With turkey season approaching and old permission slips in our packs, it is time to start securing new and familiar pieces of ground for hunting. As I was putting a couple information packets together today at lunch, I figured I would share my process in hopes it can help a few of you land some new hunting/fishing/trapping properties. First and foremost, it is hard to beat the in person approach. When asking for permission, it never hurts to take a kid or your lovely wife along with you. Make sure you are presentable, have a firm hand shake, and look the owners in the eyes when you speak to them. Doing your homework before hand and having maps, presigned slips, and a brochure that helps owner remember you after your visit are also must-dos. Most county auditors sites are now supplying up-to-date GIS information that can help you locate the owners, as well as help you scout for new ground.
When meeting a person face to face is not in the cards, it is time to revert to snail mail to do the work for you. Again, using the auditor's page to locate the owner combined with other sources like AnyWho.com, make life much easier these days. When I mail out a packet, it includes a signed permission slip like the one below, a copy of the slip for their records, a self addressed stamped envelope, a copy of my brochure, and a cover letter that concisely explains the reason for contacting them. Be sure to reference which property you wish to hunt, and be as courteous and profession as possible. Have someone proof read your information before mailing it if need be.
Here is a look at my brochure and the permission slip I use. (I must give credit where credit is due. Thanks to Joe for the brochure format!) If you would like a working format of this brochure, PM me and I will email it to you. I can do the same with the permission slip.
Good luck getting access to some new ground this year! I'm hoping my slips come back signed so that I have plenty of room to roam for spring gobblers!!!
Permission Language:
Brochure:
When meeting a person face to face is not in the cards, it is time to revert to snail mail to do the work for you. Again, using the auditor's page to locate the owner combined with other sources like AnyWho.com, make life much easier these days. When I mail out a packet, it includes a signed permission slip like the one below, a copy of the slip for their records, a self addressed stamped envelope, a copy of my brochure, and a cover letter that concisely explains the reason for contacting them. Be sure to reference which property you wish to hunt, and be as courteous and profession as possible. Have someone proof read your information before mailing it if need be.
Here is a look at my brochure and the permission slip I use. (I must give credit where credit is due. Thanks to Joe for the brochure format!) If you would like a working format of this brochure, PM me and I will email it to you. I can do the same with the permission slip.
Good luck getting access to some new ground this year! I'm hoping my slips come back signed so that I have plenty of room to roam for spring gobblers!!!
Permission Language:
Permission for Hunting, Fishing, or Trapping on Private Land
Permission is hereby granted to the undersigned sportsperson for hunting, fishing, and/or trapping on land owned by the undersigned landowner or their agent for the date(s) listed and according to the conditions stated below. In accepting this permit, I agree to assume and release the landowner from any or all liability for personal injuries, property damage, or for the loss of life or property resulting from, or in any way connected with the issuance of this permit.
Hunting/Fishing/Trapping Permission
Valid From Date(s)
_4_/_1_/_2013_ to _2_/_28_/_2014_
__________________________________
Sportsperson’s Signature Today’s Date
__________________________________
Landowner or Agent’s Signature
Ohio Revised Code 1533.181: Exemption from liability to recreational users:
(A) No owner, or lessee, or occupant of premises:
(1) Owes any duty to a recreational user to keep the premises safe for entry or use;
(2) Extends any assurance to a recreational user, through the act of giving permission, that the premises are safe for entry or use;
(3) Assumes responsibility for or incurs liability for any injury to person or property caused by any act of a recreational user.
Conditions
1. To respect the rights of the property owner.
2. To be careful in the handling of firearms.
3. Not to damage fences, buildings, or other property.
4. Not to litter the area or dump any rubbish
5. To obey all hunting laws and regulations as set forth by the Ohio Division of Wildlife.
6. This free permit is only valid on the lands of the issuing landowners and only for the days specified.
7. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________.
Brochure: