Hunting in Vermont - Melissa Jewel

Deer hunting is a big deal to many young Vermonters. It means getting up early, getting ready and hopefully getting a big buck. A lot of high school students, both male and female, take on the challenge of hunting deer in November. “I love venison jerky and I look forward to hunting every year and going to deer camp”, says Ken Ryan. Some people spend countless hours in the woods on weekends tracking and looking for that big buck.

Some hunters go to great lengths to hide their smell and camouflage their looks. To lure in a big deer, buck lures and camouflaged clothing are necessities used by many serious deer hunters. One can expect to spend close to a hundred dollars each year on hunting supplies including clothes, ammunition and a variety of other provisions. Vermont’s economy benefits a great deal from the money spent on hunting.

For two weeks every year in November, camouflaged hikers can be seen on the back roads and the scent of grilled venison lingers in the air as people drive by. “I like being outside and walking through the woods, but not with my brother; only with people that are quiet”, says Jake Johnson. A lot of people start hunting at a very young age and continue to hunt throughout their lives. Most people like hunting for the chance to be outside, but there are many other reasons to enjoy hunting in Vermont. The biggest challenge is having patience while out in the woods, but in the end, it’s all worth it.