Deer Hunting Tips - Hunt the Edges

Hunting the edges is a proven strategy that leverages the natural behavior of deer to maximize your chances of success. Here's why and how to implement this technique:

• Deer Movement Patterns: Deer often travel along the edges of different habitat types, such as where forests meet fields, brush transitions to open land, or creek beds meet hardwoods.
• Safety and Resources: Edges provide both cover for safety and access to food and water, making them high-traffic areas.
• Natural Funnels: These transition zones act as natural travel corridors, funneling deer along predictable paths.

1. Scout Early
   • Identify areas where deer trails follow or cross edges. Look for tracks, rubs, and scrapes.
   • Use trail cameras to monitor activity along these routes.
2. Choose the Right Edge
   • Field-Edge Forests: Deer feed in fields but retreat to forest cover during the day. Position yourself along these travel routes.
   • Brush to Hardwood Transitions: Bucks often use thicker brush for cover while seeking does in hardwood areas during the rut.
3. Set Up Strategically
   • Position yourself on the downwind side of the edge to avoid detection.
   • Use natural blinds or tree stands to blend in with the environment.
4. Timing Is Key
   • Hunt edges during the morning as deer return to bedding areas.
   • In the evening, focus on edges leading to feeding zones.
5. Be Patient and Silent
   • Deer are cautious along edges, often stopping to scan their surroundings. Stay still and minimize noise to avoid spooking them.
6. Look for Secondary Trails
   • In heavily hunted areas, deer may avoid main trails and use less obvious secondary paths. Pay attention to these subtle signs.

• Midday Movement: During the rut, bucks may cruise edges midday searching for does.
• Use Cover to Your Advantage: In dense edge areas, you can stalk slowly, staying hidden as you move.
• Adjust for Weather: In windy conditions, deer may avoid wide-open fields and stick closer to edge habitats for shelter.

By understanding and utilizing edges effectively, you can capitalize on deer behavior and improve your odds of success.