Just because the firearm seasons are over, and there may be fewer Bucks available and ones that are, maybe, warier, is no reason to pass on what may be some of the best hunting of the year. Sure, the tactics you have used earlier in the year may no longer be as productive. Still, by changing your strategies to take advantage of changing Whitetail movements, you may turn those unfilled tags into wall mounts and/or venison for the freezer. So, let’s discuss some new tactics that will make it worthwhile to leave that warm couch and pursue our passion!
Benefits of Blinds
Earlier Season may have been all about hunting from the several tree stands you had strategically placed throughout your hunting areas; the late season may dictate a change in this method of bowhunting. Trees are bare now and no longer hide your silhouette and add the fact that wary deer now tend to look up more often, these same productive stands give way to better options. I like to utilize hub type blinds during the late season for several reasons. No need to worry about icy tree steps or ladders, and they serve to get us out of cold north winds that can shorten our stay on stand. A blind in the right place with a comfortable blind chair can be pretty cozy and deadly productive.
Late Season Strategies
During severe cold weather, Whitetails tend to be more active during the warmer temperatures of midday and spend more time feeding during this warmer time of day. They are more likely to spend the much colder morning and late evening hours conserving calories by bedding and being less active. The photo above shows a young buck searching for snow buried acorns during a midday foray. I like to set up closer to feeding areas this time of year, as the deer are focused on food sources in order to survive winter challenges. This is true also of rut weary bucks that need to replenish lose weight for the cold months ahead.
Take Advantage of Natural Cover
In the big woods where I love to hunt, I like to search oak flats and any fresh deer sign showing feeding trends. Heavy trails in the snow and dug up snow is evidence of feeding activity and turn into prime locations to set up. A felled tree or natural brush along one of these trails can be a productive blind for unsuspecting deer focused on traveling to chosen food sources.
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