How Bird Hunting Can Be Safe and Enjoyable

The sport of bird hunting has been around for many centuries as both an enjoyable pastime and an effective way of culling overpopulation. Yet it can also be dangerous if you do not go about it properly, and if this the case it will obviously no longer be enjoyable either.

When I first went bird hunting I was actually just a young observer, tagging along with my dad in a Texas field as he shot sage grouse. I was able to help call the dogs as well as witness how to properly go on a hunt without having a weapon in my hands. So, if you are going with a younger son or daughter, it would be best if the first time they simply observed how it is done safely.

As for the actual hunters, the first rule is that if you have a guide, you should most certainly listen to him the whole time. I remember talking to a guide I had used where a few headstrong hunters had not been listening and ended up shooting one of his guide dogs. So, in order to make it stand out, obey the guide. Of course even with a guide to help one should know what they should be doing. First make sure that your gun is in a safe position, either broken or uncocked(it is always best to rely on more than a safety). Then, after one of the dogs has found a bird, move slowly towards the bush, keeping the gun pointed above the dog and your finger off the trigger. When the bird rises make sure it has climbed to a safe height before firing, and never swivel sideways to where your fellow hunters will be quickly ducking. Also when you are just walking or "combing the field" make sure that you are in line with the other hunters and not ahead or behind.

When it does come time to shoot you should be in the proper stance with one foot forward of the other and be leaning on the forward foot. Follow the path of the bird while keeping the muzzle tip just in front, and when you fire do not stop your motion. You will need to follow through as you shoot or else you will still shoot behind the bird. Once you have shot the bird allow the dog to retrieve it if you have one, if not make sure to be careful. In Texas my father was reaching for a dove and nearly picked up a coiled Cottonmouth snake, so be cautious if you are in high grass. Also, make sure you know your bag limit, or the number of birds you are allowed to shoot. You can usually find a fish and game packet for your state at the place where you bought your license. Finally make sure to have fun and be safe and you will surely have a rewarding experience.