As development progresses, more and more woodlots that once housed plenty of wildlife will be added to the asphalt jungle. Visions of progress seen through the developer’s eyes brings big bucks to property owners along the outskirts of town, yet some landowners refuse to sell land that has been in their family for generations and these areas remain wooded, undisturbed, and often have “No Hunting” signs on every perimeter tree. If played right with the landowners, hunters can get into these areas for some fantastic hunting opportunities.
Veteran hunter Dennis Moser of Indian Trail gets excited when he sees a “No Hunting” sign in the suburbs.
“These are ideal places to find big bucks,” he said. “These landowners have created their own sanctuary, and deer will hold up in these spots.”
The problem? Hunters must convince landowners to let them put up a few tree stands and take a few deer of their property. Understand first that landowners who erect “No Hunting” signs are generally not anti-hunting, animal-rights supporters. They are generally just trying to prevent excessively littering and more important, cover themselves financially in the event of an accident that comes from hunting activities.
If hunters play their cards right and are prepared, they can transfer the liability from landowner through a lease agreement. Additionally, hunters can purchase liability insurance that adds an extra level of protection that covers everything from fire damage to human accidents. In North Carolina, the North Carolina Forestry Association (www.ncforestry.org) offers this type of insurance.
A landowner with a lease and hunter’s liability insurance carries greater protection than one who prohibits hunting without signage. Signs at least give landowners from relief from liability in the case of accidents involving trespassing.
Hunters who ask about hunting these isolated woodlots can go a long way to getting permission by restricting their hunting to archery equipment. Landowners will be more likely to accept your hunting proposal when firearms are not involved. When guns are used, the chance for ancillary accidents from stray shots is much more possible in a suburban environment.
Moser recommends that hunters approach landowners with their archery equipment in hand.
“Bring your bow with you when you approach a landowner, some people are intrigued by bows, and it may help your chances on securing the lease,” Moser said.
Hunters should not be too discouraged when “No Hunting” or “No Trespassing” signs is present. If hunters play their cards right, they may get access to a true paradise with mature bucks living in isolation.
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