Scouting
Posted by: Dan Sines on 25 February 08
Scouting in the off-season may seem like a pointless idea. I think this is a misconception. Tracking deer during the off-season allows you to gain a better feel for the trends and habits of your deer over the course of the year. It is vital that during this time deer gain proper nutrition and such, so that by the hunting season they have grown to potential. Scouting can be done in a multitude of manners. The simplest way I know is the “weaponless hunt” sit in your treestand or any location you are familiar with on your property and begin to assess the deer’s behavior. Bring a good pair of optics along with you, and maybe even a video or digital camera. Documentation of what you see will allow you to create a database of information on the animals and make it much easier for you to fall into their patterns come hunting season. Keep in mind however a deer’s behavior changes dramatically during the rut and hunting season, but it is still nice to keep a close eye on them during the off season.
Another good approach to scouting that allows you to be alittle more hands off is the use of stealth trail cams. Technology can really add to the hunting experience. Stealth Cameras allow you to have eyes in the woods 24/7. Over the last few years we have gone from one digital camera in the woods to 3 or 4 on a property. Stealth cameras can be both fun to observe and advantageous. The major advantages of stealth cameras include:
- Observation of animal behavior
- Tracking and trailing
- Viewing of nocturnal animals
- Accurate record for year to year growth
It has become a religious event every other day at my house the “checking of the chips”. It is a family affair as we crowd around the computer to see what exciting pictures we have today. Pictures range from squirrels and rabbits, to foxes, bears, coyotes, raccoons, turkeys, deer, if it lives in your area I guarantee it will eventually step in front of your lens. Use this technology to help discover patterns and become aware of your animals behavior. The day will come when that Boone & Crockett buck smiles for your camera.
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