There’s something about whitetail deer that has hunters flocking to the woods every year. Perhaps it’s the thrill of being so close to such an elusive animal, or maybe it’s the natural beauty of the forest and wild life they inhabit. Whatever your reason, there are numerous tactics you can use to increase your chance of success during deer season. Here are five tips to make sure you get an opportunity at the buck of a lifetime this year.
1) Step 1: Study the Land
If you want to come home with a buck, you need to do more than just sit in a tree stand. If you spend hours studying your hunting property it will pay off during season. Evaluating where deer travel during various times of day and year can help you identify hot spots where you can set up a stand later on. It’s also a good idea to study other hunters’ patterns, especially if hunting public land. Studying whitetail behavior is essential as well: when are they active? What types of cover attract them? Understanding their daily routines will help you pinpoint their most likely routes—and thus increase your chances of success.
2) Step 2: Choose a Pattern
There are a variety of different tactics you can use when hunting whitetail deer, but first it’s important to choose a pattern that is safe and effective. The best way to do so is by setting up several different blinds within 200 yards of each other and testing each out for effectiveness and safety. Although sitting still may sound easy, it requires patience and practice in order to get good at it. Remember: if you move too much, you will scare away your prey before they have time to come close enough for an accurate shot. Don’t forget to bring snacks and water with you!
