Newbie here have a last minute request

[kevlapp]

hey all,

First off I am sorry for posting this request so late.

My wife, kids and I have lived here for the past 10 (ten) years, my son (14 years old) and I have just taken up rifle hunting 2 years ago and would love an opportunaty to bow hunt this season.

Unfortunately, I know absolutely nobody in Minnesota with land to hunt on. I have heard it is a nightmare to hunt on public land.

Is there by chance someone out here I could talk to about hunting on thier property? Or would anyone know of someone I could talk to about hunting on thier land? My son and I would only want 1 venison steak, jerky and summer sausage, the pwner of the property would receive the rest of the venison as a thank you for allowing us to hunt there.

Thank you in advvance.

Respectfully

Kevin Lapp

compututers_1@hotmail.com

Cell # 763-286-9278

[kenhuntin]

What part of the state are looking to hunt Kevin? You will find a good bit of info here and welcome. Public land is not a nightmare. You just need to get out early and be willing to walk deep. Then let the others push deer to you.

[The General]

If I were you I'd get out and go talk to some Farmers.  Get yourself a plot book of the county you would like to hunt so you know who owns the land.  I have found finding bow hunting land to be fairly easy.  If you are willing to wait until after gun season it's even easier. 

[BiggA]

Welcome to the site and best of luck. I will be hunting public land this year and have in the past as well. Most of the time it is not that bad. As far as asking for permission most of the private property around me seems to be leased. This sport turns more into a money thing every year it seems.

[MNBucKKiller]

The farther north you go the better it is... there is plenty of public land.  public land around the metro, your wasting your time.

Best of luck

[Go Big Red!]

The farther north you go the better it is... there is plenty of public land.  public land around the metro, your wasting your time.

Best of luck

Agreed.  Public land within a 1.5 hour drive of the Twin Cities is stomped pretty hard.  Definitely go out and knock on farmers doors.  A few suggestions though (for what they're worth to you) since some of these have worked for us.

* Dress casual, look less intimidating that showing up in full camo or orange since many are inundated with requests.
* Have your son with you, makes a huge difference when the owner can see who will be there.
* Offer to help out around the farm, too much work and not enough day light.  Shows them you care about more than just using them to hunt.  Farmers talk and it can get you access to more land.
* Offer to share game (you got that covered)
* Drop a letter in the mail regardless if you got permission or not.  Speaks volumes and we have had luck with a return letter, after being told no, offering use and access to hunt. 

Good luck.  Welcome to the MNO!