As good as my new book, Backyard Deer Hunting: Converting deer to dinner for pennies per pound,  may be nothing is better than a new hunter being taken out for the first few trips by someone he already knows. In this economy almost every hunter will know some friend, relative or former co-worker who is out of work. Many of these people, for perhaps the first time in their lives, have time to hunt and see America’s abundant game as potential food for their families.

The smile on Paul Presley's face as he shows off his first duck tells it all.

Sure, they can purchase my book and learn from it, but the increased confidence gained by being personally escorted into the woods, put on stand and “looked after” cannot be gained by  reading a book. The “Friend” program is to encourage existing hunting and shooting organizations to mentor these new hunters. If a club does not have a present program they may adopt the “Friend. Take a Friend Hunting” name and approach at no charge.

If they send me  information on what their program is, where it is located and the services they offer, I will ultimately post it on a separate site that is organized by state. It makes no difference what organization your club is affiliated with. This will be a free, universal posting service. What is required is that the club have members who can, and will, take new hunters into the field with them; rather than only be a listing of shooting clubs from around the nation.

The advantages of this approach will be that we will have safe, well-taught hunters in the field with us, local clubs will be able to gather new (and largely younger) members and these new members will be ardent supporters of hunting and the club because you were able to help them during a time of real need.

Friends, do good.  In these troubled times, take a friend hunting. Everyone will benefit.

Initial postings have been placed on a new blog http://takeafriendhunting.wordpress.com.