Tips For Bowhunting Whitetail Deer

As deer season approaches, many bow hunters are polishing up their skills, taking stock of their equipment, and reading up on tips and tricks for a successful season. Whether it’s your first season or your 50th season, there’s always something you can learn or improve to make for a better hunt. Take a look at these two tips to keep in mind for the upcoming season:

1. Understand Deer Behavior and Respect It

The wisest of hunters understand that in order to harvest a deer, you have to think like a deer and act in a way that will make them feel safe. This is especially important advice for those looking to hunt the early season, as deer are more likely to spook since they’re not yet distracted by the rut. Utilizing trail cameras to track populations and wearing unscented or naturally scented clothing when walking outdoors can help give the deer population the space they need to feel confident in their surroundings. The aim is to have as minimal of a presence as possible. You can also utilize deer behavior to your advantage by mapping out bedding or feeding grounds. Finding places that offer an abundance of acorns, fruits, and native plants can be a huge bonus to your hunting season as the ecosystem will draw the deer in for you.

1. Use All Your Senses

This tip is most helpful for those hunting the rut, as it’s easier to be out among the deer when they’re distracted during this time of the season. When you’re out on the hunt, use your eyes and ears. If you’re looking through the trees, try and train your eye to catch on horizontal lines instead of vertical lines. This will help you pick out the deer from the foliage much easier. Then if you’re hoping to find a buck, make sure to follow the does. The does will work in your favor as they’re already naturally drawing the bucks in, but you’ll have to be extremely careful when stalking them as they’re already on high alert due to the time of year. Keep your ears open as you walk outside. Notice any little sound that might be a grunt, a fight between bucks, or chasing in the underbrush. Pinpointing these sounds can help you understand where the deer are at, and you can adjust accordingly. Even smell can be useful, as you can often smell a buck as they approach. If you’re in a tree stand or other sedentary hunting spot, using your nose can help you pinpoint deer when you’re trying to be still and can’t turn to look at your surroundings.

If you keep these tips in mind, you’ll be on a good path to success this bow hunting season. Remember to stay safe, and enjoy your time in the outdoors.