Discovering the Thrill of Hunting: A Program Built on Passion and Purpose

The New Hill Hunter Education and Mentoring Program developed its roots more than 20 years ago with a group of passionate hunters who wanted to share their love for deer hunting with others. Operating as a Raleigh, North Carolina chapter of the Quality Deer Association, these experienced hunters also championed wildlife conservation efforts across the state. Many founding members continue to be actively involved in our program today, bringing decades of invaluable experience and expertise to guide new generations of hunters.

Our mission was clear from the start: teaching newcomers the art of deer hunting while instilling an appreciation for everything the experience offers. We believe hunting is not just about tracking game—it’s about cherishing quality time with loved ones, embracing nature’s bounty, and recognizing the responsibilities hunters have in ethically managing wildlife populations.

Evolution and Resilience: Adapting to Change While our program has evolved over the years, including necessary adaptations during the COVID-19 pandemic, our goals remain steadfast. We’ve proudly welcomed hundreds of new hunters, equipping them with the skills and confidence to embark on their hunting journeys.

Starting as a deer hunter can be daunting, especially for adults. With so many options and new equipment to navigate, the learning curve is steep. Game animals, after all, have perfected their survival instincts over thousands of years. That’s why our program goes beyond basic hunting education. We focus on key aspects like:

• Differentiating between essential equipment and optional gear.
• Hands-on practice with hunting equipment during our skill-building field days.
• Understanding prey behavior and quality wildlife habitats.
• Broadening knowledge about both the game you are hunting and other wildlife species you may encounter.

This holistic approach not only improves success rates but deepens the connection hunters feel with nature and their craft.

Expanding Resources: Supporting Every Hunter To make hunting education accessible, we offer a library of on-demand YouTube videos created in collaboration with the North Carolina Wildlife Federation. These topics are tailored for beginners, providing practical advice and techniques to enhance your hunting adventures.

Hands-On Experience:  Our field day series, held on properties southwest of Raleigh, is the heart of our program. Prioritizing adults who lack access to experienced hunters in their personal networks, we also welcome aspiring educators eager to pass on their skills. Participants enjoy weekend sessions beginning in February each year, where they gain guidance from mentors who offer one-on-one support throughout the program. From answering questions to assessing readiness, mentors ensure participants feel confident during their first hunting season. Advanced students may even join mentored hunts, laying the foundation for independent outings.

Honing Practical Skills: In December, we cap off the year with a hands-on deer processing workshop. Designed for hunters new to field dressing and processing, this event teaches essential skills for preparing venison safely and efficiently—from field dressing to packaging the meat for freezing.

Your Next Steps: Join Our Community Our programs are invitation-only, providing personalized support to aspiring hunters. By logging into our website, you can join our contact list to get hunting tips year-around and apply for upcoming events.

Hunting is more than a sport; it’s an adventure that fosters lasting memories and personal growth. While it takes commitment and effort, the rewards—both tangible and intangible—are worth it. Here’s to starting your own journey filled with cherished experiences and good times ahead. Congratulations on taking the first step!