Asking Permission to HUNT

What are some tips etc... on what to say and how to approach landowners?

I have made up business cards with my info on it as well as a hunting resume with all of my outdoor related accomplishments throughout my lifetime. This has worked better than well for me, I have had neighbors of farmers who's property I hunt call me to shoot coyotes or pigeons as the farmer has stuck my card up on his fridge. I also inform them of the third party liability insurance I carry through the OFAH, that has helped me as well. Offer them game or help around the farm, some of the farmers whos property I hunt just appreciate a coffee in the am and someone to shoot the breeze with for a little while.

I always mention the OFAH Insurance at some point, and always offer to give a hand around the farm. Some actually call me to haul in hay, others to shoot down sick cows and other never ask for help in return.

I introduce myself and ask. I have a few who wish I would come by more often.

Ive never had to ask out of the blue, but I'd approach it like a job interview. Dress nice, be respectful, make eye contact etc.

If you are a bow hunter most owners are a lot more willing to let me on the property if I say I am bow hunting (which I am for deer and turkey). A lot of land owners have a bad taste in their mouths about the large deer groups doing drives and shooting everything that moves. I take pictures and videos when I hunt so I usually offer to show that I am not out shooting everything and that I am very selective before I pull the trigger. I have a bit of an advantage though as I work for a farm supply so I basically have a giant rolodex and maps of farms to use to find land owners as well. I also leave all my contact info so if they have any questions at any time they can contact me. Always offer game meat or gift basket or booze whatever they like.

respect for the property and it's owner is number one. Make sure you know all the boundaries and "rules" for that farm.

"Hi my name is _______ and I'm looking for new hunting opportunities"

Don't beat around the bush. Be upfront but casual - most places I drive into are working farms and they're always busy. Leave your contact info with them.

I should have added, if they have a dog get down and pet the dog. This actually made the difference for me a few years back, a farmer had initially said no (very nicely I might add). When I was leaving his dog got out and ran up to me, I got down to pet the dog and bring it back to him. When I got back to his door, he asked "What was your name again?", I hunted that farm untilI moved. The way you present yourself really does have a big impact. On the flipside I have a buddy that has a really really thick accent and he has a hard time getting farmers permision anywhere, don't know if that was appropriate to divulge but it's true.

Smile, dress decent, bring a business card. Also, pick your battles...look for the more modest looking farms/houses (or worse), the mansion with the range rover in the driveway is going to be a long shot. Being local really helps too, I've had alot of farmers tell me that If I'd been from the city no chance.

As others have said, offer something up in return and if you bow hunt ask about that first to get your foot in the door.

You are more likely to get permission if you hunt alone but if you want to hunt with a friend, bring them when you ask.

Dont be nervous or fearful of rejection either, in my experience the most common reason for getting shut down is because there are already people with permission there. I have never had a landowner that gave a rude no and some have even provided names and locations of people who might say yes.

Good luck.