9 of the Best Hunting Books for Your Summer Reading List

1. "Beyond Fair Chase" by Jim Posewitz 

"The most important measure of hunting success is how you feel about yourself." — Jim Posewitz. 

We all know why we hunt, but when speaking with non-hunters, it can sometimes be difficult to fully articulate the ethical drive that draws us out of bed at 4 a.m. to bring home a freezer full of organic meat.

In the poignant book, "Beyond Fair Chase," Jim Posewtiz, much like a hunting guide, introduces and leads the reader to the foundations of ethical hunting practices, including conservation, respect for game, public and private land hunting, stewardship, and more. 

This book is a must-read and is an excellent book for hunters taking a hunter education course as an introduction to hunting ethics. 

2. "The Complete Book of Wild Turkey Hunting: A Handbook of Techniques and Strategies" by John Trout Junior

John Trout Junior didn't just talk the talk; he burnt the shells and offered a profound overview of the critical tactics every turkey hunter needs to master the sport in his book "The Complete Book of Wild Turkey Hunting".

Great turkey hunters know that there is always something more to learn. The chapters in this book cover topics such as ambush location, biology, behavior, and working sunrise gobblers, offering accurate, practical insights into these strategies. 

Additionally, the highly detailed illustrations and stories from actual turkey hunters make this a relatable and must-read option for both novices and experienced turkey hunters. 

3. "The Outlaw Gunner" by Harry M. Walsh

Hunting history is always fascinating, tracing the roots of survival to today's sustainability and ethically focused pursuits. Sometimes, it's essential to take a step back and admire just how far we've come with tales of conservation and stewardship. 

"The Outlaw Gunner" takes a step back, examining market hunters when this practice was legal and illegal. It covers stories from hunters and features artillery-like firearms, such as the infamous punt gun. 

While we can judge retrospectively with the modern lens of conservation, it's hard to deny the resilience and determination of market hunters; they faced insurmountable challenges that are resolved today with a piece of modern equipment. 

4. "Grouse Feathers" by Burton L. Spiller

"Grouse Feathers" is the authority on grouse hunting and has become the standard in grouse hunting literature for all those interested in the sport.

It's as much a coming-of-age story as one of hunting principles, diving into interesting conversations, epic hunts, and classic descriptions of grouse hunting during an age gone by. Find a place for this book on your bookshelf and read it occasionally to inspire and inform your next grouse hunt. 

5. "Elk Hunting the West the Eastman Way" by Mike Eastman

With the perfect blend of stories and actionable tips, Wyoming native Eastman shares his extensive knowledge on elk hunting through practical tips, proven hotspots, public land strategies, and much more.

Eastman's passion and experience shine through this work, with stunning wildlife photography interspersed throughout the pages to inspire. 

6. "The Deer Hunter's Book: Classic Hunting Stories" by Lamar Underwood

Sometimes, you want to kick back with your favorite drink and enjoy some great stories by those who talk and walk the walk. In this classic collection of deer hunting essays, you'll enjoy some of the best deer hunting writing ever put to the page by big hitters such as Roosevelt and Faulkner. 

7. "Giant Whitetails: A Lifetime of Lessons" by Mark and Terry Drury

This book was revolutionary at the time of its release. It introduced readers to a more "proactive" approach to whitetail hunting involving trail cameras and modern scouting techniques.

The book holds up today. Through the ten individual accounts of harvesting big bucks, you'll extract heaps of helpful information to inform your next hunt. 

8. "Boone: A Biography" by Robert Morgan

Daniel Boone's life was as complex as it was inspiring. Robert Morgan, though perhaps more widely known as a fiction author, delivers a biography that has a certain flare and depth that helps define and understand this larger-than-life figure.

Boone's hunting expeditions and capacity to understand and use the natural landscape are the envy of even modern hunters today. This is a must-read not only for hunting history but also for U.S. history. 

9. "The Hunting Rifle" by Jack O'Connor

Although increasingly rare and sought after, we couldn't round off this list without mentioning a favorite classic American gun writer, Jack O'Connor. In our opinion, this is one of the best books on hunting. 

In "The Hunting Rifle," O'Connor leads readers through a no-nonsense breakdown of how hunting and rifles used to be forty years ago. While modern adaptations and firearm engineering have advanced, the advice, personal stories, and technical information should be a foundation for every new hunter looking to enter the sport and purchase their first rifle.