Despite the rise in the popularity of public land hunting, the best deer and turkey hunting opportunities still remain on private land. That’s why it’s good to have a few private land options in the mix each season.
But gaining access on private land can be tough. Large tracts of land are likely leased out. Prices are high and many opportunities are gone as quick as they become available. However, if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find that smaller tracts of private ground are out there and available. You just gotta ask. It can be done! Here’s a look at 4 ways to gain private land permission this season.
1. Write a Letter
By combining thousands of sources, apps like HuntStand have created an incredible nationwide database of private and public lands. The included features and tools allow you to pull up detailed property owner info. Having the owner’s name allows you to make your move on gaining permission in several ways.
Writing a letter to a landowner to request hunting permission on their property is a simple way to cover lots of miles without driving all over the country. It’s a non-threatening approach to making your ask. It’s the perfect approach for those that struggle with seeking permission, or might be intimidated by a one-on-one conversation with a landowner.
A letter also allows the landowner time to think about it. They are not put on the spot and pushed to make an answer. When pushed to make an answer, a landowner will often err on the side of caution. The answer may not be what you want. The letter gives them time to think about it, mull it over, look into who you are and follow up with questions or concerns. Bowhunting.com contributor, Lindsey Zastrow, wrote a piece on writing letters for permission. Check it out HERE.
2. Make a Phone Call
Making a phone call is a quick and simple way to touch base with a landowner you’re seeking permission from. A phone call is a more forward approach than simply writing a letter, but it ensures you get a response in a much quicker fashion. There will be times when you simply can’t wait for the mail to deliver your request. A phone call allows you to be pleasant and personable, without being in the landowners face.
The downside – like a letter – a phone call doesn’t allow the landowner the chance to see you and size you up. They may want to know if you are a respectable looking person. Are you clean and neat, or do you look like a reckless methhead that they certainly won’t want on their property? The letter or phone call simply leaves a few things unanswered. That’s why the third option may be the best option.
3. Knock on Doors
Knocking on a landowner’s door for permission is obviously the most forward approach you can make for getting the greenlight on private land access. And it can honestly go any way when you step onto their property in person. This is by far the most intimidating approach to obtaining permission.
Some hunters say they simply won’t do it. They freak out at the idea of making this kind of approach. But the truth is, it works. And despite what some may think, it’s likely still the best way to handle business when it comes to securing permission. The key is to look sharp, and eliminate anything that would cause red flags to fly when a landowner lays eyes on you for the first time.
There was a time when face to face contact on the front porch was the norm. That’s not the case these days. However, keep in mind, landowners tend to be from the older generation that appreciates eye to eye contact. They won’t likely appreciate a request for permission via social media, or a text by phone. They want to to see you before they make a decision. With HuntStand, you can know their name before you step on the porch. You can shake their hand and say their name at the initial greeting. It’s nice to be known. It’ll help break down the barrier when you come across like an old friend rather than a salesman or member of a religious cult.
4. Ask Your Friends
If none of the above tactics work for you, try tapping in to the network of your friends. Ask your friends if they know of any landowners that might be a good starting point to lock in hunting permission. You might be surprised at how many options open up just by working the circle of friends around you.
Think about it. You’re simply multiplying your opportunities when you search the friends of your friends. This is the most laid back option, but it can work. Having the mutual friend connection can be just the foot in the door you need.
Private land hunting permission is out there. You just have to ask. Take the steps mentioned above to add new opportunities this season.
What about you? What have you found to be the best way to gain permission on private land? Comment below and let us know what works for you.
