you will feel like the master of any road, because the car has everything for the most comfortable ride both in the city and outside it. Very suitable for those who like to go on vacation with a large group, because almost everything can fit into the interior and trunk of a car! The luggage compartment is designed for 1231 liters, and with the seats folded down the volume reaches 2500. It has all-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Ninth place in the TOP goes to VAZ 2121 (VAZ 4x4)
The famous VAZ 2121 (VAZ 4x4) has been in use for a long time, and will be used by amateurs for a long time to go out into the wilds to fish or hunt animals. At first glance at this model, especially if you compare it with foreign SUVs, you don’t get the feeling that it can demonstrate exceptional off-road performance. But don’t judge by appearance, the VAZ 2121 is capable of surprising.
Well-thought-out body geometry, balanced technical characteristics, all-wheel drive, high ground clearance, even with a relatively low power engine under the hood, allow this car to move forward despite the presence of deep snow, mud and other obstacles under the wheels. Buying a foreign car with similar qualities at the price of a VAZ 2121 is simply unrealistic, so this model is today the leader in price-quality ratio.
In the cabin of a VAZ 4x4, if you take a set of necessary camping equipment with you on a trip, two people can fit with the greatest comfort, since the rear sofa will have to be folded. An additional rack can be installed on the roof, and the body can be equipped with an off-road body kit without unnecessary difficulties.
Nissan Patrol
If you still don’t know which car is best to choose for hunting or fishing, but want to take a foreign car, the Nissan Patrol will be one of the great options. And not the new generation, but its predecessors.
Nissan Patrol
This SUV has excellent cross-country ability, an ultra-reliable frame suspension design, and all-wheel drive. In a Nissan Patrol you can safely drive not just off-road, but also cross a river into a ford, and easily conquer a fallen tree that has fallen on the road.
Unlike previously presented models, the Nissan Patrol additionally boasts a high level of comfort. When hitting a bump, the driver and passengers will definitely not fly up to the ceiling, breaking through the roof. The motor used does not cause any complaints. The Patrol also has a huge luggage compartment. A real rogue that is ideally adapted for real off-road conditions. Taiga, dense forest or clayey swamps are not a problem for him.
UAZ Hunter deservedly took eighth place
Take a reliable, time-tested command UAZ, upgrade its suspension so that if the wheel hits a bump, passengers don’t try to hit the ceiling with their heads, improve the interior comfort to the level of middle-class sedans, and you will get a UAZ Hunter.
A car with a masculine character - this is how Hunter can be briefly described. It retained absolutely all the advantages of its “dad” UAZ 469 - reliability and maintainability, exceptional off-road performance, a recognizable brutal appearance. But you won’t be able to find any shortcomings in it, such as ventilated doors, for example.
On the Hunter you can go fishing or hunting a couple of hundred kilometers from the nearest center of civilization without any fear. Its luggage compartment, closed by a hinged door, will fit everything a traveler might need, including a week's supply of water and food. If you want to ride a Russian Gelendevagen, buy a UAZ Hunter.
VAZ 2121 and VAZ 2131
If you are looking for the best car option for fishing or hunting, but do not want to spend a lot of money on a car when purchasing and maintaining it, choose Niva. There are 2 options here. This is a three-door version of the VAZ 2121, or a 5-door version of the VAZ 2131. The latter is more spacious, has a large luggage compartment, but is inferior in cross-country ability due to its long wheelbase.
2121 is considered a legend of its time, which has survived to this day and is successfully produced to this day.
VAZ 2121
Ask any Russian fisherman or hunter which car is best suited for fishing or hunting. They will say without a doubt that this is Niva. Moreover, the status or financial condition of a person will not play a role. The Niva is reliable, strong, and has excellent cross-country ability.
Yes, the engine here is weak, acceleration to hundreds takes forever, plus the car consumes a lot. But in the case of serious off-road driving, these parameters do not play a key role.
Nissan Patrol is in seventh place in the TOP 10
If a fisherman decides to try his luck in overcoming a ford with a depth of 700 mm or move over a fallen tree with a diameter of 215 mm, or climb a slope with a lateral roll of 48 degrees, then it is better to do this on a Nissan Patrol. This car overcomes these obstacles and many other road troubles effortlessly, and often without slowing down.
But the advantages of this car are by no means limited to its remarkable driving characteristics. It has impressive dimensions and, as a result, offers a comfortable, spacious interior equipped with an impressive list of useful options, and a large amount of equipment can fit in the trunk. If necessary, the rear row of seats can be quickly folded or removed altogether, leaving five more full-sized seats in the cabin.
The technical equipment of the Nissan Patrol includes a 5.6 liter power unit with a capacity of 405 hp. forces, torque – 560 Nm. This power is enough to pull the vehicle out of any mud, even if it is stuck in it along the axis. Although usually the owners of the Patrol do not have to skid somewhere, they simply drive forward, regardless of what is currently under the wheels - a smooth highway, or muddy clay after a week of rain.
UAZ Patriot took sixth place in the TOP
After the UAZ Patriot first appeared on the streets of our cities, people often walked around it in front or behind in order to look at the automaker’s logo, and after that, for some time in their minds, the UAZ brand name tried to combine with the “cool” appearance of the car they saw. This model attracts attention not only with its brutal appearance, but also with its positive qualities adopted from UAZ SUVs of the Soviet era.
When going hunting/fishing, “Patriot” is guaranteed not to let its owner down. In some cases, an SUV crosses ditches, slopes, and water obstacles better than “sophisticated” foreign cars “tailored” for off-road driving. The bottom of the car is protected from possible damage; if desired, the body can be equipped with an off-road body kit without unnecessary technical twists.
Trips on the Patriot are surrounded by a well-designed, roomy interior; the standard trunk volume is 600 liters, this space can be doubled. Options include AIDCO instrument panel, ZF steering. Under the hood, not only a gasoline engine can be installed, but also a diesel engine, paired with a Dymos transmission.
The golden mean of the rating is Jeep Wrangler
For the solo hunter, there's no better vehicle than the Jeep Wrangler. This compact machine is designed to overcome all kinds of obstacles. It moves equally well in the snow, among rocks, along a taiga clearing or through a stormy water stream. There are very few examples when this car needed towing; it is really capable of driving anywhere its dimensions allow.
The upper part of the Jeep Wrangler is protected by roll bars, so if the SUV tips over, then, by and large, nothing will happen to it. A 3-section removable roof is installed on the arches; when it is not needed, the roof is removed and the SUV is converted into an open jeep. If you really want to, you can go hunting without leaving the car.
Despite the relatively small overall dimensions, the Wrangler’s cabin can accommodate all the necessary travel equipment, provided that there is a maximum of one passenger in the cabin in addition to the driver.
Fourth place TOP 10 - Toyota Hilux Surf
Sometimes luck not only turns its face to fishermen-hunters, but also takes them into its arms. In this case, they have a problem in transporting the shot elk or the fish caught in incredible quantities. Owners of the Toyota Hilux Surf do not experience such difficulties since the same elk will fit into their car uncut.
The development of the Hilux Surf was carried out on the basis of a pickup truck of the same name, the difference between them lies in the presence of a roof covering the cargo area. This model has established itself as a “workhorse” capable of slowly, with a sense of dignity, driving along the axle in the mud after a multi-ton tractor. During such a trip, the driver will sit in a comfortable leather seat, turn the hydraulically reinforced steering wheel with two fingers and enjoy high-quality music from a high-quality stereo system. In addition to the driver, the cabin can accommodate four more passengers with their own travel equipment.
Under the hood of the Hilux Surf there is a “millionaire” power unit with 249 hp. forces, torque - 381 Nm. Taking into account the durable body, excellent build quality, and engine characteristics, the hunter/fisherman will be able to operate this car for a very long time without the need for repairs or expensive maintenance.
The top three is opened by Mitsubishi Pajero
For some, the Mitsubishi Pajero is a status car, but there are those who, first of all, appreciate its capabilities for traveling over rough terrain. Large, angular with a sophisticated interior, the Pajero overcomes natural obstacles as if they were not there at all. The suspension perfectly compensates for rolls, sudden changes in height, reinforced sills and the underbody are not afraid of getting damaged.
According to the official characteristics, the SUV is capable of moving on slopes with an incline of up to 35 degrees and with lateral rolls of up to 45 degrees, and fording fords up to 70 cm deep. The vehicle owes all this primarily to the SS4-II all-wheel drive transmission and a number of high-tech systems. These include the MATS system, which prevents the wheels from slipping, Engine Brake Assist Control - will help with engine braking, which will be useful on descents from steep hills.
This is far from a complete list of the systems available on board; by and large, the driver is only required to indicate the direction and speed limit to the car; it will perform all other actions itself. A very good option for hunters who are inexperienced in driving off-road vehicles.
Basic criteria for choosing an SUV
Long trips into nature require the use of a powerful all-wheel drive vehicle that can withstand difficult operating conditions. Therefore, an SUV must meet the following criteria:
- Capacity . The dimensions of the vehicle must meet the needs of the traveler. The car must have space for mining, gear, equipment, a tent, and the owner’s companions. The ideal option is a car with a spacious luggage compartment, a roof mount, and 4-6 seats for passengers.
- Simplicity of design . It is known that complex mechanisms break down more often and require lengthy, expensive repairs. Therefore, a vehicle intended for driving over rough terrain should be simply constructed. The owner can repair such a car himself, using available tools and a standard repair kit.
- Reduced fuel consumption . Many SUV models are equipped with engines of 3.0 liters or more. These cars require constant refueling, which is difficult to accomplish in sparsely populated areas. In this regard, a good jeep for hunting and fishing should not consume a lot of fuel.
- Possibility of special tuning . Some car models acquire the necessary properties for cross-country travel only after a certain upgrade. Therefore, when choosing a car, you should consider the possibility of equipping the vehicle with additional equipment.
- Convenience . Trips to nature take a long period of time. In this regard, a certain level of comfort is required from the car. Without a climate control system, good sound insulation, and comfortable seats, the journey will not be so pleasant.
The best SUVs combine all of the above characteristics. Naturally, this affects the final cost of the vehicle. To help you choose the best option in terms of price and quality, we have selected 5 car models in different price segments. We invite you to familiarize yourself with the list of the most popular cars suitable for hunting and fishing.
Second in the top three is Land Rover Defender
The Land Rover Defender SUV allows you to go fishing or hunting wherever you want, and not where there are at least some roads. This model is specially “sharpened” for movement over rough terrain. For this purpose, all the nuances are provided in its technical equipment, body geometry and even in the paintwork.
Today, cars capable of matching the Defender in cross-country ability can be counted on one hand. This SUV could well have taken first place in the TOP, if not for one significant drawback - it has a small trunk. Because of this, camping equipment has to be stored on an additional roof rack or placed in the cabin, which reduces the number of seats.
Those who are not bothered by the cost of the car and this drawback will be completely delighted with owning a Defender. The car requires a minimum of maintenance, has high survivability of components and assemblies, and is able to emphasize the status of the owner. Under the hood there is a 122-horsepower engine with a torque of 360 Nm, which is achieved already at 2000 rpm. The MT82 manual transmission present on board the vehicle was originally developed for trucks. That is, when used on a relatively small-sized SUV, it will last “forever” regardless of the loads experienced.
The best cars for hunting and fishing
Land Rover Defender
The honorable first place can confidently be given to the famous Land Rover Defender. This car is so loved by hunters and fishermen that it has been the number one choice for more than 30 years. Defender meets all the criteria, and most importantly has:
- High reliability;
- Short wheelbase;
- High ground clearance;
- Durable suspension.
It was in this classic 4x4 SUV that many found the perfect combination of simplicity, reliability and comfort. Land Rover Defender took part in rescue operations and conquered slopes and descents.
The Land Rover Defender also has military roots; some military units used this car as their main means of transportation. This says a lot. There is no doubt about the reliability of the “Great Briton”. After all, under the hood is a 2.5-liter engine in tandem with a traction force distributor. Taking into account all the parameters, we can firmly say that the Land Rover Defender is the best car for hunting and fishing.
Nissan Patrol Y60
Another experienced off-road fighter is the Patrol Y60. It is this model that can satisfy all the wishes of a hunter or fisherman with a margin. Modern models carry a lot of superfluous and unnecessary things, have complex designs, and are also expensive. Nissan Patrol Y60 was disassembled and completely rebuilt. Simplicity of design and reliability are highly valued in this machine. Among other advantages:
- Six-cylinder diesel with a volume of 4.2 liters;
- Reliable suspension;
- Powerful stove;
- Body protected from corrosion.
In this model, it is important that the anti-roll bar can be turned off. For lovers of winter fishing, this car will become indispensable. A powerful battery, excellent interior heating, all this will come in handy during frosty periods.
The Japanese full-size SUV is roomy and spacious. You can go fishing with your whole group and be confident in the reliability of this car. Many consider the Patrol Y60 to be an ideal car for fishing and hunting.
Toyota Hilux Surf
This car closes the top three. The Hilux Surf is very quiet, has good handling, all this gives the impression that you are driving a car or crossover, but not a heavy SUV. There is a lot of space inside, the owners note the increased comfort of the cabin. The seats are soft and comfortable, overall a typical comfortable interior from Toyota. It is worth listing a number of other characteristics:
- Ladder type frame;
- REAS electronic system;
- Pleasant interior upholstery;
- Reliable operation of shock absorbers.
The REAS system controls the operation of the shock absorbers. A trip in the forest or in the steppe will be quite soft. These are the main qualities that are highly valued among Toyota Hilux Surf owners, but this is not the entire list of Toyota advantages.
Therefore, this is the best car for hunting and fishing for those who like to drive in increased comfort even off-road.
UAZ Hunter
The list of reliable cars would not be complete without a real “hunter”. UAZ Hunter is extremely popular not only due to its attractive name, but also for its proven resistance to various tests over the years. “Hunter” easily passes through difficult areas, it is light and simple in design. Therefore, it is preferred by many fans of hunting or fishing, but the SUV still has the title of the ideal car for hunting. In the event of a malfunction, under the hood there is everything painfully familiar. In addition, the car has many domestic awards for its demonstrated stability in various tests and competitions. In addition there is:
- Reliable suspension, “working” engine;
- Huge wheels, high ground clearance;
- Spacious interior;
- High reputation.
This SUV for hunting or fishing will be an excellent solution for those who prefer a domestic manufacturer, but at the same time want to get the full set of necessary parameters.
When choosing a car for hunting or fishing, you should consider your personal needs and preferences. But, reliability should be considered first. After all, important values today depend on this parameter of the vehicle: time and health. With a reliable car, you won’t have to freeze and wait for help. Such a car is ready to help itself, to anyone. If you had to ask yourself: “What kind of car should I buy for hunting and fishing?” – then we can definitely recommend the Land Rover Defender or the domestic UAZ Hunter.
Top of the TOP goes to Ram Power Wagon
Surely every fisherman-hunter has a dream of becoming the owner of an ideal vehicle, which, on the one hand, will make others sigh deeply with envy, and at the same time will have exceptional off-road qualities and a high level of comfort. The Ram Power Wagon could be just such a dream car.
Its brutal, original, courageous, powerful appearance will not leave anyone indifferent, and its off-road driving characteristics are unsurpassed. For example, this car can easily overcome a ford with a depth of 75 centimeters, which is not the limit. Ground clearance of 36.8 centimeters makes it possible to move on equal terms with heavy construction equipment on deep ruts. Under the hood is a 6.4-liter engine with 383 hp. forces with a torque of 585 Nm. Such power is quite enough not only to drive along a difficult section of the road, but also to tow another heavy SUV weighing up to 5.4 tons across it.
There is an open cargo area at the rear of the vehicle. For example, an ATV can fit on it without any problems and there will still be plenty of free space for placing other travel equipment. The car is capable of taking on board 676 kg of cargo and, in addition, towing a trailer weighing up to 4900 kg.
23.01.2019
Top 5 jeeps from the premium segment
Those car enthusiasts whose financial capabilities do not have strong restrictions prefer to buy foreign cars. Cars made in America, Germany, and Japan are distinguished by increased comfort, stylish design, and high quality. Naturally, the cost of servicing such a car is also high.
The rating below lists the most powerful off-road SUVs. Some of them are now sold only on the secondary market. However, this does not greatly affect the popularity of the models.
#1 Toyota Hilux Surf
The main advantage of the Toyota Hilux Surf model is its ability to run on fuel that is not of the best quality. In Russian realities, this property of a car is very useful. In addition, the latest modification of this pickup truck brings it closer to the station wagon class. Therefore, despite the fact that production of the model ceased in 2009, the Toyota Hilux Surf is still No. 1 among civilian all-terrain vehicles.
#2 Land Rover Defender
Another all-terrain vehicle with increased cross-country ability, reliable construction and stylish design. On city roads the car looks awkward due to its large dimensions. However, off-road it is simply irreplaceable. It is worth noting that car repairs are expensive, but are required extremely rarely. The latest modification with a 2.4-liter diesel engine is sold immediately with a winch. Ideal for hunting large animals.
#3 Jeep Wrangler
This jeep model was developed specifically for hunters. The car combines all the necessary qualities: reliability, high cross-country ability, spaciousness, comfort. At the same time, operation in urban conditions also does not pose any difficulties. The only disadvantages include high fuel consumption and expensive maintenance.
№4 Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
When creating the Pajero Sport model, the Mitsubishi concern foresaw the wishes of outdoor enthusiasts. One of the modifications of this car is designed specifically for off-road driving. The car is equipped with an excellent security system, climate control, and useful instruments on the control panel. The luggage compartment is spacious, the interior is comfortable, and the engine is economical. Of course, this model, even in the minimum configuration, costs a lot. However, this is the only drawback of this car.
#5 Nissan Patrol
A classic representative of premium cars, designed for use in any conditions. It features a large amount of electronics, a luxurious interior, and an impressive design. Traveling in this car is comfortable, although it would be a pity to use such an expensive car for hunting or fishing.
A significant drawback is the extremely high fuel consumption.
