This time we’re asking: When out with a new hunter, what’s the hardest thing to teach them?
I have introduced a number of friends and clubmates to the great pastime of hunting rabbits. Most are already shooters, so are confident they can place a shot in the killzone.
Through example, you can show them the areas where rabbits are likely to congregate and how to carefully stalk up within range.
From experience, I’ve found that spooked rabbits take at least 20 minutes to venture out, but if you’ve taken a shot and missed, it can be over half an hour.
Depending on the time of year, the young rabbits tend to come out first, either because they are less cautious or they get pushed out by the adults to see if the coast is clear!
So the decision has to be made to wait or move on. If the rabbits aren’t hunted often, you might just need to move around the corner to practise your stalking skills and hopefully get one. But I tend to lie down at my zero range and wait. However, this can be hard if you are new and excited.
Patience is one of the hardest things to teach. Especially when combined with the need to remain still and be quiet. When waiting, I try to pass the time watching the wildlife in another part of the field.
Or even by having a nap – while trying not to snore too loudly.
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