Ready to head out on your very first hunting trip?
Planning your first hunt can feel like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces. There’s just so much to consider… gear, licences, location, safety, what type of rifle range ammo do you even need?
Here’s the good news:
More people have never hunted than ever before. Roughly 15.2 million Americans purchased hunting licenses in 20 24, many of whom were beginners just starting out like yourself.
This guide simplifies the planning process into easy-to-follow steps. No nonsense. No filler words. Just a simple plan you can use this weekend and implement on every trip thereafter.
Nervous? Don’t be. Every hunter you know had the same feelings before their first hunt. A good plan is key.
Let’s jump in!
In this guide, you’ll uncover:
- Picking your rifle and rifle range ammo
- Sorting out your hunting licence
- Choosing the right hunting spot
- Packing the essentials
- Staying safe in the field
Picking Your Rifle And Rifle Range Ammo
Your rifle is the single most important piece of gear you’ll bring… period.
A bolt-action rifle chambered in a popular caliber is ideal for most new hunters. Why? Availability of parts, low ammo costs, and plenty of online resources.
There are tons of options when you start looking at rifle range ammo. If you are a beginner and are looking for something dependable, inexpensive, and that you can pick up at any sporting goods store, then 223 ammo is widely used at the rifle range for target practice as well as hunting small to medium game. It’s a great starter round for new shooters looking to spend some time at the range before the big day arrives.
Here’s what you should do before hunting day:
- Practise at the rifle range at least 3x times before your trip
- Sight in your rifle at 100 yards
- Purchase sufficient rifle range ammo for practice AND the hunt
- Clean your rifle after every range session
Don’t skimp on ammo either. Purchase quality rounds from a reputable supplier and verify them at the rifle range before hunting. Brands can shoot drastically different through the same rifle.
Remember…
Practice as much as you can at the range so that you are more confident out in the field. Because the more confident you are, the safer you’ll shoot.
Sorting Out Your Hunting Licence
Without a valid hunting licence, your trip is over before it even starts.
Every state has its own rules…
In some states you can purchase your licence online in as little as five minutes. Some others make you take a hunter safety course before they’ll sell you a licence. Visit your state wildlife agency website first.
Here’s what most new hunters need:
- A general hunting licence
- A tag for the specific game you’re chasing (deer, elk, etc.)
- Proof of a hunter safety course
- A stamp for migratory birds (if that applies)
Over 39 million licences, tags, permits and stamps were issued nationwide in 20 24. Think of how many hunters are competing for the same tags as you are!
Don’t procrastinate. Some tags go quick and safety classes fill up.
Choosing The Right Hunting Spot
Now for the fun part… picking where to hunt.
You’ve got three main options here:
1. Public Land
Public land to hunt is either free (or very inexpensive). National forests, WMAs and BLM land are all hunting areas you can use. The bad news is you will have company especially on opening weekend.
2. Private Land
Private land typically offers far less pressure from competing hunters, but you’ll need to have permission or a lease. There are plenty of landowners out there who wouldn’t mind you hunting their land for free…just ask nicely and offer to help with chores.
3. Guided Hunts
Too much public? Too much private? Consider a guided hunt. You pay someone and they supply the land (with permission of course) and often the equipment. Less stress and perfect for the beginner.
Here’s a tip:
Go explore where you will be hunting at least one time prior to season. Walk the grounds. Search for tracks, trails, water and feeding areas. The better you know the land, the higher your chances of harvesting that buck of a lifetime.
Packing The Essentials
Overpacking is a classic rookie mistake.
You want to have enough equipment to be safe and comfortable….but not so much that you can hardly crawl through the bush.
Your basic packing list should include:
- Rifle and plenty of rifle range ammo (for practice and the hunt)
- A sharp knife for field dressing
- First aid kit
- Warm layers (weather changes fast in the woods)
- Water and high-energy snacks
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Blaze orange vest and hat
- Compass or GPS
- Your licence and tags
Big game hunting is the most common form of hunting in the US. If you are hunting deer/elk you will be out there with MILLIONS of other hunters. Dress for what’s actually out there, not what YOU THINK is out there.
Staying Safe In The Field
Nothing ruins a hunt faster than an accident.
Firearms are unforgiving. One careless second can change your life forever.
Make sure someone knows where you are going and when you will return. That’s rule #1 of hunting and it has protected many lives.
Follow these basics:
- Treat every rifle as if it’s loaded
- Never point at anything you don’t want to hit
- Identify your target AND what’s behind it
- Wear blaze orange at all times
- Don’t hunt alone if you can avoid it
One more thing…
Practice. Makes. Perfect. The average hunter spends approximately $3,264 on equipment and trip costs annually. Don’t waste all that money by neglecting range time.
Ready To Head Out?
Now you have a basic plan to follow on your first hunting outing. Lets review quickly:
- Pick your rifle and stock up on rifle range ammo
- Sort out your licence and tags nice and early
- Scout your hunting spot before opening day
- Pack smart with only the essentials
Fact is, your first hunt doesn’t have to be stressful. Follow the above tips, relax and have fun with every step of the process.
Think about this …. Every skilled hunter you have ever known or will know started out as a beginner. Somewhere, they took their first step. You can too.
Now go grab your gear and get ready for a hunt you’ll never forget!
