Hey - i think you’ll catch a lot of flak on here for having this type of post as your first one. I think there’s a lot of animosity towards new guys in general, which in my opinion is silly - we should be helping guys do things the right way, instead of leaving them to figure it out on their own.
Anyway - search for the iHunter app on your phone, and download it. Also download the county landowner maps that are optional within the app. It will point you to crown land, crown grazing lease land as well as private, deeded land... that’s a good place to start.
Get off the roads and away from easily accessible areas. Those will naturally be hunted by more people. There’s no “easy” way to get access to private property- but the best way I’ve found is to be respectful, and straight up. A lot of landowners i know like to get to know the people they allow on their place - so don’t ONLY show up the day before the season opens. Come by after the season, maybe bring a share of any meat you harvest, or a bottle of their favourite booze - but DO NOT give them ANYTHING before you ask permission. That can be construed as paying for access or bribery. You CAN offer small thank you gifts though, AFTER access has been granted. I go back at Christmas time with a card, and a bottle of liquor. More often than not, I’m invited in for a drink and short BS session. That definitely greases the wheels and sets me apart from other hunters.
If you’re driving a big, loud smoke-spewing diesel, and spitting gravel and fishtailing all over their driveway, they’re likely going to tell you to **** off. Again - it goes towards respect.
When it comes to scouting - you’ve just gotta get out there and hit the trails, burn boot leather and see what’s moving where. Look for food sources close to cover, away from pressure. You’ll find animals. Keep the wind in your face on the way in, and go slow and quiet.
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