What to Look for in a Hunting Property
Ethan Stubbs
Iowa Land Specialist
Perhaps one of the most exciting moments in an outdoorsman’s life is the decision to purchase their first property. This milestone, while exhilarating, is also a significant undertaking—one that’s often backed by years of hard work and hard-earned money. While land is undoubtedly a proven investment, it’s critical to do your homework to ensure your goals and aspirations align with the property you choose. Below, we’ve outlined a few key factors to consider when purchasing a hunting property:
1. Location, Location, Location
As the saying goes, the three most important factors in real estate are location, location, and location. Having a solid understanding of the neighborhood you’re buying into is essential for achieving your land goals. The people who own the neighboring properties can significantly influence your experience—like-minded neighbors can often become lifelong friends and allies in conservation or hunting strategies.
At High Point Land Company, we frequently hear clients say, “I’m looking for a hunting farm in the Midwest—what do you have?” While we value this communication, it’s vital to get specific about your goals to refine your search. Begin by asking yourself two foundational questions:
- How far am I willing to travel to the property?
- What is my budget?
Once you’ve answered these, take it a step further. Identify the specific county—or even better, the township—you’d prefer. This level of specificity allows your land agent to narrow the search from thousands of properties to just a few that align perfectly with your vision.
2. Access
Access is one of the most critical components of any hunting property. Consider how you’ll approach and leave the property—will you be able to enter with the predominant wind in your favor, or will your presence alert the wildlife before you even step into the woods? Ideally, the property should have multiple access points to accommodate different wind directions and hunting strategies.
If that’s not possible, I recommend focusing on properties with access on the southeast side. This setup allows you to slip in and out undetected, especially during the hunting season when deer are most alert. Proper access can make the difference between an unforgettable hunt and a season of frustration.
3. Composition of the Farm
One of the most rewarding aspects of land ownership is the ability to shape the habitat to enhance wildlife activity. Many successful hunting farms feature a 60/40 ratio of open ground to timber. Open ground—whether it’s CRP fields, row crops, alfalfa, or food plots—not only provides food and habitat for wildlife but also ensures a better return on investment when it comes time to sell.
Timber, on the other hand, is where mature whitetails typically spend most of their time. A farm with 40% timber provides multiple bedding areas and opportunities for habitat improvement through techniques like Timber Stand Improvement (TSI) or selective clear-cutting. These practices create natural edges, increase browse, and enhance the property’s carrying capacity. Strategically manipulating these elements can result in a property that consistently produces trophy-class bucks.
Conclusion
Buying your first hunting property is an exciting journey and a meaningful investment. By prioritizing location, ensuring proper access, and understanding the farm’s composition, you’ll set yourself up for success and enjoyment for years to come. Remember, the right property is one that meets your hunting aspirations, aligns with your lifestyle, and provides both emotional and financial rewards.
At High Point Land Company, we specialize in helping outdoorsmen and women navigate this process with confidence. Reach out to our team today to discuss your goals, and let us help you find the perfect piece of ground to call your own.
Do you want to learn more?
Get expert guidance on finding the perfect hunting property and reach out to a local High Point Land Company agent to start. For more questions regarding hunting property, visit our YouTube Knowledge Center.
Growing up in Northeast Iowa, Ethan grew a passion for chasing whitetail deer and wild turkeys at a young age. Deciding to turn this passion into a career, Ethan traveled all over the world capturing hunts with a camera. Fast forward to today, Ethan has continued his passion outdoors and will continue to work in the outdoor space selling farms in Iowa. If you are interested in selling your farmland, call Ethan at (608) 306-1788 or email him at ethan@highpointlandcompany.com