OBSERVE AND REPORT

Today’s outdoor opportunities go well beyond hunting and fishing, but you still need the right gear to get the job done, be it for photography, birdwatching or butterflies.

1. FREEZE-FRAME

Whether capturing an Ozark mountain sunset or a bird on the wing, the Fujifilm X-H1 digital camera delivers quality performance thanks to accurate autofocus, fast shooting speed and five-axis internal image stabilization. And while not cheap, it’s priced well below comparable mirrorless models. (fujifilm.com)

2. HIKE IN STYLE

One of the most comfortable hikers on the market, Salomon X Ultra 3 Mid GTX is built like a trail-running shoe but with beefed-up ankle support and protection. Stable and providing excellent traction, the X Ultra 3 is built for the long haul, too. Take them for a spin; your feet will thank you. (salomon.com)

3. FLIP FOR THIS

The best shots lie off the beaten path, which makes the Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 350 AW camera backpack essential equipment. Well-engineered and comfortable to wear, it stows all your camera gear without sacrificing accessibility. The built-in rain cover is a particularly nice touch. (lowepro.com)

4. BY THE BOOK

Beginners and experienced birders and butterfly seekers alike rely on guides to help positively identify what they track down. For generations, Peterson Field Guides have come along for the ride offering guides on birds, bees and everything in between. And yes, everything is available as an app, too. (houghtonmifflinbooks.com/peterson)

5. WATCH THE BIRDIE

Seeking your next favorite pair of binoculars? The Nikon Monarch 5 should be at the top of your list. Rugged and versatile under all conditions, it offers 56mm objective lenses for massive field of view, packs 20x magnification and great low-light chops. We can’t guarantee you’ll spot an ivory-billed woodpecker with these babies, but we’re sure you won’t without them. (nikonsportoptics.com)