“Pick your predator hunting friends wisely.”

That sage advice sounds simple, but if you don’t pick your next predator-hunting partner with ample consideration you may kick yourself for the chaos to follow. Predator hunting is unlike many hunting activities.

Generally, there’s lots of driving involved. You’re accessing rough country. You’ll need to share skinning chores. There will be disagreements, guaranteed.

So what could possibly result if you haphazardly land a new hunting partner besides discovering they don’t own a hunting truck or have any predator hunting calls?  Read on. Many of these actually happened to me and my friends.

Splitting Costs

I don’t mind hunting by myself at all, but I believe a top consideration when you land a hunting partner is to share costs. Fuel is at the top of the list. Sure the current price is down, but do you really expect that to last until next season? In addition to fuel there’s the cost of food, specialized gear and even motel rooms for extended trips. Make sure your new partner is not a tightwad before allowing them into the inner circle. Did they offer to pay for a sit-down dinner or make you order from the McDonald’s dollar menu?

Commitment to Hunting

Are they willing to predator hunt as much as you do? If not, your part of the cost sharing of expenses will fall solely on your shoulders. I have one friend that is always eager to plan a hunt, but fails to execute it when it comes time to leave. More than once I have received a message the night before or even early in the morning that something has come up. Really? Come on! 

Commitment to Hunting Shape

If you predator hunt rugged country or in an environment that is physically demanding, you have to pre-judge your predator hunting partner. Are they flunking the President’s Council on fitness, sports and nutrition or passing it with flying colors? On several occasions I’ve taken partners to some of my more remote locations only to have them complain later about it being too far from the road. That’s a major red flag for me. 

Are They a Blabbermouth?

Be clear right up front. In no way, shape or form do you want any of your predator hunting locations shared with others. I’ve divorced more hunting partners over the years from this simple rule. Why? It takes years to find great hunting locations, especially on public land. You should expect those to be a secret between you and your hunting partner, not the coffee club down at the local donut shop.   

Matching Ethics

Some predator hunters may seem like outstanding citizens, but change when a situation arises with questionable ethics. If that situation arises it’s best to end the predator hunting partnership immediately.

Choosing a predator hunting partner may not be as vital as choosing the right life partner, but it can come close. Take your time before you commit to a lifetime of hunting.