First time small and large game hunter

[Clackamas Jack]

Hello,

Growing up I hunted birds often in Oregon. I used to go Grouse, Quail, Pheasant and Chukar hunting. I never had the chance to hunt small or large game at all. I had one chance in the Army when I stationed at Fort Hood to hunt deer but sadly we didn't see anything. Now in my late 20's and settling in Oklahoma I am really wanting to hunt. I would love to hunt small game like rabbits and squirrel very soon and this upcoming fall I would love to hunt deer. I also really really want to hunt hogs as well. Where would be the best place to get started that won't break the bank, but is open to a teaching newbie? I have all the firearms needed anything in North America ranging from 22lr to 45-70 and of course shotguns so that isn't an issue.

 

[Clackamas Jack]

I think I would enjoy varmint and predator hunting as well.

 

[retrieverman]

Fortunate for you, Oklahoma has a decent amount of public land, so my suggestion is to check the ODWC website and start looking into public places close to you and their specific regulations.
Best of luck to you!

 

[saddlebum]

I have killed a bus load of squirrels and a few hogs at Heyburn ,it's just north of Kellyville not far from Tulsa

 

[dennishoddy]

Here is a web page from the Okla Dept of Wildlife.
https://www.wildlifedepartment.com/hunting/wma
With this link, you can find where the public hunting areas are located as well as the new OLAP hunting areas which are private grounds the ODW leases for hunting and fishing. Most of the OLAP are bow and/or shotgun only areas with similar regulations to WMA's like no permanent stands, no baiting, and so on.