Rabbit hunting presents an exciting type of challenge. This type of hunting is not complicated, and it can be a relatively simple and fun experience. Often, by learning the relevant habitat types, using appropriate hunting techniques, and being patient, you can have a successful hunt.
The best hunting grounds are areas with good cover close to rabbits’ favorite foods like wildflowers, alfalfa, soybeans, clovers, and garden crops. Hollow logs, fence rows, drainages, and small fields surrounded by woods provide good cover for this timid herbivore.
Knowing when to hunt is key. The best time is early spring; grasses and forbs are growing during this period, and the rabbits rush to eat because they could not find enough food during winter. You can still hunt for them before or after spring, particularly in the early morning and evening, because they forage at night and return to their burrows in the morning. If you hunt with a dog, the ideal time would be in the morning because it is easier to sniff out scents. States have laws on when to hunt different animals; familiarizing yourself with your state’s law is a good way to start so you avoid breaking the law.
Next, know what gear to use. Wear thick clothing to protect your skin from thorns, briars, and thickets. This would also help in keeping the cold air at bay. Bring heavy-duty gloves, vinyl-faced canvas pants, a hunting coat, and boots that would make your hunt easier. In addition, wearing an orange safety vest would be wise, so fellow hunters will clearly identify you.
Do not destroy your rabbit with firepower, so ensure your firearm matches your prey. When rabbit hunting, you need a 20-gauge shotgun accompanied by an improved cylinder choke. Other options are a .22 rifle or a pistol. Avoid lead ammunition to prevent meat poisoning if you are using a shotgun.
Using hunting methods can make your hunt easier. One method is by walking up to a rabbit. Once you spot a rabbit, walk slowly in a zig-zag manner towards it for about 10 paces, then stop for 30 seconds. The 30-second pause is the trick to confusing the rabbit; repeat this until you get close enough to take a shot. Another method is by using a rabbit call. You can use handheld rabbit calls, or you could learn how to produce the sound with your lips and fingers.
Another way to hunt this animal is by improving your accuracy and speed. Rabbits move fast, so there is no time to be slow when trying to take down your target. You have to learn to hit your target in one motion accurately, or it will disappear out of sight. Perfect your speed and accuracy at a practice range before you go hunting; this would make your experience simpler.
Lastly, check the weather before hunting. If you go out on a freezing day, the difficulty of your catch increases because you would have to find a way to drive out your prey from its warm zone. Going out when it is warmer can lead to seeing more rabbits.
