The deer hunting season ends, and we’re left with one of two familiar feelings: the satisfaction of another good year and a job well done, or the letdown of missed opportunities and tough luck.
Both feelings kindle the craving to get back out there. We can’t wait for next season. And we won’t just sit on our tails hoping next year will hand us trophies. Here are 7 tips for scouting deer in the post season – so you don’t have to rely on luck next year.
7 Tips on Scouting Deer in the Post Season
Deer season is over. Now it’s time to scout for next year. Here’s how.
1. Scout Early and Often
Make the most of the post season by gathering real-time information on next year’s trophies. What you can learn now reveals a lot about deer behavior late in the season, which is an advantage you need.
2. Look for the Basics
The basics can take you a long way. You’re looking for any signs of deer.
- Antler sheds
- Tracks and trails
- Bedding areas and food sources
- Communal rubs and scrapes
- Fence crossings, other physical barriers
- Natural funnel areas and corridors
3. Connect the Dots
Follow the signs above to find more signs. You can use them to figure out exactly how the deer use that area. Finding one track can lead to a more commonly used trail, then on to a bedding area. Or, a well-worn rut sign could funnel deer movement like a river crossing or fence crossing would. These are good spots to set up your cameras.
4. Think Like a Deer
To get close to deer in their comfort zone, look for signs around food and water entries and exits. Also, look for beds in more obscure places than you usually would during the hunting season.
Following a set of larger tracks may lead to the buck’s living room. Especially take note of where you find antler sheds in the area. Mature bucks will often use the same late season food sources every year. Once you’ve located the food source, you can set a date to meet the buck for dinner late next season.
5. Write It All Down
It’s easy to forget, so write everything down. You may want to keep a map with detailed location markers for everything you find (and that means everything).
6. Keep A Low Profile
You may be forced to disturb next year’s trophies for a moment while you learn about their tendencies, but try not to. Remain unscented and unspotted to avoid spooking deer. If you’re invisible, they’re more likely to return to their habitat with a sense of security. White Oak Whiskey attracts deer and completely covers your scent at the same time – in any wind direction. Make sure to spray it all over your boots and lower pant legs to leave deer clueless.
7. Get Ready for Next Season
Use all your findings to determine easy access locations for ground blinds, ambush sites, and tree stands. You can make good use of the WOW daytime teaser throughout the offseason to keep deer coming back.
Whether you want to stay on a roll (like last year) or bounce back from a rough season, you’ve got work to do. Now, get out there and start scouting!