Extended Weekend Getaways Some of my best childhood memories are wrapped in the sights, sounds, and smells of the woods during early morning hunts with my family. Those trips weren’t just about tracking game; they were about bonding, learning respect for nature, and discovering patience and self-discipline.
If you’re planning to share this experience with your child, it’s likely as exciting a milestone for your family as it was for mine. That said, helping your younger family members feel prepared and confident will be key to creating a positive experience. Let’s go over some tips for your child’s first family hunting trip.
Start With Preparation at Home
Hunting is much more than just showing up in the woods. Before you head out, involve your child in as much of the prep work as possible. Teach them about the animals you’re hunting, their habitats, and unique behaviors. Curiosity unfolds when they find out what to look for, whether you’re helping them spot tracks or recognize calls.
Practice is essential too. Whether it’s with a bow or even a trap, ensure they’re comfortable and confident using the equipment you intend for them to use. Set up a few backyard practice sessions where they can safely interact with stationary targets. I still have fond memories of digging through my dad’s tackle box and exploring all the bits and bobs, asking a couple hundred questions about what each did. Those conversations, while I’m sure they were grating for him, gave me more confidence with the tools and helped me feel involved.
Outfit Them in the Right Gear
Having the proper clothing can turn what could be a miserable experience into a thrilling one. Nothing ends a trip faster than cold toes, soggy socks, or being too hot in thick layers. Look for gear that fits your kids well and keeps them comfortable, especially in changing weather. Make sure they’ll stay warm without overheating as they move around.
Choosing camouflage feels like rite-of-passage fun for kids. Be sure to select patterns appropriate for your environment. Finding the most universal camouflage patterns will help you prepare for future trips, especially those that might happen out-of-state. I always loved the iconic blaze orange gear, and donning my first jacket felt like becoming an official part of the team.
Teach Hunting Safety as a Life Skill
Safety isn’t just a priority; it’s a non-negotiable. Discuss and practice safety well before heading into the field. Show them how to handle their equipment responsibly, be mindful of their surroundings, and identify a safe zone of fire. Explain how following these steps keeps not only them but everyone around them safe.
Walk through scenarios they might encounter during the hunt. For example, what should they do if they spot an animal? Do they have permission to leave your sight? When my family discussed the ins and outs of navigating woodlands, my parents didn’t just tell me—they used every opportunity to point out real-time information, including the hazards around us. Each of these moments was a teaching opportunity.
Pack Snacks, Water, and the Right Accessories
Hiking through the woods burns a lot of energy, and keeping kids fueled up is key to avoiding cranky moments. Pack snacks they enjoy, preferably ones that aren’t too noisy to eat, like granola bars or dried fruit. For me, a thermos of hot chocolate was a particularly delightful treat on chilly mornings, so I highly recommend it for your family too.
Treats aside, hydration will be what matters most. Bring plenty of water and encourage them to sip throughout the day. Don’t forget other essentials like handwarmers, gloves, or a lightweight blanket if it’s chilly. Small comforts go a long way when you want to keep spirits high. Plus, who doesn’t love sharing trail mix while admiring nature? That’s what it’s made for!
Start With Shorter, Simpler Hunts
The first hunt doesn’t have to be a marathon. Kids have shorter attention spans and may not be ready to sit still for hours. Plan a trip that’s less intense, perhaps targeting smaller game or scouting for deer as a warm-up. The goal is to ease them into the experience, not rush them into something overwhelming.
On my first hunt, we spent most of the day scouting and quietly following familiar trails. It was an adventure that we spent pointing out tracks, scratch marks, and other clues. Best of all, it was a low-pressure scenario, where the aim was simply to stay safe and have fun.
Encourage Curiosity and Questions
Kids are natural learners, and the woods are a perfect classroom. Be ready to answer all sorts of questions, from how a game trail forms to why animals move at certain times of the day.
I definitely asked my fair share of silly questions, but everything got an answer and inspired further conversation. Those little moments made me feel smart and capable, which kept me invested in coming back.
Be Honest About the Realities of Hunting
Hunting isn’t just about the thrill of the chase. It involves patience, respect, and sometimes, disappointment. Be honest with your child about what to expect when it comes to the waiting game. You may not see anything all day, and a missed shot could mean going home empty-handed.
Frame these moments as part of the overall experience. To my family, it wasn’t just about hunting; maybe I didn’t understand it fully then, but I know now that it was about facing setbacks and always trying again.
Make It Fun Beyond the Hunt
Hunting trips shouldn’t feel like a kind of work or a test. Build in moments of joy that go beyond tracking an animal. Share stories, point out cool wildlife, or teach them how to use a compass. Bring a disposable camera (yes, they still sell these) so that they can snap pictures of what they find interesting in the wild.
Some of my favorite memories aren’t about hunting at all. They’re from sitting by the campfire with my cousins, toasting marshmallows and giggling at raccoon shadows nearby. Even small moments like those can make the trip unforgettable.
Celebrate the Experience, Win or Lose
It’s important to celebrate the adventure regardless of the outcome. If they’re successful during the hunt, take time to honor that accomplishment in a meaningful way. Show them how to respect what they catch and the environment around them. If not, focus on what they learned and the fun memories made.
My dad was a master at this. After every trip, he’d make some aspect of the outing feel special, whether it was spotting a hawk or telling a good joke. Hunting became a story we shared.
Passing the Torch
Taking your child on their first hunting trip is more than just a day in the woods. It’s a chance to pass down family traditions, teach life lessons, and create memories they’ll carry for years. When you prepare with care and lead with excitement, you’re setting them up to love and respect this experience as much as you do. My hope is that with these tips for your child’s first family hunting trip, you can make it a highlight of their childhood that they’ll love to look back on.
