Hit the Web
You are well on the way with the first step. The internet can help you find just about anything, including opportunities to hunt. Here is a handy website that lets you find local hunting clubs based upon state and zip code. You can also search for groups on social media like Facebook. The right people will help mentor you to avoid the challenges of hunting without experience.
Know Before You Go
Determine what you want to hunt beforehand. Different game and different seasons appeal to different people. This is completely up to your personal preference. Some may enjoy the cold stillness of deer hunting, while others may prefer the active search for grouse or other birds. This also plays further into the type of firearms, clothing, and other gear you’ll need.
Once you know what, and when, you want to hunt, search out a resource for gear. Searches like “gear list for deer hunting” or “bird hunting gear list” can give you an idea what types of equipment you need. Some types of hunting, such as backcountry or bow hunting, are more gear intensive and require more specialized equipment and skills. Examples include binoculars for long distance or nighttime scouting, and additional layers for the colder months.
Once you know what and when you want to hunt, spend some time reading up on local laws and regulations. Some states may require a hunter’s safety course, or other regulations, such as permits or lottery systems for tags. It is important to carefully follow all regulations. Fines from a game warden are not a fun way to start off your hunting career. Even if you are without experience, the rules still apply.
Get in Gear
After you find out what you need, start purchasing gear. There are a variety of different hunting retailers that will sell all you need to get started. If cost is an issue, used markets such as Facebook Marketplace are a great way to get gear on the cheap. We also sell blemished optics for those looking to get a deal on a usable, but less beautiful piece of X-Vision gear. Consider waiting for a closeout sale after the end of a season to rack up seasonal discounts on other gear like apparel.
Get Out There!
Once you have gear, the right information, and a group to learn from and hunt with, you’re well on your way to go from a hunter without experience, to a hunter with experience. Furthermore, don’t get discouraged if you aren’t initially successful. Hunting is the work of a lifetime and the waiting pays off!
