Whether you inherited or purchased a large property, it can be a challenge to keep up with the property taxes and maintaining it if you’re not earning anything from it. This is where land leasing comes in- landowners can make money from their property without selling it outright. Many landowners are realizing the value of leasing hunting rights on their land for an additional income stream and property security.
How do hunting leases work?
A hunting lease is a legally binding agreement between a landowner and a hunter or group of hunters that allows them to access the property for hunting purposes for a defined period of time. The lease typically specifies the terms of use, such as what type of game can be hunted, when and how long the lease is valid, and any specific rules or regulations set by the landowner.
What makes land good for hunting leases?
The three factors that make land 'good' for hunting are food, water, and cover. Many hunters are interested in leasing land with a good mix of these three elements, so it's important for landowners to consider these factors when determining the potential for their property as a hunting lease. Landowners can plant different plants to attract wildlife, install man-made water sources, or plant trees if one of those elements is missing. Other factors that can contribute to the quality of a hunting lease include access to the property and its proximity to urban areas or popular hunting destinations.
What are the benefits of leasing land for hunting?
Leasing your land for hunting as a landowner offers numerous benefits, including additional income, caretaker support, and enhanced surveillance. One of the most compelling advantages of hunting leases is the potential to generate revenue through your property, which can help cover property taxes or fund property improvements.
Furthermore, leasing land for hunting can also provide the advantage of having lessees who are willing to perform various tasks around the property in exchange for a reduced payment. These tasks may involve maintaining the landscape, clearing trails, removing fallen trees, and overall property upkeep. Consequently, a hunting lease can alleviate some of the landowner's responsibilities in caring for their land.
How are landowners paid for hunting leases?
Hunters have several potential options for payment when it comes to leasing hunting land. They can choose to pay on a per-acre basis, per-season fee, or per-hunt situation. Typically, the cost of a hunting lease ranges between $10 and $50 per acre. The price is influenced by various factors, such as the quality of game available, exclusivity of the property, proximity to town (usually closer means higher cost), amenities provided (such as tree stands, buildings, water, and power access), the size of the leased land (more acreage generally means lower cost per acre), and the overall management and improvements of the property.
It is possible for landowners to make money from their property through other methods while simultaneously leasing it for hunting. For example, you may be able to participate in conservation easements or sell carbon credits from your property in addition to leasing it for hunting purposes! Learn about your land's estimated value for carbon credits in our free property report:
How can I increase the value of my property for hunting?
Improve Access: By creating or maintaining access roads and trails, you can make it easier for hunters to reach different areas of your property. This accessibility can increase the overall appeal of your land for hunting leases.
Manage Wildlife: Implementing wildlife management practices on your property, such as food plots and timber harvesting, can attract a variety of game animals and improve their overall health.
Land Improvements: Planting new food sources on your property to attract local wildlife or adding new water sources can increase the appeal of your property for a hunting lease.
How can I lease land for hunting?
Landowners can lease their land for hunting by creating listings on online marketplaces, such as LandGate. The more eyes you can get on your property, the better! Landowners can also consider working with a local land broker to help with setting a fair asking price and with additional marketing of the property for lease. Learn about your property in LandGate's free property report and create an (optional) listing today:
