As the late-season rabbit hunting kicks into high gear in Ohio, enthusiasts are gearing up to take advantage of the extended hunting and trapping season that runs from Nov. 4, 2022, to Feb. 28, allowing for ample opportunities to pursue cottontail rabbits.
Mark Jenkins, founder of Reaper Valley Tactical LLC, located at 14 S Main Street in Utica, shared valuable insights and tips for those looking to embark on this time-honored pastime.
Known for his expertise in hunting and tactical gear, Jenkins, who has been rabbit hunting since age 7, encourages both seasoned hunters and newcomers to experience the thrill of rabbit hunting.
Jenkins told the Mount Vernon News he prefers late season rabbit hunting.
“With a little bit of snow on the ground it is a lot easier to see the rabbit. If it's still green and brushy you're going to have a hard time seeing that rabbit. They're pretty camouflaged,” he said.
“This time of year is probably better, I'd say,” he said. “We always wait till probably after the first of the year to start hosting or pound the challenge.That's when you're getting a lot of movement, especially when it's cold and rabbits run for you in the cold.”
Jenkins said rabbit hunting does not have to be an expensive sport, reassuring aspiring hunters that it doesn't require significant investments in high-end equipment.
"Don't go out and buy a $800 and $900 GPS," he advises.
He said the best advice he can give to rabbit hunters is very simple.
“You don't need a dog to get started,” he said. “You will need to get a good pair of briar-proof bibs and or some chaps. That is a must, because you're going to be out kicking brush and rabbits are fast and they're pretty hard to hit on a full run.”
“So get you some six shot, get you some five shot, a decent shotgun and it can be frustrating.”
Jenkins acknowledges the challenges of hitting a fast-moving rabbit on the run.
"You will miss more rabbits than you shoot," he said.
But Jenkins encourages hunters not to be discouraged by this.
Learning how to field-dress a rabbit properly is crucial and ensuring that no meat goes to waste.
"Don't shoot and waste meat. A lot of people shoot rabbits and throw them away. I don't believe in that,” Jenkins said.
According to Jenkins, one key strategy for success is patience.
“A lot of guys try to chase the rabbits. If you sit still, that rabbit will come back where you were. Rabbits run figure eights or big loops. But they always come back to where they took off," he advises.
For those considering using dogs in their hunting expedition, Jenkins recommends tracking the dogs using GPS collars.
By doing so, hunters can observe the rabbit's patterns and anticipate their return.
Regarding the difference between hunting with or without dogs, Jenkins acknowledges the unique appeal of hunting with a dog.
“I would say yeah it is better with a dog,” Jenkins said.
“I've hunted both ways – with dog. Without dog. With dog is always going to be a more of an interesting aspect to hunting….Anytime you hunt with hounds, it brings a new aspect to the sport and you really get to see what these dogs were bred to do and the way they are. That's just encoded in their DNA. It's crazy, it's a fascinating aspect to me.“
Jenkins emphasizes the value of tracking dogs and recommends connecting with reputable breeders for quality hunting companions.
“Track your dog, teach your dog if you're going to get started with dog,” he said. “Get with a good breeder, somebody that can actually sell you a decent running dog. There's kennel starters. You can take your dog to the starter kennel. They train that pup from the first couple of months. There's a lot to it, but don't let it intimidate you.”
