Deer hunting, at its core, is the pursuit and taking of wild deer, most often the white-tailed or mule deer, which are common game species in the United States. It’s a practice as old as humanity itself, yet still retains a certain magic that can stir the heart of any modern man or woman.
But why go deer hunting as opposed to chasing down wild hogs or stalking big game, like elk? If you want tolearn to hunt, deer hunting offers a balance of challenge and accessibility that few other types of hunting can match.
But I Don’t Fit the Hunter Stereotype!
Guess what, pretty much anyone can hunt. Well, anyone who’s passed a hunter safety course and got themselves a hunting license, at least. The man who’s been working in an office cubicle for the past decade? Check. The woman who’s decided she wants to embrace the wilderness and bring home the venison? Check. The beginner looking for a new outdoor activity? Check. Deer hunting isn’t an exclusive club. It’s a tradition that’s there for anyone with the grit to take part.
It’s Not Easy
Let’s be clear, though. As romantic as it sounds, deer hunting is not a walk in the park. It’s not about strolling into the woods, spotting a deer, and coming back with a trophy. It requires knowledge, preparation, and dedication. But that’s why you’re here. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hunter looking for a refresh, this guide will help you with the deer hunting essentials.
As an old hunter’s saying goes, “The more you know, the less you carry.” Let’s arm you with that knowledge, so all you have to carry is your hunting gear and the spirit of the hunt.If you’re scared about going hunting for the first time, I encourage you to step into that fear and go anyway. The only way to learn is to do it. How will you know if you like to hunt unless you go? Let’s get started. Let’s hunt deer.
Benefits of Becoming a New Hunter
Before we get started with the how-to of deer hunting, let’s talk briefly about the benefits you get when you learn to hunt.
There are the tangible benefits, of course:
- Meat in the freezer (plus the health benefits of wild game meat)
- Antlers on the wall
- Physical exercise
But there’s also the intangible:
- Connection with nature
- Adrenaline rush of the hunt
- The hunting community
- Patience learned from hours spent in a ground blind or a tree stand
How to Get Started Hunting: Your Step by Step Guide
Alright, so you’ve made up your mind to join the ancient brotherhood of deer hunters. Welcome! Now let’s talk about the nitty-gritty of how to get started. Picture it as a journey, or a quest if you’re so inclined – the Hero’s Journey of hunting.
1. Take a Hunter Safety Course
The first step to any great quest is preparation. Hunting is no different. Before you so much as touch a hunting rifle, you should take a hunter safety course. Think of it as your basic training.
These courses cover the basics of hunting, like safety protocols, hunting ethics, conservation, and laws and regulations. They are designed to ensure you’re a responsible and knowledgeable hunter before you hit the fields.
Most states require new hunters to complete a safety course before they can apply for their first hunting license. Remember, folks, safety first. There’s a reason they don’t hand out licenses at the local grocery store along with your milk and eggs.
2. Get a Hunting License
Next, you’re going to need a hunting license. This is your official ticket to the hunting season. Each state has its own rules about how to apply for a license, so you’ll need to check with your state’s wildlife agency for specifics. But, in general, if you’re over 16 and have completed your safety course, you’re eligible to apply.
3. Choose Your Equipment
Once you’ve got your license, it’s time to gear up. Hunting gear can be as complex or as simple as you want it to be, but at the very least you’re going to need a reliable firearm or bow, ammunition, warm clothes and some basic survival gear.
Consider the type of hunting you’ll be doing. If you’re going after big game in rough terrain, you might need more specialized gear. On the other hand, if you’re starting off with small game or just looking to get your feet wet, a basic set of hunting gear should suffice.
Remember, hunting gear is an investment. Like a good pair of boots, it might pinch a bit at the checkout, but it pays off in the long run.
How to Find a Place to Hunt Big Game
1. Search Online
Public hunting lands are a great place to start for beginners. Many states have large tracts of public land open to hunting, often with an abundance of deer. Make use of resources like OnX Hunt to find these areas and learn the regulations.
If public lands are scarce in your area, you may have to knock on some doors. Literally. This is an undercover method that can give you the best hunting opportunities out there. Many private landowners will grant permission to hunt if you ask politely. It’s not quite as exciting as finding a hidden treasure map, but it’s pretty close when you find a landowner who says yes. Landowners are often experienced hunters and can give you hunting tips and where to find a hunting spot for the best chance of a hunt and harvest.
2. Scout the Area
Once you’ve found a place to hunt, take the time to scout the area. Look for signs of deer, like a deer trail, tracks or droppings. Pay attention to things like food sources, water sources, and bedding areas.
Remember, this isn’t a sightseeing trip. It’s a reconnaissance mission. The more you learn about the deer in your area, the better your chances of success.
3. Set up Your Stand or Blind
Finally, it’s time to set up your stand or blind. This is your home base, your castle. Choose a location that offers a good view of the area but also conceals you from deer. And make sure it’s comfortable. You’re going to be spending a lot of time there. Side note: I didn’t have a stand for my first hunt. I can tell you from personal experience–sitting all day, uncomfortable, on the ground, is a great way to ruin your hunt.
Essential Hunting Tips to Get Your First Deer
So you’ve finally taken the leap into the fascinating world of hunting. You’re probably brimming with excitement, ready to jump into your camo gear and score your first big game. But wait! Before you head into the woods, let’s talk about some tips that could transform you from a greenhorn to a seasoned deer hunter.
Be Patient
Patience is the cornerstone of good hunting. Remember, deer don’t follow our schedules. The wilderness doesn’t work on demand.
The best advice I can give you at this point is to be patient and trust the process. If you are new to hunting, it can be frustrating. It can take hours, or even days, before you see a deer worth shooting. And that’s okay. Part of the hunting experience is the waiting game.
I know what it feels like to be unsure if you are hunting correctly. When I was first learning to hunt, an experienced hunter told me “It’s called hunting, not harvesting.” Solid advice. Even experienced hunters have days or seasons(!) when they come home empty-handed. But know that every time you go into the woods, you’re gaining experience, knowledge, and skill. Every hunt is a step closer to meat in your fridge (or antlers on the wall, or social media bragging rights, I don’t judge).
Be Quiet
The next golden rule is silence. Deer have a keen sense of hearing, so stay quiet. If you are hunting with a partner, whisper when talking. Be careful to not move around and crunch leaves or twigs once you are in position. This is a stealth mission.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Awareness is crucial in the field. Stay alert and tuned in to your surroundings. Keep your eyes on the trail, your ears to the wind, and your nose to the air. Okay, that last part might be overkill, but you get the idea.
Knowing your environment is just as important as knowing your prey. Being able to read signs of activity, such as deer tracks and droppings can give you the upper hand. It’s like having a cheat sheet in an exam.
Dress Appropriately for the Weather
This one’s a no-brainer. Dress for the season. This isn’t a fashion show, so leave your runway gear at home. Camouflage and layers are your best friends. As they say, there’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.
Invest in a good pair of hunting boots. If your feet aren’t happy, you’re not happy. And if you’re not happy, well, that just takes the fun out of the whole thing.
Use the Right Equipment
Just like you wouldn’t go to a gunfight with a knife, you shouldn’t go deer hunting with the wrong equipment. Choose your weapon based on your target and comfort level, but don’t overthink it. There is a lot of buzz in the hunting community about why certain calibers are better than others. Pick something you are comfortable with and that doesn’t kick too much. Go to a range and try out a few different calibers to see what you like best–.308, .30-06 and 6.5 Creedmoor are all good options if you are having trouble deciding.
Be Safe
Lastly, and most importantly, be safe. Follow the safety rules you learned in your hunter safety course. As they say, “Safety doesn’t happen by accident.” Remember, a successful hunt is one you come back from. So treat every gun as if it’s loaded, know what’s beyond your target, and always, always wear your orange.
Conclusion: It’s Time to Start Hunting
And so we come to the end of our deer hunting primer. By now, you’re likely chomping at the bit to get out there and kickstart your hunting journey. Hold on to that excitement! It’s a fuel that can drive you through the many hours of patient observation and quiet waiting.
Deer hunting, much like life itself, is a blend of preparation, patience, and a bit of providence. It is, as Teddy Roosevelt would say, a strenuous life, but one that can bring immense rewards. The crunch of leaves underfoot, the call of birds above, the sudden silence that descends when a deer enters the clearing, these are experiences that take us back to our primal roots. It’s not just about the hunt, but also the deep connection with nature that hunting inspires.
Sure, the prospect of having your very own deer meat in the freezer is enticing. And there’s nothing quite like the feeling of accomplishment when you’ve got your first deer under your belt. But as weird as it may sound, the experience alone is worth a lot.
Make sure you’ve got those safety guidelines down pat. A license to hunt doesn’t mean you can be reckless.
Lastly, embrace the learning curve. As with any new endeavor, there will be challenges and maybe a few mistakes along the way. Don’t let that discourage you. Remember, even the most experienced hunters were beginners once.
Take it from Steven Rinella, author and host of “MeatEater,” who says, “A great hunt is about hard work and learning from your mistakes. It’s about preparation meeting opportunity.”
So, with a little planning, a smidge of courage, and a heaping helping of patience, you’re ready to embark on the age-old tradition of deer hunting.
Remember, every hunt is a story. And you’re the author of yours. Now get out there, make some memories, and write your first chapter in the great book of hunting.
Happy hunting!
Frequently Asked Questions About Your First Deer Hunt
Q1. How do I find a good place to hunt?
There are many types of land to hunt on, but public hunting lands are the most accessible for beginners. Using mapping apps like OnX Hunt can help you find these spots and understand the lay of the land. Always remember to get permission if you plan to hunt on private land.
Here are a few good resources:
- Recreation.gov: A great resource for finding public land for hunting, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities.
- US Fish & Wildlife Service: This website provides information on public lands managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, including national wildlife refuges, national fish hatcheries, and national forests.
- State Wildlife Agencies: Each state has a wildlife agency that manages public hunting land in that state. You can find the website for your state’s wildlife agency by searching online.
- onX Hunt: This company provides detailed maps of public hunting land, as well as information on hunting regulations and wildlife populations.
- HuntingLocator.com: This website allows you to search for public hunting land by state and species.
Q2. I’m an adult who has never hunted before. Is it too late for me to start hunting?
Absolutely not! Hunting as an adult doesn’t change anything. In fact, many hunters start their hunting journey as adults. It’s a fantastic way to connect with nature, learn new skills (keeps your brain sharp!), and even fill your freezer with delicious wild game to reduce your grocery bills.
Q3. Where do I get started hunting as a beginner?
One of the best places to start is a hunter safety course. These courses will teach you the basics of hunting, hunter safety, and hunting regulations. After that, get your first hunting license, gather your hunting gear, and start scouting for places to hunt!
Q4. What kind of gear do I need for hunting?
The basics include a good set of hunting boots, clothing suitable for the weather, and hunting equipment like a rifle or bow, ammunition or arrows, and binoculars. Don’t forget about your hunting license, a hunting strategy, and perhaps a hunting buddy or mentor!
Q5. Is it better to start hunting small game before going for big game like deer?
Starting with small game can help you get a feel for the hunting experience, but it’s not a hard-and-fast rule. If you’ve done your homework (learned the hunting rules for your state, studied deer habits, scouting, etc.) and you feel ready, there’s no reason why your first hunt can’t be a deer hunt.
Q6. Do I need permission to hunt?
Yes, if you’re hunting on private land. Always respect the rights of landowners and obtain permission before hunting. Public lands typically don’t require specific permission, but you’ll need a hunting license and should follow all hunting regulations.
Q7. I’m worried about gutting a deer. Is it hard to do?
Field dressing (gutting) a deer can be intimidating for beginners, but it’s an essential hunting skill. There are many step-by-step guides and tutorials available. With a bit of practice and perhaps guidance from a hunting mentor, you’ll get the hang of it.
Q8. Where can I learn more about deer hunting?
The hunting community is a fantastic resource. Join local hunting clubs, participate in online forums, and don’t hesitate to ask experienced hunters for tips and advice. Happy hunting!
