Tips for upland hunting with kids

[HoneyBee]

Hi All,

Does anyone have any good tips on upland hunting with kids?

I'll be taking my 4 year old out this Fall hunting grouse/woodcock. I keep saying to myself that if we only get a 30 minute hunt in...at least it's a hunt.

I've thought of riding the ATV with him on the back through the trails and letting the dog work around us, however, my heart just isn't into it.

Anyone have any tricks they've used with success?

[kickingfrog]

Low expectations for harvesting a bird and high expectations for a great adventure and memories.

My son was 4 the first season I took him. For him at least talking softly was a challenge (still is now at 7). We still had great times. It wasn't until near the end of the 2nd season that he was with me when I got my first bird with him. Each of the 3 seasons he's hunted with me he has become better at not verbalizing everything he thinks but he is still kind of loud at times. The other big thing is he walks much quieter now than that first season. That first season he kicked every rock, stump and log.

He carried that bird all day. 3rd season.



First bird with him. End of 2nd season.



First trip:

[HoneyBee]

How did he do with Ear protection? My wife is dead set on making him wear ear muffs but he's really against it. I took him out and shot a few 20 guage shells and he said he was ok...but you know kids.

[finsfurfeathers]

first you have to decide if you want to hunt or take a walk with your kid. A 4 year old won't care a bit about bagging birds but keeping him entertained with fun facts...even if you have to make it up. Couple that with the fact they just can't walk all day especially though any dense stuff. If you take them out quite honestly forget hunting and enjoy the woods. Don't get me wrong take the gun cause you never know what might pop up. Just like training a young dog the time taking to enrich the ground work pays off years latter when he is as eager to get out with you.

[rick_iles]

How did he do with Ear protection? My wife is dead set on making him wear ear muffs but he's really against it. I took him out and shot a few 20 guage shells and he said he was ok...but you know kids.

This would be paramount ! Those tender ears need protecting !

[terrym]

Bring treats and get him a toy gun to carry. If you get a bird let him carry it. I wish my girls were that age again, enjoy them they grow up too fast.

[kickingfrog]

How did he do with Ear protection? My wife is dead set on making him wear ear muffs but he's really against it. I took him out and shot a few 20 guage shells and he said he was ok...but you know kids.

In three seasons I've taken 4-5 shots at sudden flushed birds and he is aways behind me. Listening is part of being in the woods.

[sawbill]

Campfire and food at hunts end. What kid wouldn't want to go back for a burnt weiner or flaming marshmallow?