Does any have any suggestions for the best bug repellent for BWCA? late june trip and I'm curious if people have found some more worthy than others. Thanks

I'll link you to a write-up I've posted on various locations on the web over the years.

LINK

Welcome Jerrod. I encourage you to register with the website and join the fun and frivolity. It's painless and free. :)

I've been bringing Deep Woods OFF for as long as I can remember. Works just fine for me.

I was just there last week. The gnats were out in swarms and are very disrespectful of all chemicals, the only good news is they don’t hurt when they bite and only itch later. Head nets were a must. The mosquitos showed up our last day and deet works good, also the European version picaridin works good too and won’t destroy your equipment if it leaks like deet.

Anything 30-40% deet works for us.

100% is too strong in my opinion, it will melt your clothes (synthetic) and gear, not to mention the effects it has on your skin.

I have not experimented with other chemicals.

I believe I read about a study where they found that around 36% deet is the sweet spot for effectiveness. For black flies the Picaridin is supposed to be more effective. Headnets along for everyone although I don’t think I’ve ever worn them on trip. That being said I’ve tripped the last few years around the first week of August. I do always treat my outer clothes with permethrin as well. Meaning l9ng sleev shirt and pants.

I’ve been happy with the 3M tube version of deet mosquito repellent. Doesn’t feel gnasty and seems to help. I’ve only used it a few times though.

Ryan

Carry a couple of these bad boys:

Thermacell Backpacker

They are great for creating a bubble of protection while on the latrine or under a tarp.

Picaridin hands down. It is highly concentrated. Deet destroys expensive tents, tarps and outdoor clothing. Picaridin doesn’t. Works just the same for me. Smells better too.

Picaradin/Natrapel. Works good and you don't have to worry about your face melting off like you do with the high percentage deet products.

Picardin was developed for the military to replace Deet and the problems that cam with Deet. I have used Picardin for years and found it just as effective as Deet, not oily (feels more like skin cream), doesn't smell like bug spray, and can be used on children

Permethrin on your clothes, Picardin on your skin, a net on your head.