Whitetail deer are one of the most popularly hunted animals in North America. You can find these majestic creatures in southern Canada and most of the United States, except for the Southwestern region. If you want to have a successful hunt, many expert tips can help you. Here are some helpful tactics when hunting whitetail deer.
Control & Mask Your Scent
Learning how to control and mask your scent is one of the most important tactics when hunting whitetail deer because their noses are one of their most powerful defenses. Deer have a very keen sense of smell, so even if you can’t detect your own odor, the whitetails can—and from half a mile away. Therefore, it’s essential to mask your human scent as much as possible. You can do this by utilizing non-smelling soap when you bathe and covering yourself and your clothing in scent-masking sprays geared toward deer hunting. It’s also beneficial to stay downwind of the whitetails you are hunting, so the wind doesn’t carry any lingering scents or odors in their direction.
Utilize Proper Baiting Techniques
Utilizing proper baiting techniques is another helpful tactic for hunting whitetail deer. There are many effective methods for baiting whitetails, but it’s crucial to know how to execute them and at what time of year to use them. Understanding the habits of these creatures will help you to know how and when to bait them. For example, you can use baiting techniques like estrous-doe drag rags to attract bucks during the mating season, from September to November. However, you don’t want to employ the drag rag tactic too early in the season, as it can confuse the whitetails. Understanding when and how to use your baiting techniques will pay off in the long run.
Develop a Calling Strategy
You can also develop a calling strategy as an effective whitetail hunting tactic. Some hunters prefer to stay completely silent while hunting, but others prefer to make the right noises to attract their prey. Utilizing the appropriate deer calls in the right situations can help you to have a successful hunt when done correctly. There are several different types of calls you can use, such as the bleat, grunt, rattle, and snort wheeze. However, it’s imperative to know the proper timing and scenarios for each one of these calls so you can mimic natural deer behavior and lure them to you rather than away from you.
On your next hunting trip, be sure to utilize these effective whitetail deer hunting tactics for greater chances of success. Knowing the essential hunting rules to follow to stay safe is also beneficial in helping you avoid accidents and injuries.
