Hunting can be an engaging and fun pastime where you spend time outdoors, experience the thrill of the hunt and provide for your own food. If you are interested, there are some steps you should first take to get started. Here’s how.
Take Care of the Legalities First
Hunting is a hobby that is heavily controlled by regulations almost everywhere. You need a hunting license and a hunter safety certification to hunt in any given state. Some states require that you hold a valid license to own or use a gun, which may require submitting to background checks, being of a minimum age and fulfilling a waiting period. A few states require guns to be registered. Because the restrictions vary so widely, check with your state’s department of natural resources to find out what might be required of you. It’s also important to know, if you plan on hunting out of state, whether your gun licenses will be valid. Hunting permits are usually not reciprocal, although some states have agreements.
Work with Others
Hunting is an activity where you benefit from learning from someone who knows what they’re doing. If you can find a mentor in a local hunting club or connect with an experienced friend to show you the ropes, you should do so. They can teach you many helpful tips and provide access to hunting land. Other people not only offer a social outlet while hunting but also help keep the activity safe for everyone. Be sure to study on your own as well and learn about both hunting techniques and animal behavior, which can help you be more successful.
Buy Your Own Equipment
Next, you will need to start buying your own equipment to use in the field. This can be anything from camping gear to weapons to clothing. You can choose between different weapons such as bows, shotguns or rifles depending on your preferences and the type of game you are hunting. It’s best to wait until you have some experience before you start buying your own gear as you will have a better idea of what you actually want and need in the field.
Go Out and Hunt
Hunting is a hands-on activity, and the best way to learn is by doing. Start out by conducting short hunts with an experienced buddy before advancing to more involved hunts. Be wary of getting settled into a routine that can start to wear on your enthusiasm and sense of adventure. Shake things up a bit occasionally by going to new places, trying new techniques such as hunting with dogs or hunting a new species.
While many people learn to hunt from their families, it is always possible to get started later in life. Discover what type of hunting you want to do and then start learning. If you take the proper precautions and get the permits, while asking experts and friends for advice, you are sure to have an engaging and safe experience. You might be in for some of the best times of your life.
