This next season I'm thinking about leaving letters at landowner's houses whom aren't home when I stop in to ask for permission. Something just saying to the extent of saying whom I was, what I was stopping for,etc, and telling them I will be back at a later date to try and meet with them. Then going into where they can reach me if they would like to talk at a sooner time. I think it would help with not having to stop multiple times at a house but I think it would also sometimes hurt as they wouldn't be able to get as good a feel for me responsibility wise and such if we were to talk over the phone instead of meeting in person. Has anyone ever tried something like this and how did it work for you?

I always prefer to talk to the landowner himself, it puts a face to the name, and body language can be the window to the soul.

Make some business cards and take them by the feedstores and livestock auctions...

A letter would be fine to leave, but make sure they have a way to get a hold of you...

A business card will fit in a wallet easier than a letter

That was kind of my idea. I was planning on leaving a business card with the letter. I just figured the letter with a number would be a good way for them to be able to get ahold of me at a time that is convenient for them.

That approach seems a touch too "remote" and salesman aggressive to me. It may translate into junk mail of sorts.

You said: "I think it would also sometimes hurt as they wouldn't be able to get as good a feel for me responsibility wise and such if we were to talk over the phone instead of meeting in person."

I would be inclined to follow that instinct, and make the extra trips if needed to meet in person upon initial contact. I believe the dividends and reward from that prudent approach would far outweigh the chances for a response from the letter drop idea.

This is only my personal opinion and impression. Listen to and follow your gut for the best answer.

Good luck, no matter your approach.

Jonathan

What's the point of the letter? You say in the letter that you will be back again....what's to say that they will be home the second time? Leaving the letter doesn't increase that chance.

But it does increase the creepy factor. When I get home, I don't want to find evidence that somebody was nosing around while I was away. If I called somebody pursuant to such a letter, it would be to tell them don't bother coming back.

The business card is a good idea. Leave it in a public place like a feed store and those that need a trapper will seek you out.

put yourself in the landowners place wouldnt you want to me the person rather than a letter