The Utah Archery Deer Hunt gets underway this weekend and the DWR's predictions are mixed, depending upon the region for which you drew out. Some units have increased buck to doe ratios. Credit for this goes in part to the great weather we've had in Utah this spring and with rain through much of June, the forage has been great. Still, the deer populations in some units are well below the DWR's population objectives. For example, on the Central Mountains-Manti Unit the deer population has been estimated at 20,000, which is only half of the number that should be in that unit. Check the following link for more detailed info: http://wildlife.utah.gov/news/09-07/archery_preview.php
With that in mind, there are steps hunters can take that will maximize their chances for getting that sought for buck.
Tip 1 is scouting. Spend some time in the area you plan on hunting prior to the beginning of the season. With the hunt beginning Saturday, that doesn't give you much time. If the best you can do is arrive a day or two early, do it. Find the water holes, the springs, the seeps. Look for the places they bed down. Look for forage.
Tip 2, hunt early and hunt often. Spending a lot of time in the areas deer frequent, will allow you to maximize your chances at a nice buck. Getting up and going before it's light is a great way to put yourself in position when you're able to see.
Tip 3, as much as possible, get out of the vehicles and off the roads. True, deer sometimes will cross roads, and you may get a shot, but the chances of that are much slimmer than if you put yourself in their domain.
Tip 4, camoflage yourself from head to toe. Not only do you want to disguise your looks, but your smell as well. Before you hunt, take a bath or shower using unscented soap. Spread baking soda throughout your clothing to absorb and neutralize odor. Try some of the popular scents, like "Doe in Heat". Don't use it as a cologne--put a few drops on some pads and tie them to your boots.
Tip 5, once you physically locate some animals, move very slowly. Sneak up on them in bare feet if you have to. Stay downwind of them if possible. Utilize all the patience in your possession so that you don't rush a bad shot, or get to anxious to shoot. Calm down, relax, but remain focused on your task at hand--bringing home the deer.
Tip 6, last but not least, make sure you have lots of target practice, and when you finally get to shoot at the buck, pick a spot, imagine a bullseye if you have to. What you want to avoid is shooting at the whole animal. This will almost always ensure a bad shot.
Focus on doing things the smart way, and you will be more successful. Good luck!
Comments