NEW Hunter looking for mentor/friend in GTA

I'm a young adult male hunter looking for a mentor/friend based in the GTA (Ontario) to get into the sport. Have PAL, Outdoors Card, small game license. I would prefer to hunt small game and deer to start. I work 9-5 Monday to Friday, so only able to hunt on Saturdays and Sundays (have some vacation days I can take for a weekday hunt this fall). I've shot 1 inch groups at 40 yards after only being at the range a few times with a poor bench rest. I consider myself patient, safe (no drugs/alcohol) and respectful. I have a few upgrades for my rifle coming in and going to the range soon, so my accuracy should be sound at 100 yards.

I don't have my deer tag yet because I've been desperately trying to find someone to take me. I believe at this point I would only allowed to get an antlered tag. Looking to hunt at Queen Elizabeth II Wildlands Provincial Park. Is there another forum where I'd be able to find what I'm looking for? Tried multiple reddit forums already.

Any help would be much appreciated!

Lots of hunters in your area. Be patient. Also, most will be leaving this weekend for Deer Camps. (Ottawa areas). If you can find crown land close (2hrs north), you still can take a chance and do sit hunting. But, without the opportunity to scout for sign it could be challenging. If rifle season open the same week as us in Ottawa 06 Nov many camps will already be set up if you chose to look for areas on crown land to hunt. It could be a hit and miss scenario just to head into bush and try your luck. I do recommend buying a tag, it will give you the commitment once you spent the money. I am on my 5th season of buying tags with no results for a buck (only buy a buck tag). But just being in the woods is enough.

Every minute you spend in the woods is an opportunity to observe and learn, the license is worth that. As you state, you are a young hunter, with many years ahead to learn and evolve your hunting skills. I was you 5 seasons ago and look back and laugh at my methods. But truth be told, I had no mentors and very little help (in the bush). Over the last 5 seasons I have learned and gained knowledge and now mentor in the Ottawa Area. Take what you can get for help..but the most important thing is to get out there and explore, observe, learn and grow your skills.

In 5 yrs, you might be the mentor offering help!!!

Take care and good luck
Welcome to the forum and your new adventures.

Mark

Good morning Mark,

Thanks for the long response! I would buy the tag if I had someone come with me, I don't think I would be able to drag a buck through the woods by myself, if I was even lucky enough to have a buck in my sights. I was thinking if I can't find anyone to tag along, just go up there and hunt small game (grouse), but scout for deer and maybe learn a thing or two in the process.

I recently went hunting for turkey, and although I didn't bag one, it was a really fun day and lots of exercise in the woods.

Have you tried FB groups in your area, we have two in the Ottawa area. Might be another resource to post your request.

Quarter the deer if needed and make more trips. That was my plan if I got one first couple of years...still is.

Might want to PM member SpriteMcBain as he might want to mentor you in QW II

I haven't checked any FB groups (never on there), but I will check, thank you Mark.

finsfurfeathers, I grew up in Vaughan (italian heritage, have family there), why don't you take me?! :)

Sorry don't hunt deer and generally I'm to much of a P.I.T.A. to hunt with.

Honest...

Quote:

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Originally Posted by finsfurfeathers

Sorry don't hunt deer and generally I'm to much of a P.I.T.A. to hunt with.

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Hey everyone,
Newly started and looking to build some steam in Canada, the hunt in common is looking to start a north american hunting mentorship organization to get people connected to eachother and get people introduced to hunting for the first time or gain some more experience. Formly the hunting collective chapters started through the popular meat eater network podcast The Hunting Collective with Ben O'Brien.
Whether you are interested in mentoring someone or looking for some help, check it out!

We are developing a network of individuals that love the outdoors and want to share that common ground with others. Looking for Regional ambassadors across the country to help organize in person events, virtual happy hours to create connections and get involved in creating a healthy environment for new and less experienced hunters.
Big things are coming!

Please PM for details