You'll want to get a Cobalt Dolabra and Mythril Sledgehammer for starters. As for gear, you have a few options.

The Raptorskin Jerkin/Culottes/Work boots/Survival Belt combination is certainly common. As variations you can go with a woolen doublet for added perception or a Gridanian doublet for extra output. On the head, it's generally either the Cobalt Mesail (Gathering) or an Angler's Hat (Perception).

Spend some company seals on the Serpentcarrier's Ring for +5 Gathering and Perception as well.