The Best Starting Point for a Hunter: Improving Skills and Equipment

For beginners in hunting, the choice of what to hunt first is crucial. This decision not only sets the foundation for enjoyable and ethical hunting practices but also helps in mastering basic skills and equipment. Here's a guide on the best starting steps and why squirrels are often the first choice.

Starting Small: Squirrels as Your First Hunt

Begin with small game such as squirrels because they are manageable and relatively easy to hunt. Using a single shot shotgun or a .22 LR can be sufficient to start. Here are some key points to consider:

Target Practice: At the outset, it's essential to practice shooting paper or dummy targets at a distance. This ensures that you can make a clean shot. Aim to minimize unnecessary suffering for the animal. Accuracy is Key: With a single shot, you only get one chance. Therefore, it's crucial to make the first shot count. If your first shot misses, you may not be able to hit the squirrel with subsequent ones.

As you progress, you can move to hunting rabbits and pheasants using the same shotgun. This will help you build experience and confidence in different hunting scenarios.

Essential Gear for Beginners

Depending on the state or region, you may need specific equipment, such as blaze orange vests or sleeves. A single shot shotgun can be purchased for around $250, making it a cost-effective choice. Proper gear and the right mindset are crucial for a successful hunt.

Next Steps in Hunting

Once you've gained experience and confidence through hunting small game, you can move on to upland game and eventually turkeys. However, for turkey hunting, you'll need additional gear like calls and good camouflage.

For more complex hunting, such as waterfowl, you may need to upgrade your shotgun to a pump or auto loader. This progression not only enhances your skills but also expands your capabilities and knowledge.

Practicing Skills and Learning

Practicing shooting skills isn't just about accuracy. It also involves understanding animal behavior, tracking, and trailing. Each of these components builds a comprehensive set of skills that are crucial for ethical and successful hunting.

Photo practice is an excellent form of training. By taking photos of your prey at different distances and angles, you can better understand your shooting range and improve your judgment. This method is less risky and less stressful compared to using live ammunition, allowing you to hone your skills without the added pressure of real-world hunting.

Engaging in comprehensive training—ranging from 3 to 6 months for rifles and 6 to 2 years for bows—combined with consistent practice, helps you develop a deeper understanding of animal behavior and improve your tracking abilities. This is essential for a more ethical and effective hunting experience.

Conclusion

Choosing the right first target is a key step in becoming a successful hunter. Squirrels provide a manageable and ethical start, while the process of moving from small game to bigger animals, such as deer, elk, or pronghorns, builds a solid foundation of skills and knowledge. Remember, the goal is not just to hunt, but to do so responsibly and with respect for both the environment and the animal.