How to Start Hunting as an Adult with Confidence: A Newbie’s Guide

Looking to start hunting as an adult? I created this guide to give you practical steps for beginners like me who want to get into hunting. Join me as I break down the foundational knowledge, equipment and regulations you need to get started in this sport.

For The Busy

• Hunting starts with education, like taking a hunter’s education course and evolves with experience and joining a community, including local hunting clubs.
• Gear selection is key, quality footwear and knowing when to buy new vs used gear and aligning with your hunting style and budget.
• Hunting is not just about the harvest, it’s about the experience, patience, respecting nature and involves challenges like unpredictable weather and scouting locations.
• Every region is different, so take this with a grain of salt as the rules and regulations can be very different.

Your Hunting Journey

Starting your hunting journey is like going into the heart of nature—each step is exciting and growthful. Remember a positive mindset isn’t just fluff it’s the foundation of patience and perseverance and helps you enjoy the moments nature gives you. As you go out be realistic hunting is not just about the harvest it’s a fulfilling experience where every outdoor moment counts.

Patience is key here. Take your time and enjoy the serenity as you wait, camouflaged in nature’s arms. And most importantly know your why. Whether it’s for conservation, sustenance or the challenge your motivation will shape your journey.

Nature

Have you ever felt the calm of dawn or watched the forest come alive as the sun rises? Hunting puts you in these experiences, deepens your connection with the great outdoors. It’s not just about elk, bird hunting or deer hunting; it’s about being part of an ecosystem, appreciating the wildness around you and being a part of wildlife conservation. Once you start hunting you’ll understand the hunter and nature connection.

This connection with nature is worth it.

Challenges

But let’s not sugar coat the challenges. Finding prime hunting spots is a puzzle in itself, new hunters have to figure it out. You’re not just competing with other hunters for space but also with the weather that can turn a hunt into a test of endurance.

Adapting to these changes and preparing for all conditions are skills that are developed over time and are crucial for your success and safety. And don’t think you need to have these skills from the start. It will come. Every bad experience will teach you something to overcome it the next time you go out.

Hunter Education: The Starting Point

One non-negotiable part of your hunting journey is taking a hunter education course which is a requirement to get a hunting license. Yes it’s a legal hoop to jump through but more importantly it’s the foundation for responsible and ethical hunting. These courses are a goldmine of information covering:

• Firearm safety
• Wildlife conservation
• Hunting regulations
• Hunting ethics
• Field dressing and game care

Taking a hunter education course which includes a hunter safety course will get you ready for whatever the hunting season brings.

Good to know these programs have been around since 1949 in New York and a global curriculum was established in 2014 so hunters around the world are on the same page.

Online and In Class

Whether you like the traditional classroom or the digital age hunter education courses come in both. Often you can choose the convenience of an online course or the real deal of an in class where you can handle equipment and interact with instructors.

These courses will cover the basics from the lingo to the legalities and of course all things gear related.

The key is to find the format that suits your learning style and schedule. If you don’t have an option to choose a course format that suits you don’t overthink it. Just go with what’s available and the rest will come naturally.

Hunter Safety and Ethics

Safety is the foundation of hunting. The hunter education you do will drive this home, instill safe firearm handling and ethical shot placement into your hunter DNA. It’s not just about the big game animal; it’s about doing it responsibly, respecting the environment and following the hunting regulations.

Mentorship programs, often run by state departments, provide a safe environment to apply what you’ve learned in theory into practical hands-on experience. Remember proper game management is as much about the ecosystem’s health as it is about your success.

Choose Your Gear Wisely

Your gear is your partner in the wild so choose wisely. Start with the essentials that fit your hunting style and save yourself from unnecessary expenses. And here’s a tip: you don’t always need to buy new. Used gear can serve you well and save you some cash and give you room to figure out what works for you.

But when it comes to guns and ammunition, make sure you’re on point—these will impact your success and the game’s condition post hunt.

Prioritize Your Footwear

Let’s talk boots—the most important part of your hunting gear. A pair that fits your hunting style, terrain and weather conditions is non negotiable for comfort, stability and protection.

A hard lesson I learned was taking the wrong boots on my first three hunting trips where I ended up putting ziplocks on my toes two hours in just to keep my feet warm in a cold November morning in Alberta. What fooled me too was that while you’re hiking you always feel pretty warm but there’s a lot of stalking, waiting and sitting. I wasn’t prepared for that in my first season.

Here are some things to consider when choosing boots:

• Go for durability and ankle support to navigate rough terrain. It’s not a hike, there’s no trail!
• Choose boots with insulation for cold weather hunting. Account for the fact you’ll be sitting still for extended periods of time.
• Look for waterproof or water resistant boots to keep your feet dry. THIS IS KEY especially up north.
• Consider the weight of the boots as lighter boots are more comfortable for long hikes but heavier ones are more durable and better insulated.
• Pair your boots with non-cotton socks to keep your feet dry and warm. Merino wool or a mix with nylon are usually a good option.

Leather or rubber? Each has its pros, leather molds to your feet over time for that perfect fit. I’ll go with leather but I’m not saying this is the best choice. And remember, insulation is measured in grams; match it to the seasonal temperatures you’ll be in the field.

New vs Used

The debate between new and used gear is not just about cost—it’s about understanding the value of each piece. Yes, used gear can be a great deal especially if the previous owner barely used it. But buying new means you get the latest models, customer support and that sweet warranty.

Another thing to consider before buying used is how well the previous owner took care of his gear. This is especially true for rifles.

It all comes down to your budget and how much you value untouched gear.

Budget vs High End

Starting with budget gear doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality. Focusing on the essentials and resisting the urge to buy every shiny accessory is okay. As you gain experience and confidence you can gradually invest in higher end gear that offers more comfort and could increase your success rates.

I would also say don’t go for the cheapest gear. Check reviews and ask around before buying but as mentioned above don’t feel pressured to get top tier gear as a beginner; first learn what works for you.

Choosing Your Quarry: Small Game vs Big Game

When it comes to choosing your quarry it’s a matter of preference. Do you want a quick paced hunt close to home or do you want to chase a majestic big game animal? Small game like rabbits or upland birds like pheasants are great for beginners, manageable hunts with less physical demand.

Big game is a different ball game altogether, a successful deer or elk hunt will yield a lot of wild game meat. If you want to go duck hunting consider your firearm preference, the time you can commit and the experience you’re after before making your choice.

Small Game: Rabbit, Pheasant, Waterfowl

Starting with small game has its advantages:

• Access can be easy, sometimes as close as your backyard (if you live in a rural area of course)
• Physical exertion is often less than big game hunts
• Variety of landscapes and animals is a plus
• Longer seasons and limits means more game and more fun

And the meat from small game, enough for a few meals, will get you back in the field to practice your skills.

Big Game: Whitetail Deer, Mule Deer, Elk

If you’re into big game hunting, chasing whitetail deer, mule deer or elk can be very rewarding. The meat from a single successful deer hunt—a freezer’s worth—can last you for months, it’s a great option for those who want to get more meat. But be prepared: big game hunting requires more planning, skill and often more physical fitness.

Big game hunting also exposes you to more danger. Remember these animals weigh a lot more than you do, are fast and can get angry very quickly. There are many predators around as well. remember you are not the only one hunting that game; you will be sharing the same environment with mountain lions, wolves, bears and other predators alike.

Scouting and Finding Your Spots

Finding the perfect hunting location is an art and science. Whether you want the solitude of public lands or the controlled environment of private leases, scouting is key. Start hunting by observing your quarry, look for signs like game trails and droppings and consider investing in trail cameras to increase your chances.

And don’t forget, apps like HuntWise and iHunter are a modern hunter’s best friend, they have valuable information at your fingertips.

Private Land: Building Relationships

Getting access to private land is about building relationships. Making a good first impression and being respectful can open doors to long term hunting permissions. Sometimes a well written letter can be your golden ticket, especially if you can provide character references to back up your credibility.

Once you’ve established trust you’re not just getting permission to hunt; you’re getting a spot that can provide seasons of memories.

Don’t forget to take care of the land owners after the hunt. Share your game with them when you can. Offer to help on their farm if they need it.

Public Land: Technology

For those of us who don’t have connections to private land, technology is our friend. Digital mapping apps like HuntWise and iHunter are changing the way we scout, with detailed maps and even offline capabilities for those remote areas where cell service is non existent. And with millions of acres of public and crown lands (in Canada) the opportunities for hunting are endless and diverse.

Hunting Methods and Tactics

Having the right strategies and tactics is what can turn a good hunt into a great one. From the basics of stealth and marksmanship to understanding your quarry’s behavior, every skill you develop is crucial to your success.

Practice is key and there’s no better place to hone your shooting than at the range where you can build the confidence and accuracy for an ethical kill.

And don’t forget about the right gear—dressing right can make or break your hunt.

Being Stealthy

The element of surprise is your best weapon in the field. Moving silently and minimizing noise from gear is a skill that once mastered can increase your chances of success. But it’s not just about being quiet; it’s also about knowing when to move.

Timing is everything and understanding your quarry’s behavior is what allows you to make the right move at the right time.

Wind and Weather

The best laid plans can be ruined by a timely gust of wind blowing your scent right to your quarry. Being aware of the wind direction is a subtle but important part of hunting as is adapting your strategy to the day’s weather.

These factors can be as important as your own skills so respect them and plan for them.

Field Dressing and Meat Processing

The hunt doesn’t end with the shot; field dressing and meat processing is where you truly respect your harvest. Being prepared with the right tools and knowing whether to process yourself or seek professional help are decisions that will affect the quality and taste of your meat.

Must Haves

A field dressing kit should have:

• A sharp, fixed-blade knife
• A reliable guthook
• Gloves for hygiene
• A good headlamp

These will make field dressing easier and cleaner.

DIY vs Professional Processing

DIY game processing can be very rewarding, you have full control over the entire process from aging to butchering. But if you’re new to it you won’t get the same quality cuts as a professional—at least not right away. But the savings from investing in your own gear can add up over time.

The Hunting Community

They say it takes a village and the same can be said for hunting. Joining the hunting community whether through local clubs, conservation groups or online forums can speed up your learning curve and connect you with experienced hunters who can be mentors.

This community is a treasure trove of knowledge and support where seasoned veterans and newcomers share their passion for the great outdoors.

Local Clubs and Conservation Groups

Get involved in the local scene by joining hunt clubs or conservation groups like the National Wild Turkey Federation. Not only will these organizations give you more hunting opportunities, they will also give you a chance to meet like minded people who prioritize wildlife conservation. By participating in club activities you may even get access to private land through the relationships you build.

And hunt clubs can offer camping spots which will save you time and money. The camaraderie in these groups is priceless as is the collective knowledge and shared responsibility of its members.

Online Forums and Social Media

The world wide web is your oyster when it comes to learning more about hunting. Online forums and social media groups for hunting are full of experienced hunters who want to share their knowledge and stories. Here you can ask questions, get gear recommendations and learn from others without ever leaving your house.

Get involved in these online communities to find hunting partners, share your own stories and stay current on the latest hunting trends and techniques.

FAQ

What do I need to start hunting?

To start hunting you will need the essentials like hunting rain gear, base layers, hunting socks, a fixed blade, a folding knife and a multi-tool. You will also need your rifle or a bow but if you have a mentor you can start with sharing it. And make sure to have maps, a compass or GPS, a hunting pack, water bottle or hydration bladder, decoys, game calls, scent eliminators and scent attractors.

What is the easiest to hunt for beginners?

For beginners, easy to hunt are pheasant, raccoon, rabbit, turkey, squirrel and duck. These animals are easier to find and approach so perfect for those new to hunting. From big game hunters say mule and white tail deer are easiest to hunt, although that still is pretty challenging.

What to consider when choosing between small game and big game hunting?

Consider your hunting experience, physical fitness, time commitment and firearm preference when choosing between small game and big game hunting. Small game is more accessible and requires less physical effort while big game hunting is more challenging but yields more meat.