The hardest part about hunting is getting a place to hunt. It's only going to get worse with more farms turning into subdivisions, Home Depots, and wal marts. I can't wait until I can afford to buy my own piece of property someday.

Most definetely introduce yourself and make sure you have the right person. Looking up the property you want to hunt and finding out where the person lives is a good thing. But I would still ask them if they owned the land and introduce yourself, don't just blurt out their name as if you know them. Make sure you offer them something, in services I mean. If you can paint offer that, weld - offer that, cut fire wood, etc, etc.

Knock. If they are willing to let you hunt I don't really think it has much difference how you approach them. Be polite, even after getting turned down. I can't even tell you how many times I've gained access to a piece after being denied, and still being very polite and friendly. First no isn't necessarily "no".....

Most counties have tax map website that list the landowner's name. From there, you can use the phone book or Yahoo People Search to locate their addressanddo your best to ask politely in person.

My advise is to never bother one while he is doing field work as they are busy and don't appreciate being slowed down. Catch them in their home and offer some labor around their place in exchange for hunting priveledges. I have had 2 farms tied up this way for the last 4 years. I am the only one allowed to hunt. Acreages and farms require a lot of maintenace and it will get you in by offering to help. I would never use the phone as people want to ACTUALLY see who is wanting to be on their land.

I would say ask in person. Shhhhhheeew I am glad I don't have to go through that. I have had numerous people ask but I have more respect for the individual that ask in person.