Hunting partner or hunting solo?
Some people struggle with whether to find a hunting partner or just hunt by themselves. Solitude can be nice, but as with most good things in life, it’s harder to really excel at something when you’re by yourself.
We may tell ourselves that we work better alone, and that may be true for some people. But at a certain point, we can’t grow anymore without someone else to give us that gentle nudge to improve.
Without new and different ideas or a challenge to push ourselves, we stagnate and fall short of the potential person we could have been.
It’s the same for learning to hunt. Without a hunting partner, we can only get as good as we know how to hunt.
Many hunters grew up with a family hunting tradition and whole community of people behind them, which encouraged their interest and helped them develop their skills. But if you didn’t have that experience, finding a hunting partner is a good way to fill that void.
Without a sense of community, any mistakes you make might discourage you and push you closer to quitting. But with a hunting partner, you can help each other through the pitfalls and encourage one another to keep going.
And although hunting can be a refreshing solo adventure, it’s nice to experience the outdoors with a friend once in a while. Let’s look at some ways you can find a hunting partner by next fall.
Hunting Partner Process
You know those pushy salespeople at stores that just barrage you as soon as you pass them? That’s exactly what you don’t want to do.
You have to date people a little bit before you ask them to marry you. If you start by sharing stories and asking simple questions, you’re more likely to get a ‘yes’ from them when the big question comes.
Also important, realize that not everyone will want to hunt. Don’t take it personally if someone you really like (or even love) says no. It just might not float their boat.
How the Conversation Should Unfold
Start the conversation by sharing a story about you and the outdoors; either a refreshing, adventurous, or humorous one, depending on the person. Then invite them along for a scouting trip or shed hunting excursion one day, which is really just a walk in the woods. See if they enjoy being outdoors and especially watch their reaction if you flush an animal from cover. If they are excited by it (even if they’re scared out of their wits), you might have a shot.
Now it’s time to pop the big question. It should go without saying, but don’t ask “Hey, would you want to be my new hunting partner?” That’s a definite red flag for most people.
Instead, try saying, “I’m going grouse hunting this weekend. Would you want to come check it out?” Alternatively, try, “I’ve been thinking about going to this hunting seminar this weekend. Would you want to go with?”
This is a good way to phrase the question because it doesn’t require a huge commitment and it’s very informal-sounding. If they aren’t comfortable, they can easily say no without feeling bad.
Where to Find a Hunting Partner
First and foremost, you need to find someone you trust and who trusts you. It turns out very few people like walking into a remote area with a stranger who’s holding a gun. Crazy, right? Keep hunting safety at the front of your mind at all times and trust your gut.
Family
Let’s start with family members first, since you probably know and trust them the best. If you didn’t grow up hunting with them, maybe you could be the catalyst that changes that and starts the tradition. Try asking your parents, siblings, cousins, etc. – whoever you think would be a fun hunting buddy.
But like many millennials (myself included), you might have moved away from family to a bigger city and it’s just not practical to hunt together very often. Feel free to still start the conversation with them, but you should also try to expand your search.
Friends
The next group you should try is your existing pool of friends. They might be in the same boat you are. Maybe they’ve been wanting to learn to hunt so they can gather their own wild game meat, but they’ve been too busy or nervous to try it. Or maybe they’ve been waiting to find a community to support them. That’s your cue.
Casually bring the subject up one day and gauge their reaction. If they’re interested in the idea, you could propose to go through the whole process together, from taking a firearm safety course to actually getting out in the woods. Everything will seem easier with someone there to back you up. Plus, it’s a nice way to spend time with your friends while also accomplishing something else.
Co-Workers and Neighbors
Depending on how tight you are with your co-workers or neighbors, they might overlap in the ‘friends’ category above. But as you get to know new ones, share your outdoor stories, passion for eating local food, and desire to start hunting. If they’re not directly interested in hunting, they may have siblings or friends who are and be willing to connect you. You’d be surprised who shares your interests. Over time, they can develop into good friends and work their way up the chain.
Firearm Safety Course
If you have not gone through a hunter education course or firearm safety course yet, you will no doubt find several other people who are in the same boat you are. Whether you hit it off with the other participants, parents of youth participants, volunteers, or the instructors themselves, it’s fairly likely you’ll find someone who can at least connect you with a hunting partner.
Mentored Hunts/Seminars
If you’ve already gone through your hunter safety course and you’re still looking for a hunting partner, you might want to try a more concentrated group. Many governmental agencies offer mentored hunts and hunting lessons to recruit new hunters. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, for example, offers wildlife clinics and mentored deer hunts for adults. Try attending one of these events if there’s one near you. Similarly, join a local chapter of a hunting organization, which is full of other hunters who are likely to help out.
This works so well because everyone there is interested in hunting, likely a first time hunter, and probably looking for a hunting partner too. If you engage and interact with the other attendees, you might find out someone actually lives just down the street from you. Then you’re off to the races. If nobody really clicks, ask the instructors/mentors if they know anyone else searching for a hunting partner.
Online Groups
Last, there are more and more legitimate online venues for finding a hunting partner every day. One example is HuntingBuddyFinder.com. Members join from all across the U.S., develop a profile with some basic information, and then contact one another about hunting partner opportunities. It’s a great option if you just don’t know anyone in-person, but would like to expand your search.
Hunting Partner Considerations
Now that you know where to look and what to say, you might be eager to start. But pump the brakes a little. There are some very important things to consider first.
Compatible Personalities and Lifestyles
While some relationships work out even if both parties are polar opposites, it will tend to work out better if you have at least a few things in common. For example:
- Your new hunting partner should ideally have a similar personality so you don’t end up annoying the crap out of each other in the woods. If one is punctual and one habitually late, there will eventually be fireworks.
- It also helps if you have similar lifestyles; someone with a few kids and demanding job might not have the time it takes to hunt with someone who is single and has a ton of spare time.
- You should have similar ethical intentions. Different hunting ethics are a surefire way to split a hunting partnership up in short order.
- Physical fitness is another important consideration if you plan on doing lengthy or strenuous hunts (e.g., elk or sheep hunts). You should be able to comfortably keep up with each other for the best results.
- Finally, it helps if you live somewhat near each other, as that’s just one more excuse to check off the list before it becomes an issue.
Test Drive Before You Buy
When buying a new vehicle, you wouldn’t just sign the papers based off of the description, would you? I hope not. More than likely, you’d want to take it for a test drive to see how it matches your expectations.
Similarly, you should take short scouting hikes, an overnight camping trip, or do simple hunts with your new hunting partner before you do a cross-country trip somewhere. This gives you time to see how well you work together before you encounter a stressful situation. Small game hunts, such as rabbit hunting, are the perfect introduction. Look at the first couple hunts as a learning opportunity for both of you.
Ready for a Hunting Partner?
In the beginning, it can feel like you need a hunting dating site or need to post a “hunting partner wanted” ad to get any traction. But if you approach the right people with the conversation points above, you should be able to find someone.
I hope this post inspires you to start looking for a hunting partner now. As you can see, it takes time to cultivate a relationship like this. It might seem awkward having these conversations, and some of them might be a little weird.
But if you don’t put yourself out there once in a while, you’ll never know what opportunity or hunting partner you might miss.
I have exactly what info I want. Check, please. Wait, it’s free? Awomsee!
Need older hunting partners for bird hunting
I’m looking for an older person to hunt ELK. I’ve lost my partners. I’ve taken 12 Moose, number of elk and deer hunting in Montana, WA and Oregon. Grizzly hunting 3 times. I’m 77 and not too bad of shape for my age. I hunted with horses and llamas of which I owned 5 at one time for packing. Done a lot of packing in my life, either by back, horse and a lot with llamas. Llamas the the best. I hunt with a bow, but can with rifle.
Dave, still looking for partner for elk hunting? Decided to go at last minute. Live in Texas, hunt Colorado. Willing to travel anywhere. 67 yrs old. Good bowhunter. Have all gear. Steven
Steven,
I also replied to Dave and originally as I was suppose to do a Montana hunt later this year which got cancelled so I started looking into a Texas hunt which I’ve never been and would need a hunting partner to show me a good area. If your interested for Texas let me know, I’m planning on visiting Austin and would love to go on a hunt.
Hey Dave,
Read your comments. I’d like to try and find a new hunting partner too. I’ve lost my hunting partners over the years (some moved, some passed) but still enjoy the Fall mornings in the outdoors. Looking for someone who likes to hunt different locations and different types of hunting. If you’d like to discuss further please get in touch with me.
JR
Dave,
I hunt with both compound bow (Martin Pantera) and rifle 30.06 and just purchased a new 300 Win Mag, I live in WA and was suppose to do a Montana hunt later this year but it got cancelled. I would love to learn and glean from you, AND help pack out, from your favorite area.
Hi, I also am looking for a elk hunting partner, I’ve hunted white tail & now that I am retired elk hunting is on my bucket list but I have no family or friends that share the same ideal, I live in southern Ohio,
Harvey
Hi Harvey,
My name is Don, I reside in Michigan and over the past few years have lost hunting partners due to health reasons, etc. I love to archery hunt elk and have hunted in Washington, Michigan, Idaho, and Colorado. My preference is DIY back country backpack hunts. I am 62, have great health and in good shape. I am looking to obtain a long term hunting partner that is a serious hunter that is willing to commit early to a hunt for the upcoming season. I also spend 2-3 weeks a year hunting whitetails is Illinois. I am looking to hunt the Grand Mesa Colorado area this September. If this is something you might be interested in please contact me.
Don , I’m interested in a DIY hunt in Colorado and looking to team up . If interested let me know thanks
Hi Harvey and Don
, I am also an Ohio resident Hunter looking for a western elk hunting partner.
If you’re looking for a western hunting partner, let me know. I have the desire but no one I know wants to go. 5704470474 is my number. Text or call any time.
Hi. I am planning an archery elk in CO for this fall. Trying to decide on a DIY public land hunt or a private ranch hunt or a drop camp hunt. Always open to hooking up with other partners.
Hi. I am planning an archery elk in CO for this fall. Trying to decide on a DIY public land hunt or a private ranch hunt or a drop camp hunt. Always open to hooking up with other partners
Hi Chuck, Thxs for the reply. Nice to meet you. Do you have any experience archery hunting elk or west? I am 63 years old. Most my hunts are DIY back pack style hunts in OTC units, but I do have base camp gear as well. Looking to possibly switch it up this year and possibly do a drop camp or a private ranch. Use those as a base camp and mix in some spike camp hunting as well.
Do you have a preference?
Jim, I’d suggest getting involved in a local chapter of the Ruffed Grouse Society, Pheasants Forever, Ducks Unlimited, etc. (depending on which birds you like to hunt). Then you can connect with other members in your area more easily.
Hi Jim – myself and another retired senior have hunted Marshall, MN area for pheasant for a number of years. We have a reasonable knowledge of Marshall and surrounding areas. We have also hunted northern MN for ruffed grouse with some success. We have not had as much success with pheasant hunting as neither of us has a dog. We would be happy to share our knowledge of these areas with another hunter who can provide a hunting dog. Reply back if you are interested or need more information.
Best Regards,
Jeff
Hi I am a first time hunter. Looking for a hunting partner. I live in New York.
Jason
Hey Jason – I would definitely recommend joining a local chapter of a conservation/hunting organization as the other members can mentor or offer additional advice and resources. Without an existing network of hunting friends or family, you definitely need to put yourself out there a bit. Good luck!
Where do you live ?
I live in Queens and a few of my partners died so it would be nice to find someone.
I can take u under my wing Jason . I have been harassing deer for 34 years . Ask me anytime
Good advice. My problem is my best hunting partners (my children) have grown up and moved away. It’s hard to start fresh when your a senior.
Yeah, that’s tough. I don’t get out hunting with my dad near as much as I’d like to. Can’t really replace that special kind of hunting partner, but try joining a local wildlife club. You’ll generally find someone that’s in a similar life point and maybe looking for the same thing.
I am looking for a hunting partner to go deer hunting in Minnesota .The area would be pine county area.It would be rifle hunt and bow hunting as well.l don’t like hunting alone.So if you can help me out in that area it would be great.Some one not to young around mid age.thanks.
I drive right through Pine County each time I head north to hunt. Unfortunately this year is booked already, but maybe next year we can plan something? In the meantime, I’d suggest reaching out to Minnesota Deer Hunter’s Association, as they might know of some hunters in the area this fall yet.
I assume you’re hunting public land? Do you mostly deer hunt, or also looking for small game? I’ll spread the word if you can get me a few more details. Feel free to email me if you don’t want all that info on the post. Thanks Robert!
Always wanted to hunt Minnesota!, I live Illinois n hunt mostly western Illinois. Love Deer, hog, Turkey hunting, eventually bigger game hopefully, wanna find a partner.
Lots of good hunting down in Illinois too! I’d definitely start with hunting organizations and clubs.
Hey Marissa,
I lost my hunting partner(s) over the years but not my desire to be in the outdoors on a cool Fall morning. I’ve not had a female hunting partner before but willing to discuss; may be a nice change. I do all kinds of hunting from wing shooting to big game; and wetting a hook when the hunting slows. If you’d like to discuss please get in touch with me.
Thank you in advance,
JR Long
Help!!! Need to find hunting partner! I’m a beautiful badass woman n wanna find someone who will put hunting on their mind not me
Hey I’m planning a spring bear hunt, where abouts are you located?
I find out most people don’t put their location, at least County, State, which makes it hard to find potential partners.
I am not experienced. So if that is what you need that’d not be me. What I lack in experience I have lots of drive for it.
That said, I am in So Cal, unfortunately, where you can barely find a hog, let along deer, elk, bear, etc. It has become barren here. If I can get a tag where you are, or are going, I’m game. Well, not game as hunted, but game as partner 🙂
Great point Michael – hard to find a hunting partner without at least mentioning a general location!
And 4 years later here I’m Ryan and don’t see a response 😁.
Somehow lots of people post and don’t follow up. It’s a testament to how difficult it is to find hunting Partners. IThe novice looks for experience and the experienced doesn’t want to deal with novice and share.
Like many, I stopped when covid hit. I picked up where I left off months ago here and on other sites. I find similar pattern everywhere. I don’t know why this is the case. One would think hunting and camping would draw people to find friends of similar mindset. Unfortunately, I don’t see that, which is disappointing. I hope this is not a common issue, though that’s what I see on many platforms.
I’m in socal and willing to travel as there’s not much here. Feel free to shoot me an email or call. 213-922-0222
Hi. Where are you located, city, state? Experience?
I’m in north Idaho yup most post are years old I’ve tried but no response either, people afraid of there honey hole getting away
Good morning,
I too am a “senior” and I too sadly lost my hunting partner of 20 years. I’ve hunted from Alberta to Old Mexico and experienced success as well as “enjoying the hunt”. I still have the passion and desire to hunt bigger game, elk, deer, bear, etc., but would much prefer to do it with new friends. I understand the “due diligence” one needs to do before deciding on a hunting partner; so phone calls or meeting in person can help with this step of the process and I could make myself available at your convenience. Would like to hear from you.
v/r
JR Long
JR – thanks for your continued offers to multiple people here! Do you have a specific area in mind? Let me know if there’s anything else I can do to help facilitate.
Hi Jr, where do you live?
Harvey
Hi Harvey,
I live in Texas; the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. I’m retiring the end of June and look forward to a lot more hunting, fishing and the outdoors. Like all kinds of hunting, wing shooting, deer, turkey, water fowl, varmint when the normal hunting season is over and same diversity with fishing. Hope this helps.
JR
Hi JR
Still looking for potential hunting partner? If so please call 213-922-0222.
I’m 55, socal resident and love to travel.
Hello, my name is Jim A. In my younger days I taught hunter safety. I am 62 yrs. with over 40 years of experience hunting white tail deer. I am the sole survivor of my deer camp. I would say I am passionate and compulsive in my deer hunting. In a good season I have been known to harvest 6 to 9 deer. I keep a couple and give away the rest. I also late season turkey hunt. I have a lake cottage on the Machickanee flowage just outside of Oconto falls wis. in Oconto co. witch I am willing to share with the right group of people, honest, trustworthy,safety minded,moral. I do not mind cracking open a few cold one’s but I do not enjoy the company of drunks. I should also say I am a smoker for those who are concerned about scent control but the deer do not seem to mind my camel fiters. The only fee required is that someone drag my deer out of the woods. Cottage open from sep. to Jan. If this sounds interesting let me know. I live in west bend wis.
Jim – sounds like someone would be lucky to have you as a hunting partner! Thanks for putting this out there and I hope you find the right person or people.
Hi my name is Matthew prushek I live in crosby MN I love to rife hunt I have always wanted to hunt up that way
Hi my name is Charlie.
I’m 58 but very active, been in love with the outdoors since I was a kid fishing, hunting etc.
Started out with my dad who recently died, then several friends but due to health and or passing away they don’t participate anymore.
I am semi retired, Now I have more time but have no hunting and or fishing partners. I do take my autistic daughter with me once in a while but she has many limitations.
I am a licensed taxidermist and do a minimal amount of work, would rather be out enjoying the outdoors and making my own memories. I’m a very open minded person but I also am very considerate, reliable and trustworthy person. Have Gun, Bow, Pole and will Travel.
Thanks for taking the time to read this…. Charlie S.W. Pa
Thanks Charlie – being a taxidermist, I’m sure you’ve got a few stories to tell while out hunting or fishing too! Good luck.
Navy Veteran, nonsmoker, I enjoy all kinds of hunting…I drew NR deer and elk in Montana this year with special deer permit in 213/214. Looking for land to hunt and/or a hunting partner. I live in Washington state and I am looking for land/ partner for waterfowl hunting… I have decoys but no dog or boat.
Looking for someone to hunt Colorado Elk. Either now or rifle.
Hi Charles,
My name is Don, I reside in Michigan and over the past few years have lost hunting partners due to health reasons, etc. I love to archery hunt elk and have hunted in Washington, Michigan, Idaho, and Colorado. My preference is DIY back country backpack hunts. I am 62, have great health and in good shape. I am looking to obtain a long term hunting partner that is a serious hunter that is willing to commit early to a hunt for the upcoming season. I also spend 2-3 weeks a year hunting whitetails is Illinois. I am looking to hunt the Grand Mesa Colorado area this September. If this is something you might be interested in please contact me.
Hi Dave u sound like a seasoned veteran , I’m a 50 year old novice on elk. Never killed one. Have harvested moose deer and bear . I’m interested if u are
Hello, My name is Teri. I live in the north Georgia mountains. I am looking for a reliable and trustworthy hunting/fishing partner. I am 56 years old, dependable, honest with good morals, and am in good physical condition. I’ve been fishing for 40+years. I enjoy squirrel hunting and am fairly new to deer (rifle) hunting . I would like to find a local, safety conscious mentor/partner.
Located in South Orange County and
new to hunting . Passed my hunting license test earlier this year .
Have owned guns for many years and
very responsible in the area of gun safety .
Newly retired at 63 in excellent shape
Looking for a buddy that I can learn and share this interest and expenses .
Anyone who needs partner email me! Estrellotadrlaluz@gmail.com
Hello, My name is Frank, I live in Pembroke Pines, Fl. I passed my safety course. Would like to find a partner to go hunting. I enjoy bird, rabbit, never taken a deer. Looking forward to gain a great friendship
My name is Joe however I live in
Southern California .
If you live in Florida find it hard for
you and I to hunt together ?
Hi Joe. This is an old post but maybe you’re still on this site. I’m in the socal desert too. Still hunting ? If so let’s connect
Michael
Hello frank! I live in Texas
Looking for a central NY elk hunting buddy (southern Adirondacks). 56 age with high energy level & descent shape with deer hunting experience.
Hello hello ! I live in Texas……still interested?
I m looking for hunting friend naquina Ontario
I like to do cross bow and gun season hunting I’m for ohio. My huting friend moved
I am Steven in CO. Really need hunting partner or teacher. 40 years and willing to learn from partner. Thanks
Steven, I live in Denver. I’m looking for a hunting partner too. I hunt big game and waterfowl.
Chad
Hi Chad
Still looking for potential hunting partner? If so please call 213-922-0222.
I’m 55, social resident and love to travel.
Hello fellas,
My callsign is speedy Gonzales and looking for hunter partner in western mass for deer in mid december season, muzzleloader. Thanks
Moved to north Idaho to retire,love hunting and looking toward to finding a partner, love it all
I’m from AR I’d like to find someone to hunt and fish with. I enjoy the outdoors have a family and it’s just hard to find someone with the enthusiasm and ethics that I have and I always strive to be a better sportsman
Chris,
If you want to come out to Colorado and hunt, lets talk.
Chad
Looking for a hunting partner. I use compound bow. I’m 36, in good shape, a veteran, and I don’t mind hauling out large amounts of game. I just don’t have any one to show me the ropes. I’ve hunted whitetail but am ready for another challenge. If you’re looking for a reliable partner that will stay optimistic, let me know.
Hey Chad, looking for. Colorado archery elk hunting partner.
Chad
I’m in the yucky so cal desert. Can only hunt for roaches and squirrel here. I don’t have CO tag. If you do and have hunting experience I’d tag along. I doubt I can get any otc tags there
Chad
I’m in the yucky so cal. Can only hunt for roaches and squirrel here. I don’t have CO tag. If you do and have hunting experience I’d tag along. I doubt I can get any otc tags there
Hello Y’all,
I’m a retired (64 years old) rifle big game hunter. I am in good shape for my age and I’m looking for someone around the same age to hunt with in the AZ, Utah, and Idaho area. I’ve hunted Whitetail, Mule Deer and Elk. I’m more into elk hunting nowadays. I’m a devout Christian (Retired Pastor/part time Chaplain).
Hi,
I am almost 60years now. From Texas. I don’t mind travelling for hunting. Please contact me if you are interested. Anyone from Texas feel free to contact me.
Hello Im from Illinois …want to have a hunting friend…harder for a woman doing everything …I can but nice to have someone to help and help them…miss that…love working together and having someone to have my back as well as theirs
Hi Bill,
Are you looking to partner with someone for an archery hunt DIY?
Hi Bill
Your post is from 2021, and hope you’re still into it. Maybe we could chat on the phone. If interested call me at 213-922-0222
Hi Harvey and Don
, I am also an Ohio resident Hunter looking for a western elk hunting partner.
Interested in a DIY colorado hunt . Anybody want to either tag along or show me the ropes . Thanks Sonny
Not really was out there 3 times with gin and got zero . DIY or I know a buddy who went last year with outfitter private land $3750 lodging meals etc fully guided
Looking for hunting partners in north Idaho
I am in the planning stages of a 2021 archery elk hunt. I am 63, in great shape and love to be in the elk mountains in September. I typically do DIY OTC total back country pack hunts, but I am open to drop camp, base camp or private ranch hunts as well. I have myself and one other guy committed to either type of hunt and another guy that is committed if the hunt is a total back pack hunt. Kris from this post has shown interest as well. Prefer a group of 4-6 guys and hunt in pairs to cover more ground. Al f the drop camps and private ranch hunts require a minimum of 4-6 guys. If anyone has interest, text me at 8107309914.
Hi! I am avid hunter of Whitetail Deer, lost my hunting partner in a divorce. Am looking for a young to middle aged lady to be my partner on hunting trip. only looking for companionship. All expenses paid including Taxidermy work.
Please dont hesitate to email me marissagina1982@gmail.com……ya love hunting but harder to do things by myself
Still looking for hunting partners, don’t care if your man or woman as long as your wanting to hunt in Idaho , I’m 64 good shape love all hunting fishing , retired current partner not into hunting as much as I am I live in north Idaho Spirt lake text me if interested 8055512509
UTAH HERE! Female hunting buddy needed!
I’m 55, while my brain says I’m 25, but the damn/back knee says I’m 65. That said, I’ve never let it hold me back. Live in the desert called Los Angeles. Would just LOVE to get together with both mentors and new hunters. The point is to have a friend, a similar mindset, and someone who can back you up as I’d do the same, and most importantly have fun. Hoping to get to deer, muleys, elk, bear, and when in season get to turkeys and docks/geese. Can travel around, even out of state, though I’d hope it’s where I could pick up otc tags. I own my time and can get with just about any schedule. I am a rifle guy. Have many different calibers for different hunts, from 22 to 8 mm Mauser and all in between. Just picked up a nice Hawa chassis 308 and a 300 winmag to add to my 223, 30.06, 7 mm, 30.30, etc.
I like bow but never hunted with it. I’d be open to it. Big game, small game, birds, fowl, I’m up for it all. Just want to get out and gain friends. Does that sound like you? Hope so. 2139220222. Let’s go people. 🙂
Hi everyone my name is Matthew Prushek I live in crosby MN I have always love to hunt ever since I have been a little kid. Looking for good people to hunt with around Crosby MN