New hunter, how do you find others for trips?

[Shizam]

Very new to hunting, I have no friends or family that are remotely interested in it and being in the SF Bay Area it’s not obvious where to find groups or people to go with and learn from. What is the best way to find groups or clubs or people to learn from aside from going on (expensive) guided hunts?

 

[va_to_co]

Join a local chapter of a conservation org of some sort. For me growing up it was Izaak Walton League of America, for many these days it's RMEF, BHA, TU, PF, NWTF, DU, NDA, and probably more that I'm unaware of. Also, get out there and scout/hunt/hike. One of my close hunting buddies I met in a parking area almost 10 years ago. Local archery shops geared towards bow hunting can be a good starting place too.

 

[dtrkyman]

I rarely do anymore. Just go.

 

[Shizam]

Ah, conservation org is a good idea, I’ll check that out because the shops ive been to are mostly pistol guys, no hunters. I would definitely “just go” but need some help getting off the ground before I just go out there and start shooting at things. Will join the local rifle range with trap shooting which may turn up some people to talk to as well.

 

[taxidermybycam]

Talk to a taxidermist. We all know the hardcore guys or the niche guys .
"Do you know anyone that mule deer hunts or is in this area hunting? "
"Or guys that duck hunt that might be open to a new guy?"
That's a good start

 

[Pony Soldier]

Marry them or raise them. Hunting partners are harder to find than wives.

 

[TheGrayRider]

Facebook.

 

[Will_m]

Backpage.

 

[HairyScandinavian]

You may have to research and go solo then recruit people you deem worthy to join you.

 

[Shizam]

You may have to research and go solo then recruit people you deem worthy to join you.

I guess there is always this, that first field dressing is going to be wild…

 

[GSPHUNTER]

Look for a local Rod and gun club and become a member.

 

[HairyScandinavian]

I guess there is always this, that first field dressing is going to be wild…

YouTube my friend!

 

[Sizthediz]

Start with hunter education in your state. Possibly an in person class if they still do it that way. You may find a mentor there. Welcome and good luck

 

[Braaap]

That’s a tough one. It might be worth paying for a guided pig hunt to get some experience and there’s lots of options near you. YouTube is also your friend and gutting or gutless method just isn’t that difficult.

Hunting solo has a lot of advantages in some ways. Maybe try some charter fishing trips out of the bay as I’m sure there will be some hunters on board.

 

[WCB]

My advice for trips...don't base your plans around other peoples lives. If you want to go somewhere to hunt do it. If you end up meeting someone you want to or like to hunt with. Plan the trip and tell them they are welcome to come. Almost impossible to get schedules to line up and besides people backing out I here all the time form guys..."it is probably the worst week to go but that is what worked with so and so's schedule."

To meet or find people imo...literally just go hunt. You will run into people. There is SO MUCH information on the interwebs. Research get some basic gear and hit the hills. People are overrated.