Completely new to hunting (Geese). Where do I start?

[MrPeter]

I need some advice. I've been looking around online for guides to getting started hunting, to no avail, so I thought I would ask here.

I have never hunted anything in my life, although I am a somewhat experienced shooter. I have a Mossberg 500 12ga with a 28" vent-rib barrel and a fixed Improved-modified choke. I don't own any camo clothing or any other hunting apparel/equipment. I don't know the first thing about hunting, and to top it off I don't know anyone who does.

I would like to hunt geese. Can anyone tell me what I should to get on the right track to bringing some home this winter or possibly sooner? Is there a guide I should get, or some equipment I should stock up on? Can you hunt geese once or twice without making a large financial investment? Is it possible to bag a few geese without much experience or do I need a mentor to follow? Are decoys and calls a must-have?

I apologise in advance for my clueless question. It seems like there aren't any threads on this forum for beginners

 

[halvey]

Goose hunting is easy. Don't buy anything yet. Find a guide, or a "guy" who takes people out, then ask what you should buy. He may have everything you need.

Check out the local sportsmans clubs or the gunshops that have more shotguns than pistols around. Also, check the bait shops. Lots of fisherman hunt waiting for the ice to freeze to start their winter fishing.

 

[Art Eatman]

Second the "don't buy anything" idea. Aw, dull earthtoned clothing from Goodwill, maybe.

Browse through the websites of such as Sports Afield, Field&Stream and Outdoor Life. They regularly have articles about different types of hunting and fishing.

And I'm sure some experienced goosers will show up here.

Art

 

[eliphalet]

Check out the local sportsmans clubs or the gunshops that have more shotguns than pistols around. Also, check the bait shops. Lots of fisherman hunt waiting for the ice to freeze to start their winter fishing.

I second this and know your not going to have much if any ice in your part SW Wa. Talk to local guys about geese and you have elk just a few miles east of you too.

 

[MrPeter]

So I should hire someone who takes people out to hunt? Or should I just talk to them for advice?

 

[eliphalet]

I would say that depends on your financial situation, if you can afford it, it's nice to have a guide with all the know how etc. If not ask at the locals all you can, and go from there. That isn't as productive as fast maybe, but in some ways is more rewarding if done on your own. If you can find some local folks to go with it's a double win as you learn and make friends too.
Last summer when working in Astoria Or. the only chance I had to catch sturgeon was to hire a guide with a boat. I would always rather do things on my own but that isn't always possible. Ask lots of questions you have months to decide on what and where.