Menu
Cart

10 Common Beginner Hunting Mistakes – and How to Avoid Them

alaska-boat-frontiersman

Learn from the missteps of others so your hunt goes smoother, safer, and more successful.

Introduction – Everyone Starts Somewhere

Even the most seasoned hunters once made rookie mistakes. And let’s be honest – so will you. But knowing what to watch for can help you avoid the biggest pitfalls and make your first few seasons more rewarding. Here are 10 of the most common beginner hunting mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

1. Not Practicing Enough with Your Weapon

You bought your rifle or bow—but do you really know how to use it under pressure?

Avoid it:

  • Practice from different distances and shooting positions
  • Sight in your weapon before every season
  • Know your limits – never take a shot you can’t make confidently

2. Moving Too Much in the Field

Animals are wired to detect motion. Even small fidgeting can blow your cover.

Avoid it:

  • Set up comfortably so you can sit still
  • Move slowly and only when necessary
  • Let your eyes do the scanning first, not your body

3. Poor Scent Control

Human scent is a major warning sign for most game animals – especially deer.

Avoid it:

  • Hunt with the wind in your favor
  • Avoid scented laundry detergent, deodorant, and sprays
  • Store hunting clothes outside or in scent-proof bags

4. Talking Too Loud or Too Much

Sound travels far in the woods – especially on cold, still mornings.

Avoid it:

  • Whisper or use hand signals
  • Turn off phone sounds and alerts
  • Make silence part of your routine

5. Not Scouting Ahead of Time

Hunting blind – without knowing the terrain – is a recipe for frustration.

Avoid it:

  • Walk the land beforehand
  • Look for tracks, bedding areas, food sources
  • Use digital tools like OnX Hunt or HuntStand

6. Wearing the Wrong Gear

Cold, wet, or noisy gear can ruin your hunt and make you miserable.

Avoid it:

  • Dress in layers for insulation and mobility
  • Break in your boots ahead of time
  • Avoid rustling fabrics that make noise as you move

7. Not Following Local Laws

Even accidental violations can lead to fines, confiscated gear – or worse.

Avoid it:

  • Know bag limits, season dates, and tagging rules
  • Check for special zone restrictions or regulations
  • Take your hunter safety course seriously

8. Forgetting to Tag and Record Your Harvest

Some hunters get so excited after a successful shot, they forget the legal steps.

Avoid it:

  • Tag your game immediately
  • Know how and when to report your harvest
  • Keep your tag and license on you at all times

9. Getting Discouraged Too Easily

Success doesn’t come overnight – and it often doesn’t come on the first hunt.

Avoid it:

  • Focus on learning and improving
  • Celebrate the experience, not just the harvest
  • Keep a journal and track what worked and what didn’t

10. Not Asking for Help or Mentorship

You don’t have to figure everything out alone.

Avoid it:

  • Hunt with experienced friends or family
  • Join local hunting clubs or forums
  • Watch educational videos and read from trusted sources

Final Thoughts – Mistakes Are Part of the Journey

The goal isn’t perfection – it’s progress. Each mistake is a stepping stone to becoming a better hunter. What matters most is that you stay safe, ethical, and open to learning every time you step into the woods.

Related Posts