By: Lara Herboldsheimer

Just as outstanding lessees display significant characteristics, the same is true for landowners. Those who aspire to be effective lessors must also meet essential criteria. Neglecting these can lead to dissatisfied hunters who miss out on what they rightfully deserve as lessees. Here’s what defines a commendable landowner for their lessees.

Understanding Rights

Every lessor ought to be aware of their rights. Being informed about these rights aids in comprehending what you are entitled to, what the hunter is entitled to, and how to ensure that all parties benefit from the leasing agreement. Familiarizing oneself with state hunting regulations, contract specifics, and more forms the basis of a positive experience.

Offering Competitive Pricing

An effective lessor offers a competitive price to lessees. Landowners can seek professional services and assessments through companies like Base Camp Leasing to eliminate the uncertainty involved in pricing your property for hunting leases. If you choose not to use a professional service lessors, should do the research to see what typical hunting leases are going for per acre dependent on the features their property has to offer.

Effective Communication

It's essential to communicate well with your hunter. This ensures that both parties stay informed. The landowner should inform the hunter about any ongoing work or potential disruptions on the property. Conversely, the hunter should keep the landowner updated on significant hunting dates, which will help identify when certain interruptions might be particularly inconvenient. Naturally, it's important to maintain open communication about other matters as well.

Respectful Interactions

Every interaction between hunters and landowners should be grounded in respect. When effective lessors treat hunters with kindness, they are likely to reciprocate. Ensure that all conversations and communications remain appropriate and civil. Even in challenging situations, it's crucial not to let emotions lead to negative reactions. If needed, choose to take the high road.

First Right of Refusal

A considerate landowner grants hunters the first right of refusal. This means that as the lessor, they allow the current lessee the first opportunity to renew the lease each year. Since these hunters have invested time in hunting and possibly enhancing the area, they deserve the first chance to re-lease. If they decide against it, the property can then be offered to other hunters. This approach is what Base Camp Leasing follows, as detailed in the contract.

Long-Term Property Access

Most hunters prefer not to lease for just one year. They typically seek long-term access. While lease agreements are often structured for a single year, approaching this with the intention of leasing for multiple years is advisable. This mindset allows hunters to lease the property for consecutive years, gain familiarity with it, and ultimately achieve greater success. Effective lessors can help keep hunters coming back year after year.

Following the Lease Agreement and Agreed-Upon Stipulations

Many contracts share similar guidelines. For instance, leasing to a hunter implies that neither you nor anyone else not specified in the lease agreement will hunt on the property. However, in certain cases, additional clauses and stipulations may be added.

Being Open to Hunting and Land Management Practices

Landowners ought to be receptive to hunting and land management practices. If these activities do not disrupt agricultural operations, harm the landscape, or interfere with your use of the property, you might want to consider permitting hunting and land management practices. This not only enhances the hunter’s experience but also boosts the chances of re-leasing and can even elevate the property’s value.

Respecting the Hunter’s Wishes

Lessees possess rights as well. As long as their needs align with hunting regulations, ethical standards, and the specifics of the lease agreement, it is crucial to honor the preferences of hunters. This fosters a better relationship between the landowner and the hunter.

Effective lessors that have a solid interest in building great relationships with their lessee's will continue to have success in leasing their land and earning passive income.

Avoiding Interruptions from Hunters

Be aware of when hunters are present or likely to be on your property. Get to know the important dates of the hunting season. Communicate with the hunters to find out when they will be on-site. Then, strive to avoid disrupting their hunting activities. No hunter appreciates interruptions while they are in the field.

Proactive Maintenance of the Property

Is there a bridge that crosses a creek on the property? If so, ensure it is well-maintained. Is there a stream crossing that sometimes washes out? If so, make sure it remains accessible. Are there trees that occasionally fall across roads and trails? Keep these cleared away from the paths. These are just a few examples of proactive property maintenance. Such efforts are crucial for hunters to navigate the property effectively.

Monitoring the Property

Finally, keep a vigilant watch over the property. Effective lessors will prevent unauthorized access for hunting and stay alert to anything that might disturb hunters. Reducing potential problems will help ensure that hunters have the best possible experience on your land.

Frequently asked questions