Small game, like rabbit, hare, squirrel, pheasant, crow, waterfowl, etc. Big game, like deer, sheep, moose, antelope, bear, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, etc. [2] X Research source
Bow and arrow. Shotgun. Black powder rifle. Rimfire rifle. Centerfire (high-powered) rifle.
“I don’t have a lot of hunting experience, but I really like nature, and I could benefit from the nutrients in venison. Could you tell me a little bit more about deer hunting?”
Most locations have a Department of Natural Resources, Fish and Wildlife Department or similar organization that regulates hunting in the area. A quick online search should help you find the relevant agency charged with wildlife management.
Deer hunting may be done from ground blinds, tree stands, stalking, or by driving prey from brush or cover with a group. Some areas even allow pursuing deer with hounds. Upland birds are often hunted with dogs like pointers or setters, which can actually follow the scent of these game birds. Then, these hunting dogs will point out the prey for the hunter to flush and shoot. [4] X Research source Migratory birds are often hunted from blinds, so a successful bird hunter will need to find a feeding area or watering area to hunt. Harvested grain fields, waterways, or other places may offer successful hunts for these birds. Small game, like rabbits and squirrels, may be hunted using dogs. Beagles are a favorite for rabbits, and some breeds are easy to train for treeing squirrels (or raccoon or opossums).
Extra daily medication (e. g. insulin, blood pressure pills, etc. ). Cell phone or two way radio (in waterproof case). Appropriate clothing for changeable weather (rain gear, etc. ). Lighters/fire starters. Metal cup. Waterproof light source (e. g. headlamp). Whistle or signaling device. Emergency shelter (e. g. space blanket). Survival knife. First aid kit. Emergency rations (granola, meal replacement bars, etc. ). Map and compass.
Hunting on public land is legal, so long as it is not in violation of state, federal or regional restriction, you have the proper licenses, and you are following state, federal or other applicable hunting regulations.
Quail, dove, and other small game birds can be hunted with shotguns using shot sizes between size six and nine in field loads, using gauges from 20 ga. to 12 ga. Turkeys, geese, grouse, ducks, pheasants, etc require larger shot sizes, and preferably larger gauge guns. A 12 ga. or even 10 ga. shooting number two or number four shot is a good choice. [9] X Research source [10] X Research source [11] X Research source [12] X Research source Rabbits and squirrels can be hunted with rim fire rifles using hollow point bullets, high powered air rifles shooting at least 750 fps, or shotguns similar to those used for quail and dove. [13] X Research source Deer, antelope, and sheep can be hunted with center fire rifles, bows, or muzzle loading rifles. Center fire cartridges should be at least . 243 caliber with no smaller than 100 grain soft pointed bullets. Muzzle loading rifles should be at least . 40 caliber, and bows should be capable of shooting a broad head arrow capable of delivering a clean kill. [14] X Research source [15] X Research source [16] X Research source Larger game, like elk, wild boar, moose, or bear, should be hunted with larger calibers, such as . 30 caliber guns shooting 150 or higher grain soft pointed bullets. Dangerous game hunting requires a gun capable of bringing down charging animals. [17] X Research source
Take note of any swamps, loose rocks, fallen trees, or any other obstacles that might impede your route to your hunting location. Be aware of natural animal runs through your hunting area. These are frequently the paths your chosen game will travel, and if you have to track your prey, knowing these will be helpful. Memorize or take a picture of the tracks you see on these natural trails. When you return home, you can check these against a track guide. [22] X Research source
In addition to the emergency supply kit you put together while preparing to hunt, you should also be sure you are wearing an appropriate amount of blaze orange (also called hunter’s orange or safety orange) so that other hunters can see you.
It’s always best to give your neighbor a warning before heading out to hunt, even if you’ve been told you can hunt there anytime. This will limit your chances for hunting accidents.
Game birds should be plucked or skinned and dressed soon after they are taken. [25] X Research source Rabbits and squirrels should be skinned and dressed before they become stiff. [26] X Research source
Check your gear before returning home; you don’t want to bring potentially harmful wild animals into your home by accident. Do not indulge in alcohol or use drugs while hunting, as this may compromise your judgement and lead to injury. Test all your equipment before going out on your hunt. The last thing you want is faulty equipment putting you or you hunting partner(s) in danger. [33] X Research source
