So, you want to go on a hunting trip, huh? No matter how experienced you are, it might be a good idea to consider hiring a guide for this expedition in Ohio. If you are a beginner, then you definitely shouldn’t think twice about this.
A guided hunt can be defined as a cooperation between an outfitter and the person who wants to have this outdoor experience. The latter one invests money, while the former one invests their expertise regarding the area, the game, as well as the regulations that should be followed. As ohioguideoutfitters.com can show us, this is a team effort, and, when done right, all parties involved will be content.
Before hiring your hunting guide, you should, however, pick up a few tips and tricks which will help you get the best possible experience. From perfect locations to necessary licenses… There really is a lot you need to consider.
So, let me quickly give you a few pieces of information before you turn to finding your best guide. But, remember, outfitters are probably the best people to explain these things. Therefore, you should turn to them if you have any further questions.
In light of that, let the info below also serve as a reminder about what your guide should know. You don’t want to end up with someone inexperienced. It would be the same as going alone, if not even worse.
Locations
Naturally, if you grew up in Ohio, then you might have a few ideas about where to find this magnificent specimen. Still, that doesn’t mean that you know every single location. Usually, people opt for the Woodbury Wildlife Area.
Furthermore, the Portage County is another popular option among hunters. In fact, the second largest whitetail deer ever to be recorded was found in this area. However, there are a lot more places to take into account. See this.
There is no doubt that a professional outfitter will have a better grasp on this topic than you and I both. So, before setting out anywhere, you should consult your guide. After all, it’s their job to know stuff like this, which means that you will easily find your perfect spot with an experienced person by your side.
Licenses
Another topic that the outfitter should be an expert on are licenses and regulations. This person must be able to properly advise you how to get your hunting license, for starters. And then there are even more permits. If the guide is not aware of these, then you should definitely avoid that one.
I won’t go into much detail on this one, but whatever I miss, the above mentioned expert will explain. First of all, you have to get a hunting license for the state of Ohio. There are a few known options for this. You can buy it in person from a business, or order it online if it suits you better. Of course, non-residents will have to pay a bit more than residents.
Get acquainted with multiyear licenses: https://www.13abc.com/content/news/Multiyear-hunting-licenses-now-offered-in-Ohio--496354421.html
After that, there is a deer permit to obtain. These are usually not expensive and the price varies according to your age. There is even an option of getting one for free – but, that’s if you were born before 1938. Good luck with that.
Weapons
When it comes to crossbows, you probably won’t have a problem here. That’s because Ohio has legalized this weapon for everyone. Still, there are rules about which crossbows can be used. But, once again, that is something to discuss with your outfitter.
Things get a little bit trickier with firearms, though. For years and years, hunters were not allowed to use rifles. Nevertheless, the rules are more lenient today and you have a few more options. Among other things, pistol-oriented straight wall cartridges are available now.
Given the history of the whitetail deer, these new options might come in handy and your guide will make sure to properly advise you on what to use. Whatever it is, don’t forget to keep in mind that Ohio also has strict rules on how many rounds you are allowed to have in your gun. I know that there seem to be a lot of regulations, but all of those are there for a reason, so make sure to follow them.
What To Look For In A Hunting Guide – Overview
I believe you are by now aware of the importance of outfitters. However, since there are a lot of guides to choose from, it might be difficult to decide which one is best for you. And I get this. Such a decision should not be made on the spur of the moment. This person will be your companion during a trip that involves weapons.
If that’s not reason enough to choose carefully, I don’t know what is. Imagine ending up with an incompetent fool that will get you in danger. Do your homework in order to stay safe and have the best trip ever.
Essentially, your outfitter should be familiar with everything I have mentioned in this article. But, another useful tip (more here) for choosing the right person is getting to know that person. In short, see if you two “click”.