You know the struggle of finding good public hunting grounds if you’re a hunter. Look into private hunting land to explore more hunt options.
As hunting regulations change, finding private hunting lands becomes helpful in harvesting your next elk or deer. However, the search process can be tedious and time-consuming. In this article, we’ll cover some valuable tips to help you find both public and private land for hunting.
Why Hunt on Private Land
Private hunting land offers a significant advantage in terms of reduced hunting pressure. Hunting pressure arises when land is excessively hunted, causing game animals to become aware and making hunting more challenging. Private hunting land is a solution to avoid such hunting pressure.
Finding Private Lands
One of the best ways to locate public and private hunting land is by scouting. Scouting involves exploring various landscapes, identifying potential hunting spots, and marking them.
Scout The Area
When looking for private land, start by scouting the area. Identify potential hunting spots and mark them on your map.
Please make sure that you know all the land borders and understand the lay of the land. You can also check online sites to see which private land is available for hunting.
Exercise caution when entering private property, as certain ranchers may be wary of unfamiliar individuals. It is advisable to initiate contact through a phone call, visit or written correspondence prior to visiting these properties.
Ask Around.
Ask friends and family if they know anyone who allows hunting on their private property. Attend hunting groups to find hidden gems for your next hunt.
Mapping Tools
Digital mapping apps like OnX and Google Earth are excellent for scouting and marking potential hunting spots. You can use these apps to zoom in and out of the area to understand its topography better.
OnX has a private property overlay program allows you to see who owns the land.
Gaining Access to Private Property
Once you identify the owners of the private property, could you look up the contact information for the owners?
Start early
Start early before the hunting season to obtain permission. Look for areas in the letter by introducing yourself, compliment their land, and tell them why you are interested in hunting it.
Could you explain your hunting ideologies and ethics and ask if they have any rules or preferences on when and where you hunt? This will instill confidence that you will respect their time and their property
Assisting on a farm encompasses a wide range of tasks, from repairing fences to tending to livestock or transporting hay. The workload on a farm is ceaseless, and lending a hand can greatly enhance your hunting privileges.
Contributing to the maintenance of the land from which you benefit is not only a moral obligation but also fosters a deep bond of trust between you and the landowner.
Please be sure to express gratitude by regularly checking in with the landowner when hunting on their property for an extended period. It is important to set up a strong rapport. Always exhibit courtesy and remember to express thanks. As a gesture of appreciation, consider offering game meat or gift cards to local diners after each hunting season.
Written Permission
Once you’ve identified the land and been granted access. Get the permission in writing. There may be more than one owner, or if you get permission early in the season, the owner may forget. Having written permission is a good way to ensure all your bases are covered.
Be Respectful
When hunting on private land, it’s crucial to be respectful. Respect the landowner’s rules and regulations when it comes to hunting. When you’re finished hunting, always pick up any trash or remnants, such as shotgun shells. Being respectful of the landowner and their property can go a long way in establishing yourself as a responsible hunter.
Be A Part Of The Community
Getting involved in the hunting community can also provide you with new hunting opportunities. Attend community hunting events and strike up conversations with other hunters that you meet. They may know of hunters willing to lease or share their property, for example, which can provide you with new hunting opportunities.
Pros and Cons Of Public Land
Public land offers a wide range of hunting opportunities, and it’s free of charge. You also don’t need to ask landowners for permission to hunt and most hunts have fewer restrictions. However, its disadvantages include crowds of hunters and limited access to some areas.
Pros and Cons Of Private Land
Private land offers a more diverse range of hunting opportunities, with more habitat and fewer hunters. However, it comes with the cost of leases and permits, and you need to ask the landowners for permission to hunt. You’re also bound by the landowner’s rules and regulations.
Hunting Ethics
Hunting ethics refer to the moral code that safeguards animal well-being and food, for wild animals as well as the environment.
Obey The Rules
When hunting, it’s essential to follow the rules and regulations governing hunting in your respective states. You and many hunters should also read the ethics of the hunting club or group you belong to and abide by their rules.
Know Your Surroundings
Before you start hunting, it’s essential to have a good understanding of your surroundings to avoid a person getting lost or injured while hunting.
Respect The Animal
Respect for the animal is one of the fundamental hunting ethics. It would be best to take a shot at an animal only if you are sure you’ll make a clean, humane kill. This means taking careful aim, getting close enough for a presumptive fatal shot, and taking only a shot that presents a clear target.
Wilderness Areas
Wilderness areas are perfect for those looking for a hunting adventure. Although challenging, these areas are often rich in wildlife and beautiful landscapes. However, before you want to hunt anywhere in a wilderness area, please make sure you understand the required regulations and permits.
Land Boundaries
Finally, knowing the land boundaries is crucial when hunting on private land. Hunting across property lines can lead to legal trouble, so it’s important to know where you can and can’t hunt on own land.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, finding new public and private hunting land can be a struggle. Still, with scouting, persistence, and respect for the landowner and animals, you can find exciting new hunting opportunities.
Remember to follow the rules and regulations, know your surroundings, and rely on technology to make the most of your hunting adventures. Hunting is a thrilling sport that can connect you with nature and the wild, but it’s essential to be responsible and leave the land better than you found it.
