At this point in the early season, deer hunting in North Texas can be extremely rewarding for novices and experts alike. Many times here on the blog we like to try to educate for those who are just starting out as hunting enthusiasts, but today we speak to those who are season veterans of the sport.
If you’ve been hunting in North Texas, or in the nearby regions for many years, you likely have tried and true tactics, gear, routines, and even superstitions that you carry through from year to year. However, even the best hunters can always learn new tricks! Read on for our top 5 deer hunting tips from the pros:
1. Go for the aggressors.
Challenge yourself right now while you have the chance to hunt bully bucks. You can find them (via observing or deer cams) by their posturing at nearby bucks, stubborn and territorial behavior, especially while feeding. Utilizing a younger buck call can draw them toward you as they may want another challenge.
2. Make use of modern technology.
By monitoring the movements of a nocturnal buck with a mobile trail camera, you’ll be able to discover exactly when he begins making daytime movements. Then you can move in quickly (within a few days maximum) to hunt him within his movement area for a successful kill.
3. Strategically plant a cedar tree within shooting range.
Since bucks faithfully check food plots for does at this time of year, you can take advantage of that knowledge. Uproot a small cedar tree and dig a decent hole about 20 yards from your hunting vantage point. Add to the ruse by making a mock scrape under it to draw all of the bucks right to you.
4. Use body language.
Seeking bucks will be quick and moving with intent. They’re on the lookout for a doe which means they’re much less aware of their surroundings and are less likely to notice you. Ignore all of the slower moving bucks. Also good to look for in seeking bucks: laid back ears and hair that is standing up. These are signs that the buck is aggressively on the hunt and that he’ll be likely to come toward your call.
5. Follow the frost.
After the first frost of the year, most bucks are still in their seeking phase. Look for deer that go out at first light to look for food. When the cold dawn air puts them off their usual food scents, many will lay back down for a few more hours while the temperature rises. By mid-morning, there is usually a ton of activity with bucks who are now going out to feed and also starting their doe seeking activity for the day. You can see a lot of action if you time it just right.
We know that deer hunting in North Texas is much more than a hobby for the serious hunter. Scouting, planning, location and the right equipment as well as knowing how to disguise your own scent are all part of the act. If you’ve got a great expert tip that we didn’t share here, please post it in the comments!