Where to Start as a New Hunter: Essential Tips for Beginners

Where to Start as a New Hunter: A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Into the Field

Starting your hunting journey can feel overwhelming. With so many options, gear, and traditions, it’s easy to wonder where to even begin. As hunters ourselves, we’ve been through that feeling of uncertainty, and we’re here to help you take that first step. Whether you’re looking to hunt big game, small game, or just get out into nature, the key is starting with the right foundation. Here’s a guide to help you navigate your first steps and build your confidence as you head out into the field.

1. Know Your Why: Understand Your Motivation

Before you dive into hunting gear and technique, take a moment to reflect on why you want to hunt. Understanding your motivation will not only keep you focused but also help you enjoy the journey. Do you want to connect with nature, spend time outdoors, learn new skills, or perhaps harvest your own food? Whether you’re driven by tradition, adventure, or self-sufficiency, knowing why you’re hunting will give your journey purpose and direction.

2. Take a Hunter Education Course

One of the first things you should do is enroll in a hunter education course. Most states require it for first-time hunters, but even if it’s not mandatory where you live, it’s an invaluable resource. These courses cover everything from safety and ethics to wildlife conservation and laws. You’ll learn how to handle firearms, bow equipment, and understand the best practices to ensure your safety—and the safety of those around you.

Hunter education is also where you'll learn about hunting regulations, which are critical. From seasons to legal hunting methods, understanding the rules ensures you’re not only staying safe but also staying legal.

3. Start Small: Choose the Right Game

As a beginner, it's wise to start with easier, smaller game that doesn’t require advanced skills or expensive gear. Small game hunting—such as squirrels, rabbits, or upland birds—is often less complex and will help you learn the ropes without feeling overwhelmed. These animals are also abundant in many areas, so you’ll have a better chance of success as you build your confidence.

Big game hunting, like deer or elk, typically requires more preparation, more gear, and a better understanding of animal behavior. Starting small doesn’t mean it’s any less exciting. In fact, the skills you learn while hunting small game are transferable to bigger hunts, so think of it as the foundation for your future success.

4. Get the Right Gear: It Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive

When you're starting out, it’s easy to feel like you need to invest in expensive, high-end gear. The truth is, many seasoned hunters start with just the essentials and build up from there. Here’s a basic list to get you started:

• Weapon of Choice: Decide between a rifle, shotgun, or bow based on the type of game you want to hunt and what you feel comfortable with.

• Safety Gear: This includes ear protection, eye protection, and blaze orange clothing (which is often required by law for visibility).

• Hunting Boots: Comfortable, durable boots are essential for long days in the field.

• Camouflage or Neutral Clothing: Depending on the game, you’ll want to blend in with your surroundings.

• Knives and Field Dressing Tools: A good hunting knife and a basic field dressing kit are important for processing your harvest in the field.

Remember, you don’t need to spend a fortune. Many beginners start with hand-me-downs or second-hand equipment until they get a better sense of what they need.

5. Practice, Practice, Practice

Whether you're shooting a rifle, bow, or practicing fieldcraft, there’s no substitute for practice. Start at the range to become comfortable with your weapon. Take your time learning proper shooting techniques, sight alignment, and breath control. Even if you’re an experienced shooter, practicing in real-world hunting conditions—whether that’s target shooting or simulated field scenarios—will make a big difference.

It’s also important to practice your other skills, like navigating in the woods, tracking animals, and reading sign (like tracks or scat). These skills will not only make you a better hunter, but they’ll also increase your overall appreciation for the outdoors.

6. Find a Mentor or Join a Community

Hunting is one of those activities where learning from others can dramatically speed up your progress. If possible, find a mentor—a more experienced hunter who can share their knowledge with you and show you the ropes in the field. Not only will this help you learn faster, but it also gives you a safety net as you gain experience.

If you don’t have a mentor available, join a hunting community (like ours at Ready, Set, Hunt!) to connect with other hunters, share tips, ask questions, and hear stories. The hunting community is welcoming and full of knowledge—don’t be afraid to reach out and learn from others’ experiences.

7. Start Slow and Be Patient

Hunting isn’t about instant gratification—it’s about the process. You might not bag your first deer or turkey right away, and that’s okay! Focus on learning the fundamentals and enjoying the journey. As you gain experience, you’ll find that the thrill of the hunt is just as much about the learning, the camaraderie, and the connection with nature as it is about the end result.

8. Stay Safe and Have Fun!

Most importantly, remember that hunting is about safety and enjoyment. Follow all safety protocols, respect wildlife and the land, and most of all—have fun! Hunting is a lifelong journey that brings people closer to nature, teaches patience, and offers endless opportunities for growth. The more you hunt, the more you’ll understand why so many of us keep coming back.

What’s Next?

Now that you have a roadmap for getting started, it’s time to take that first step. Whether you’re heading to the range, signing up for a hunter safety course, or just getting familiar with your gear, every small action counts. We’re excited to be part of your hunting journey and can’t wait to share more tips, stories, and advice to help you succeed.

If you have any questions or want to connect with other hunters, drop us a message or join our community. Let’s learn and grow together, one hunt at a time.