More and more hunters are approaching land owners about leasing their land. The effect of all this is that more landowners are considering leasing because it is an opportunity to create income.

Some of those individuals who approach landowners are outfitters. An outfitter is a person who receives compensation from hunters and provides services to hunters. Outfitter services are defined in the Illinois Digest of Hunting Regulations as: including guide service, equipment, stands, blinds, or transportation to and from the field. Outfitters are required to be licensed and insured.

A landowner may lease their property to a hunter or group of hunters, but as long as they do not provide outfitting services they are not considered an outfitter.

So let's talk about some things a landowner should consider before leasing their property.

· What animal may be hunted?

· How many animals may be taken?

· Are the property boundaries marked?

· Do you want to lease only part of your property? You may try leasing parts of the farm such as a 40-acrs parcel only.

· Where can hunters enter the property?

· How many hunters can use the property?

· What kind of tree stands can be erected? Erecting only portable ones can prevent tree damage.

· Where can 4-wheelers or vehicles be driven? And, what about extreme wet conditions; where should they park?

· How will you deal with trespassing if they cross over onto the neighbor's property without permission?

· Should a liability waiver be used?

· Should a contract be used?

· Have you checked with your insurance company about liability coverage?

· Can the hunters cut trees?

· Are hunters responsible for keeping gates locked and making fence repairs?

· How will you deal with hunters who do not follow game laws? Some hunters are not ethical.

· Are there dangers on the property, like an open well, mean bull, etc.?

These are just a few of the many questions landowners must answer before they lease their property. Be very clear at the beginning of an agreement; it will save problem issues later.

There is nothing worse than signing a lease with one hunter and later finding out you have 20 visitors driving all over your property, leaving ruts and sawing down the best walnut tree to make a shooting lane. Talking with the hunters and writing it down will keep all involved parties responsibilities clear.

Yes, there are income possibilities and there are some great sportsmen looking to find some willing landowners. But, both sides should do their homework before leasing property.

Source: Ed Billingsley

County Extension Director, Williamson County