First Hunt How-To
Passionate about hunter recruitment but not sure where to begin? Here are a few ideas to get you started!
Below you’ll find informational videos and downloadable how-to guides designed to help you plan, promote, and host successful First Hunt events.
Partner With Your Local Hunter-Ed Instructor
Studies show that about one-third of all hunter education graduates haven’t purchased a hunting license within seven years of completing the course. Of those who do, fewer than half are hunting after six years. Turning this tide could be as simple as an invitation and mentoring from your Delta chapter.
Host a Women-Only First Hunt Event
Women continue to be a fast-growing hunting demographic, and waterfowling is no exception. When it comes to picking up a new activity, some women are most comfortable learning alongside other women, making a Women's First Hunt event a great option for your chapter.
Find Non-Hunters at Your Local Gun/Trap Club
Getting started can feel intimidating, expensive, and confusing, especially for people without friends and family who hunt. Trap and gun clubs can be an excellent source of new hunters. Many trap club members are very comfortable with guns (and already own a gun), but haven't hunted.
Take a Family on Their First Hunt
Mentoring a whole family at the same time is a highly effective and enjoyable way to introduce newcomers to waterfowl hunting. Families who learn together are more likely to continue hunting on their own than an individual who doesn’t have that support to fall back on, and you're helping create a bond that can pass through generations.
Stay Up To Date With Delta Waterfowl
Delta Waterfowl Duck Hunters Expo Starts Friday — You Won’t Want to Miss It!
7/21/2026
Duck hunters from across North America are migrating to Des Moines, Iowa, to celebrate three days of all things waterfowl
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Delta Waterfowl Expo to Showcase Decoy Carving and Painting Demonstrations
7/20/2026
Master carvers Pat Gregory and Joshua Brewer will share their craft in the Waterfowl Hunting Heritage Booth
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Illinois Delta Waterfowl Chapter Optimizes Local Lands for Waterfowl
7/16/2026
The Kankakee River Valley Chapter has a long-standing Hen House program and invests in its local Fish and Wildlife Area
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