Looking for private land to hunt on can be rather difficult. The biggest problem I feel is getting land owners to feel comfortable with giving permission for you to hunt their property. Most of them have either had bad experiences with hunters in the past or they might feel that the person they are giving permission to will bring friends along and/or damage their property. So here are a few tips that have helped me in the past and maybe will help you as well.

First thing I would do is find out as much information about the property in question, and that can be done by talking to neighbors or going to your local town hall and researching land owners. I try to get as much info as possible before I even knock on the door of whom I will be asking permission.

Second thing I like to do is make a copy of my hunting license with any added personal info such as Name, Address, Phone number and even maybe some references to go with it that they could check out. The more they feel comfortable about you the better chance you will have of getting permission.

In Connecticut where I am from all you need to have for private land permission is a form filled out by you and the land owner and that can be found in the laws and regulations book or at state agency website where you can down load a copy. I usually have a few copies on hand and already have them filled out with all my information.

When I do decide to knock on a door I will usually go in the afternoon or evening. I never will stop during lunch time or dinner time so as not to bother them while they are eating. I will also be showered and clean shaven and dressed appropriately ( no camo ) so as to give a good impression.

Good impressions are very important so remember to show respect and watch your manners. Don’t forget you are there to ask their permission to hunt their land.

It is always a good idea to say that you would be happy to share what you harvest with the land owner, after all the game came from their land. I personally also ask that if they need any help around the property. I know from experience that if you offer to help with outdoor work they take that as a sign of someone who cares and is not just there to get permission.

If a landowner gives you permission to hunt it is always nice to pop in every once in awhile if to only say “HI, How’s it going”. It is not really nice to get the permission and never be seen again. I will usually try to let them know when I will be on the property whether it is for scouting or actual hunting. for one it is good to do that for safety reasons and just plain out of courtesy.

Always remember to leave the property the same way you found it. Pick up your trash and remember to close any gates that you might use. I hope some of these tips help and always try to think of their land as if it was yours.

Good Luck and Happy Hunting!

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