Groundhog Hunting advise

   Groundhog hunting can be a great way to sharpen your shooting skills and hunting skills before you hunt deer in the fall. Theirs not really much to hunt in the summer and groundhogs can be hunted in most states during this time. Their an animal that are often seen in fields chewing on the shrubs and grass. They hibernate in the winter so summer can be a good time to hunt them as they come out more. The furry little critters can be quite cautious so hunting them can be quite hard if your out in the open. They will often be seen standing up on their hind legs and looking for possible threats. Many people prefer to hunt them at long range. This can be great shooting practice as you are shooting a real target. Its probably more ideal, however close range can be good to just don't expect to get close if your easily seen.

WHAT ARE SOME GOOD RIFLES TO USE FOR GROUNDHOGS?

Groundhogs do not need to be shot with high caliber rifles, but you can use them if you wish. A 30.06 can be used, but you should use smaller grains for the 30.06. Since the 30.06 is very versatile you can find ammo for smaller types of animals. You will of course have to sight in your rifle again unless you have multiple rifles for use.

The ,22 can be decent for groundhogs, but it can be underpowered a bit. Some people will argue with this though. The reason being is because you may need a "a good placement" shot" to kill it before it makes it to its hole. The .22 is also not good for long range shots so keep this in mind. Its decent if your in range and get a well placed shot such as the head or hit major organs.

As for bigger calibers the .223 is and .243 are good even though they will damage the groundhog more. Depending on if you plan to the groundhog or not make a neck or head shot. These are great rifles for longer range. The .223 might be a bit more ideal when since it involves less damage, but is still strong. The 25.06 is also good, but is pretty strong for groundhog even though you will take them out good. It all depends on whether or not you want to eat them or not.

Anything larger that's a .270 or above is sort of pointless as these are for larger animals and such. They will often cost more money as well and will do lots of damage. Of course this is personal preference so if you really wanted to use a high caliber rifle such as a .308 then you could. It would make a clean kill definitely.

WHERE TO LOOK FOR GROUNDHOGS???

Groundhogs can often be found in fields with a system of holes they come through. They are also in woods that are near water or random places that may be a bit difficult to find. The fields are by far the best areas to hunt them. Some fields may have a lot while others have few. Look for the groundhogs holes unless you have prio knowledge of the area. Keep a lookout as the holes come out like angles. You could walk one direction and not see it cause its angling the other way then another way it would be easy to spot. They may also take refuge near gardens and a lot of people get angered by this.

HUNTING TIPS FOR GROUNDHOGS

If possible hunt them at very far range. This is good practice and the groundhogs will not be aware of your presence from a distance. Shots fired from 200,300,400, and more are common. Use binoculars to scout the fields from a distance and keep and eye out. Some things you should be aware is if a groundhog stands up its usually looking for danger. Sometimes their known to spot people from 100s of yards away. They watch for movement so be in cover if possible. It all depends on the groundhog though. I have seen a groundhog run to its hole by hearing cars 300 yards away. Their hearing and seeing are their main focuses. Its mostly movement that will alert them and full camouflage is not necessarily needed as they can not identify well.

Hunt from the high ground when over watching fields. If possible stay on a hill and over watch the field to spot possible groundhogs. You can also use tree stands at the edges of fields even though their not needed, but are nice. I have actually climbed up a gas well and shot groundhog from it. Not sure if your really allowed to do this so be careful.

If your close enough try whistling to get the groundhog to stand up. You can see a groundhog better when it stands up. Take a breath and squeeze the trigger once they do this. Sometimes they will not stand up if they don't hear you though.

Groundhogs can be a very good way to practice for upcoming deer season and such. Just be sure to check where your shooting and wear a florescent orange hat. Check your state laws, but this is usually what you need. Happy groundhog hunting!