How to Choose a Hunting Lease

Overview
All hunters dream of owning their own hunting land, but high land prices have made that dream more difficult for the average hunter to realize. In the last decade, real estate companies have started specializing in land leases, which grant access for a hunter or group of hunters for a set fee. Choosing a hunting lease that meets your hunting needs and offers good potential for trophy game involves tough choices. With proper research, however, you can find a productive hunting lease within your budget.

Step 1
Decide on your ultimate hunting priorities and goals. If you want to pursue waterfowl, you should not search for land that is populated with deer and turkeys. Very few properties offer everything in terms of wildlife, so narrow your search to the specific species that you wish to pursue.

Step 2
Determine the amount of land you can afford. Lease packages can vary from a few hundred acres to thousands of acres, depending on the area. Consider forming a group with your closest hunting friends to increase the amount of land you can lease.

Step 3
Search for land that is a reasonable driving distance from your home. When you invest in a hunting lease, you want to get the most out of the investment. Driving distance is an essential element in choosing a hunting lease that you and your family can enjoy for years to come.

Step 4
Review aerial maps on Google Earth, or purchase maps online from MyTopo. Aerial maps offer a different perspective on the lease property and neighboring properties that cannot be seen from ground level.

Step 5
Obtain a property condition report from the leasing agent or owner. This can reveal important information about mineral rights or other unseen situations, such as oil tanks buried in the ground. Inspect every detail before agreeing to the lease.

Step 6
Verify if the land is ready to hunt or if you will need to establish food plots or dig ponds. As a general rule, land that is ready to hunt is more expensive. Having the ability to plant food plots and other crops allows you to customize your lease based on how you intend to hunt.

Things You'll Need
Google Earth
Maps

Tips
Take your time during the research process, and do not jump into a buying decision. Consult several different leasing agents. Talk to the owners of the neighboring properties to see how they manage wildlife.

Warnings
Beware of trespassers on your property. Some local hunters may have hunted the property for years and are not aware that the land is leased.Verify public access to your hunting lease, as certain landowners may block access to your leased property.