How to become successful in the hunting industry

So I get messaged all the time on “What does it take to make it in the hunting industry??” Well here is my best advice. The first thing you need to remember there are thousands upon thousands of people trying to do the exact same thing you are trying to do. I mean if you are a hunter who wouldn’t love to do it for a living? The truth of the matter is it is extremely extremely hard to get into the industry and make a living. In fact some shows are in huge debt a few years before they even break even. Also some of the people still work full time jobs and do the shows on the side. However with that being said, that doesn’t mean it can’t be done. For someone wanting to get started in the industry my best advice is to start filming your hunts and get some clean shots, quality tasteful video, and high quality photos. You do not need crazy expensive cameras to get good film. I do suggest  getting a camera that is HD . Filming is a lot harder then most people realize tho. With filming you now have to make the shot with your weapon and get the animal in frame on camera. Plus if you have a camera man, you now have double the scent and equipment in the tree. Keep in mind you don’t want all the blood, gore and even profanity involved. It’s just bad taste and can be a deal breaker. Once you have this under your belt approach a few smaller companies to get your feet wet. Chances are if they like what your doing you may get what is called an “Industry Deal” This usually consists of a discount on their products. Think of it this way, most companies don’t want to GIVE you anything. They want to see what you can do first. So take advantage of this and if your passionate and provide positive content it’s much easier to increase your agreement. Remember EVERYONE is calling or emailing these companies claiming to be “The next big thing” and promise all this and that. So of course these companies are going to be hesitant to invest even product in you. Would you just go giving your products or financial backing to just anyone. Absolutely not! So why would they??!! These companies have been burned by so many empty promises it’s not even funny. Your main goal should be to be different and not doing the same thing everyone else is. Set yourself apart. I always suggest start small and grow with a company and prove yourself. I have been at it for several years now and I have found this to work for me. I’m not saying it’s the right way or even the best way, I’m just saying this is what I have done. Always Always Always be honest, hard working, and humble. NEVER EVER over promise and under deliver. DO NOT name drop. Companies don’t care who you know, they want to know what YOU can do to promote their company in a positive manor better than the next guy. Your reputation goes a long way in this industry. Once you get into the industry you will start to see ever one talks to each other for the most part and that’s where your reputation is important. A tarnished reputation will spread like wild fire. As far as only getting into the industry by killing monster bucks isn’t completely true either. Surprisingly most people want to see real life situations and 150-180 inch deer most people do not encounter. Hard work, loyalty, honesty and positive promotion will get you there too. That’s how I have been successful, the old fashioned way. It takes a huge amount of time,dedication, drive and at times may feel like your spinning your wheels but don’t give up. Most people believe they can film a few hunts and the products , fame and financial backing just appears. I’m sorry to inform you but that’s not the way it actually happens. Not saying that it’s not possible that way but the majority of the time it doesn’t. I didn’t write this blog post to discourage anyone, ( I want everyone who’s passionate to succeed) I wrote this blog to inform you of the reality of this flooded industry. I am really no one special or even a big name in this industry but these are some of the things I have learned over the years. Success is all based on what YOUR perception of success is. Don’t ever let anyone tell you it’s not possible because I am living proof that it is. No I’m not famous, but when I started into the industry I was laughed at and told ” I would never amount to anything or anyone” I used that negativity and turned it into motivation. Remember with success comes haters. People will hate on you and talk trash because you are doing something they can’t or are too lazy to do. It all comes down to how bad you want it. I am happy with my accomplishments and what my perception of success is.

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