What Are Hunting Leases?

A detailed explanation of modern hunting leases.

What are hunting leases? Are you a landowner who has no clue what a hunting lease is? Did you know that it’s even possible to lease out the hunting rights to your land? Do you still believe the long-held myth that hunting is dangerous? Or do you recognize that it is actually one of the safer outdoor activities?

Think no one is already hunting your land, but without permission? Think again. Oftentimes, landowners who don’t allow lawful hunting commonly fall victim to unlawful hunting, such as trespassing and poaching.

In short, there’s a high likelihood that trespassers already hunt “un-hunted” property, but landowners don’t know it. Nor do they recognize the liability trespassers bring. With lawful and insured lease hunters, it’s like a second set of eyes protecting the property, and a much lower risk of liability.

Here is a detailed explanation of modern hunting leases. Plus, reasons to consider leasing your hunting land to hunters through Base Camp Leasing.

Myths About Hunting Leases

Some believe hunting isn’t safe. That’s false, because hunting is not inherently dangerous. Some think not allowing hunting means no one hunts the land. That’s also false, because trespassing and poaching are much more likely. Is leasing too complicated to move forward with? While it can be difficult, Base Camp Leasing removes all hassle from the process. The list of myths goes on, but most negative thoughts about hunting and leasing are merely misconceptions.

Hunting Leases Defined

A hunting lease is a contractual agreement between landowner and hunter. The landowner (lessor) and hunter (lessee) both sign a document that solidifies and regulates the hunting lease relationship. This also provides legal protections for both the landowner(s) and hunter(s). Once signed, the hunter then accesses the property per the outlined agreement. This might be deer hunting, turkey hunting, predator hunting, waterfowl hunting, and/or any legal game.

A Lack of Legal Hunters Equates Trespassing

As previously noted (twice), a lack of legal hunters often equates to trespassing. Having no lawful hunters on the parcel increases the risk of trespassing and poaching. When known legal hunters are on the property, this reduces the opportunity for individuals who don’t have permission to sneak onto the premises. But lease hunters are on the land, which provides another set of eyes. They also tend to outfit the area with SD and cellular cameras, which helps monitor your land for potential issues.

Leasing Brings Additional Protections (Not Liabilities)

Trespassers pose a liability concern. Lease hunters do not, as they are covered by the $5 million insurance policy. Hunters are in the field, and use cameras, to monitor the deer activity. That said, these double as security cams as well. Good lessees notify landowners when they see problems (trespassing or otherwise).

Better Habitat Management

Most landowners ignore the habitat on their lands. In contrast, hunters are hyper-focused on improving the landscape. Generally, they do this by planting food plots. Of course, if you as a landowner are uncomfortable with any food plot or habitat work, merely detail that in the hunting lease agreement. That said, for those open to hunters assisting with habitat management, they’ll oftentimes do so.

Better Wildlife Population Management

Likewise, hunters prioritize better wildlife population management. They benefit from a healthy deer population, and therefore, landowners do, too. Most hunters feel invested in managing this process. It’s part of their identity. They take pride in identifying as wildlife managers. So, when you lease to hunters, they also help out with managing wildlife populations.

Extra Help on the Property

Hunters aren’t contractually required to help out around the farm. After all, they’re paying for the access. That said, some lessors and lessees develop stronger relationships. Again, don’t expect a lot of help. However, lessees sometimes assist with maintaining fields, clearing trails, and more.

Leasing Done the Right Way

Those who decide to lease their land to hunters should do it in the proper manner. Work with an experienced brokerage, like Base Camp Leasing, to improve the process. As an experienced brokerage, it handles things more effectively and professionally. That includes a proper lease agreement, regulated lease execution, abundant liability coverage, and much more.

Enjoy Passive Income

Lastly, enjoy passive income with your leased land. Hunters are sure to enjoy your property for years to come. All the while, you receive the funds, and the peripheral benefits that come with having hunters lease your land. Once you understand the general concept of hunting leases, all that’s left is contacting Base Camp Leasing and allowing them to handle the entire process.