Finding the right mentor is crucial for new hunters. A good mentor not only teaches you the skills you need but also helps you develop confidence and self-sufficiency in the field. If you’re looking to get into hunting here are some things to consider when looking for a mentor.

Experience and skills

A good mentor has years of hunting experience under their belt. They’ve faced the challenges you’re just beginning to encounter, and they know the ins and outs of various hunting environments—whether it’s in a blind, out in the field, or deep in the woods. When choosing a mentor, consider their experience. Are they knowledgeable in the type of hunting you’re interested in? Do they have a deep understanding of the skills you want to develop?

Teaching style

Learning how to hunt isn’t just about being told what to do—it’s about being shown, guided, and encouraged. A mentor’s teaching style should align with how you learn best. Do they allow you to observe first before stepping in? Are they patient and willing to explain things as many times as needed?

Teaching goes beyond what happens before taking the first shot, there’s follow up. The right mentor will check in with you throughout the process to ensure that you’re comfortable with what you’ve accomplished so far. They will also assess whether you’re ready to take the next step, simply observe, or call it a day. Observing what is being done on your first few hunts may help you establish a valuable foundation. You may learn more by watching how your mentor positions themselves in a blind or a bush before taking a shot to how to properly breast out a goose. The right mentor for you will adapt their teaching to your pace, ensuring you understand each aspect thoroughly.

Focus on safety

Safety is top priority in hunting, and your mentor should place it at the forefront of your learning experience. A good mentor emphasizes the importance of firearm safety, proper handling techniques, and awareness of your surroundings. How do they integrate safety into your lessons? Do they correct unsafe practices immediately and provide clear guidance on how to avoid them? Are they leading by example? Do they make you feel safe?

Patience and encouragement

Hunting can be overwhelming for a beginner, especially when things don’t go as planned or as a rush of emotions hit you when you least expect it. A mentor with patience understands this and will encourage you through your doubts and mistakes. They won’t push you beyond your comfort zone in a way that hinders your progress; instead, they’ll help you build confidence at your own pace. Does your mentor provide support when you’re hesitant? Do they celebrate your small victories as you learn?

Duration and assessment

The amount of time you spend with a mentor will vary depending on your needs. Some hunters may feel confident after a season, while others might need more time to develop their skills fully. Your mentor should help you progress at your own pace, without rushing the process.

A good mentor will prepare you to eventually feel more comfortable and confident to hunt, and perhaps even hunt alone. They should help you build the confidence and skills necessary to identify when you are ready to take on the responsibility of hunting without their guidance. Are you 100% confident you know what to do to successfully and ethically hunt the species you are interested in? If you eventually want to hunt alone, are you comfortable and confident going hunting alone or would you prefer to still have someone with you? If you would prefer to hunt with a partner, that’s great too. Hunting with friends can add a different layer of enjoyment to your hunts.

Final thoughts

Choosing a mentor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a new hunter. The right mentor will not only teach you how to hunt but will also shape your valuesyou’re your approach to the sport. Take the time to find someone who meets these criteria and who you feel comfortable learning from.

Remember, the right mentor can make all the difference in your hunting journey, and in the end will be a valuable contact and friend beyond what they’ve taught you.