Looking to bowhunt again...

[CMDiesing]

Hi, everyone. First off I am new to the forum and have enjoyed reading others' posts. Recently I have been thinking a lot about getting back into hunting, after a long time of being away from the sport.

Here's my story. I recently turned 30 and I work as a Chef in the Hudson Valley. My passion for local food and agriculture has sparked an interest in self sustainability. Part of my goals to self sustainability included learning to hunt again. I spent many of my early years with my father hunting. After he passed away, I didn't have an opportunity to continue hunting. I am here now to ask you some questions and I would appreciate your help and guidance!

1. I live in an apartment complex now I don't have a place where I can practice shooting. I was wondering if it is legal to practice shooting on any type of public lands? State forest?.... When I was younger, we practiced in the backyard, I'm a little lost now :-) Where can I go?

2. When I went hunting with my father, we always went to land that was owned by friends of his. The biggest road block I've had in getting back into hunting was the idea that I really wouldn't have anywhere to hunt...Questing 2: are there areas/parks in NY which allow hunting?

I spend a lot of time at work and around people, one of the things that attracts me to the sport is the idea of getting away and spending some quiet time alone in the woods. Online research has led me to a number of clubs that have indoor/outdoor ranges but I'm looking for someplace that I can practice on my own, in private.

Thank you again, I look forward to reading your responses and being a part of this forum.

-Chris

[Elmo]

Hudson Valley is a big place. What county are you in?

[sweet old bill]

If you are near the town of Pok or east fishkill they have several good bow clubs in the area. This would be the best for you, join a club. Able to shoot most anytime, will be able to meet guys your own age that will be more than willing to work with you. Maybe even take you out a few times to show you the ropes etc...if you do a seach on 3D archery and put in your zip code it will tell you how far away the clubs are from you and also contact info....

Edited October 7, 2012 by sweet old bill

[crappyice]

There's a place called blue mountain sportsman center near Buchanan that has an archery range and 3D course that you can shoot. Don't know if that's too far tough.

[CMDiesing]

Thanks for the advice everyone,

Im in Dutchess County.

Ill seek out some of my local ranges I guess...

[vincy]

check this link, it will be your friend and best resource as you figure it out. Details places to hunt as you asked.

http://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/hunting.html

as for practicing archery on state land, not sure, would be interesting to know also.