Search the Community

Hunter numbers seem to be declining every year and the reasons could be many. What can be done to help those who do not get initiated into the hunting fraternity by family or friends? I am sure that there are many who would at least LEARN about hunting and then some of those would actually begin to become hunters and keep the tradition alive. Here's an idea! Dicks SG's, Gander and Cabela's all sell equipment to hunters. They have a vested interest in ensuring that their customer base keeps growing and evolving. And my local Gander store already hosts hunter education workshops/classes. What better way to partner with one or all of these outlets to start a mentoring program? They already have the facilities and equipment what remains is the mentors capability and willingness to teach. The store can do the marketing and maintain a list of mentors. The pairing can be done by being at the hunter education class and a sign up list can be posted at all the sales counters. The store could offer a limited time 10-20% mentor program discount to participants and the mentor. This could be a self sustaining program if managed and promoted properly. I plan to meet with our local store managers to see what they think. I think it will work! It will be a three way win - a win for the store - a win for the participant and a win for the mentor. Can a list of mentors be maintained on this site? It should include, name, location to mentor in and contact information. What do you all think?