You Should Know: If You Are Going Hunting

Sequel
Last Week we tried to give you an idea of how to prepare for the hunt. In this space, we propose to tell you where, when, what, with whom and how to do your hunting. Trusting by now that you're properly clothed, equipped and trained in gun firing and safety, let's take to the field.

Public land
When you get your hunting license, you'll receive a list of regulations for the state in which the license is valid. Usually included is a list of all county and state lands open for hunting. If in doubt about any area, consult your state game commission or local game warden. For sheer abundance of big game, the national forests are best. The U.S. Forest Service can give you details on these lands. No special hunting charges or licenses apply to these forests, but you must have a state license, and state laws on seasons and limits generally apply. Don't confuse national forests with national parks, where hunting is prohibited.

Private land
When permission is requested, many private landowners will open their property to hunters. Most farmers welcome hunters to shoot the predators that may roam their land, damaging crops and livestock. Remember to be considerate of this land or you may find it closed to hunting next time. There are also many private shooting clubs that maintain well-stocked lands for hunting. Most of these are too expensive for the average man, but for the beginner who can afford it, they are an ideal spot for training.

Preserves and refuges
Preserves are becoming increasingly popular because they provide good hunting at low cost. Many are located within 50 miles of big cities. Birds are generally pen-raised and planted in a specific area for the hunter. Fees are charged per bird planted whether or not the hunter shoots it. These average around $5 a bird. Many preserves also offer guides, dogs and even firearms at nominal cost. Parts of wildlife refuges in many states are also opened to hunters. Utah, North Carolina, Montana, Idaho, California, Arizona, Nevada, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Washington, Michigan, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Wyoming and Kentucky all provide public shooting under special regulations. Local game officials can give you details.

Rabbits and squirrels
Rabbits and squirrels are good for beginners. They're comparatively easy to shoot. You just can't shoot rabbits into extinction; they multiply too quickly. Rabbits feed heavily at night. You'll find them on the move in early morning or late afternoon. They usually stick to paths they make. Wait at a path intersection for best results, having your partner walk along the path toward you—and be careful not to shoot him by mistake. Hunt the lee side of hills, ravines and bushy cover, with the wind blowing toward you. Kick brush piles to rout out the rabbits. Diseased rabbits move slowly. When you shoot one, bury it without touching with your bare hands. For squirrels, hunt from daybreak to just after sunup for best results. Find a squirrel's tree home and hide out of sight nearby. A crisp, clear, quiet morning is best for squirrels.

Land birds
If you're shooting upland game birds, you'll find pheasants early in the morning along the roadsides picking up gravel to grind their food with. Don't try fields until late afternoon. Pheasants fly swiftly and must be led when shooting. Grouse fly more slowly and require a smaller lead. You can shoot predator crows and make a big hit with farmers. Crows hang out in corn and wheat fields. They are alert and will see you before you see them. Circle a flock of crows and hide in the best cover possible. A crow call or stuffed owl placed in a tree will draw them within range.

Migratory fowl
Ducks, geese, rails, gallinules, mourning doves, jacksnipe and woodcock are regulated as to season by federal, not state, law. If state agencies can't supply the federal rules, write to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington, D.C. You'll find that surface-feeding ducks such as blacks, mallards, baldpates, teals and pintails come into ponds, puddles and sloughs among trees, while buffleheads, canvasbacks, ringnecks, goldeneyes and other diving ducks prefer open water. Decoys and calls are recommended to attract ducks. Inexperienced duck hunters usually shoot too soon. Never fire at more than 60 yards. Your best range is 30 to 35 yards when you can see the duck's colors.

Big game

Deer, the most popular big game quarry, are to be found in most states. You'll have to learn how to stalk a deer. Wherever possible, move against the wind to avoid giving away your scent. Avoid scented lotions, tonics or soaps when hunting. Move slowly, look in all directions and pause frequently. A good woodsman travels less than four miles a day. Let the deer come to you. Wait behind a tree trunk and be sure there is a backdrop so you won't be silhouetted. Remember to lead your shot. Try to get a clear shot and be sure of what's behind the deer. Before you get too close make sure the deer is dead by brushing its eyelids with a long stick. Remember that many states allow shooting of antlered bucks only.

Beginners should avoid bears unless a guide is along. On mountain areas, approach a bear from above for added safety. A wounded bear usually cannot run as fast uphill. If you're hunting bobcats, be prepared for a long day. You'll need a pack of hounds too. Bobcats are seldom seen. They avoid man. Use a shotgun firing BB's or No. 2 shot.