Awesome Dixie Deer Classic
This year the Wake County Wildlife Club presented another outstanding Dixie Deer Classic. The 30th annual three day event provided hunters and outdoorsman with some much needed relief from the winter blues.
I especially enjoyed sitting in on a variety of seminars. They were educational, entertaining, and often humorous. Special guest Michael Waddell along with special guest Lee and Tiffany Lakosky also provided great seminars with their vast knowledge and experiences in the field.
The hunting exhibitor booths offered something for everyone from kids to adults. Good thing the event lasted for three days as there was so much to see and do. There seemed to be tremendous crowds each day.
The Outdoors Lore workshops provided useful and valuable information on a wide variety of topics.
The deer racks scoring competition offered many outstanding deer from the state. There was also an exceptional display of record bucks from around the country.
I was very impressed with the added attention given to kids. The “Take A Walk On The Wild Side” program provided educational workshops, seminars, and hands on demonstrations.
The show was well managed and provided maps and directions for ease of access to all events.
My hats off to the Wake County Wildlife Club for another awesome show. I look forward to next year.
4 Shooting Tips
To be successful at deer hunting, one must become proficient with the weapon of choice. There are many reasons that one can make a poor shot. However there are a few tips that can be used to improve skills.
Practice Shooting
The serious hunter knows that before entering any deer hunting situation, one must be willing to practice shooting. Those that do not, should not be in the woods.
The hunter owes it to the deer and to other hunters that do what it takes to be proficient. Practicing is common sense, ethical, and improves safety. One should not take a weapon out without knowing how to properly use.
Use A Good Stand
Although hunters prefer stands that are less bulky and light weight, don’t compromise space to accomplish this. A stand should be large enough to move around in with ease.
There are plenty of stands on the market that are roomy enough and are made of lighter materials. The hunter shouldn’t bang his knees or be afraid to move.
Having more space will allow the hunter room to adjust better for cleaner shot placement. This will also provide more comfort.
Use A Rest
The use of a shooting rest with firearms will allow the hunter to be more stable with the shot. There are rest made for ground use and stand use. There are also bi-pod rest that attach directly to the firearm.
In a bind, the use of the side of a tree or placing firearms across limbs will also help improve on accuracy.
Stretch A Leg
When sitting for extended periods of time in stands or grounds, it is easy for the hunter to have muscle fatigue. This could cause problems while attempting shots.
To combat this, hunters can stand up periodically to stretch out their muscles. Also raise the weapon up to shooting position and hold for 10-20 seconds to keep the upper body loose.
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Tree Stand Preparation
Deer Hunting: Preparing For Tree Stands
Preparing areas for a tree stand to be used for deer hunting takes time. In most cases, whenever possible, this should be done several months prior to the season.
Entry And Exit Routes
It is important to have simple and clearly marked entry and exit routes to the stand area. These routes should be cleared of anything that may cause noise or create problems when walking through.
The path should be marked with easy to follow tacks, tape, or ties that reflect light during darkness. Doing so even on easy access areas will prevent locating problems.
When encountering a turn, place more than one marker. This will remind the hunter to adjust accordingly.
Place markers close enough to be easily found all the way to, and including the actual stand tree. This will reduce searching in the dark.
Shooting Lanes
The first step in preparing shooting lanes is distance. After determining most likely deer travel routes, make notes of the distances by walking them off or by using a range finder.
Begin at the point of impact and clear away any limbs, saplings, thick grass, or other objects that may deflect a shot. At the very least, allow enough open space that is the size of one whole deer in length.
Saplings that need to be completely removed should be cut to ground level. Saplings that can be adjusted can be cut partial way through and allowed to lean over.
Stand Tree
Work your way back to the stand tree. Make sure to climb the tree for a better visual and remove anything remaining on the ground that may cause issues.
In preparing the actual stand tree, clear away any debris at ground level that may hang on equipment.
If using steps, make sure to place them short distances apart to allow for easy climbing.
While climbing the tree, remove any limbs, vines, or bark that may cause problems.
After hanging the stand, climb on, sit and stand up to make sure there is not anything else that needs attention.
Remember to use good scent control tactics and always use proper safety equipment.
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