i
n today’s hunting world, the mighty white-tailed deer is
king and small game gets less attention. Millions of dollars are spent on the management of white-tailed deer
and many different methods are used to see who can
produce the biggest bodied and antlered deer to mount
on the wall. When introducing an inexperienced hunter to
hunting, don’t put them under the pressure of shooting “the big
one” at first. a better beginning to their hunting career would
be creating an enjoyable experience with help from a more
experienced hunter as a mentor. Small game hunting is the
perfect avenue for this.
the great outdoors is becoming lost to technology. For many,
outdoor experiences have become something reserved for tV
series or outdoor-themed video games. it is up to the more have to stress over wind direction or remaining still, which
experienced hunters and outdoor enthusiasts to introduce can be hard for a youngster. Small game hunting also provides
a platform for more social interaction between hunters since
new generations to the hunting tradition − or risk losing it.
you do not have to be as quiet while hunting. this presents
Being outdoors is a great escape from the fast pace and stress the opportunity to discuss hunting ethics, hunter safety and
of life. the openness and quiet of being in the woods or on your outdoor surroundings, as well as other non-hunting related
the water gives you time to relax and think. these adventures topics. Small game hunting also typically provides more action
can be great opportunities to spend with your children and than deer hunting because there are usually more game and
introduces them to the joys of the great outdoors. Youth hunt- opportunities to shoot. if you do choose to go white-tailed
ing, especially when shared with family and friends, can be deer hunting, let the new hunter enjoy the experience without
a positive experience for all. these positive experiences can pressure to harvest a deer. a bad experience their first time out
could discourage them from wanting to hunt in the future. Most
create better bonds and life-long memories.
young hunters are normally just happy to tag along and have a
When introducing young people to hunting, the experience chance to shoot at anything, whether it is a buck or a doe.
needs to be fun and enjoyable. Small game hunting provides
many opportunities for new hunters that white-tailed deer What is most important is the social interaction between the
hunting often does not. When small game hunting, you do not hunter and the youth, which builds stronger bonds and a sup-
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