Step One: Be really sure you this is something you want to
do.
Do your research, and then do some more. If your reading
this then you’re probably thinking this step is pointless, but try to hear me
out. Hunting like any sport, can be pricey (Like thousands of dollars pricey). I’m
not saying it isn’t possible to do it on a budget, but your likely starting
with nothing. That means a weapon to hunt with, ammo, camo, camping equipment,
backpack, boots, emergency supplies, the lists can be endless and expensive.
Make sure your budget can handle the expense and your schedule can open up the
time require to become proficient with whatever weapon you choose.
Step Two: If you are absolutely sure hunting is for you, get
your Hunter Safety Certification.
No matter where you are nationwide, you will need this to
purchase a hunting license. No license means no hunting. This also gives you
tons of information on the equipment used in hunting as well as proper and safe
hunting practices. Ask questions when you take the course! The men and women
instructing these classes have a wealth of knowledge that most of times
surpasses the basics of hunter safety. This course is the best foundation for
any new hunter to start on. It will also help you narrow down what weapon you
think will be the best fit for you as it goes over a variety of hunting
weapons.
Step Three: Purchase Your Chosen Weapon
Great, you are now a knowledgeable potential hunter. The
next step is to research and find out what you have to do to purchase the gun
or bow you’ve chosen. Each state will have different laws, regulations, and
requirements needed to purchase a gun or bow. It will save you a lot of time if
you make sure you meet all the requirements or fill out any forms available
online before you enter a shop. Also keep in mind the cost is not limited to
just to weapon. You will need ammo, a case or cases, possibly a gun safe, a
scope, or sight for a bow etc. Your local retailer will be able to help you get
all the necessities to get started.
Step Four: Practice, practice, and practice some more.
If you aren’t a good shot, you will likely not make an
ethical kill. I spend 5-6 days a week at a range shooting for a minimum of an
hour or more. Do you have to do this? Of course not! Do whatever your schedule
allows. Just make sure you spend enough time shooting your weapon before you go
hunting to know it inside and out. As you spend more time in the hunting world
you will realize how important it is to all hunters alike that we make a clean
kill. Also becoming proficient with your weapon means you will know the proper
way to handle it safely. Nothing is more important than your safety and those
with you.
Step Five: Plan your hunt.
What are you going to hunt? Is that game in your area? When
are you going? Did you want to be with a group locally or did you want to hire
a professional to guide and teach you? When went to go to buy your weapon, did take
note at the people behind the counter? They are often hunters or they
potentially know some. They can help point you in the right direction, and I
personally have always found them to be more than happy to help. On this note,
clubs and organizations in your area for hunting or the weapon you have chosen
will be a great resource as well. Don’t forget to purchase the tags for any
game you will be hunting. Again, each state is different. Make sure you know
your states regulations and laws and any state you plan to visit for hunting.
Every hunter is responsible for themselves. My greatest resource to finding the
right person to help me was google and social media. I feel like I got
extremely lucky to find my mentor and guide for my first hunt this way. This
may not be the norm for everyone. Where you live will often determine what will
work best for you.
Step Six: Purchase the necessities.
This includes but is in no way limited to: camo, cooler for
meat, camping supplies. Something things you can use for multiple game and some
you won’t use but for one particular game animal. You won’t need a 4-person tent
and a 60lb hiking backpack if you are only hiking a few miles in or it’s only a
day hunting trip. Make sure your buying what you NEED not what you want.
Something things you can save money on, others you really need to choose
quality over quantity. Just remember, you get what you pay for.
Step Seven: Enjoy yourself!
This is the step I’m currently on myself. I know you will be
nervous. I will definitely be too. But try to remember what appealed to you the
most when you decided to start this journey! This should be a fun and rewarding
experience. After all you’ve done to prepare, all the articles, books, classes,
and time you’ve devoted, you deserve this moment! Now all that’s left is to go
out and get it!
By Fontana Smith
August 21, 2016
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