New Hunter
Hey guys. I live in FL and I’m looking to go hunting for the first time. I’m very knowledgeable about firearms, not so much on hunting. I learn quickly and take pride in doing things myself rather than having them spoon fed to me. That being said I don’t think it’s a good idea, nor do I care to go traipsing around in the woods trying to figure it out on my own. I have friends who claim they hunt, but every time I bring it up, there is some excuse for them not to go. What are your guys opinions on going to an outfitter or hunting camp with a guide as a learning tool? Are these places generally willing to teach you, or is it there’s your target, shoot it, now pay me and get out of here. I’m also having troubles coming to terms with the prices some of these places charge, example is 1 day hunt for meat hog $200 to $300. Does that seem reasonable?
$200-300 for a hog hunt is the norm and not at all out of line with standard prices.
In regards to learning how to hog hunt, you may or may not learn something by going with an outfitter on a paid hunt. The guide may be helpful and knowledgeable and willing to help or they might just be some guy that works at a ranch who knows where the hogs are and drops you off at your stand.
Most of these places, especially the cheaper ones are in the business of getting people in, getting them a kill and then getting them on their way before the next group shows up. It's kinda like going on a chartered fishing trip. Sure you'll catch some fish but all of the groundwork is done ahead of time so that any idiot who steps on the boat is going to catch something.
The only way you're really going to learn is to ask questions, read what you can and get out there in the woods and get after it. I wouldn't plan on paying a couple of hundred bucks for a hunt and coming away a hog hunting expert but you can probably learn some basic stuff.
Sounds good, Thanks for the reply. I'll let everyone know how my first hunt goes.
Ponyboy nailed it.
I wanted to get into hog huntn for awhile and had several opportunities fall through.
My suggestion is find a reputable guide,see if you can find out any ratings on him (craigslist ect..), and talk extensively about a guided hunt.
Do as much research ahead of time as possible, and ask for tips along the hunt. Have fun!
