The northern states of the United States are famous for the richness and diversity of their nature. In these places, you can enjoy beautiful landscapes, observe rare representatives of flora and fauna, and hunt animals specified by law using weapon sights. The last activity is especially popular with locals and people who come for their next trophy.
The culture of hunting in the USA
Thermal weapon sights, night vision goggles, and other modern devices are part of contemporary hunting culture in the US. However, at the beginning of its journey, this occupation was completely different and was an integral part of the life of every American.
The beginning of the whole culture of hunting was laid by the Indian tribes, who obtained their livelihood with the help of a bow and other homemade weapons. They killed animals they used for a variety of purposes. The meat was used for food, clothes were sewn from the skin, and weapons and tools were made from the bones. Also, the indigenous people of America treated every living creature with respect and killed them only in case of emergency (for example, when there was a shortage of food).
Part of the hunting culture, laid down by the indigenous people of America, was partially forgotten after the advent of democracy. In the early years of this system, only a select few were allowed to hunt local games. This was because the system of government provided for his possession of everything from land to animals. In the future, the situation changed, and natural resources became common property.
In the early years, the United States had unlimited natural resources. There were so many animals here that they were enough for all hunters. Such abundance gradually changed the hunting culture and began to turn it into entertainment and not a way to get food. A few decades later, people began to use specially bred breeds of dogs during hunting. They diversified the whole process and opened up new horizons for hunting lovers.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, hunting became even more ingrained in American culture. Gradually, small and large companies began to appear that made equipment, clothing, special weapons, and other items for hunting. They began to introduce a lot of new things into the hunting culture of America. One part of this has been lost to uselessness, while another has become a must for any hunter (like camouflage clothing). Today, hunting has evolved from a hobby into a way of life for many Americans. For them, they began to create special television programs, films, and training courses with which you can improve and gain new knowledge. In the future, hunting in the United States will remain as popular as it is now, and no activity can discourage Americans from loving this hobby.
Animals to hunt in the North
The northern United States is home to dozens of animal species. Most of them are allowed to be hunted legally. Such an occupation enables you to get the desired trophy and control the population of certain species to maintain the natural balance. In most cases in the North, you can shoot several animals in one trip. However, almost all hunters prefer to focus on a particular species and plan their weapons, equipment, and tactics. At the same time, it is imperative to remember the prohibitions that apply to the shooting of certain animals. Each northern state has its own, so you need to study hunting legislation in advance before traveling.
The most popular animals among hunting enthusiasts:
1. Bison. This large artiodactyl animal lives mainly in Alaska. Hunting for it is allowed only with special permission or if it is necessary to capture a specific individual. Paid hunting is also possible in places where people breed bison specifically.
2. Grizzly. The most famous representative of the fauna of the North of the United States is a desirable trophy for any hunter. It has several characteristic features that make it different from other types of bears. Grizzly hunting is considered a popular pastime. It is allowed with the use of certain types of weapons. There are also restrictions on the months and gender of the animal (it is forbidden to kill females bearing or caring for cubs).
3. Black bear. This mammal is distributed throughout the northern United States. It adapts well to the conditions of any terrain and actively breeds. To control the population of the black bear, hunting is allowed almost everywhere. The only limitation is hibernation, into which all individuals fall.
4. Wolf. This famous predator is a hunter himself. It kills many species of artiodactyl animals, thereby controlling their population. There are a lot of wolves in the North of the USA. Often they are a direct threat to farmers, which is why their shooting is allowed almost all year round. At the same time, hunters need to know that wolves are brilliant and cautious animals, which will be challenging to find. You should also remember the sense of smell of a predator, because of which you will have to shoot from a very long distance.
5. Caribou. This artiodactyl animal is a nomad that crosses the entire North of the United States. Caribou live in small herds that constantly move in search of food. Hunting for them is allowed only in the autumn period of the year. Therefore it is strictly forbidden to shoot caribou in summer, winter, or spring.
6. Elk. There are many varieties of this mammal. Some of them are found in the northern states of America. Moose hunting is not allowed everywhere. To have a chance to get such a trophy, you must first obtain permission to shoot this animal. Also, the hunter needs to find a herd of moose, which moves quickly and can move to the territory of another state in a day.
7. Musk ox. These unusual animals live exclusively in the cold regions of the country. Relatively recently, they were on the verge of extinction, so hunting for them was prohibited. In our time, the situation has improved, and hunting for musk oxen has become available to everyone. At the same time, the number of animals allowed for shooting is strictly regulated. Because of this, hunters are issued special permits, without which hunting musk oxen is prohibited.
8. Birds. There are a lot of different birds in the North of the USA. Partridges, cranes, geese, and ducks are among the most famous hunters. Each species is available all year round except during the breeding season.
Advice for hunters of the Northern states
Hunting in the Northern states is exciting but challenging. To make it perfect, you need to carefully prepare and consider many important points regarding the choice of weapons, equipment, hunting grounds, and other things.
Tips for beginners and professional hunters:
1. Northern hunting grounds are full of unpleasant surprises. Therefore, before you go to a particular area, you need to carefully study it, ask the locals about the dangers, and read the recommendations of experienced hunters. Only in this case will it be possible to avoid trouble and get the maximum pleasure from the process of tracking down the game.
2. In the North of the USA, the weather is always very changeable. Because of this, every hunter needs to consider choosing clothes and shoes carefully. Dress only for the season. You also need to take things with you that can warm you in case of a cold snap. Shoes should be chosen according to the weather. A pair with a non-slip sole, an insulated inner part, and a top protected from moisture will be optimal.
3. Before going hunting, you need to carefully study the hunting laws in force in a particular region. You also need to obtain all relevant permits that allow you to shoot at animals of a specific type freely.
4. In the northern states of the USA, there are restrictions on using certain types of weapons. Therefore, before you go on a trip, you need to study this aspect carefully. Otherwise, you can get permission to hunt, but do not go hunting because of the lack of a legal gun, rifle, or carbine.
5. Sevres hunting grounds in the USA are almost always remote from populated areas. Because of this feature, it is essential to take all the necessary equipment with you. It should include a first aid kit with medicines that allow you to provide first aid, food, water supplies, and some valuable items (for example, a flashlight, a knife, a compass, communication equipment, matches, and more).
6. When hunting in the North of the USA, you need to pay special attention to your safety. This is due to the large number of predators that live in almost all places suitable for hunting. Ideally, you need to go on a trip in a group of 3-5 people. So you will feel safe and can always rely on your comrades.
The states located in the northern part of the country attract the attention of nature lovers, scientists, anglers, and hunters. For the latter, there is everything you need to have a great time and forget about the city noise for a few hours. If you properly prepare for the trip and take all the essential nuances of the process, you can get unforgettable emotions and return home with a good trophy.