Hunter Safety & Ethics

Always remember, the most successful hunt is a safe and ethical hunt.

Always remember, the most successful hunt is a safe and ethical hunt.

Hunter Safety

Pheasant hunting is a fun activity, but a very serious level of responsibility comes with taking to the field. Pheasant hunting, like most forms of hunting, is not inherently dangerous. But it can become dangerous - or worse - when firearm safety guidelines are compromised. That's why it's important for all hunters to go through a Firearm Safety and/or Hunter's Education course, no matter how old you are or if your state requires it. While pheasants are a great gamebird, our want to harvest a bird should never put into question firearm safety. Remember, there's no amount of apologizing that can make things right after a gun accident.

For even seasoned hunters, it's important to refresh the basics of gun safety before each hunting season:

  1. Treat every gun as if it were loaded
  2. Always keep your muzzle pointed in a safe direction
  3. Know your target and beyond
  4. Pheasants Forever also reminds pheasant hunters to always wear hunter orange and be especially cautious when using blockers at the end of fields.

Hunter Ethics

Equally as important as following firearm safety is being an ethical hunter. Though it differs for each and every one of us, all hunters that take to the field have a personal code of ethics. Sometimes hunters are faced with situations that may be well within the hunting regulations but may push the boundaries of ethical hunting. Remember, the actions of one hunter can affect how non-hunters perceive all hunters. Follow Pheasants Forever's Code, and consult Jim Posewitz' timeless Beyond Fair Chase, and you'll be well on your way to becoming a safe and ethical hunter and part of a time-honored tradition.

Pheasants Forever's Code

As a member of Pheasants Forever, I believe in conserving wildlife and protecting the environment. I promise to leave the outdoors a little better than I found it. I will hunt safely and treat hunting on public and private land as a privilege. I will always ask permission before hunting private land.