A Hunter's Checklist

New to hunting? Here are some ideas to get you started. Make getting ready to hunt a team effort. It’ll be more fun for you and your hunting partners, and that first early morning wake-up call won’t seem nearly so bad!

• If you don’t have a hunting partner yet, talk to your friends, classmates and family members to see who’s interested.
• Visit a local fish and game club, shooting range or archery range (click here for a listing) where you can practice your skills.
• Buy a hunting license at any New Hampshire license agent, and pick up a copy of the NH Hunting Digest to familiarize yourself with the rules.
• Practice the map-and-compass skills that you learned in Hunter Ed.
• Study the wildlife that you want to hunt. Learning about an animal’s habits and habitat will help you understand where and when to find it.
• Decide where you want to hunt.
• Scout your hunting area. Look for tracks and scat, buck rubs and game trails, or get up early and listen for gobbles.
• Read outdoor magazines and newspapers like NH Wildlife Journal, and tune in to outdoor TV shows, radio shows and podcasts for hunting news and information.
• If planning to hunt on private property, contact the landowner to get permission.
• Get equipped. A sporting goods store can help you pick the right firearm, bow and arrows, calls, scents, or other gear. Wear layered clothing appropriate for the weather. Gearing up doesn’t have to be expensive — try your local thrift shop. Click here for basic hunting gear lists.
• Create a hunting trip plan to leave with someone at home; include details like when and where you’re hunting and who you’re hunting with. (See your Hunter Education manual.)