Advertise in a news paper classified ad
I haven't had very good luck with that, I've tried ads in Indiana Auto & RV, Peddlers Post and several local newspapers . I've found that using a plat book and knocking on doors works the best.
do you have an aversion to hunting public land? that may be the way to go, especially if you are trying something new. whatever you do, do it safely, and enjoy the time in the woods with your dad. that is most important.
I also found that Money talks and BS walks! That farmer pays taxes, repairs fences, maintains roads and trails. $20 can grease the wheels of progress. And doing a few chores in the off season can greatly improve relations. Field King and I helped a farmer with a tractor tire and I gave him $20 for letting us bird hunt. He invited us back and gave me a quart of homemade applebutter!
Thanks everyone, these are some great ideas. I live around the Indy area, my dad by Lake Monroe. I am not against trying public land. Having never hunted before, I just imagined the chances of getting shot myself would be far higher with the growth in the sport. Mini-14 suggested I look at Greene-Sullivan State Forest.
My dad has live din Bloomington his whole life so I assume he knows some people would could ask.
What public places are not so crowded? I am not against driving to find one.
When and if you do get permission, realize that it doesn't stop there. Make sure you keep the farmer in the loop. Give him the description of every vehicle you will be driving. Give him the location of every deer stand you hang. Sign a waiver stating that if you get hurt while on his property he will not be held liable (I believe these can be found in DNR rules/regulations book). Get to know the farmer personally and make your face a regular sight. He knows more about his farm and how his deer herd moves than you probably ever will. Get close to him and he might share some tricks or some good spots. Last but not least, if you are successfull offer him some meat. If he turns down the meat offer him some jerky, etc etc. Even if he denies he will probably get a sense of pride or a chance to brag about the big buck you shot to his buddies at the coffee shop!