Hi ! (enthusiastically) I' m sorry to trouble you ....... My name' s Patrick. I' m kinda new to the area/the land I used to hunt was sold etc., I' m an avid outdoorsman, and I have no idea where I can hunt.

I imagine that you get a lot of people seeking permission to hunt your land, and you don' t know me from Adam, but I assure you thatI am an honest and ethical hunter.

I know a lot of people won' t let hunters on their property for whatever reason, but I' m a responsible adult - not some half-crazed kid. I' ve been hunting for 20+ years and have never trespassed on anyone' s property - I ALWAYS ask first.

Do you mind giving me permission to hunt your land ?


Now, for the elderly - who coincidentally are more in-tune with hunting - or so it seems, I' ll offer to help with chores throughout the spring and summer .... and I' ve eaten some mighty delicious meals after splitting wood, patching roofs, and cutting grass - made a few lifelong friends this way too.

Younger people seem to be less apt to give you permission. A buddy of mine has had some success by asking politely, why they won' t give permission. He said one lady simply thought hunting was cruel - until he pointed out the deer carcass down the road - overpopulation.

Another guy he talked to said bowhunting was " cruel and inhuman" - until he explained that bowhunters typically take much greater care with shot placement, tracking, preparation, etc.

Personally, I' ve only asked 3 times, and all three times I' ve been granted access. I still hunt the one guys land back in NY - after 15 or so years.

I think a good part of it is knowing how to dispell some of the myths the public has regarding hunting. Another thing - dress casual, but nice. Don' t show up in camo, raggy jeans, etc.

Some people aren' t really sure - tell them to think about it - feel free to call you with any questions they may have - and then follow up a week or so later.

I like Willie' s idea of the mnote in the mailbox - it certainly can' t hurt.

Also, when you do get permission, make sure they' re on your Christmas list - at least send them a card.

I thought about references too ..... I' ve never used them, but if you can provide a letter or note from a previous land-owner, game warden, fellow hunter, etc., it might be the thing that makes a difference. If you have references, offer them as further " proof" or your sportsmanship and integrity.

Patrick