As an adult, it can be difficult to get into hunting but with the right approach, attitude and a little perseverance, it’s completely possible. Perhaps you don’t have any friends or family who hunt that can help you to get into the sport. Or maybe you think it will be difficult to learn the skills. Regardless of the reason you haven’t started hunting until now, you can start your hunting journey now, regardless of how late to the game you feel you are.
As a beginner, getting to grips with the terminology, technicalities and equipment involved in hunting can be challenging. However, the hunting community is very welcoming and you will find local clubs, online communities, gun shops and other groups that can help you to figure things out. Every hunter had to begin somewhere and they will have had the same questions as you at one stage or another. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and advice when you’re starting out. Knowledge is power and the more you can learn, the faster you will progress on your journey into the world of hunting.
Continue reading to learn how you can start hunting as an adult and get involved in this exciting world.
Determine The Type Of Hunting You Want To Pursue
There is a wide range of different species that can be legally hunted in Australia. To get your hunting career off to the best start possible, it’s important to understand exactly what type of hunting you want to do. Depending on where in the country you are located, you can get a hunting license to shoot rabbits, hares, foxes, feral cats, dingoes, wild dogs, feral goats, wild pigs, deer and various bird species. Once you have chosen what you want to hunt, you can determine what type of gun you will need and buy firearms online that will meet your needs.
Get Your Paperwork In Order
While different States and Territories have different hunting regulations, there will be some paperwork that you will need to complete before you can start hunting. Once you buy your firearm, you will need to register it. You will also need to secure a hunting license for the different species that you are hunting. Depending on where you plan on hunting you may also need permits or additional paperwork to prove that you are entitled to hunt in the area.
Start Your Training
As with taking up any new activity, there is a learning curve when it comes to hunting. First of all, you will need to learn how to fire your gun safely and accurately. You can join a shooting club or go to your local range to practice or get some lessons on how to operate your firearm correctly. It’s also important to know how to use your other equipment, how to move when you are on a hunt, how to track animals and learn how to read the weather, especially the wind. Many of these skills will be learned by spending time on hunts, learning from more experienced hunters in the field.
Prepare For Your First Hunting Adventure
Once you have spent some time training, familiarizing yourself with your firearm and developing the right technique, it’s time to start planning your first hunt. As this will be your first outing, be sure to recruit some experienced hunts to accompany you so you can observe how they act in the field and learn the nuances of being on a hunt. In no time, you will have forgotten your apprehension about getting into hunting as an adult, as you stalk your prey through the bush, ready to bag your first trophy.
