Gaining access to private lands
 

I live in the city limits and want to gain access to private land just outside of town for bow hunting this fall. I obtained a plat book and see several good spots. My question is, what is the best way to approach the land owner, letter, phone or in person?I was thinking about writing a letter but wanted to if anyone has does this and how theyapproached the land owner.

If your not living on the edge your taking up to much space ;)

RE: Gaining access to private lands
 

I like to roar up on my Harley, rev the engine for a few minutes to get their attention, then ask...."Where do you want me to park since I'll be hunting here this fall?" [:-]

RE: Gaining access to private lands
 

In person is your best bet. A letter is so easy to throw away, plus it is very impersonal. Meeting with the owner, talking to him face to face gives them the chance to see what kind of person they are thinking about allowing on their property. It also provides the land an opportunity to ask he questions he might have of you, as well as for you to ask them questions. One question you really should think about asking is if there is any work the land owner may have that you can help out with. After all, you are asking to hunt his property, which has a monetary value to it. If you don't believe, just look at the cost of leasing ground or going to an outfitter! If all else fails, you can always try to lease the ground, but remember to be very respectful, even if you given a huge no. He may change his mind, he always has buddies and they talk. You leave with giving him a bad impression; I promise you that bad impression, with your name, will be shared. Good luck and I hope you find a place to hang a stand.

RE: Gaining access to private lands
 

I find dressing like A Jehovah's Witnessopens up plenty of doors around here.[:o]

RE: Gaining access to private lands
 

Good advise. Thank you:)

RE: Gaining access to private lands
 

Keep in mind that private land right outside town is pretty convenient, so you likely aren't the only person knocking on doors there. Being willing to go out to the more inconvenient places might give you an edge. I am assuming by your handle that you are female. i would play that up to the hilt as well

RE: Gaining access to private lands
 

Yes, I was thinking the same thing but I wouldn't be surprised to find a note at the door saying, "No hunters". I think I will also check with the DNR forestry listings for available lands.

RE: Gaining access to private lands
 

In person and with a letter containing a brief bit of info about you and your contact numbers. You may also want to ask if they are having trouble with any varmints (foxes, grndhogs, etc.) and ask about helping them with that.

RE: Gaining access to private lands
 

In person is best (it's the hardest to say no to). Make sure you offer up something before they give an answer. Painting, grass cutting, welding, etc., etc. etc.

I noticed an older guy once trying to free up his pond overflow. Stopped offered to help, got completely wet unplugging it, and have been hunting his land ever since. :D

RE: Gaining access to private lands
 

Thanks for all the good advice. I was preparely a letter but now I'm going to reharse what I will be saying when I knock on the door.