Hello everyone,

Would like to introduce myself. My name is Brian. I am almost 35 years old, and have only been hunting once in my lifetime and that was Coyotes in Southwest AZ at the age of 16. My dad had gotten out of hunting by the time I came of age to be interested in it. Also, I played 4 sports a year from the time I was 9 years old, so we didn't have a whole lot of time for hunting. I have met a wonderful lady since being divorced and her 2 brothers are what you would call hardcore hunters. They seem to hunt year round mostly bow hunting, but some shotgun for birds etc. Meeting them has bitten me with the hunting bug. I spent 5 years in the military and did quite a bit of target shooting in my early 20's, so I know gun safety and spent quite a bit of time in my youth on Shasta lake in Redding, CA. So I also know about wildlife and conservation.

I have 3 children, my oldest 11 (a girl), my middle one 8 (a boy) and my youngest 5 (a girl). They are all pretty excited about Daddy getting back into shooting and possibly hunting. My son wants to take the hunters ed course, my oldest I am not sure about, I would like her to, but will not push it on her. However, my youngest is probably the most excited about hunting and the outdoors, and is too young to take hunters ed at this (IMHO as she cannot read to take the test).

Also, my oldest brother was very much into hunting, mostly by bow, he is sending me all of the stuff he hasn't sold off. His old compound bow, tree stand, camo etc... not sure if any of it will be worth keeping or not.

I have read nearly every thread on the forums concerning hunting and bowhunting already. I am really looking forward to learning more about hunting in general. But, I don't want to get into any bad habits, etc. Does anyone have any advice on how to go about getting into the hunting game without looking like a total idiot? How to get my kids involved as soon as possible?

I look forward to your replies.

Brian

Brain,

Ask someone if they wouldt mind if you tagged along on a few hunts with them...if you are new to it that would probably be the best way to start...then once you feel you can do it on your own go for it...first thing i would do with the kis is drill safety into their heads...safety safety safety...and also the importance and beauty of the outdoors and teach them to respect it...once you are into the swing of things take them out with you every chance you get...even if they are not shooting let them tag along...i did this from before age 3 with my father until i could legally shoot at age 10...was teh best thing for me..by the time i could shoot i had a full understanding of the outdoors, gun safety and respect...it is a great idea to involve your kids in it..keeps them out of trouble and gives them a lifelong passion and hobby...

max

Always think about safety when your in the field, especially bowhunting. Also, always conduct yourself in such a way that would improve the publics perception of hunting. Even when your alone do not engage in illegal activity and always act repectfully toward nature, other hunters and the public.

Thanks for the replies folks. I have already been talking safety with the kids, as I have a couple of firearms in the house and have had since they were born. The older 2 both know that ALL guns are loaded until you know they aren't loaded by an open breech.

Keep the good words coming =)

Hello Brian,

Fostering a respect for firearms from the start is a good beginning with regard to your children. Don't worry about being repetitive, because the idea is to ingrain in them to treat every gun as if it is loaded. That way, it becomes second nature and accidents become less likely.

But we aren't in complete control as to whether our children will take up hunting. It has to be on their own time. The best we can do is to offer the opportunity and let them know the fun world awaits them!

As for yourself, many middle-aged people are taking up hunting as novices; you are not alone. Because you have had exposure when you were younger, I have a feeling you will merge right back into it with regard to marksmanship.

Set a good example for your children and keep the focus on the thrill of the hunt, companionship, and the time in the great outdoors, not the newest gizmo or biggest buck. Those may also be things to be proud of, but quietly and within reason. Take it slowly and enjoy every minute of the hunt!

Kimberly
Field Staff, WomenHunters