Dos and Don'ts when shooting Sage Rats on Private Ground

I have been hunting on private ranches for so long, I don't even think about the unwritten rules. But then, I thought about the newcomers to the sport of shooting sage rats and varmints. First, don't ever go onto a rancher's property, or shoot onto it without first getting permission. If you can't find out who the owner is, or they are not at home, try somewhere else. You can be arrested for trespassing. Plus, it gives all future rat shooters a black eye. If the rancher says No, then thank him and continue on. If you are allowed to shoot, remember a few things. If you go thru a gate, leave it as you found it. Not all gates are ment to be left closed, or open. Check with the rancher before you shoot any centerfire rifles. Most ranchers only want you shooting rimfires. NEVER,NEVER,NEVER shoot in the direction of any buildings or livestock. Remember, that a .22 can ( and will ) richocet up to a mile. Don't pull that trigger if you might hit an irrigation pipe. If you do hit a pipe ( you will hear it ) tell the rancher and ask if he wants to inspect it for damage and then YOU offer to pay the repairs. Also, check to see if you are allowed to drive onto the field. Usually after they turn on the water, they want all vehicles to stay out of the fields. Ask about roads around the edges. Check to see if the rancher wants any other varmints shot if you see them. Badgers, coyotes and etc. Most do not want you shooting any birds, they get rats too, and clean up when we shooters are done. And that reminds me, clean up after yourself. Pack out the empty ammo cartons and lunch wrappers, etc. And, when you are done shooting for the day, look up the rancher and thank him or her for letting you shoot. If you want to shoot the next day, ask now. Don't assume that one days permission gives you the right to come back any time you want. Check in and ask each time. By following these simple guidelines, you will probably be allowed back. Remember, above all, respect the ranchers property, it is his or her home. P.S. Check out the rifle rests I build, below and go to superoregon.com sporting