CigarGuy

First of all, an intro. Hello to all. I am an avid NH Bow Hunter. I have been bow hunting now for going on my 9th season. I have yet to bag a deer with a bow, but every year, I get closer. I have a feeling that this is my year. This is my first post/thread and I look forward to being an active member of this BB. Now, on to the question.

I was wondering if it is too early to get out and scout for this season' s archery season. Our season opener is September 15th. I have a buddy I work with, and he thinks that scouting should take place on opening day. Pretty much put your stand over fresh droppings and fresh sign. He kills at least 2 deer a year. My problem is that with every year of hunting, my passion for the sport gets hotter and hotter. On one hand, I want to go out and scout, but on the other, I don' t want to let the dear know that I am in the area. I always am aware of scent control, and I use a scent Lok suit along with Rubber Boots. Do you think that it' s to early to head out to the woods now?

Sorry about the long winded post.

Danny45

As long as you, or other " scouters" don' t spook the deer and cause them to change their patterns, you should be fine. But another thing to consider, what and where are the food sources, water sources, and cover? If any of that changes between now and the start of the season, you' ll be out there all by yourself as the deer will change their pattern as the conditions change. Check with a locale biologist (most game departments have them) and find out what the deer will be eating during the hunting season. If they aren' t eating that now, find those sources, and concentrate on good looking transition areas between bedding areas and the food and water source. Also, don' t rely too much on water. If you' re in a area where it rains alot during this time period, the deer can get water anywhere. Don' t set yourself up to just watch one large water hole.

What' s the hunting pressure like in your area? That too will change the deer' s pattern once opening day starts. Figure out where most of the hunters are moving to, and concentrate on areas they aren' t.

Basically, don' t stop scouting just because opening morning has arrived.

Good luck. (did I forget anything guys???)

Rack-attack

Too early....LOL....you should be done by now

Many hunters on this board start the day the season ends to start preparing for next season. It often takes much work and time to be successful year after year.

Winter and spring are IMO the best time to set up stands based on what you have foubd scouting and what you have seen the previous years.

Personaly bowhunting is a year long passion for me - and has become that much more rewarding because of it.

But get out now - time is running short and welcome to the boards

c903

Ditto on the Rack-attack. Better early than late. I read the area to predict early and late season movements.

buckeye

Rack was right on the money with that one. Scouting can also be just as much fun as hunting. Go out and scout, enjoy your time outdoors and good luck getting in position on that first deer!!!

BigDaddy12t

Wont going out now and tromping around your hunting grounds just scare the deer off? I was allways under the impression that you wanted to stay out of your hunting area just before the season starts. I know it probably depends on how much traffic your area has during the off season, if the the deer are used to lots of people around it probably shouldnt matter. I personaly think that scouting in the spring is best.

445 supermag

Nope I don' t think so as many here start right after the whole deer season is over. You can' t get much sooner than that

Brian

skeeter 7MM

Nope never to early to start learning! I am one of those who ends hunting season just to start scouting for a new season. The more you know the deer, their woods and routines the better off you are IMHO. I would suggest scouting if food sources are your prime target from a distance with the wind in your favour. If you hunt in the woods then this time of year & scouting is touch and go, I would scout during the heat of the day and only with the wind on my nose at all times. Find a spot that looks inviting to start and then once season is on start scouting deeper. One key I have found with scouting and yearly success is never stop adapting and scouting. I start out fringe and push my way closer to the bedrooms of the deer as season goes on and rut draws near. Some of my best scouting is done when bow in hand, watch, listen and venture out...again always keeping the wind on your nose!

I guess you could say my best advice is " WIND ON YOUR NOSE" & scout more than you actually hunt!

Welcome and good luck getting your deer

c903

I never stop scouting through the entire season. However, I do change my tactics to keep my known presence limited and I don' t foul the " hot" areas. Sometimes that means just scouting from afar using binos, driving the perimeters after sundown, and staying in contact with people/farmers that live in the areas.

Dan324

We scout the elk and deer herds year round. Its a lot of fun watching bucks and bulls as their racks grow. If you do your homework you will know exactly where to be opening day and what to expect when you get there.

Good luck!