Why use a hunting lease?

A hunting lease is simply a contract or agreement between a landowner (lessor) and an individual hunter or a group of sportsmen (lessees). The term "lease" has become to be used quite loosely and is actually a license to hunt on private property, sometimes also referred to as a trespass fee. The purpose of a hunting lease is to grant access to specifically described private property to hunt game (and/or conduct other specialized activities) during certain definitive time periods. Hunting leases vary greatly depending on the goals of the landowner and the objectives of the sportsmen involved.

Hunting Leases are becoming increasingly popular since it has become progressively more difficult to find private property and obtain permission for the right to hunt or trespass. The days when sportsmen could roam the countryside looking for quality land and seeking owner permission to hunt on these farms or woodlots are long gone. Unless the hunter is willing to try their luck on highly competitive public land or has the good fortune to have a connection with a landowner having adequate hunting resources available, a hunting lease is often the only way to be actively involved in a reasonable and safe hunting experience.

Developing a hunting lease enterprise may provide an opportunity to sustain and improve a landowner's natural resource base, increase annual profits from their property and establish rules to achieve a degree of control and comfort about landowner/hunter relations. The concept of a hunting lease has been around for many years and is steadily becoming more acceptable and appreciated by sportsmen and landowners. Although most landowners have allowed hunting and fishing on their properties in the past, the misuse and abuse of those granted privileges along with other shifts in legal and liability issues has changed the overall atmosphere of the traditional hunter/landowner affiliation.

When designed properly, a hunting lease can be a good solution for both hunter and landowner. The hunter has the ongoing potential of access to a secure resource where there is a reasonable opportunity to have a quality hunting experience. Generally the wildlife on the property benefits because of the common goals established between the property owner and sportsmen to maintain habitat and establish management practices to encourage a long-term relationship. A hunting lease gives the landowner control over who has access to the property and how they are to conduct themselves while establishing another revenue stream.

A well written lease not only protects the landowner, but also protects the lessees' rights and privileges as outlined in the agreement. AHLA has developed and time tested a unique lease for the industry that is mutually beneficial for all parties involved.

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