When To Make A Move???
We all have those certain sets we go to year after year that consistently produce for us. Sometimes its a ladder stand over a food plot, hang on stand overlooking an oak flat, or even a well brushed in ground blind in a transition area. One thing about those “old faithful” sets is you usually know when/how those deer will travel through those areas.
However, as much as much as we scent prevent with your favorite shampoo or scent killer field spray those deer know your favorite spots too. One thing our team tries to do is avoid burning out a stand or setup. Regardless of the activity both on cameras and in person we really try and change it up. We tried this year more then ever to stay mobile especially early on in the season. Many times when sitting in our “old faithful” stands, deer will take a different travel route and you’ll say to yourself “man I should climb over by that thicket”. Don’t be afraid to go mobile and use a climber, or hang an extra set for a certain wind direction that maybe isn’t perfect for your old faithful spots. I typically will take my summit climber and tuck in tight on ridges over looking oak flats early on and during the rut. On days when I know I am going to be able to do an all day sit I do some work ahead of time to try and give myself an advantage. When using my climber, I will head to the woods the day before and get it setup on the base of my tree, double check shooting lanes and will mark my path so I can sneak in the following morning. When changing a set during the season, I’ll often hang it mid day, change back into my hunting clothes and hunt that set that evening. Ive often heard the first time you sit in it is the best. I have definitely had success when following this philosophy but remember it is hunting, and the minute you think you have them figured out they’ll fool ya. Sometimes during the rut, getting mobile and getting in tight to those transitional/bedding areas can be pay off in a big way. Early season, those well traveled routes in and out of main food sources can be a winning ticket too. The use of trail cameras or personal scouting can help you get the advantage as much as one is able too.
There is no true perfect time on when to make a move when hunting. Also making a move can be risky, but also super rewarding. Anytime you are out in the woods try and take note of new travel patterns, and change of food/water sources.
Whether you do it preseason, mid season, or at the end of the year come up with a plan and hunt hard.
Kyle Yeltong - DHS TEAM