10 Deer Hunting Tips
A list of 10 deer hunting tips.
1. Practice Shooting
Prior to using any weapon in the field, always practice with it first. Shoot at ranges that are expected during the actual hunting season. Always use the same type of arrows or ammunition that will be used in the field. If you will be hunting from a blind or tree stand, practice using this equipment. Never enter the woods with a weapon that you are unfamiliar with.
2. Wear Safety Gear
Always use proper safety gear while climbing or using a tree stand. There have been many improvements over the years to aid hunters. Today’s equipment is made for both support as well as ease of use and comfort. A safety vest works extremely well. It can be worn to and from the stand for convenience.
3. Limit Excess Noise
The hunter will make some noise while walking to a hunting location. To reduce walking sounds, try to walk softly by placing your weight down on the outer edges of your feet first. Then role the feet inward to its normal position. This will take a little practice. If you happen to snap a branch or make some other sound, stop and wait a few minutes before continuing.
4. Scouting Deer
Deer scouting should be done prior to and throughout the hunting season. As the deer activity changes, so should the hunting techniques. Look for signs of food sources, bedding areas, breeding activity, watering holes, and travel routes. Pay attention and adapt to deer movement. Take good field notes and use maps as well as trail cameras. Keep a daily hunting journal that includes wind directions, weather conditions, and any sightings of deer sign or activity.
5. Scent Control
Always use scent control products while deer hunting. This includes proper boots and clothing as well as soaps, shampoo, and detergents. Use wafers or sprays while in the woods. Since smell is a deer’s primary weapon, controlling human odors needs to be a priority. Never enter the woods without proper scent control.
6. Pay Attention To The Wind
The wind can often play a factor in hunting situations. It is not uncommon to have wind directions change while on stand. If this occurs, often it is better to leave and return under better conditions. Especially if hunting a mature buck, it is better to be safe than sorry. Ideally you want to be set up downwind of suspected deer movement.
7. Proper Clothing
Since the hunting season is filled with changing conditions, always pack enough clothing to adjust as needed. Often in the early season the mornings and evenings are cooler than midday temperatures. Add a jacket or coveralls to your backpack. During the colder periods of the season, it is better to have too much clothing than not enough. You can always remove items if need be but you can’t add what you don’t pack. Also don’t forget the rain suit.
8. Hunt Water Holes
Although a watering hole hunt may not seem overly exciting, done properly it may produce a surprise chance at a good buck. Deer need water several times a day during warm weather and also during rutting periods. Deer prefer watering areas that are surrounded by or offer good cover. Clean, fresh water is not necessarily the best as deer are often found near swamps or ponds.
9. Use Equipment
There are many different types of equipment that can be used in the field. Take advantage of such things as binoculars, trail cameras, tree stands, and ground blinds. Don’t be afraid to experiment with rattling antlers, grunt calls, decoys, and deer lures. Other such tools such as folding saws and hand shears will always come in handy.
10. Change Tactics
Learn to use and take advantage of the different deer hunting tactics. If you primarily hunt from a stand or blind, try giving still hunting or stalking a chance. If you are a gun hunter, take up bow hunting. The more time spent in the woods during changing seasonal conditions only offers a better chance for success.
Use these deer hunting tips to improve your skills. As always be safe and good luck.
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