Help Us Pass on the Tradition, One Hunt at a Time
At the National Deer Association, we believe that hunting is more than just a hobby — it’s a conservation legacy that impacts future generations. Through our nationally recognized Field to Fork program, we introduce adults from all walks of life to deer hunting in a safe and ethical manner. But we can’t do it without hunters like you.
Become a Hunting Mentor
Why Mentor?
- Pass on the heritage. Help others experience the same pride, connection, and purpose that hunting has given you.
- Support conservation. Every new hunter is a future steward of the wildlife and land we love.
- Make memories. Celebrate first harvests, swap stories, laugh around the fire — it’s deer camp vibes at their finest.
- Join a community. Mentors often return year after year, forming lifelong friendships, hunting partnerships, and a tight-knit network.
“This is the most fun I’ve had in 50 years of hunting. I can’t wait to do it again.” — David, Field to Fork Mentor
What You'll Be Doing
- You'll be paired with a first-time hunter after they complete educational and safety training.
- Together, you’ll head to a hunting blind or tree stand for a mentored hunt.
- You’ll help your mentee settle in, feel comfortable, and prepare for success.
- If a deer presents a shot, you’ll guide them calmly through the process.
- After the shot, you’ll walk them through field dressing and recovery.
- Most importantly, you’ll celebrate with them — the moment, the harvest, and the start of something meaningful.
Let’s keep hunting alive — together.
Become a Hunting Mentor
FAQs
If you have further questions after reading these, feel free to send us a message.
Ready to join us? Sign up today and we'll connect you with Field to Fork events in your area.
Become a Hunting Mentor
You must have deer hunting experience, a valid hunting license for the state where you’ll be mentoring, and a desire to help someone new. You’ll be expected to lead by example, ensure safety, walk your mentee through the basics of hunting and field dressing, and help them have a positive first experience.
Most Field to Fork events happen over the course of a single weekend, though each event is different. We prefer mentors to attend the full event, but we understand that schedules vary. Flexibility is possible depending on the host and event structure.
Not at all. We even have graduates of our Field to Fork program come back to mentor. If you’re a deer hunter with a valid license and a willingness to help someone new, whether you have 3 seasons under your belt or 30, you’re exactly who we’re looking for.
Yes. We provide short training videos on topics like how to be a great mentor, shot placement, and blood trailing. If equipment is being provided (such as an unfamiliar crossbow), there will be time for you to practice with it before heading afield. This ensures everyone — mentees and mentors alike — are aligned on the best practices we teach in the program.
Every new hunter in Field to Fork receives free access to our Deer Hunting 101 online course — the most comprehensive and popular deer hunting course available. It covers essential topics like deer biology, scouting, tactics, finding hunting land, shot placement, and more. They’ll also receive a coupon code to complete their official Hunter Education course online for free.
Before the hunt, they’ll receive hands-on instruction with their hunting equipment. Basic regulations are also explained during the event to ensure they’re informed and legal in the field.
As a mentor, you’ll guide them through field dressing their deer, and if processing is offered on site, mentors or volunteers who are comfortable with that skill will lead that portion as well.
Sometimes mentors provide their own firearm or archery gear for mentees to borrow, while other events may provide gear. The host will let you know those details in advance.
No. Land access is provided by the host, and the property might be private, state, or federal land. Have land to share? Contact elizabeth@deerassociation.com.
Each event is different. Meals are usually provided, and lodging may be included depending on the host and available resources. Your host will provide full event details in advance.
We collect mentor contact information throughout the year. The process of matching mentors to specific Field to Fork events typically takes place during the summer but may extend into the fall, depending on the host and timing of the event. Your contact information will be shared with local hosts, who will reach out if you’re selected to participate.