As the deer hunting season comes to a close, it's the perfect time to reflect on your experiences in the field. We all know the importance of being critical and evaluating your performance to become a better hunter. We’re here to share key aspects of grading your deer hunting season and making necessary improvements for better chances of success.
- Assess Your Experience Level: One crucial factor is understanding your experience level. Skilled hunters can reliably target does, showcasing their proficiency. If you find does challenging to hunt, it may be an indication of being too invasive or not adapting to the deer's behavior.
- Public Land Success: For those hunting on public land, the number of deer sightings compared to other hunters is a significant metric. If you consistently spot more deer than fellow hunters, it suggests effective scouting and strategic placement.
- Cell Cam Timing: Trail cameras, like your REVEAL cell cam, play a vital role in understanding deer movement. If your trail camera captures deer predominantly during the middle of the night, it's time to reconsider your stand locations, habitat improvements, or hunting methods to attract them during daylight hours.
- Timing of Deer Sightings: The timing of when you encounter deer is critical. If you often see bucks out of range, it indicates a need for better stand placement. Understanding the lay of the land, topography, and deer movement patterns can significantly improve your chances of encountering bucks in shooting range.
- Quality over Quantity: Seeing a multitude of does may seem exciting, but it's essential to focus on the buck-to-doe ratio. A skewed ratio suggests that mature bucks are eluding you. Aim to be part of the "five percent club," where you consistently observe mature bucks, signaling successful land management.
Reflecting on these key aspects can guide you in grading your deer hunting season effectively. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a newcomer, continuous improvement is the key to sustaining your passion for hunting. By addressing weaknesses and building on strengths, you contribute to the hunting community's growth and foster a love for the sport that lasts a lifetime.
Until next season, happy hunting!
Article Credit: Information sourced from Jeff Sturgis of Whitetail Habitat Solutions