How a Texas Hunting Outfit Boosted Safety with Retevis RT97S GMRS Repeater Solutions

Texas hunting guide Sean Casey knows that reliable communication can mean life or death when navigating the rugged 37,000 acres of wilderness at Rio Y Arroyo Outfitters. For 22 years, the hunting operation has been managing hunting tours in Comstock, Texas—an area notorious for its cell-dead zones where aoudad sheep roam steep cliffs and deep valleys. With clients hiking treacherous terrain for up to 290 days a year, Casey found the answer to his communication problems in Retevis RT97S GMRS radios and repeaters.

Rugged Terrain Demands Reliable Gear

"We've got zero cell service and clients ranging from kids to seniors," says Casey. "If someone slips off a rock, we need instant backup." Before adopting Retevis, the team struggled with spotty handheld radios that barely worked in such a challenging environment. The team’s solution was to invest in Retevis Mobile Radio systems, which significantly improved signal clarity. The real breakthrough came when they added the Retevis RT97S GMRS repeater to their setup.

Overcoming Spotty Communication with RT97S GMRS Mobile Repeater

The Retevis RA87 vehicle-mounted units provided clearer, more consistent signals than basic walkie-talkies, which greatly improved communication on the move. However, adding the RT97S GMRS repeater to their gear allowed them to expand their communication range and ensure that all team members stayed connected, no matter where they were on the expansive hunting grounds.

RT97S GMRS Repeater

Solar-Powered Signal Savior

Mounted atop their 1,780-ft "mountain" in a weatherproof box, the Retevis RT97S radio repeater runs on solar power and provides coverage across the entire 37,000-acre property.

60-Mile Coverage in All Directions

Casey notes, "Now we get 60-mile coverage—30 miles in every direction." This reliable communication infrastructure allows guides tracking sheep across ridges to maintain constant contact, while fishing teams coordinate access to river points. During a recent storm evacuation, the RT97S repeater played a crucial role, keeping all groups synchronized despite zero visibility.

Durability Meets Simplicity

"We punish gear—dust storms, river crossings, 100°F heat," Casey says. But Retevis gear has held up under these demanding conditions. The Retevis HA1G handhelds have survived being submerged in mud puddles, while the RA87 truck-mounted units have endured constant vibrations from rock trails. The plug-and-play setup of the system, particularly the RT97S portable radio repeater, was especially useful for a team of outdoorsmen with little technical expertise.

RT97S Portable Repeater and RA87 40W Mobile Radio Bundle

Quick Setup and Easy Maintenance

Casey emphasizes, "We’re outdoorsmen, not techs. Programming channels takes minutes, not hours." This ease of setup ensures that the team can focus on their clients and not on complicated equipment.

Beyond Safety: Enhancing Client Experiences

Improved communication has had a direct impact on success rates and the overall client experience. Guides can now share real-time animal sightings, adjust routes to intercept migrating herds, and coordinate their efforts more efficiently.

Creating Lifelong Memories

Casey recalls, “Last season, we helped a 12-year-old land her first ram by coordinating three teams via radio. Those shared moments create lifelong customers.” Efficient communication has not only increased the safety of the hunting expeditions but also helped create unforgettable experiences for their clients.

Why GMRS Beats Alternatives?

After testing several alternatives, including ham radios and satellite communication devices, Casey opted for GMRS for its perfect balance of power and accessibility.

A Cost-Effective, User-Friendly Solution

"We chose GMRS because it requires no license exams and only costs $35 for a 10-year FCC approval," says Casey. "Our staff can train new guides in one morning." The system’s simplicity, combined with its cost-effectiveness, made it the ideal choice for a business operating in a remote area. The RT97S GMRS repeater solution paid for itself when the team used it during a flood rescue operation, guiding stranded clients to high ground despite washed-out trails.

Future-Proofing Wilderness Adventures

As Rio Y Arroyo Outfitters continues to expand into new ventures like photography tours and corporate retreats, the Retevis RT97S GMRS system adapts seamlessly to meet new demands.

Ensuring Communication Across All Activities

From providing NOAA weather alerts to offering mobile repeaters for larger groups, the RT97S GMRS repeater ensures the entire operation remains connected. "This isn’t just radio equipment," Casey concludes. "It’s the backbone of every memory we help create out here."

Introducing the 25W Waterproof RT97L GMRS Repeater: Even More Power for Greater Range

RT97L 25W Waterproof GMRS Repeater

In addition to the RT97S, we also offer the RT97L waterproof repeater, a new addition to our GMRS repeater lineup. Designed for even greater coverage, the RT97L offers:

• Powerful 25W Output: The RT97L repeater provides a stronger signal with its 25W output, allowing for expanded communication range over longer distances.
• IP66 Waterproof: Built with ruggedness in mind, the RT97L is IP66-rated waterproof, making it a perfect solution for outdoor use in all weather conditions.
• Expanded Coverage: With its higher power and robust construction, the RT97L is ideal for even larger areas such as farms, construction sites, and remote locations that require maximum signal range.

Get your RT97S GMRS Repeater now and experience the difference: https://www.retevis.com/rt97s-full-duplex-portable-gmrs-repeater-us
RT97L Waterproof GMRS Repeater: https://www.retevis.com/25w-rt97l-gmrs-long-range-waterproof-full-duplex-repeater-us