Hunting Prep: The Benefits of Using a Cellular Trail Camera

Trail cameras can be a trusted tool for scouting and monitoring game for hunters. However, one of the pitfalls of using a game camera comes when it’s time to check the records. Your data and photos can be rendered worthless if you ruin the spot with your scent and presence. Cellular trail cameras can be a great answer to this scouting problem. Follow along as SPYPOINT Ambassador Steven Fuller defines and outlines the perks to this tech-driven hunting accessory.

WHAT IS A CELLULAR TRAIL CAMERA?

Cellular trail cameras are a style of game camera that send you your captured photos via cellular network. Fuller notes this is one of the unique benefits to using a cellular camera setup.

“You can digitally receive your photos anywhere, and then you don’t have to go into your scouted location where you have your deer patterned and scent up the area just to collect your SD card to review your photos,” he says.

CELLULAR OR WIRELESS?

When looking for your best trail camera, you’ll find wireless and cellular options. It’s important to distinguish between the two. While both camera styles feature wireless photo transmission, the connections differ in signal. Wireless game cameras often use Wi-Fi networks or radio frequencies to connect. Cellular cameras, on the other hand, use cell towers to connect to a cellular network.

The benefit in using a cellular camera is the increased range from your trail camera site. Wireless cameras still need you to come into the location to reach a radio frequency or Wi-Fi network. Any trip in proximity to your camera site runs the chance of exposing your area and ruining your odds. Using cellular networks can allow you to truly set and forget your trail camera until it’s time to remove the device.

Another difference in wireless and cellular cameras is how you access the networks. While radio frequencies and Wi-Fi networks are free to access, cellular networks are not. You’ll need to sign up for a cellular network plan to connect to your cellular trail camera. Fuller does note, however, that you don’t have to necessarily use the same carrier you already use for your phone. Cellular trail camera plans can come from any carrier, giving you some versatility. Some cameras even offer introductory trials before requiring plan payments.

OTHER BENEFITS AND FEATURES

Aside from the lengthy range, there are other benefits to using a cellular trail camera. Fuller says the reduced lag time between photo capture and delivery can provide instant feedback. “That’s putting quick information in the hunter’s hand so he or she can adjust their hunting tactics,” he says.

The idea of using your phone to receive photos can also be a benefit in the field. Some cellular trail cameras pair with a smartphone app. This pairing adds even more scouting tools and capabilities. “They have a lot of different features that allow you to program and set up your cameras,” Fuller says. “Some even have recognition software where it allows you to save a lot of time in sorting out your photos.”

Cellular trail cameras can be a great addition to your scouting plan this season. Keep a distant eye on your favorite location and scout your hunting hot spot with these Pro Tips.