Deer

10 Essential Whitetail Bowhunting Tips

Bass Pro Shops — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 13:02:58 +0000

10 Essential Whitetail Bowhunting Tips

Bass Pro Shops Wed, 09/03/2025 - 08:02

Category

Deer

10 Essential Whitetail Bowhunting Tips for a More Successful Season

Featuring Michael Hunsucker, Heartland Bowhunter

? 10 Whitetail Bowhunting Tips You Can't Miss!

Getting ready for whitetail bow season takes more than just checking gear and hoping for the best. Whether you are a first-time bowhunter or someone who has spent decades in the tree stand, success often comes down to how well you prepare, how smart you hunt, and how calm you stay when it counts.

Michael Hunsucker’s Bowhunting Strategies

Michael Hunsucker from Heartland Bowhunter shares ten of his most important bowhunting strategies that have helped him consistently tag mature bucks. From early-season preparation to post-shot recovery, these tips are rooted in real-world experience and designed to help you make the most of every opportunity in the field.

1. Prepare Early for the Whitetail Archery Season

Start getting ready weeks before opening day. Hang and inspect stands, clear shooting lanes, check all safety equipment, and begin practicing with your bow in real hunting conditions. Dial in your sights, shoot broadheads, and fine-tune every part of your setup.

2. Scout Smart and Avoid Pressure

Scouting is critical, but it must be done without alerting deer to your presence. Use cellular trail cameras to monitor movement remotely, glass summer feeding areas like soybean fields, and resist the temptation to walk through bedding areas. The less human scent you leave behind, the better your odds.

3. Identify What Deer Need Most on Your Property

Deer require food, water, and cover. Look at your hunting area and determine which resource is limited. If there is only one water source or one thick bedding area, deer will concentrate near it. Focus your setups around these high-value locations.

4. Hunt the Perimeter First

Do not rush into your best spots right away. Begin by hunting the edges of a property where you can observe without causing disturbance. Once you identify a target buck or solid pattern, gradually move closer. This helps extend the life of your hunting areas throughout the season.

5. Watch for Ideal Weather Conditions

Cold fronts and high-pressure systems can dramatically increase daytime deer movement. Even a small drop in temperature can get deer on their feet. Hunt days with consistent wind direction and avoid swirling or variable winds that can give away your position.

6. Plan Your Entry and Exit Routes Carefully

Access is one of the most overlooked factors in bowhunting. If deer see or smell you entering or leaving your stand, the spot may be ruined for days. Use terrain features, creeks, or standing crops to hide your approach and minimize scent. Your entrance and exit routes may need to differ depending on wind direction.

7. Observe Deer Behavior and Body Language

Pay attention to how deer act in real-time. Watch how does and young bucks respond to movement, scent, and sound. If a mature buck is nearby, their body language can give you clues about when and where to draw your bow.

8. Mentally Prepare for the Shot Opportunity

Even experienced hunters can struggle when adrenaline spikes. Confidence in your gear and shooting ability comes from repetition and mental focus. Visualize the shot, breathe steadily, and stay composed. The ability to stay calm in the moment is what separates successful bowhunters from those who freeze up.

9. Aim Small and Follow Through

When a buck steps into range, do not just aim broadly at the vitals. Pick a specific spot and execute the shot you have practiced. Follow through, watch where your arrow hits, and stay engaged after the shot. Many hunters forget these critical steps in the heat of the moment.

10. Do Not Rush the Recovery

If you are not sure about your shot or do not see the deer fall, back out and wait. Evaluate the hit based on arrow location, blood sign, and behavior. Liver and gut shots often require several hours. Patience can mean the difference between recovering your deer and losing it.

Michael Hunsucker’s 10 Bowhunting Tips Checklist

Prepare early: hang stands, clear lanes, check gear, and practice with your bow.
Scout smart: use trail cams, glass fields, and avoid disturbing bedding areas.
Identify the limited resource: focus on food, water, or cover based on your property.
Hunt from the outside in: start conservatively and move closer based on observations.
Wait for the right conditions: hunt cold fronts, high pressure, and steady winds.
Plan your access: use terrain and wind to enter and exit stands undetected.
Observe deer behavior: read body language to anticipate movement and shot opportunity.
Mentally prepare: build confidence, visualize success, and stay calm in the moment.
Pick a spot: aim small, follow through, and track your shot carefully.
Do not rush recovery: if unsure, back out and give the deer time before tracking.

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The time to prepare is now. Use these ten tips from Michael Hunsucker to plan your hunts, build confidence, and stay sharp all season long. Whether you're chasing that first archery buck or trying to tag your biggest deer yet, these strategies can help you make it happen.

Gear up for your best bow season yet. Whether you're shooting from a saddle or setting up on a food plot, we’ve got everything you need to hunt smarter this fall.

Shop Bowhunting Gear at Bass Pro
Explore Archery Gear at Cabela’s

When it comes to bowhunting, there is no shortcut to success. Put in the work, stay patient, and trust the process. The rewards of a well-executed archery hunt are worth every ounce of effort.

FAQs

Q: When is the best time to hunt whitetail deer with a bow?

A: Early season around cold fronts and late October into the rut are generally considered prime times for bowhunting whitetails.

Q: How can I improve my archery accuracy for deer hunting?

A: Practice regularly at various distances, shoot from elevated positions, and simulate real hunting scenarios to build confidence.

Q: What is the best shot placement on a whitetail deer with a bow?

A: Aim behind the front shoulder for a double lung or heart shot. Quartering away angles are ideal. Avoid quartering-to shots.

Q: How long should I wait before tracking a shot deer?

A: Wait at least 30 minutes for a double lung shot. For uncertain hits, wait several hours or overnight if needed.

Q: What gear do I need for bowhunting whitetail deer?

A: Essential gear includes a properly tuned bow, broadheads, climbing or lock-on stands, safety harness, rangefinder, scent control items, and quality arrows.

Boots On The Ground Scouting | Deer Hunting 101 with Wade Middleton

Bass Pro Shops — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 17:52:52 +0000

Boots On The Ground Scouting | Deer Hunting 101 with Wade Middleton

Bass Pro Shops Tue, 08/19/2025 - 12:52

Category

Deer

Boots On The Ground Scouting | Deer Hunting 101 with Wade Middleton

By Wade Middleton, Bass Pro Shops Pro Staff

Why Boots On The Ground Matters

Every successful deer hunt begins long before the season starts. While hunting apps and trail cameras are valuable tools, Wade Middleton believes nothing replaces a boots-on-the-ground approach to scouting. By being in the field year-round, hunters can learn how deer use bedding areas, food sources, water, and travel corridors without pressuring them.

Deer hunting is a puzzle, and scouting provides the missing pieces. By walking the land, hunters pick up details no map or app can provide — tracks, trails, feeding sign, and pressure from other hunters.

“I like to study deer twelve months out of the year,” Wade says. “Whether I’m hunting doves in September, turkeys in April, or just planting food plots, I’m always learning something about deer behavior.”

Summer Scouting – Bachelor Groups and Feeding Patterns

Deer often gather in bachelor groups during summer.

Velvet bucks frequent crop fields like soybeans and alfalfa late in the evening.
Long-distance glassing with spotting scopes allows hunters to pattern deer without intrusion.
Scouting fields for consistent entry and exit routes helps set up early-season ambushes.

In-Season Scouting – Adapting to Hunting Pressure

Once deer season begins, scouting shifts to a different style.

Focus on Bedding Areas: Identify where bucks are likely bedding without entering and bumping them.
Locate Pinch Points and Crossings: Narrow travel corridors show how deer move between bedding and feeding.
Water and Food Sources: Pay attention to where does feed and water, since bucks follow during the rut.
Hunt the Edges: Position stands on the outer rim of a deer’s core area to avoid alerting him.

Wade’s Scouting Tips

Combine trail camera intel with in-person scouting.
Observe how weather, crop harvests, and hunting pressure change deer movement.
Be patient. Some hunts will fail, but others will come together perfectly.
Treat every scouting trip as an opportunity to solve part of the deer-hunting puzzle.

Final Takeaways from Wade Middleton

“Boots on the ground scouting teaches you things you cannot learn anywhere else,” Wade says. “The key is to adapt to what you see. Study deer patterns in summer, then adjust during the season without bumping deer out of their comfort zone.”

Scout year-round to build knowledge.
Pattern summer deer with glassing and observation.
Avoid entering bedding areas during the season.
Hunt edges and travel routes to stay undetected.
Expect trial and error — success comes from persistence.

Ready to Gear Up?

? Shop Wade Middleton’s Whitetail Essentials

? Shop Online

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? Visit a Store Near You

Experience our expert service and see our gear up close by visiting a Bass Pro Shops or Cabela’s location. Find the store nearest you with our Store Locator.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between summer and in-season scouting?

A: Summer scouting focuses on bachelor groups in crop fields, while in-season scouting centers on bedding areas, pinch points, and rut activity.

Q: How can I scout without spooking deer?

A: Glass fields from a distance in summer, and hunt travel edges during the season instead of entering bedding cover.

Q: Do trail cameras replace boots-on-the-ground scouting?

A: No. Cameras provide great intel, but in-person scouting reveals habitat, pressure, and subtle deer behavior.

Q: What are the most important scouting locations?

A: Bedding areas, food sources, water, pinch points, and doe activity during the rut.

Q: How often should I scout during the season?

A: Scout lightly and strategically. Too much pressure in hunting season can educate deer.

Pre-Hunt Planning for Whitetail Deer: Map Study, Scouting, and Strategy

Bass Pro Shops — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 17:49:05 +0000

Pre-Hunt Planning for Whitetail Deer: Map Study, Scouting, and Strategy

Bass Pro Shops Tue, 08/19/2025 - 12:49

Category

Deer

Pre-Hunt Planning for Whitetail Deer: Map Study, Scouting, and Strategy

By Wade Middleton, Bass Pro Shops Pro Staff

Why Pre-Hunt Planning Matters

Success in the deer woods starts long before you climb into a stand. Wade Middleton knows that the most rewarding hunts come from careful preparation — choosing your hunting location, securing tags or licenses, and doing your homework on the land.

Whether it’s a public land draw, a private lease, or your own family farm, pre-hunt research is the foundation for a productive season. By studying maps, scouting terrain, and understanding how deer use food sources, bedding areas, and travel routes, hunters can dramatically increase their odds of filling a tag.

This guide breaks down the essentials of pre-hunt planning, from picking the right spot and using digital tools to scout on the ground and adapting to different hunting environments.

“Before I ever step foot in a stand, I’ve already done my homework,” Wade explains. “Maps and apps tell you a lot, but nothing replaces putting boots on the ground. The more you prepare, the more confidence you’ll have once you’re in the woods.”

Step 1 – Secure Tags and Licenses

Apply early for limited-entry hunts or special draw permits.
Research over-the-counter options in your state if you don’t draw.
Make sure you have all the necessary tags, stamps, and hunter safety requirements completed before the season.

Step 2 – Study the Area

Tools to Use

Paper topographic maps for elevation, ridges, and creek bottoms
Hunting apps with aerial overlays to identify food plots, pinch points, and transitions
GPS mapping tools for marking stand locations and tracking movement

What to Look For

Bedding areas protected by cover
Food sources such as crop fields, acorns, or natural browse
Water sources like creeks or ponds
Pinch points, saddles, and ridges that funnel deer travel

Step 3 – Boots on the Ground Scouting

Digital scouting is powerful, but nothing replaces walking the land. Off-season scouting reveals trails, rub lines, old scrapes, and pressure from other hunters.

“If you can get out there before the season and just walk it, you’ll learn things no map can tell you,” Wade says. “That creek crossing, that hidden oak flat, or that thick bedding cover: those details make all the difference.”

Step 4 – Adapt to Your Situation

Public Land → Expect more hunting pressure, scout for overlooked access points, and hunt mobile.
Private Lease → Study food sources and manage pressure so deer stay comfortable.
Family Farm → Know your land’s history, seasonal changes, and natural deer movement patterns.

Wade Middleton’s Gear & Prep Tips

Hunting App + GPS for mapping and marking stand locations
Good boots for scouting trips and off-season prep
Trail cameras to monitor activity in key areas
Wind-checker powder to test thermals and stand approach
Notebook or app for recording observations and seasonal deer movement

Final Takeaways from Wade Middleton

“Every hunt is different, but the preparation is always the same,” Wade says. “The more you know before you go in, the better decisions you’ll make in the field.”

Secure your tags and know the regulations.
Study maps and apps to identify high-potential areas.
Put boots on the ground to confirm sign and deer movement.
Adapt your strategy to public, private, or family land.
Stay flexible — no two hunts are ever the same.

Ready to Gear Up?

? Shop Wade Middleton’s Whitetail Essentials

Bass Pro Shops – It All Starts Here.

? Shop Online

Discover a wide selection of outdoor products at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's.

? Visit a Store Near You

Experience our expert service and see our gear up close by visiting a Bass Pro Shops or Cabela’s location. Find the store nearest you with our Store Locator.

FAQs

Q: What’s the first step in planning a deer hunt?

A: Secure your license and tags early, especially for draw hunts. Then begin scouting your hunting area.

Q: Do hunting apps really help?

A: Yes. Modern hunting apps with aerial views and topo overlays help identify bedding areas, food sources, and pinch points.

Q: What’s more important — maps or boots on the ground?

A: Both. Maps and apps point you in the right direction, but walking the land reveals real-time sign.

Q: How do I plan differently for public vs. private land?

A: Public land requires mobility and creativity to avoid pressure. Private land and family farms allow for more controlled scouting and stand placement.

Q: What if I don’t have time to scout in person?

A: Rely on digital tools, past experience, and in-season adjustments. Trail cameras and hunting apps can fill gaps when schedules are tight.

What Do Deer Eat? | Deer Hunting 101 with Wade Middleton

Bass Pro Shops — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 17:43:45 +0000

What Do Deer Eat? | Deer Hunting 101 with Wade Middleton

Bass Pro Shops Tue, 08/19/2025 - 12:43

Category

Deer

What Do Deer Eat? | Deer Hunting 101 with Wade Middleton

By Wade Middleton, Bass Pro Shops Pro Staff

Why Food Sources Drive Deer Hunting

When it comes to consistently finding deer, the answer often begins with one simple truth: find the food, find the deer. Wade Middleton explains how food sources drive deer movement throughout the season. From corn and soybeans to acorns, chestnuts, and even mesquite beans in the South, knowing what deer are eating and when they are eating it is one of the most important keys to hunting success.

Deer are opportunistic feeders that adapt their diet based on season, weather, and availability. Hunters who understand local food sources can predict where deer will travel and when they will show up.

“Find that food and you are going to find the deer,” Wade says. “When acorns drop in Texas, deer flock to them like it is the best steak they have ever had. That same principle applies to crops and browse all across the country.”

Key Food Sources for Whitetail Deer

Agricultural Crops

Soybeans, corn, and alfalfa provide high-protein nutrition.
Deer often feed heavily in crop fields until harvest.

Nuts and Mast Crops

Acorns and chestnuts are seasonal magnets.
Deer concentrate in oak flats or near mast-producing trees during peak drop.

Natural Browse

Forbs, grasses, and shrubs fill in nutritional gaps throughout the year.
Rainfall and weather patterns often determine what browse is available.

Region-Specific Foods

Mesquite beans in South Texas
Persimmons in the Southeast
Apples in northern states

Scouting Feeding Areas

Use Trail Cameras: Monitor what deer are eating and when they are active.
Look for Sign: Tracks, nipped buds, or feeding areas under mast trees.
Pay Attention to Timing: Some food sources last days, others weeks, and some a month or more depending on conditions.
Stay Flexible: Food availability shifts throughout the season. Move with the deer.

Wade Middleton’s Approach

Always start by identifying current food sources.
Watch how weather, rain, and crop harvests change deer movement.
Adjust stand placement to capitalize on short-term feeding windows.
Expect deer to sample almost anything but return repeatedly to food that is nutritious and palatable.

Final Takeaways from Wade Middleton

“Every hunt is different, but it always comes back to food,” Wade says. “Deer are like us — if they like it, they keep coming back. When you identify that seasonal food source, you will find the deer.”

Focus scouting around crops, nuts, or browse.
Confirm feeding sign before hanging a stand.
Be adaptable, as food sources change quickly.
Remember the golden rule: find the food, find the deer.

Ready to Gear Up?

? Shop Wade Middleton’s Whitetail Essentials

Bass Pro Shops – It All Starts Here.

? Shop Online

Discover a wide selection of outdoor products at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's.

? Visit a Store Near You

Experience our expert service and see our gear up close by visiting a Bass Pro Shops or Cabela’s location. Find the store nearest you with our Store Locator.

FAQs

Q: What is a deer’s favorite food?

A: It depends on the season. Acorns, soybeans, and corn are high-priority foods when available.

Q: Do deer eat different foods in different regions?

A: Yes. Mesquite beans in South Texas or apples in northern states are just a few examples of region-specific food sources.

Q: How can I tell what deer are eating in my area?

A: Look for sign such as nipped buds, tracks around crop fields, or feeding under mast-producing trees.

Q: Do weather patterns affect what deer eat?

A: Absolutely. Rain can trigger forbs to grow or drop mesquite beans, shifting deer feeding activity almost overnight.

Q: How often should I move my stand based on food sources?

A: Move as often as needed. Some feeding windows last days, others last weeks. Always scout and adapt.

It’s The Rut! Now What?

Bass Pro Shops JB — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 20:19:37 +0000

It’s The Rut! Now What?

Bass Pro Shops JB Wed, 11/08/2023 - 14:19

Category

Deer

How to hunt every phase of deer season’s most magical time.

Article by Andrew McKean

The main thing you need to know about the rut, which has been studied and defined to within inches of its death, is that for a few magical weeks every year, it finally puts you on even footing with deer.

For the rest of the year, deer have the upper hand. They smell you coming. They see and hear you long before you spot them. They are equipped to survive in landscapes that are mostly foreign to us. And, despite our technological advantages, they manage to avoid us.

Then the rut erupts, and everything changes. Bucks lose their well-honed inhibitions. They get careless. They get single-mindedly focused on breeding. And we get the rare chance to encounter bucks with their guards down, and this includes the oldest, most nocturnal, and savvy bucks in your area.

That’s the magic of the rut, which (with some exceptions) starts around Halloween and continues through Veteran’s Day. If you have the chance to choose when to hunt, it should be between those cardinal dates. Here’s how to make the most of each phase of deer season’s best days.

What The Rut Really Is

If you’re the sort of hunter who wants just a little bit more information to inform your decisions, however, then it may interest you to know why the rut happens at such specific and predictable times every year. It’s because whitetail deer have a roughly 200-day gestation period. As a prey species, deer are engineered to give birth all at once, so that the area in which they birth is swamped with fawns, the better to ensure that at least some survive predation. The prime fawning period coincides with good forage, both to feed lactating does and to hide young fawns.

So, if you backtrack 200 days from early June, when vegetation growth is at its peak across most of the whitetail deer range, then you’re looking at mid-November. And it turns out, that’s precisely when most does are bred across their range. The rut is simply the preamble to breeding, the fortnight in which bucks roam widely looking for ready does, and the urge to breed makes them vulnerable to human hunters.

We’ve already established that this is the time to drop everything and hunt, but how do you know where and how to encounter bucks? Adjust your tactics to the varying phases of the rut.

Staging Phase

This is the preamble to the preamble, the couple of weeks in which bucks are starting to get active but don’t quite have the commitment to break away from herds and roam widely in the daytime. Starting in mid- to late-October, you’ll see younger bucks running amok in a herd of placid does and fawns. They’re feeling it, and even though there’s little outward sign that the rut has started, this signals the beginning.

How To Hunt: This is really an extension of late-summer and early-fall patterns, with deer using core forage (think uncut soybeans, corn, and alfalfa) and still maintaining groups of does and their young-of-year fawns. Find the quality forage and you should find does.

Mature bucks are probably not with these visible deer yet. But watch for younger bucks to start to run around the herd, milling the does and making them nervous, as they try to find an early cycling doe. This stage generally extends into the first days of November.

Pro Tip: For a week to 10 days in late October and early November, rattling is gravy. Knock some shed antlers together and watch bucks take notice. Not all will charge into your location, but younger bucks will almost surely come close to investigate what they think is a couple of bucks fighting.

BIG GAME CALLS

flextone Battle Bones Rattling Call System

The flextone® Battle Bones™ Rattling Call System delivers the realistic sound of 2 mature bucks fighting with both sides of the antlers of both bucks, instead of the more common 1 antler apiece method, to greatly increase the distance the sound carries.

BIG GAME CALLS

Primos Fightin' Horns Deer Call

Sound like fresh shed antlers. Duplicate all buck fighting sounds from light sparring to all-out battles. Unique design for safe and easy rattling.
Chase Phase

The next phase is the one that rewards hunters who make time to get out the first and second weeks of November. It’s the fortnight during which mature bucks start to roam in the daytime, as they move from doe herd to doe herd in search of breeding partners. The key to scoring during this phase is finding the does, and ensuring that you don’t destabilize them by winding or spooking them.

How To Hunt: Play the doe herds carefully. Set up in a spot where you can see the does as well as entry routes to their location from mid-day bedding areas, and then simply sit and watch. There’s a good chance you’ll encounter a buck moving through, and you can confirm the seasonal cycle if you see the buck moving from doe to doe.

If you’re hunting the morning, set your stand in an area where you can intercept deer moving from food to bed. In the afternoon, get in a spot that overlooks trails leading from beds to fields.

If you’ve identified a target buck for your area, either through personal observation or trail-camera footage, this is the time to identify him on the hoof. You can try decoying or calling, and making mock scrapes tends to work well during this early November time frame. All those tactics help put you in touch with a target buck, but there’s no substitute for simply spending time in the field, because it’s also likely that if you’re hunting near concentrations of does, an entirely new buck you haven’t seen before may show up as they travel the landscape looking for the first cycling does.

Pro Tip: If you find a rub line or a scrape, set a stand downwind. Bucks will be checking these signposts during this chase phase.

BIG GAME CALLS

WoodHaven Custom Calls The Closer Doe Bleat Deer Call

The Closer Doe Bleat Deer Call from WoodHaven® Custom Calls is your ticket to a successful hunt! Effective all season long, it produces realistic bleats and bawls of a young deer to draw in mature does as well as realistic estrous bleats of a doe to entice rutting bucks.

BIG GAME CALLS

Primos Rut Roar Deer Grunt Call - Black/Green

"Speak the Language" with the Primos® Rut Roar Deer Grunt Call. The Rut Roar floods the woods with realistic, precision-tuned deer grunts, designed for accurate calling while deer hunting from the ground or from above.
Lock-Down Phase

This is when the actual breeding gets done. It’s the core of the rut, but it’s actually not as productive for hunters because deer don’t move much. Mature bucks have settled down with a crowd of receptive does, so you can’t count on their careless movement as you can during the chase phase.

However, there’s one great advantage to hunters during lock-down, and that’s the distraction of bucks. Once a buck is fixed on a doe, hunters can often get away with behavior that would doom them the rest of the year—being careless with the wind, snapping twigs, and moving aggressively. Don’t overdo this, but if you see a big buck intent on a doe, go for him. The other benefit to hunters is that does often dart and duck away from bucks, and often a frazzled doe will lead a buck right past your stand.

How To Hunt: Bucks may be distracted, but does are still trip-wire aware, so watch your wind. This is a good time to set up on edges, especially those overlooking secluded clearings and fields. Breeding typically happens in the open but primarily along edges, like treelines and fencerows. Also hunt the edge of weather fronts; breeding activity intensifies just prior to a cold front and just after a November storm breaks.

Pro Tip: Sometimes a decoy will work during this time. Use a doe decoy, but set it up right along an edge in sight of openings. Subtle doe-bleat calling can help call attention to your deke.

BIG GAME DECOYS

Flambeau Boss Babe Deer Decoy

Accomplished sculptor C.W. Schiller has created a gem with this Flambeau® Boss Babe Deer Decoy, which has 2 sets of ears (1 submissive, 1 alert). The rear leg is designed to accept scent pads (not included).

BIG GAME CALLS

Hunters Specialities DOD Dominant Doe Bleat Deer Call

Use deer's natural curiousity this season to bring them to your location with the Hunters Specialties DOD Dominant Doe Bleat Deer Call. Approved by the hunting experts at Drury Outdoors, this call stimulates both the maternal instincts of mature does and the eager curiousity of mature bucks.
Post-Rut Phase

All good things must come to an end, and so goes the rut. This is the recovery phase, when bucks are actively feeding to restore calories lost during the chase phase. This is the time to focus on prime food sources, especially as winter weather descends on the area you hunt. You’ll see bucks and does intermingled, but the older bucks may return to their nocturnal habits.

How To Hunt: If you’re a food-plotter, this is the time to concentrate on high-energy forage, such as brassicas and winter rye. In agricultural country, find uncut soybeans and corn. Bigger bucks will spend more time in solitary bedding areas, so set up on trails between those overgrown, brushy areas and prime food sources. Here again, try to hunt the weather. If you can be out before a big winter storm blows in, you’ll see enhanced deer activity. And hunt fields the day after a snowfall or winter storm when deer become more active again.

Pro Tip: Find native fruit sources—wild plums, persimmons, and even neglected apple orchards. Those fruits have sweetened with cold weather, and calorie-desperate bucks will focus on these high-sugar food sources.

Food Plots & Feeding

Evolved Habitats Dirt Bag Camo Corn Deer Attractant

A powerful deer attractant with a color and texture resembling dirt, Evolved Habitats® Dirt Bag Camo Corn Deer Attractant looks like dirt but attracts deer like crazy. Real shelled corn is pulverized into a fine powder that's blended and colored into an ultra-concentrated super corn mixture that's appealing to a deer's eyes and nose, bringing droves of deer in from afar.

Food Plots & Feeding

Moultrie Feed Station II

An upgraded version of the renowned and widely popular Feed Station, the redesigned and upgraded Moultrie® Feed Station II Game Feeder improves wildlife feeding while keeping operation simple. Built to hold a 50 lb. bag of corn, protein pellets, or other supplements, this feeder features dual feed ports for up to 2 deer. Each feed port features integrated rain shields and weep holes to keep feed dry.

Deer Hunting 101: Essentials for the New Hunter

Bass Pro Shops — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 21:32:22 +0000

Deer Hunting 101: Essentials for the New Hunter

Bass Pro Shops Fri, 09/22/2023 - 16:32

Category

Deer

Deer hunting is an age-old tradition enjoyed by countless hunters. Whether stepping into the field for sport, for putting venison on the table, or hunting as a passion, hunting deer always puts your skills and knowledge to the test.

When is Deer Hunting Season?

Hunting season coincides with the deer rut when deer are actively mating which generally occurs in late October through November. Exact dates for deer hunting season will vary from state to state however, so be sure to check regulations for your location and state. You can find a list of state license and regulation information at Bass Pro Shops.

Best Time to Hunt Deer

Deer are most active during low-light periods, such as early morning and late evening. They will be either moving from their chosen feeding location to their bedding area or moving from their bedding area to their feeding location during these times. This activity increases your chances of spotting and encountering deer.

You also need to be sure to keep an eye on the weather as well. Deer tend to be more active when the weather is cool and overcast, or just before a weather front moves in. Deer start to seek shelter during extreme weather, such as heavy rain or strong winds, reducing their movement.

Deer Hunting Tips for Beginners

For those new to deer hunting, stepping into the woods might feel like a daunting task. However, with the right approach and mindset, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Here are some essential tips for beginner deer hunters:

Practice Your Shooting: Whether you're using a bow or a rifle, practice is key. Spend time at the shooting range to become proficient with your hunting weapon. Consistent and accurate shooting will boost your confidence and increase your chances of making a clean and ethical kill.
Learn to Be Patient: Hunting requires patience and perseverance. It's not uncommon to spend hours waiting for the right moment to present itself. Remain still, quiet, and attentive, as deer have an uncanny ability to detect movement and noise.
Scout the Area: Before the hunting season begins, take the time to scout the hunting area. Familiarize yourself with the terrain, identify deer trails, bedding areas, and food sources. Understanding deer habits and behavior in your hunting location will increase your odds of success. Many hunters will set up a game camera to help them see if deer are using the area they plan to hunt.
Stay Downwind: One of a deer's most powerful senses is its sense of smell. Always approach your hunting area from downwind, ensuring that your scent is not carried to the deer. Consider using scent-eliminating products to further reduce your odor.
Stay Quiet: Deer also have excellent hearing, and any sudden noise can spook them. Move quietly and avoid making unnecessary sounds while in the field. Keep your cellphone on silent mode and avoid using loud equipment while hunting.
Use Calls and Decoys Sparingly: Calls, such as grunt calls and rattling antlers, can be effective during the rut to attract curious bucks. However, use them sparingly and realistically. Additionally, decoys can draw in deer, but be cautious not to overuse them, as deer can become wary of decoys that look unnatural.
Hunt the Edges: Deer often feel more secure when they have cover nearby, such as the edge of a field or a forest. These transition areas between different habitats are prime spots to encounter deer, as they offer a combination of food, water, and shelter.
Stay Safe: Prioritize safety above all else. Always inform someone of your hunting plans and when you expect to return. Wear appropriate safety gear, such as blaze orange clothing, to ensure you're visible to other hunters.

Essential Deer Hunting Gear

If you’re new to deer hunting, it can be difficult to know what’s strictly. We’ve included a breakdown of some essential items you should consider for your hunting arsenal:

Hunting Bow or Rifle

Hunting with a bow can provide a challenging and rewarding experience. If you choose to hunt with a bow, it's essential to select the right type and draw weight for your skill level. Regular practice will help you to become proficient with your bow and develop the consistency you need on the hunt.

For rifle hunters, selecting the appropriate rifle and caliber is crucial. Choose a rifle that suits your hunting style and the terrain you'll be hunting in. Build up your marksmanship skills by shooting from different positions and distances. Consider checking with your local range to practice if you can’t practice at home.

Hunting Clothing

Wearing the right clothing is essential for blending into your surroundings and staying comfortable during your hunting trip. Choose camouflage clothing that matches the environment where you'll be hunting.

Treestands and Climbing Stands

Elevating yourself above the deer's line of sight can give you a distinct advantage while hunting. Treestands and climbing stands allow you to sit comfortably and discretely in a tree, reducing the chance of being detected by deer. Ensure you follow proper safety measures when using these stands, such as wearing a safety harness.

Binoculars

A good pair of binoculars is an essential tool for any hunter. Binoculars enable you to scan the landscape from a distance, spot deer movements, and identify potential targets. Opt for binoculars with a magnification level suitable for hunting (generally 8x or 10x) and consider models with low-light capabilities for improved performance during early mornings and late evenings.

Tags

Deer

Deer Hunting

Deer Hunting Checklist: Your Essential Guide for a Successful Hunt

Bass Pro Shops JB — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 12:46:52 +0000

Deer Hunting Checklist: Your Essential Guide for a Successful Hunt

Bass Pro Shops JB Fri, 09/15/2023 - 07:46

Category

Deer

As the chill of autumn sets in and the leaves begin to change, hunters across the country eagerly anticipate the opening morning of deer hunting season. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a beginner, there's nothing quite like the thrill of the hunt. However, to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience, preparation is key.

The Importance of a Deer Hunting Checklist

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time hunter, a comprehensive deer hunting checklist is your best friend. It ensures you have all the necessary gear before, during, and after the hunt. No one wants to realize they forgot a crucial item when they're miles away from civilization. From the right hunting apparel to essential tools like deer calls and binoculars, the checklist helps you stay organized and prepared for any situation. Remember, preparation is the key to a safe, enjoyable, and rewarding hunt. Happy hunting!

Essential Checklist for a Successful Deer Hunt

Print the checklist to prepare at home!

Before the Hunt

During the Hunt

After the Hunt

Be sure to let us help you make the most out of a successful hunt. Check out our selection of game processing equipment and accessories, so you can go from hauling in your deer to putting it on the table.

11 Pieces of Hunting Gear You’re Probably Forgetting to De-Scent

Don Sangster — Thu, 24 Sep 2020 20:43:02 +0000

11 Pieces of Hunting Gear You’re Probably Forgetting to De-Scent

Don Sangster Thu, 09/24/2020 - 15:43

Category

Deer

Most hunters understand the importance of scent control and how to practice it when it comes to your body and hunting clothes. However, many hunters overlook their various pieces of hunting gear, many of which they’ve had for years and are loaded with offensive human scent. These items need to be washed, if possible, and/or de-scented too. Here’s a list of some pieces of equipment I’ll bet you never considered.

Dead Down Wind
Evolve 3D+ Field
Spray Combo

Tip: The Dead Down Wind Evolve 3D+ Field Spray Combo uses Enzyme Scent Prevention (ESP) to break down odor molecules to help you maintain a zero scent environment on the hunt.

1. Hunting Boots – Spray down your hunting boots, even rubber ones, before heading into the woods, particularly the bottoms and the laces, which tend to hold scent the most. Nothing makes more contact with the woods than your boots.

Don't tromp through the woods with your gear
stinking to high heaven.Spray down your equipment with scent elimination as well as your hunting clothes before heading into the woods.

2. Gloves – You should wear hunting gloves to keep from touching your surroundings with bare hands, but this doesn’t help if your gloves stink. Wash them regularly and spray them down before and after putting them on.

3. Hat – Imagine how much sweat has accumulated inside your hat or hunting head gear. When was the last time you washed it?

4. Facemask – We emit a startling amount of human scent through our breath, and most of that gets caught in our hunting scent-lok face mask.

5. Pack – Not only does a waist pack or backpack get handled a lot, but it can also accumulate sweat. Pay special attention to the straps and other parts that make contact with your body.

Tip: The Cabela's Bow and Rifle Pack is unlike ordinary hunting day packs, Its secure attachment easily holds a firearm or a bow, so you can have 1 pack both seasons.

Cabela's Bow and Rifle Pack

6. Bow Release/Shooting Gloves/Finger Tabs – Whether you shoot with a bow release or just your fingers, these items, particularly the wrist strap on your release, can accumulate a lot of human odor. If you can’t detach the strap to wash it, spray it down thoroughly.

Tip: The Tru-Fire Edge Buckle Foldback Bow Release trigger features adjustable travel and a linear-motion bearing for smooth operation. The Foldback Bow Release jaws open when you pull the trigger and close automatically when you release it. Plus, the scaled-back head is smaller than a dime, giving you a more natural grip.

Snug Fit Armguard

7. Armguard – This is overlooked by most bow hunters but it’s something that you would likely use for many years without cleaning.

8. Bow Wrist Sling – This is another item that can get very sweaty when hunting in mild weather.

9. Bow Quiver – Many archery quivers are made of fabric or other material that can hold human scent for a long time.

Cabela's All-Weather Bow Case

10. Gun/Bow Case – Some jurisdictions require your gun or bow to be in a case outside of legal shooting hours, meaning that you will need to carry a case with you in the field if you get in early and stay late. Treat your gun case or bow case as an item of clothing when it comes to scent control.

11. Gun or Crossbow Sling – Especially a gun sling or crossbow sling made of fabric can be a sponge for sweat and stink.

Tip: The TenPoint Crossbow Sling features an extra strong 1.25'' shoulder strap with a thumb loop for added shoulder security. Non-slip design with custom swivels and heavy-duty adjustable strap

For more information about scent control, visit Scent Control - Part 1 and Scent Control - Part 2.

Region

International

Tags

Scouting: Where Will the Deer be in the Early Season? (video)

Dr. Grant Woods — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 11:00:00 +0000

Scouting: Where Will the Deer be in the Early Season? (video)

Dr. Grant Woods Wed, 07/15/2020 - 06:00

Category

Deer

Daniel shares deer hunting tips on scouting now for the best trail camera and hunting stand locations! See why one tree may be the hot spot in the forest for a better tasting and more abundant source of acorns. Spending time now scouting for these food sources can lead to tagging a good buck during the early season!

Plus, Grant guides a hunter on how to improve his hunting property with timber stand improvement and controlling invasive autumn olive and multiflora rose.

Topics covered: summer fruits for trail camera locations, acorn scouting, oak identification tips, weather impacts on acorn production, why deer prefer white oak acorns in the early season, scouting for stand locations,

The tips and techniques Grant shares here can help if you're hunting public or private land. Bottlenecks, food sources, wind direction, best places to put hunting stands, and more.

Join the conversation with other hunters and land owners on Growing Deer Tv's facebook page or Twitter:@GrowingDeer. If you like videos from GrowingDeer.tv visit our main website at www.GrowingDeer.tv for more videos and cool stuff interesting to hunters and land managers. Also look us up on Instagram and Pinterest.

Region

United States

Tags

Deer Hunting

Scouting

Video

Oklahoma Deer Habitat: New Plan for Even Bigger Deer!

Dr. Grant Woods — Tue, 11 Feb 2020 13:38:14 +0000

Oklahoma Deer Habitat: New Plan for Even Bigger Deer!

Dr. Grant Woods Tue, 02/11/2020 - 07:38

Category

Deer

Grant assisted Martin Smith during 2014 with a habitat plan to meet his and his sons hunting objectives. They implemented the plan and tagged a lot of bucks. Now they are ready for a plan to produce and harvest mature bucks! Watch as Grant shares a plan to meet Martin's objectives and learn some techniques that will work no matter where you hunt!

Region

United States

Tags

Deer Hunting

whitetail deer hunting

Habitat Management

Deer

10 Essential Whitetail Bowhunting Tips

10 Essential Whitetail Bowhunting Tips for a More Successful Season

? 10 Whitetail Bowhunting Tips You Can't Miss!

Michael Hunsucker’s Bowhunting Strategies

1. Prepare Early for the Whitetail Archery Season

2. Scout Smart and Avoid Pressure

3. Identify What Deer Need Most on Your Property

4. Hunt the Perimeter First

5. Watch for Ideal Weather Conditions

6. Plan Your Entry and Exit Routes Carefully

7. Observe Deer Behavior and Body Language

8. Mentally Prepare for the Shot Opportunity

9. Aim Small and Follow Through

10. Do Not Rush the Recovery

Michael Hunsucker’s 10 Bowhunting Tips Checklist

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Ready for Bow Season?

FAQs

Q: When is the best time to hunt whitetail deer with a bow?

Q: How can I improve my archery accuracy for deer hunting?

Q: What is the best shot placement on a whitetail deer with a bow?

Q: How long should I wait before tracking a shot deer?

Q: What gear do I need for bowhunting whitetail deer?

Boots On The Ground Scouting | Deer Hunting 101 with Wade Middleton

Boots On The Ground Scouting | Deer Hunting 101 with Wade Middleton

Why Boots On The Ground Matters

Summer Scouting – Bachelor Groups and Feeding Patterns

In-Season Scouting – Adapting to Hunting Pressure

Wade’s Scouting Tips

Featured Products

Final Takeaways from Wade Middleton

Ready to Gear Up?

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Top FAQs About Deer Scouting

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between summer and in-season scouting?

Q: How can I scout without spooking deer?

Q: Do trail cameras replace boots-on-the-ground scouting?

Q: What are the most important scouting locations?

Q: How often should I scout during the season?

More Hunting Videos You Will Love

Pre-Hunt Planning for Whitetail Deer: Map Study, Scouting, and Strategy

Pre-Hunt Planning for Whitetail Deer: Map Study, Scouting, and Strategy

Why Pre-Hunt Planning Matters

Step 1 – Secure Tags and Licenses

Step 2 – Study the Area

Tools to Use

What to Look For

Step 3 – Boots on the Ground Scouting

Step 4 – Adapt to Your Situation

Wade Middleton’s Gear & Prep Tips

Featured Products

Final Takeaways from Wade Middleton

Ready to Gear Up?

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More Hunting Videos You Will Love

Top FAQs About Pre-Hunt Planning

FAQs

Q: What’s the first step in planning a deer hunt?

Q: Do hunting apps really help?

Q: What’s more important — maps or boots on the ground?

Q: How do I plan differently for public vs. private land?

Q: What if I don’t have time to scout in person?

What Do Deer Eat? | Deer Hunting 101 with Wade Middleton

What Do Deer Eat? | Deer Hunting 101 with Wade Middleton

Why Food Sources Drive Deer Hunting

Key Food Sources for Whitetail Deer

Agricultural Crops

Nuts and Mast Crops

Natural Browse

Region-Specific Foods

Scouting Feeding Areas

Wade Middleton’s Approach

Featured Products

Final Takeaways from Wade Middleton

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