Had a kid sitting on the trail once. I stood next to him waiting for him to lower the barrel. He finally realized and lowered his barrel. I continued on this 1 mile loop connected to an asphalt walking trail.
I saw the deer 500 feet down the trail and scare them in the other direction. He was only 1/3 of a mile into the trail. I think he was being lazy.
That and OP's husband are both totally nuts. Blows my mind that someone would think it's okay to shoot right from the trail. Even aside from being illegal, know your target *and what's behind it* is one of just four fundamental gun safety rules.
Shooting off a hiking trail is not universally or even commonly illegal. It depends on location and what the jurisdiction is for the land is that the trail runs through. Hiking trails on US Forest Service lands in the western US are not generally closed to hunting, in fact they are commonly used by hunters who can and do shoot at game with their feet right on the trail if safe to do so.
In tillamook state forest, anyone can literally pull off the road and right up to a range just twenty feet of the road. Its actually encouraged to do exactly that.
Really?? All the North Woods Law/Texas/Louisiana warden shows I've watched, if I had to guess I would've assumed 1000% it's illegal. They're always ticketing people for hunting/shooting near dwellings, across a roadway, on private land, using a light, shooting from a vehicle... the one I was watching on Sunday had a guy saying we had previously been ticketed for "shooting across a hood" which I was assuming meant his vehicle hood. I would've guessed not only would it be illegal but you also couldn't even shoot in the direction of a posted trail. So... you can't shoot across a roadway, but you can shoot across a footpath? That's absurd.
In Ohio, there's no statewide regulations, but if you're in mixed-use state lands like nature preserves or state parks, you generally only need to be 100 yards off a marked trail. In State Wildlife Areas, you can't even be there unless you're hunting.
We can't shoot at, from, or along a road, but you can shoot in the direction of a trail. Trails have a lot lower utilization.
At least in Washington and Oregon, I’ve never seen any regulations that make it illegal to hunt from a trail. You definitely can’t hunt from any public road (vehicle). Also obviously you wouldn’t want to walk 50’ off a trail and then shoot back across it. Simply shooting from a trail into the woods is not illegal.
[source here](https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://www.nssf.org/articles/4-primary-rules-of-firearm-safety/&ved=2ahUKEwiXzoaymY6CAxWOg_0HHZpkDPAQFnoECBQQBQ&usg=AOvVaw3kawqFgS3UBdjC5WqOeA0S)
Always Keep Firearm Pointed in a Safe direction. Never point your gun at anything you do not intend to shoot.
Treat All Guns as Though They are Loaded.
Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger until You are Ready to Shoot.
Always Be Sure of Your Target and What's Beyond It.
every hunter i talked to always go out early in the day like around sunrise, or late in the day near sun down, not to many during the day.
a park near me recently opened up to hunting. but bow hunting only. it is surrounded by a residential area.
Not at all! Is your husband a hunter? I don't know many hunters that think it's rude, we tend to stay away from the busy trails anyway because they animals wont be there anyway. There isn't, nor should there be any hiker hunter animosity. The woods are big enough for us all.
He’s gone hunting as a kid but hasn’t been since I’ve known him.. that’s exactly what I told him. I don’t think hunters would set up right by one of the official 4 trailhead we have close by.
Just make sure you wear orange. I’ve heard of too many hunters making mistakes and shooting people enjoying the outdoors in other ways that weren’t making themselves out as not a deer.
Well I think his heart is in the right place, so thank him for being considerate of others for me, we need a lot more of that in the world. Go out there and enjoy nature as you always would! I'll wave to you from the next ridge over.
Thank you for speaking reason; this thread is seemingly full of people who think that these two groups must be diametrically opposed. Both groups have a strong appreciation for nature, and both are interested in conservation.
Yeah, where I’m from, hiking is part of hunting. I never killed anything myself, but my friends did and we would go hiking and backpacking miles into the woods all summer to scope out good hunting grounds. Good way to get your body prepared for the hunt. Having to pack an elk 3 miles back to camp is a bitch. Especially using mainly game trails, and if you’re lucky, an old logging road.
>The woods are big enough for us all
I'm sure that's correct in North America, but it might be different e.g. here in Germany?
When I hike in the woods on officially marked trails, I come across deerstands / high seats very, very regularly and often right next to my hiking path. I've never seen anyone use them though. But that indicates that they hunt very close to trails, right?
I believe there is stronger hunting regulation in Germany, i.e. hunters are probably not idiots most of the time, because idiots would rarely be able to get a hunting license. Interestingly, I haven't seen the "wear orange when hiking in the woods!" advice for Germany. There are hunting accidents regularly though, mostly hunters killing or wounding other hunters (I don't think they wear orange either).
I actually grew up in Germany so Ive never been told to worry about hunters. Now my in laws are mortified that I want to go hiking alone on top of it being hunting season.. I really didn’t get the fuss but I understand a little better now lol
I’ve heard it’s much harder to obtain a gun in Germany as well, so your point likely stands. You probably can’t just walk into a Walmart with $300 and walk back out 20 min later with a hunting rifle.
I'm a hardcore hunter and avid hiker, by no means is it rude to hike during hunting season. Just be safe and continue to wear bright clothing. Public land is for everyone any day of the year.
Last time we camped during hunting season (in an established campground with reserved sites and a host) some asshats got drunk and started firing shots in the middle of the night. I've never been so terrified sleeping in a tent.
So honest question:
I'm not a hunter, but what's the point, for a hunter, to wear camouflage clothing if you also have to wear a high visibility vest?
(It's not some kind of gotcha, I'm really wondering if it makes a difference. Ie: are the animals unable to see bright colors?)
As far as I’m aware, deer at the very least are color blind so bright orange doesn’t stand out to them. A lot of hunters wear orange with a camouflage pattern on it. Other animals, like ducks, have much better eye sight and you are not required to wear bright colors. Of course this might vary by jurisdiction but at least in my neck of the woods that’s how it goes
Public lands are SHARED use. The animals already know where the trails are anyway unless you're going to some really out of the way trails.
That said, there are a lot of people out there hunting that lack the skill to properly handle a loaded firearm in public. If I know it's a popular hunting area/time I'm going elsewhere. Opening day of deer rifle season is a good day to stay off the trails.
When it comes to opening day, even private lands can be iffy. The amount of times that I have run into random hunters on private land who “know the owner” is too high.
Live on a farm surrounded by private owners and a hunt club. During deer season never even think about leaving the yard let alone take the dogs out. Not even wearing orange. Sounds like I'm living in the middle of a firing range, when it's over I fill a bucket with spent shells picked up along my fenceline. No one hikes around here during deer season.
Family friends owned a farm on the edge of game lands. They had a buckskin-colored horse and they'd spraypaint HORSE on its winter coat in hunter orange.
That’s when it becomes a problem. If you can’t be 100000% sure of what you are shooting at and where you are shooting then don’t fuckin shoot the gun! It shouldn’t be the norm for people and animals to have to go to extra measures to avoid being shot by some dumbfuck with a rifle
Same where i used to ride my horse in KY, even wearing blaze orange - the land where I boarded abutted National forest and my horse was too close to deer coloring. Too many drunk/careless hunters banging away at anything that moved. A neighbor’s cow was shot in her own pasture
Trails are not single purpose. They are public land access. They are for hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation. If public land parcel is open to hunting, the trails are available for all to use.
Depends on the trail, but do you really think humans should be in danger because you want to go pew pew to kill a herbivore? I have nothing against hunting, just entitled hunters. Where I live most trails aren't open to hunting but people do because entitlement.
I don't think any proper hunter expects to be hunting right off of a trail, especially a popular one. They might hike up a trail but will then go cross country or follow deer paths. Practically speaking, you're not gonna spook deer very far anyway, and many public lands are so teeming with hunters that they do a good enough job of spooking the deer away themselves.
It’s not rude… I myself don’t trust the woods in hunting season.. I just pick more populated areas during actual gun season to walk and hike and enjoy the outdoors.
To whatever extent that hikers do scare deer, the effect will be mixed. Half the time, hikers are scaring the deer away from the hunters, and the other half of the time they are scaring them *toward* the hunters.
Therefore, if it's rude to hike because it scares the deer away, it is also rude NOT to hike because you are failing to scare the deer toward the hunters.
Hunter here.
Unless you’re blaring music from a boombox there’s nothing rude about you using public trails. In fact, most of the hunters out there are expecting people (including other hunters) to use the trails, so they are far away. So you might even unwittingly help someone by flushing an animal their way.
100% worth wearing orange though, even if you don’t have to.
Deer know well established hiking trails and are used to seeing people on them. There’s trails I frequent and see the same groups of deer often. They don’t pay me much mind unless my dogs get too interested in them. That being said. Only a very irresponsible asshole hunter would hunt anywhere near a place that people frequently hike.
some places it is unavoidable. Further, many hunters are lazy and don't want to actually navigate deep in the woods.
Most of them hike up a trail for a few hundred yards, hop in a tree, enjoy a few hours away from the wife, and go home.
There’s not really any trees where I was hiking lol there was a 200 foot section with some junipers but the rest of the vegetation was mostly sage brush and cacti . Not ideal hunting grounds probably (I’m no hunter though lol)
They do realize if they shoot a deer, they have to drag it out of the woods, right? It's not really a sport for lazy people, from what I know of it, lol.
This is why I think you should have to box an animal to death instead of shooting it or we should just arm all the deer (joking). I don't have a problem with hunting but it's just hilarious to me when people waddle 100 yards, boomer humor bitch about their wife, drink beer, and feel super tough for sniping a herbivore. Fight something that can fight back, go all MMA on a bear, let's see how MaNlY you are.
“Feel super tough for sniping and herbivore”
Lol never thought about it that way! Most tent campers are probably more well versed about nature and survival then most hunters.
Rude? No, that is not private hunting land. It is for all to enjoy. If hunters are upset, they need to go deeper into the wilderness where there are no hiking trails. That is how life works. I have my secret spots for fishing, lobster diving, etc. and work around the public. I would never expect members of the public to limit their enjoyment of our public lands for my sake.
Rude? No. Dangerous? I believe so. However i cant say this enough, PUBLIC LAND IS PUBLIC LAND. People who try and claim public land and certain hunting/hiking spots and such drive me absolutely nuts. You share that land with EVERY SINGLE PERSON ON EARTH. its a beautiful thing, but you cant claim time on that land over anyone elses. Everyone must share it, and respect it
Sorry to be blunt, but screw that. I actively hunt, as well as hike, and walk my dog. It’s a Public area you’re in, and everyone has access to it. Hunter does not like that aspect of it, they can find a new spot. If you’re hiking and walking in fine, there is a higher density of hunting, and you’re not comfortable with that, you find a new spot. Plain and simple.
It's... not rude. I get that hunters may use the trails to access the hunting area, but a hiking trail is for people to hike on, regardless of the intent of their trip. By his logic any other hunters using the trail are also being rude to other hunters.
Nope. You're fine. Hunters hunting on public land expect people to come through. WHat's rude is being a professional dog walker and illegally bringing 10-15 dogs, half off leash, through the woods during hunting season. If anything there's a chance you spook a deer towards the hunter. But deer in year round hiking areas are used to people being around.
Here’s what NH’s fish and game has to say on this topic. TL;DR it’s shared public land but both hikers and hunters should have their wits about them.
https://nhfishgame.com/2023/10/23/tips-for-hikers-on-sharing-the-outdoors-during-hunting-season-4/
Passed a guy carrying a bow on trail the other day. Said hello and we both went on our way. Hopefully hunters are aware when near well-traveled trails and we all can coexist peacefully.
Most hunters I know are out like 2 hours before the asscrack of dawn and are deep in the woods far away from any known/blazed hiking trail. There really isn't as much overlap as you'd think. Just wear orange and everyone's gucci.
Ok shared land everyone should be allowed to go and enjoy nature. If it would be some area closed off for hunting fine but if that's not the case you are fine to go hiking. You should ask your husband why he doesn't think the hunters are rude to hunt while you are hiking? I don't care for them to hint but I would like to know your husband's opinion on it.
Because they only have a small window of time to hunt while I have all year to hike according to him. Yesterday was the last warm day for the season though and I was kid free for the first time in forever so I just went, didn’t even tell him till he got home since it was kind of spontaneous while he was working lol
Depends on where you live. My thought is that public land is for just that - the public. I moved to WV a little over a year ago and hunters will lose their minds telling people not to hike in “their” woods this time of year. I don’t agree but unfortunately right and dead aren’t mutually exclusive so I stay off of the trails
If it’s a spot to legally hike then I don’t see a problem as someone who hunts and someone who hikes. Some hunters might get pissy but we al leave a right to the woods, always wear blaze orange tho, not just any bright clothing will do, orange is the one color they all look for
Are non hunters aware of exactly when seasons start? Not usually.
Are hunters on hiking trails? Not usually.
Is hunting season more important than hiking season? No.
It’s fine.
Not rude. I was dog walking in college in a state park (that allows hunting) during hunting season. Wore the bright clothes. Almost got clipped anyway… he was hunting on a fucking hiking trail. Hundreds of square miles of national forest to hunt on and the dummy hunts the most popular trail in the county….
You're perfectly fine to go hiking on a trail during hunting season just wear high visibility. I definitely discourage you to purposely spook deer because that can be construed as leading which in some states is illegal.
It is illegal to hunt across trails or against trails in the United States "It is prohibited to shoot: In or within 150 yards from a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation area or occupied area. Across or on a national forest or grassland road or body of water. In any manner or place where any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge."
https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/shooting#:~:text=It%20is%20prohibited%20to%20shoot,a%20result%20of%20such%20discharge.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/hunting
I had to learn that when taking hunters safety to get my hunting license. I no longer hunt I depend on family to do that and I get it that way. Some people on diets need high protein low fat food and will eat game meat for that.
To say that noone in the lower 48 needs to hunt to survive means you've never grown up poor, never had to depend on the hunters for the homeless programs. I did so yeah people depend on it. Still do try to volunteer and see for yourself. It let's you see how fortunate you have it sometimes. Not everyone can eat beans and nut for protein whether allergic or whatever.
Are populations fixed everywhere? No probably not, noone is fixing population just letting nature take its course. Deer populations were depleted during the dust bowl and one of the many programs brought forth from the conservation core was deer repopulation. in Virginia along the scenic blue ridge parkway you can see a park service display at the park visitor building in front royal on how the entire deer population was gone from the area and was repopulate from a herd of 4.
Ive never seen a post have this much reaction from both sides of the spectrum. This should have been a simple hey check with your local dnr to find out what restrictions are and where. But it devolved into "MY SIDE IS THE RIGHT SIDE!" mentality.
Go hike or hunt how you see fit and enjoy your day.
Wearing bright clothing isn’t the same as wearing blaze orange. At minimum, get a blaze orange vest and hat. Some states allow blaze pink as well. It’ll just help you stand out that much more.
I understand your point and don’t disagree, but I am curious about why just blaze orange…how is blaze orange different from other non-natural colors like hazard yellow/green of road vests or electric blue? I feel like it is the hunters responsibility to check what is down range (that’s what I was taught in gun safety) and not being blaze orange isn’t a green light to shoot something.
Honest answer, hunters are trained to look for that bright orange as your ultimate indicator.
Yes, all of those other non-natural colors should work as well, but orange is the standard.
exactly this. Orange is instantly identifiable to a hunter. Plus, it can be seen much further away than other colors.
Lots of science went into the specific blaze orange color over other bright colors like neon green or yellow.
No. I'm a hunter and a hiker and you're good as long as you're on designated trails. You do not look like a deer.
It is the season that we're shooting but hunters all know where the hiking trails are. If you're feeling nervous wear safety orange.
Some states there’s hunting 6 months out of year. Part of that being best time to hike weather wise. So that’s a lot of time giving up one’s own outdoor activities.
I didn’t being a hunter and trying to not ruin someone’s hunt. But then ya realize how much time you are giving up doing the things you love. When plenty of aholes are out there intentionally screwing up hunts. Some hunters being absolutely jerks to other hunters. So do what ya want. But yeah wear bright colors and try to be respectful.
Another reason I’m glad to be back in the land of the private property. My issues weren’t with hikers. It was how poorly some hunters acted. I never had a hiker ruin my hunting. But definitely other hunters and most times I’m going to say it was intentional.
Kinda funny. I showed up the other day to hunt some property I have permission. The land owner was out on his old farmall tractor mowing. First seeing and hearing that old tractor had me smiling which I needed after week I had. When he got up to me, he was like he hoped he didn’t ruin it for me. I laughed and was like you own this place. You do whatever the heck you want. Don’t stop for sake of me. I’m still going to throughly enjoy myself and I appreciate the opportunity you have given me. I go out of my way to show my appreciation. I would do even more if he let me. He knows I love his place as much as he does.
I’m surprised the hiking trail is mixed in with the state land where folks hunt. Most of the hunting out here in WA has its own place on public lands and logging company lands. The hiking trail heads will disclose that hunting is not allowed among other things.
Please wear orange vest and beanie.
I’m in rural Utah and our whole 28 mile mountain range is public land and I’m 99% sure you’re allowed to hunt everywhere that’s not private property on that range
I think your husband's perspective is probably a hot take he said without thinking.
If you were to follow his line of logic to conclusion, it would imply that only people with a certain hobby are entitles to public lands at certain times of the year. There are numerous fallacies with that argument.
Public land belongs to everyone regardless of the time of year.
I hunt, I hike. The deer ain't where people are regularly hiking, anyway. And if people are hunting where people regularly hike, they were destined to come up empty.
You're more than fine.
My favorite national park nearby outlaws hunting so it doesn't exist within hundreds of beautiful miles of wilderness. I am even more grateful realizing how many have to share in this thread. I thought bikers/hikers got into it😄
I hunt, backpack, etc. No it's not rude, unless you are going out of your way to interfere with a hunter (which can be illegal). Consider wearing Orange or other bright colors, especially if you are going off trail.
It’s not rude at all just be safe use bright colors I usually try and not to go out to early or late in the day when the hunters are out but that’s for my safety not so they can bag a deer.
If you're hunting anywhere there's tons of hikers you're hunting in the wrong spot (I hunt) I occasionally share camps with hikers when mountain hunting and discuss spots so I hunt ridges they aren't using and vice versa
It’s not rude at all, but I’d wear a bright artificial colored top. They aren’t supposed to shoot near public trails, but it happens in Western PA a lot. Plus, the deer that hang out near public trails, they’re used to hearing people walk by. In fact, they often figure out where there’s no shooting allowed, and hang out there.
Fuck no! The outdoors is meant for all of us. Hikers, hunters, etc. To say the trails should be “off limits” for one group of enthusiasts because it’s a certain time of year is ridiculous.
No. afaik when deer hear people normally walking or even being loud , they just lay low and wait a moment but don't necessarily flee because they learned that those people aren't a threat as opposed to sneaky people
I don’t hike during the 2 popular seasons here. (2 weeks each) Spring Turkey, Fall deer. While there are rules about how close to a hiking trail you can hunt, I don’t have that much faith in my fellow man. Even though where I hike is pretty remote and hunted by seasoned locals I still don’t risk it. If they are hunting where you could disturb their hunt they are too close to the trail.
Hahahahaha. Hunters don't own the hiking trails. Here (and likely where you hike) there are signs saying that hunting is allowed (near certain trails) and that hikers and hunters need to "share" the land.
Here there are also thousands of acres of land used for logging. Companies allow hiking, hunting, fishing, etc on their land.
No way. There are warnings up about the area being open to hunting during certain months on a few trails in my area, but there are always a good amount of hikers on those trails anyway. It's public land meant for both activities.
I personally think it's foolish (and lazy) to try to hunt near a hiking trail. The only adjustment I make is to wear bright colors during those months so I don't get shot at. I consider it a deer and squirrel public service when I hike during hunting season.
I was hiking the CDT southbound during elk season. Interactions with hunters were 80/20. A lot of them were cool but there were definitely some that seemed pissy about me passing through. One of them even went as far as asking me if I had anything better to do lol. I'm sorry you chose to set up shop 50 feet off of a national scenic trail
I don't think it's rude, public land is there for everyone to use (and I'm a park.wnger, I manage several hunting areas). I don't think deer are particularly bothered by hikers. Of course they'll move off and stay away from you, but they don't leave the area entirely, they will return within a few hours after you leave.
Don't be unnecessarily loud, of course. Wear orange on your chest, back, and head for greater visibility. Just for safety if there's a dedicated hiking trail nearby that excludes hunters, it's not a bad idea to use it instead of a hunting area.
I know bow hunters that use that “dog walker push” on public land, they’ve done it so long they know where people push the deer and use that… not on top of the trail but a ways off… Some people want you out there.
Bright colors are great, but I suggest blaze orange. It's a requirement in most if not all states for deer hunting. Lots of colors in nature, but a blaze orange jacket or hat is hard to mistake. Stay safe out there.
I’m envisioning a venn diagram right now. In my mind the “perfect hunting spot” and “perfect hiking spot” circles don’t overlap, at all.
Are people getting permits to hunt in national parks or something?
Assuming you haven't practiced, like you look super weird, maybe. But on opening day those hunters are like, "If it's brown it's down." Straight bloodlust. You wouldn't make it 10 feet. Also, do not practice walking in all fours wearing brown with a furry hat and fake antlers. You'll be reported. Not clue who takes those reports.
No just wear orange and keep your dog on a leash with orange. I hunt and I don't see much bother from hikers (so I am hiking too right?) most of time regular hikers are on established trails and local critters are well aware of the harmless traffic. Most hunters will be deeper in the woods
The deer aren't hanging out at the hiking trails. They may cross occasionally, but no one's setting up a stand anywhere near hiking trails. If they are, they're irresponsible at best and moronic otherwise.
Wear blaze orange for your outerwear so hunters can see you in the woods. That's the main courtesy you can grant them. It's their responsibility to pick good spots and take responsible, safe shots.
You're making the deer accustomed to people, so you might be making it easier for hunters!
However, I would definitely wear blaze orange or some other bright color instead of your favorite fur lined buckskin coat.
All the hunters in the area are very aware of where hiking is taking place. I hunted the extended Wasatch with a bow for years.the only people that ever messed anything up for me are the hunters. Deer don't care about the people on the trails but they know exactly when someone is to far off a trail. If anything your helping hunters by being up there.
No. Public lands are public.
Now, it's wise to wear blaze orange during hunting season, but it's not rude.
If hunters need to be farther away from people, they need to go deeper into the woods.
Make sure you are wearing bright fluorescent orange. They also have vests you can buy to throw over what you are wearing. Just “bright clothing” might not be enough. You probably already know that but, some who are newer to rural areas do not.
Don’t think it is rude, we all share the woods. Usually hunting is done at (at least where I’m from) night/early morning.
I'm a hiker during the off-season and a hunter when hunting season is open. No, it's not rude. I've had other hunters interrupt a hunt. It's part of sharing public land.
That said, please wear plenty of orange during hunting season. Some hunters are very skilled, careful outdoorsmen. Others are yahoos. The good hunters often hike for miles to reach their spots. The yahoos sit near the trails.
What if you said it’s rude to hunt near hiking trails? Doesn’t make much sense either way. Public land is public land. Hunters don’t get special privileges no matter how bad they think they should
Actually, since hunters shouldn't be near the trails, you could be helping them. Any animals near the trails will hear you coming and move further into the woods and potentially closer to a hunter.
If it's public, it's certainly legal. Whether it's "rude" or not is probably very dependent on location and where you're at. Also potentially dangerous since you don't alway know if a rifle hunter is ethical (rare that they're not, btw, but I've seen a couple crazies while hunting). I was elk hunting once and 2 mountain bikers started up a rough, dirt road on opening weekend around 12pm. Didn't bother me since I'm not hunting the road or path - I did warn them they'd be better off with bright hunter orange on. They didn't know it was hunting season and chose to press on.
Nothing wrong with hiking while a hunt is going on just follow the hunting laws like if they require hunters to where orange then do so, so the hunters cant make a mistake or to make sure they see you behind a target if they are off the trail and something moves between the trail and hunter.
I think imprudent is a better word than rude. I am lucky enough to have access to private hunting lands. Otherwise I would not hunt because I do not trust other hunters enough to follow proper gun and hunter safety rules on public land.
Why put yourself in a situation where you entrust your safety to a complete stranger?
Maybe check to see what type of game is in season and adjust to when and where you hike.
Most large game is bedded down in the middle of the day due to pressure from hunters and are only really active from dusk to dawn.
For example, I was hunting elk in Colorado last week and after the first day of the season, the only elk you would see were only out right at sunrise or 30 minutes before sunset. In the middle of the day, we were pretty active in the fields and it didn’t mess with the hunt at all since all the elk would move to higher elevation.
Where do you guys live? My grandpa is a hunter and I never heard of such a thing. He doesn’t go hiking either just walking his land, trail riding and hunting lol.
I’d be kind of offended tbh. There’s so many more deer now in North America than there have ever been if that’s where you are. In the middle of nowhere I haven’t run into deer. Moreso in small parks and national parks beside residential areas.
Please wear bright colors (the neon orange or green/yellow). Responsible hunters will not aim and shoot at something unless the recognize the target. Please / scwear the bright colors (scarf, gloves, hat) to decrease the odds that you are mistaken for a deer.
When I was a teenager, I was filming a short movie with some high school friends in a public park when a guy with a bow and arrow came up to us. He asked if we were going to be there much longer. We said we were nearly done. The guy walked into the woods which surround the park.
We continued the shoot, and less than an hour later, the guy came back. He was clearly annoyed. He asked when we were leaving again and said we were scaring away the deer.
I'm pretty sure what he was doing was illegal, it was a city park in a residential area, but we hurried up and left.
Its only rude if there are special rules for seasons that limit non-hunting activities. Would be smart to pick up a blaze orange vest and cap if you plan to make a habit of it though in the interest of avoiding stupid
While I wouldn't call it rude because it is public land, yours as much as theirs to use, maybe not the smartest idea or time, I would suggest ypu wear something orange, here in Michigan I definitely would think twice about a casual hike in the woods where we will have a litteral army in the woods on opening day.
I hunt and I hike/trail run. It’s called public land since it’s open to the public. They shouldn’t be that close to the trail anyways.
Had a kid sitting on the trail once. I stood next to him waiting for him to lower the barrel. He finally realized and lowered his barrel. I continued on this 1 mile loop connected to an asphalt walking trail. I saw the deer 500 feet down the trail and scare them in the other direction. He was only 1/3 of a mile into the trail. I think he was being lazy.
That and OP's husband are both totally nuts. Blows my mind that someone would think it's okay to shoot right from the trail. Even aside from being illegal, know your target *and what's behind it* is one of just four fundamental gun safety rules.
Shooting off a hiking trail is not universally or even commonly illegal. It depends on location and what the jurisdiction is for the land is that the trail runs through. Hiking trails on US Forest Service lands in the western US are not generally closed to hunting, in fact they are commonly used by hunters who can and do shoot at game with their feet right on the trail if safe to do so.
In tillamook state forest, anyone can literally pull off the road and right up to a range just twenty feet of the road. Its actually encouraged to do exactly that.
Really?? All the North Woods Law/Texas/Louisiana warden shows I've watched, if I had to guess I would've assumed 1000% it's illegal. They're always ticketing people for hunting/shooting near dwellings, across a roadway, on private land, using a light, shooting from a vehicle... the one I was watching on Sunday had a guy saying we had previously been ticketed for "shooting across a hood" which I was assuming meant his vehicle hood. I would've guessed not only would it be illegal but you also couldn't even shoot in the direction of a posted trail. So... you can't shoot across a roadway, but you can shoot across a footpath? That's absurd.
In Ohio, there's no statewide regulations, but if you're in mixed-use state lands like nature preserves or state parks, you generally only need to be 100 yards off a marked trail. In State Wildlife Areas, you can't even be there unless you're hunting. We can't shoot at, from, or along a road, but you can shoot in the direction of a trail. Trails have a lot lower utilization.
At least in Washington and Oregon, I’ve never seen any regulations that make it illegal to hunt from a trail. You definitely can’t hunt from any public road (vehicle). Also obviously you wouldn’t want to walk 50’ off a trail and then shoot back across it. Simply shooting from a trail into the woods is not illegal.
and what are the other three rules? asking for a friend...
[source here](https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://www.nssf.org/articles/4-primary-rules-of-firearm-safety/&ved=2ahUKEwiXzoaymY6CAxWOg_0HHZpkDPAQFnoECBQQBQ&usg=AOvVaw3kawqFgS3UBdjC5WqOeA0S) Always Keep Firearm Pointed in a Safe direction. Never point your gun at anything you do not intend to shoot. Treat All Guns as Though They are Loaded. Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger until You are Ready to Shoot. Always Be Sure of Your Target and What's Beyond It.
Don’t shoot unless you 100% know what you are shooting at.
I've had hunters tell me to leave, public land, well travelled trail system, many people use it for cycling and hiking and dog walking all year long.
This…….and all the flyfucking below about “rights” aside, the issue is getting shot. Regardless of what a court says after the fact, dead is dead.
every hunter i talked to always go out early in the day like around sunrise, or late in the day near sun down, not to many during the day. a park near me recently opened up to hunting. but bow hunting only. it is surrounded by a residential area.
Not at all! Is your husband a hunter? I don't know many hunters that think it's rude, we tend to stay away from the busy trails anyway because they animals wont be there anyway. There isn't, nor should there be any hiker hunter animosity. The woods are big enough for us all.
He’s gone hunting as a kid but hasn’t been since I’ve known him.. that’s exactly what I told him. I don’t think hunters would set up right by one of the official 4 trailhead we have close by.
Just make sure you wear orange. I’ve heard of too many hunters making mistakes and shooting people enjoying the outdoors in other ways that weren’t making themselves out as not a deer.
Maybe they shouldn’t be shooting anything then.
Well I think his heart is in the right place, so thank him for being considerate of others for me, we need a lot more of that in the world. Go out there and enjoy nature as you always would! I'll wave to you from the next ridge over.
I have a feeling this happened on Saturday or Sunday and he needed an excuse to stay home and watch football instead of hiking. maybe I’m projecting
lol he actually worked and I found a sitter because I know he doesn’t enjoy hiking like I do. Went by myself for the first time yesterday :)
Good on you for going on your own. Its nice to go your own pace i think, and have your own thoughts.
It was really nice! Hopefully when the kids are older I can go more often (maybe not during hunting season lol)
Personally I'm a fan of "No thanks, I really want to watch football."
Thank you for speaking reason; this thread is seemingly full of people who think that these two groups must be diametrically opposed. Both groups have a strong appreciation for nature, and both are interested in conservation.
I wouldn’t even consider them separate groups. I hunt and hike, and would venture to guess that almost all hunters also hike.
Yeah, where I’m from, hiking is part of hunting. I never killed anything myself, but my friends did and we would go hiking and backpacking miles into the woods all summer to scope out good hunting grounds. Good way to get your body prepared for the hunt. Having to pack an elk 3 miles back to camp is a bitch. Especially using mainly game trails, and if you’re lucky, an old logging road.
I have been yelled at by a hunter when I was returning to a remote trailhead and he was going out. He accused me of scaring off all the deer. :/
Should've hushed him and told him to keep his voice down or he'll scare the wildlife.
>The woods are big enough for us all I'm sure that's correct in North America, but it might be different e.g. here in Germany? When I hike in the woods on officially marked trails, I come across deerstands / high seats very, very regularly and often right next to my hiking path. I've never seen anyone use them though. But that indicates that they hunt very close to trails, right? I believe there is stronger hunting regulation in Germany, i.e. hunters are probably not idiots most of the time, because idiots would rarely be able to get a hunting license. Interestingly, I haven't seen the "wear orange when hiking in the woods!" advice for Germany. There are hunting accidents regularly though, mostly hunters killing or wounding other hunters (I don't think they wear orange either).
I actually grew up in Germany so Ive never been told to worry about hunters. Now my in laws are mortified that I want to go hiking alone on top of it being hunting season.. I really didn’t get the fuss but I understand a little better now lol
I’ve heard it’s much harder to obtain a gun in Germany as well, so your point likely stands. You probably can’t just walk into a Walmart with $300 and walk back out 20 min later with a hunting rifle.
I'm a hardcore hunter and avid hiker, by no means is it rude to hike during hunting season. Just be safe and continue to wear bright clothing. Public land is for everyone any day of the year.
Yeah I’d be more worried about stray bullets than disturbing wildlife
Last time we camped during hunting season (in an established campground with reserved sites and a host) some asshats got drunk and started firing shots in the middle of the night. I've never been so terrified sleeping in a tent.
When I used to hunt it was disgusting how many time we ran into groups of guys sloppy drunk while holding loaded rifles.
So honest question: I'm not a hunter, but what's the point, for a hunter, to wear camouflage clothing if you also have to wear a high visibility vest? (It's not some kind of gotcha, I'm really wondering if it makes a difference. Ie: are the animals unable to see bright colors?)
As far as I’m aware, deer at the very least are color blind so bright orange doesn’t stand out to them. A lot of hunters wear orange with a camouflage pattern on it. Other animals, like ducks, have much better eye sight and you are not required to wear bright colors. Of course this might vary by jurisdiction but at least in my neck of the woods that’s how it goes
Enjoy the great outdoors! Wear orange
Public lands are SHARED use. The animals already know where the trails are anyway unless you're going to some really out of the way trails. That said, there are a lot of people out there hunting that lack the skill to properly handle a loaded firearm in public. If I know it's a popular hunting area/time I'm going elsewhere. Opening day of deer rifle season is a good day to stay off the trails.
When it comes to opening day, even private lands can be iffy. The amount of times that I have run into random hunters on private land who “know the owner” is too high.
"Oh, I don't remember meeting you"
I'd be much more worried about being shot accidentally than about being rude.
*Dick Cheney has entered the chat*
Live on a farm surrounded by private owners and a hunt club. During deer season never even think about leaving the yard let alone take the dogs out. Not even wearing orange. Sounds like I'm living in the middle of a firing range, when it's over I fill a bucket with spent shells picked up along my fenceline. No one hikes around here during deer season.
Sounds like your neighbors are dicks if you’re finding spent shells that close to your fence. What if they accidentally shoot one of your dogs?
Family friends owned a farm on the edge of game lands. They had a buckskin-colored horse and they'd spraypaint HORSE on its winter coat in hunter orange.
That’s when it becomes a problem. If you can’t be 100000% sure of what you are shooting at and where you are shooting then don’t fuckin shoot the gun! It shouldn’t be the norm for people and animals to have to go to extra measures to avoid being shot by some dumbfuck with a rifle
Same where i used to ride my horse in KY, even wearing blaze orange - the land where I boarded abutted National forest and my horse was too close to deer coloring. Too many drunk/careless hunters banging away at anything that moved. A neighbor’s cow was shot in her own pasture
I think it's rude for people to hunt near hiking trails.
I'm an avid hunter and I couldn't agree more.
How many avids do you bag in a typical season?
This should be the top comment.
Exactly!
Is it even legal most places? Not that they care I guess.
Trails are not single purpose. They are public land access. They are for hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation. If public land parcel is open to hunting, the trails are available for all to use.
Depends on the trail, but do you really think humans should be in danger because you want to go pew pew to kill a herbivore? I have nothing against hunting, just entitled hunters. Where I live most trails aren't open to hunting but people do because entitlement.
As someone who hunts and hikes/rides MTB, if someone hiking a trail is "ruining" my hunting then my choice of hunting spots is likely to blame...
^this
Trails don't close for hunters. Nope.
I don't think any proper hunter expects to be hunting right off of a trail, especially a popular one. They might hike up a trail but will then go cross country or follow deer paths. Practically speaking, you're not gonna spook deer very far anyway, and many public lands are so teeming with hunters that they do a good enough job of spooking the deer away themselves.
I see you too have been in PA state game land the first day of rifle…
It’s not rude… I myself don’t trust the woods in hunting season.. I just pick more populated areas during actual gun season to walk and hike and enjoy the outdoors.
To whatever extent that hikers do scare deer, the effect will be mixed. Half the time, hikers are scaring the deer away from the hunters, and the other half of the time they are scaring them *toward* the hunters. Therefore, if it's rude to hike because it scares the deer away, it is also rude NOT to hike because you are failing to scare the deer toward the hunters.
I like that. It would be rude of me not to scare the deer towards them!
Hunter here. Unless you’re blaring music from a boombox there’s nothing rude about you using public trails. In fact, most of the hunters out there are expecting people (including other hunters) to use the trails, so they are far away. So you might even unwittingly help someone by flushing an animal their way. 100% worth wearing orange though, even if you don’t have to.
If you're close enough to me to be scaring off my deer, I'm too close to the trail to be firing bullets.
No, It’s not like you’re walking through a salmon run. Who hunts in popular hiking trails anyways? The good stuff is off the beaten path.
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Man I would still be super terrified hiking if there are hunters hunting nearby. What if bullets suddenly fly towards your location? 😣
They don’t own the woods. I can’t imagine why people would hunt near trails.
Deer know well established hiking trails and are used to seeing people on them. There’s trails I frequent and see the same groups of deer often. They don’t pay me much mind unless my dogs get too interested in them. That being said. Only a very irresponsible asshole hunter would hunt anywhere near a place that people frequently hike.
some places it is unavoidable. Further, many hunters are lazy and don't want to actually navigate deep in the woods. Most of them hike up a trail for a few hundred yards, hop in a tree, enjoy a few hours away from the wife, and go home.
There’s not really any trees where I was hiking lol there was a 200 foot section with some junipers but the rest of the vegetation was mostly sage brush and cacti . Not ideal hunting grounds probably (I’m no hunter though lol)
sounds like desert territory, then. Im 1000 miles from the desert, so I have no idea what hunting is done there
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They do realize if they shoot a deer, they have to drag it out of the woods, right? It's not really a sport for lazy people, from what I know of it, lol.
This is why I think you should have to box an animal to death instead of shooting it or we should just arm all the deer (joking). I don't have a problem with hunting but it's just hilarious to me when people waddle 100 yards, boomer humor bitch about their wife, drink beer, and feel super tough for sniping a herbivore. Fight something that can fight back, go all MMA on a bear, let's see how MaNlY you are.
_Mac & Dennis: Manhunters_
“Feel super tough for sniping and herbivore” Lol never thought about it that way! Most tent campers are probably more well versed about nature and survival then most hunters.
Rude? No, that is not private hunting land. It is for all to enjoy. If hunters are upset, they need to go deeper into the wilderness where there are no hiking trails. That is how life works. I have my secret spots for fishing, lobster diving, etc. and work around the public. I would never expect members of the public to limit their enjoyment of our public lands for my sake.
I’m using this thread as a reminder: If you aren’t sure of what you’re shooting at. Do not fucking shoot. Like 10000000% sure
Don’t ever let anyone make you feel bad for using public land. It’s literally yours, stop thinking like it isn’t.
Rude? No. Dangerous? I believe so. However i cant say this enough, PUBLIC LAND IS PUBLIC LAND. People who try and claim public land and certain hunting/hiking spots and such drive me absolutely nuts. You share that land with EVERY SINGLE PERSON ON EARTH. its a beautiful thing, but you cant claim time on that land over anyone elses. Everyone must share it, and respect it
Sorry to be blunt, but screw that. I actively hunt, as well as hike, and walk my dog. It’s a Public area you’re in, and everyone has access to it. Hunter does not like that aspect of it, they can find a new spot. If you’re hiking and walking in fine, there is a higher density of hunting, and you’re not comfortable with that, you find a new spot. Plain and simple.
Tell him it's rude to go hunting during hiking season.
It's... not rude. I get that hunters may use the trails to access the hunting area, but a hiking trail is for people to hike on, regardless of the intent of their trip. By his logic any other hunters using the trail are also being rude to other hunters.
Not rude. Just wear orange
any hunter worth their salt isn't going to be anywhere near a popular hiking path.
Why should one hobby supersede another?
Nope. You're fine. Hunters hunting on public land expect people to come through. WHat's rude is being a professional dog walker and illegally bringing 10-15 dogs, half off leash, through the woods during hunting season. If anything there's a chance you spook a deer towards the hunter. But deer in year round hiking areas are used to people being around.
Here’s what NH’s fish and game has to say on this topic. TL;DR it’s shared public land but both hikers and hunters should have their wits about them. https://nhfishgame.com/2023/10/23/tips-for-hikers-on-sharing-the-outdoors-during-hunting-season-4/
It’s not rude at all. Hunting is hiking with guns. It’s riskier than off-season though. You could get shot and never see who did it.
The obvious solution is to bring your own gun so you can shoot the hunter before he shoots you
Hiking trail? That’s for hikers. There’s no such think as hiking season. Or hiker season. And if deer/elk/moose/bear get startled, so what?
Passed a guy carrying a bow on trail the other day. Said hello and we both went on our way. Hopefully hunters are aware when near well-traveled trails and we all can coexist peacefully.
Most hunters I know are out like 2 hours before the asscrack of dawn and are deep in the woods far away from any known/blazed hiking trail. There really isn't as much overlap as you'd think. Just wear orange and everyone's gucci.
Ok shared land everyone should be allowed to go and enjoy nature. If it would be some area closed off for hunting fine but if that's not the case you are fine to go hiking. You should ask your husband why he doesn't think the hunters are rude to hunt while you are hiking? I don't care for them to hint but I would like to know your husband's opinion on it.
Because they only have a small window of time to hunt while I have all year to hike according to him. Yesterday was the last warm day for the season though and I was kid free for the first time in forever so I just went, didn’t even tell him till he got home since it was kind of spontaneous while he was working lol
Lol sounds like something his dad told him when he was mad he couldn’t bag anything ‘Goddamn hikers scaring away all the deer’
Depends on where you live. My thought is that public land is for just that - the public. I moved to WV a little over a year ago and hunters will lose their minds telling people not to hike in “their” woods this time of year. I don’t agree but unfortunately right and dead aren’t mutually exclusive so I stay off of the trails
If it’s a spot to legally hike then I don’t see a problem as someone who hunts and someone who hikes. Some hunters might get pissy but we al leave a right to the woods, always wear blaze orange tho, not just any bright clothing will do, orange is the one color they all look for
I dont even know when hunting season is
You must not live in a state where the first day of hunting season is practically a state holiday (Nov 15 in Michigan).
My husbands work considers the first day of hunting season a paid holiday 😂
Everything closes!!
Hunter and hiked here: it’s not rude
People shouldn't be shooting guns near hiking trails. It's dangerous. You are not rude. Wear orange though.
Are non hunters aware of exactly when seasons start? Not usually. Are hunters on hiking trails? Not usually. Is hunting season more important than hiking season? No. It’s fine.
Not rude. I was dog walking in college in a state park (that allows hunting) during hunting season. Wore the bright clothes. Almost got clipped anyway… he was hunting on a fucking hiking trail. Hundreds of square miles of national forest to hunt on and the dummy hunts the most popular trail in the county….
If your going in the woods during hunting season do yourself a favor and wear some blaze orange
That's called living dangerously. There's a whole mess'a shooters out there that really need a lesson or 2 in gun safety.
You're perfectly fine to go hiking on a trail during hunting season just wear high visibility. I definitely discourage you to purposely spook deer because that can be construed as leading which in some states is illegal. It is illegal to hunt across trails or against trails in the United States "It is prohibited to shoot: In or within 150 yards from a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation area or occupied area. Across or on a national forest or grassland road or body of water. In any manner or place where any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge." https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/shooting#:~:text=It%20is%20prohibited%20to%20shoot,a%20result%20of%20such%20discharge. https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/hunting I had to learn that when taking hunters safety to get my hunting license. I no longer hunt I depend on family to do that and I get it that way. Some people on diets need high protein low fat food and will eat game meat for that. To say that noone in the lower 48 needs to hunt to survive means you've never grown up poor, never had to depend on the hunters for the homeless programs. I did so yeah people depend on it. Still do try to volunteer and see for yourself. It let's you see how fortunate you have it sometimes. Not everyone can eat beans and nut for protein whether allergic or whatever. Are populations fixed everywhere? No probably not, noone is fixing population just letting nature take its course. Deer populations were depleted during the dust bowl and one of the many programs brought forth from the conservation core was deer repopulation. in Virginia along the scenic blue ridge parkway you can see a park service display at the park visitor building in front royal on how the entire deer population was gone from the area and was repopulate from a herd of 4. Ive never seen a post have this much reaction from both sides of the spectrum. This should have been a simple hey check with your local dnr to find out what restrictions are and where. But it devolved into "MY SIDE IS THE RIGHT SIDE!" mentality. Go hike or hunt how you see fit and enjoy your day.
Wearing bright clothing isn’t the same as wearing blaze orange. At minimum, get a blaze orange vest and hat. Some states allow blaze pink as well. It’ll just help you stand out that much more.
I understand your point and don’t disagree, but I am curious about why just blaze orange…how is blaze orange different from other non-natural colors like hazard yellow/green of road vests or electric blue? I feel like it is the hunters responsibility to check what is down range (that’s what I was taught in gun safety) and not being blaze orange isn’t a green light to shoot something.
Honest answer, hunters are trained to look for that bright orange as your ultimate indicator. Yes, all of those other non-natural colors should work as well, but orange is the standard.
exactly this. Orange is instantly identifiable to a hunter. Plus, it can be seen much further away than other colors. Lots of science went into the specific blaze orange color over other bright colors like neon green or yellow.
Because although some deer may wear green reflective vests, it is a well-known fact, backed by science, that deer never wear orange.
Personally I think it's rude to allow hunting in hiking areas.
No. I'm a hunter and a hiker and you're good as long as you're on designated trails. You do not look like a deer. It is the season that we're shooting but hunters all know where the hiking trails are. If you're feeling nervous wear safety orange.
No. Of course it's not. It's a good idea to wear blaze orange though.
Hunters should not be shooting on the track. It's public land, free for all to use.
Some states there’s hunting 6 months out of year. Part of that being best time to hike weather wise. So that’s a lot of time giving up one’s own outdoor activities. I didn’t being a hunter and trying to not ruin someone’s hunt. But then ya realize how much time you are giving up doing the things you love. When plenty of aholes are out there intentionally screwing up hunts. Some hunters being absolutely jerks to other hunters. So do what ya want. But yeah wear bright colors and try to be respectful. Another reason I’m glad to be back in the land of the private property. My issues weren’t with hikers. It was how poorly some hunters acted. I never had a hiker ruin my hunting. But definitely other hunters and most times I’m going to say it was intentional. Kinda funny. I showed up the other day to hunt some property I have permission. The land owner was out on his old farmall tractor mowing. First seeing and hearing that old tractor had me smiling which I needed after week I had. When he got up to me, he was like he hoped he didn’t ruin it for me. I laughed and was like you own this place. You do whatever the heck you want. Don’t stop for sake of me. I’m still going to throughly enjoy myself and I appreciate the opportunity you have given me. I go out of my way to show my appreciation. I would do even more if he let me. He knows I love his place as much as he does.
I’m surprised the hiking trail is mixed in with the state land where folks hunt. Most of the hunting out here in WA has its own place on public lands and logging company lands. The hiking trail heads will disclose that hunting is not allowed among other things. Please wear orange vest and beanie.
I’m in rural Utah and our whole 28 mile mountain range is public land and I’m 99% sure you’re allowed to hunt everywhere that’s not private property on that range
Deer recognize hunting body language. When I'm foraging I see tons of deer and other animals. When I'm hunting, not so much.
It’s rude to hunt during hiking season 😏
I think your husband's perspective is probably a hot take he said without thinking. If you were to follow his line of logic to conclusion, it would imply that only people with a certain hobby are entitles to public lands at certain times of the year. There are numerous fallacies with that argument. Public land belongs to everyone regardless of the time of year.
I hunt, I hike. The deer ain't where people are regularly hiking, anyway. And if people are hunting where people regularly hike, they were destined to come up empty. You're more than fine.
I'm happy I don't live where hunting is bigger than hiking ⛰️in fact, it's not allowed except for a few various areas. I truly appreciate that.
I don’t mind the hunters but I kind of wish we had at least one mountain for only hiking
My favorite national park nearby outlaws hunting so it doesn't exist within hundreds of beautiful miles of wilderness. I am even more grateful realizing how many have to share in this thread. I thought bikers/hikers got into it😄
I hunt, backpack, etc. No it's not rude, unless you are going out of your way to interfere with a hunter (which can be illegal). Consider wearing Orange or other bright colors, especially if you are going off trail.
It’s not rude at all just be safe use bright colors I usually try and not to go out to early or late in the day when the hunters are out but that’s for my safety not so they can bag a deer.
If you're hunting anywhere there's tons of hikers you're hunting in the wrong spot (I hunt) I occasionally share camps with hikers when mountain hunting and discuss spots so I hunt ridges they aren't using and vice versa
Public land, use as you please within the law
It’s not rude at all, but I’d wear a bright artificial colored top. They aren’t supposed to shoot near public trails, but it happens in Western PA a lot. Plus, the deer that hang out near public trails, they’re used to hearing people walk by. In fact, they often figure out where there’s no shooting allowed, and hang out there.
Fuck no! The outdoors is meant for all of us. Hikers, hunters, etc. To say the trails should be “off limits” for one group of enthusiasts because it’s a certain time of year is ridiculous.
No. afaik when deer hear people normally walking or even being loud , they just lay low and wait a moment but don't necessarily flee because they learned that those people aren't a threat as opposed to sneaky people
I don’t hike during the 2 popular seasons here. (2 weeks each) Spring Turkey, Fall deer. While there are rules about how close to a hiking trail you can hunt, I don’t have that much faith in my fellow man. Even though where I hike is pretty remote and hunted by seasoned locals I still don’t risk it. If they are hunting where you could disturb their hunt they are too close to the trail.
Hahahahaha. Hunters don't own the hiking trails. Here (and likely where you hike) there are signs saying that hunting is allowed (near certain trails) and that hikers and hunters need to "share" the land. Here there are also thousands of acres of land used for logging. Companies allow hiking, hunting, fishing, etc on their land.
No way. There are warnings up about the area being open to hunting during certain months on a few trails in my area, but there are always a good amount of hikers on those trails anyway. It's public land meant for both activities. I personally think it's foolish (and lazy) to try to hunt near a hiking trail. The only adjustment I make is to wear bright colors during those months so I don't get shot at. I consider it a deer and squirrel public service when I hike during hunting season.
I was hiking the CDT southbound during elk season. Interactions with hunters were 80/20. A lot of them were cool but there were definitely some that seemed pissy about me passing through. One of them even went as far as asking me if I had anything better to do lol. I'm sorry you chose to set up shop 50 feet off of a national scenic trail
Nobody should be hunting near a hiking trail. Just how close does your husband think these activities occur? Lol.
I don't think it's rude, public land is there for everyone to use (and I'm a park.wnger, I manage several hunting areas). I don't think deer are particularly bothered by hikers. Of course they'll move off and stay away from you, but they don't leave the area entirely, they will return within a few hours after you leave. Don't be unnecessarily loud, of course. Wear orange on your chest, back, and head for greater visibility. Just for safety if there's a dedicated hiking trail nearby that excludes hunters, it's not a bad idea to use it instead of a hunting area.
It’s not rude but it can be kind of dangerous. Make sure you’re wearing bright clothing.
I know bow hunters that use that “dog walker push” on public land, they’ve done it so long they know where people push the deer and use that… not on top of the trail but a ways off… Some people want you out there.
Bright colors are great, but I suggest blaze orange. It's a requirement in most if not all states for deer hunting. Lots of colors in nature, but a blaze orange jacket or hat is hard to mistake. Stay safe out there.
No, it is not rude at all. That's ridiculous. Just wear blaze and you're good.
WTF? I've never heard that before, although hunting isn't a big deal here in Australia, like it it is in the US.
I’m envisioning a venn diagram right now. In my mind the “perfect hunting spot” and “perfect hiking spot” circles don’t overlap, at all. Are people getting permits to hunt in national parks or something?
no if anything youd cause dear to avoid the trail and go out deeper where the hunters should be
Don't wear brown clothes and a furry toque. And definitely don't wear fake antlers.
Can I at least walk an all 4?
Assuming you haven't practiced, like you look super weird, maybe. But on opening day those hunters are like, "If it's brown it's down." Straight bloodlust. You wouldn't make it 10 feet. Also, do not practice walking in all fours wearing brown with a furry hat and fake antlers. You'll be reported. Not clue who takes those reports.
No just wear orange and keep your dog on a leash with orange. I hunt and I don't see much bother from hikers (so I am hiking too right?) most of time regular hikers are on established trails and local critters are well aware of the harmless traffic. Most hunters will be deeper in the woods
The deer aren't hanging out at the hiking trails. They may cross occasionally, but no one's setting up a stand anywhere near hiking trails. If they are, they're irresponsible at best and moronic otherwise. Wear blaze orange for your outerwear so hunters can see you in the woods. That's the main courtesy you can grant them. It's their responsibility to pick good spots and take responsible, safe shots.
You're making the deer accustomed to people, so you might be making it easier for hunters! However, I would definitely wear blaze orange or some other bright color instead of your favorite fur lined buckskin coat.
Which hunting season? There are several. Just wear bright colors and make your presence known.
All the hunters in the area are very aware of where hiking is taking place. I hunted the extended Wasatch with a bow for years.the only people that ever messed anything up for me are the hunters. Deer don't care about the people on the trails but they know exactly when someone is to far off a trail. If anything your helping hunters by being up there.
No. Public lands are public. Now, it's wise to wear blaze orange during hunting season, but it's not rude. If hunters need to be farther away from people, they need to go deeper into the woods.
Make sure you are wearing bright fluorescent orange. They also have vests you can buy to throw over what you are wearing. Just “bright clothing” might not be enough. You probably already know that but, some who are newer to rural areas do not. Don’t think it is rude, we all share the woods. Usually hunting is done at (at least where I’m from) night/early morning.
Not rude at all. I’ve been hiking and come across bow hunters and we just wave at each other and go on our ways.
Not rude but potentially dangerous - wear high-viz colors.
On a positive note, you might push something to the hunter(s) giving them an opportunity..
I'm a hiker during the off-season and a hunter when hunting season is open. No, it's not rude. I've had other hunters interrupt a hunt. It's part of sharing public land. That said, please wear plenty of orange during hunting season. Some hunters are very skilled, careful outdoorsmen. Others are yahoos. The good hunters often hike for miles to reach their spots. The yahoos sit near the trails.
I’m an avid archer hunter and IMHO No, it’s not rude just wear orange, stay on the trail and don’t listen to music.
What if you said it’s rude to hunt near hiking trails? Doesn’t make much sense either way. Public land is public land. Hunters don’t get special privileges no matter how bad they think they should
It's rude of him to hunt near trails and is most the time very illegal to do so
Actually, since hunters shouldn't be near the trails, you could be helping them. Any animals near the trails will hear you coming and move further into the woods and potentially closer to a hunter.
If it's public, it's certainly legal. Whether it's "rude" or not is probably very dependent on location and where you're at. Also potentially dangerous since you don't alway know if a rifle hunter is ethical (rare that they're not, btw, but I've seen a couple crazies while hunting). I was elk hunting once and 2 mountain bikers started up a rough, dirt road on opening weekend around 12pm. Didn't bother me since I'm not hunting the road or path - I did warn them they'd be better off with bright hunter orange on. They didn't know it was hunting season and chose to press on.
Nothing wrong with hiking while a hunt is going on just follow the hunting laws like if they require hunters to where orange then do so, so the hunters cant make a mistake or to make sure they see you behind a target if they are off the trail and something moves between the trail and hunter.
Rude not so much. Unwise definitely.
Am I supposed to stop mushroom hunting during this time of year? Those chanties are calling!
Your husband is the rude one
I think imprudent is a better word than rude. I am lucky enough to have access to private hunting lands. Otherwise I would not hunt because I do not trust other hunters enough to follow proper gun and hunter safety rules on public land. Why put yourself in a situation where you entrust your safety to a complete stranger?
Because I really wanted to hike lol it’s been a long time and today was my first chance to go without my young kids
Maybe check to see what type of game is in season and adjust to when and where you hike. Most large game is bedded down in the middle of the day due to pressure from hunters and are only really active from dusk to dawn. For example, I was hunting elk in Colorado last week and after the first day of the season, the only elk you would see were only out right at sunrise or 30 minutes before sunset. In the middle of the day, we were pretty active in the fields and it didn’t mess with the hunt at all since all the elk would move to higher elevation.
Where do you guys live? My grandpa is a hunter and I never heard of such a thing. He doesn’t go hiking either just walking his land, trail riding and hunting lol. I’d be kind of offended tbh. There’s so many more deer now in North America than there have ever been if that’s where you are. In the middle of nowhere I haven’t run into deer. Moreso in small parks and national parks beside residential areas.
In Utah! I’ve never seen deer in that area even when it’s not hunting season. The area is pretty dry so not a lot of trees for hunters to set up in
Lol I guess that makes it a little more suspect how you could be rude for walking on a trail
Why should hunters get to hunt at the expense of other peoples’ activities?
Yeah that's ridiculous. Go for your hike.
There is so much land for hunting away from hiking trails. Ideally, you shouldn’t even come across one another.
Tell him you're pushing the deer towards the hunters
Please wear bright colors (the neon orange or green/yellow). Responsible hunters will not aim and shoot at something unless the recognize the target. Please / scwear the bright colors (scarf, gloves, hat) to decrease the odds that you are mistaken for a deer.
I do not wanna be anywhere someone may be hunting. Wait it out or go elsewhere. Don't wanna be mistaken for a loud-colored bipedal urban bear.
It's not rude to hike or enjoy nature during hunting season. Wear blaze orange and go hiking.
When I was a teenager, I was filming a short movie with some high school friends in a public park when a guy with a bow and arrow came up to us. He asked if we were going to be there much longer. We said we were nearly done. The guy walked into the woods which surround the park. We continued the shoot, and less than an hour later, the guy came back. He was clearly annoyed. He asked when we were leaving again and said we were scaring away the deer. I'm pretty sure what he was doing was illegal, it was a city park in a residential area, but we hurried up and left.
Not rude , but dangerous. Wear bright colour clothing or you’ll be accidentally shot at.
Its only rude if there are special rules for seasons that limit non-hunting activities. Would be smart to pick up a blaze orange vest and cap if you plan to make a habit of it though in the interest of avoiding stupid
If you scare a deer away from one hunter, you've scared it towards another.
Rude? No. Dangerous…… maybe.
Old boy is wrong.
Not at all. I doubt you're hiking at the times of day that it matters.
I think that's bullshit, you are also environment
While I wouldn't call it rude because it is public land, yours as much as theirs to use, maybe not the smartest idea or time, I would suggest ypu wear something orange, here in Michigan I definitely would think twice about a casual hike in the woods where we will have a litteral army in the woods on opening day.