Sharing hunting with others.

I am posting here today as a hunter, a mentor, and a woman passionate about shaping the future of the hunting community. But most importantly, I am here as someone who believes in the power of sharing this transformative experience with others—especially women.

For too long, hunting has been viewed through a narrow lens. It’s often seen as an activity dominated by men, passed down through family traditions. But that doesn’t reflect the reality of hunting today. Women are the fastest-growing segment of hunters in the U.S., and our presence is reshaping what it means to be a hunter.

For me, hunting is deeply personal. It’s about self-reliance, conservation, and connection. But I didn’t get here alone. I had mentors—people who taught me, encouraged me, and shared their time and knowledge. I was lucky enough to have a supportive husband and a father who was a world-class hunter and marksman. I have been blessed. And now, I’ve made it my mission to pay it forward by mentoring others, particularly women who may not have grown up with access to this incredible lifestyle.

You see, mentoring isn’t just about teaching someone how to hunt. It’s about unlocking a new world for them—helping them see the beauty of a sunrise on a frosty morning, the thrill of a successful hunt, and the satisfaction of knowing they’ve sourced food ethically and sustainably. It’s also about helping them connect with something larger: the responsibility we share as hunters to conserve wildlife and protect habitats for generations to come.

But let’s be honest, entering the world of hunting as a woman can be intimidating. Many women face barriers like lack of access to mentors, gear, or even just the confidence to take that first step. That’s why mentorship is so important. It’s not just about skills; it’s about creating a welcoming space where women feel supported and empowered to try something new.

I’ll never forget taking a group of first-time women hunters out for a weekend hunt. They were nervous, excited, and eager to learn. By the end of the trip, they weren’t just hunters—they were confident, capable women who had discovered a new passion and a new way to connect with the outdoors.

Mentoring also creates ripple effects. When you teach someone to hunt, they bring others into the fold. They share their story, their excitement, and their knowledge, and suddenly, you’re not just mentoring one person, you’re helping grow an entire community.

Women making a difference.

And here’s where women truly shine. We’re natural networkers and connectors. When we find something we’re passionate about, we bring others along with us. This is how we’ll change the narrative of hunting—not just as a sport or tradition but as a welcoming, inclusive community where everyone has a role to play.

But mentorship isn’t just about growing numbers; it’s about ensuring the future of hunting. As hunters, we are stewards of wildlife and wild places. The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation has proven that sustainable hunting is essential to preserving our ecosystems. And as more women join our ranks, we bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the table, strengthening our role as conservationists.

So, what can we do to continue this momentum? I challenge each of you to step up and mentor someone this year. Take a woman who’s never hunted before to the range or into the field. Share your gear, your knowledge, and your time. Create opportunities for women to learn, grow, and succeed.  As a mentor it is not my job to tell them what to do; it is my job to show them what they are capable of doing. If I share my own experiences with others then they can see themselves in me.

If you’re part of a hunting group or community, make inclusion a priority. Host events specifically for women. Speak at local clubs or schools about conservation and the role of hunters in protecting wildlife. Use your voice to advocate for mentorship and inclusivity.

If I invite someone into the outdoors who doesn’t look like me, I might find they challenge my assumptions and make me grow as a person. If we can see hunting differently, maybe someone else can too. If we see hunting differently, hunting won’t change, we do.

Share your adventure.

And finally, share your stories. Use social media, blogs, and local platforms to highlight the experiences and successes of new hunters. Representation matters. When women see other women hunting, they realize it’s something they can do, too.

Together, we can create a future where hunting isn’t just a tradition, it’s a vibrant, inclusive community that welcomes everyone. We can pass on the skills, the values, and the love of the outdoors that have shaped us. And in doing so, we can leave a legacy that extends far beyond ourselves.