Have you ever walked out to the woods to climb that awesome tree stand of yours on the first hunting day of the year and found someone in it? Or have your tree stand taken before hunting season begins? I know this happens to a lot of us and we have to confront the person and make it an awkward situation all around. I’m here to give you some wonderful tips so you can have that joyful day in the woods. I think people forget how to respect other people’s property and take it for granted that no one is using it.  I have decided to write about “Hunting Etiquette” for your hunting pleasure and mine.

  1. Do take a Hunter’s Safety Course and stay refreshed on the materials. I know people have hunted for years and sometimes forget about the rules, safety and etiquette of hunting.
  2. Always get permission from the land owner to hunt on their property. There may be other hunters hunting it and you don’t want to disturb them or trespass.
  3. If the land is posted or not posted you should make sure you get a hand written permission slip for your safety.
  4. Always try to scout the area where you’re planning to hunt so you know where the best areas are. You also want to look for other hunters stands so you don’t disturb them when entering and exiting the woods on that big day. Don’t destroy the crops while you’re doing this.
  5. If you’re hunting with other hunters make sure you all know exactly where everyone is going to be. You don’t want any hunting accidents.
  6. Make sure you dress in the proper hunting clothes for the climate, and for your safety where orange when required and always while you’re hunting with your rifle or shotgun.
  7. If you’re using a tree stand make sure you get permission from the land owner. They may not want you to be tying into the tree. So let them know exactly what kind of tree stand you will be using. There are several on the market that won’t harm the tree.
  8. If you’re using a tree stand make sure you secure your tree stand properly and always make sure you wear a safety harness when climbing and sitting in a tree stand. There have been many fall accidents from hunters that think they don’t need one. It’s your life play it safe!
  9. If you’re planning on using someone else’s tree stand make sure you ask the owner before you use it. They may be planning on using it. If the land is posted and you get into someone’s tree stand. Then you’re in the wrong. You will be asked to leave, which in return just ruined your day of hunting.
  10. If you’re going to use any accessories that require screwing into a tree get permission from the land owner. For example a Bow Hanger. They make many new styles that strap on to the tree rather than screwing in. You can always consider using one of them.
  11. If you’re planning on using a ground blind ask the land owner if you can use it on their property don’t ever assume that it’s alright.
  12. If you use a blind make sure you put some orange on the top of it, so other hunters know where you are.
  13. When you’re going to shoot, never Point a gun in the direction of any other hunter and know where your bullet is going to go when you’re ready to pull the trigger.
  14. Keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready to shoot, you don’t want to accidentally set it off.
  15. Always use binoculars or a spotting scope when looking for game. Never use your rifles scope.
  16. Never shoot through brush if you can’t see exactly what you’re shooting. It could be another hunter walking around.
  17. You should never poach an animal. If caught you could lose your hunting privileges, driver’s license, or pay a fine, and some cases end up in jail. In many states they will confiscate any equipment used in the crime. So you could lose your firearm and even your truck.
  18. You should never hunt from your car. You don’t know who is in the woods hunting.
  19. Observe safety zones. Make sure you keep enough distance away from the road and any buildings.
  20. Never mix alcohol with Hunting.
  21. Always respect the game laws and the land owners while hunting.  You don’t want to ruin it for the rest of us hunters.
  22. Always remember safety first! Use common sense, and be courteous to your fellow hunters and land owners. It makes for a rewarding happy day in the field for everyone.
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