Mastering the Art of Scouting Public Land for Deer Hunting

MISSOURI DEER HUNTING
Public land deer hunting presents a unique set of challenges, but also, opportunities for hunters. While private land offer controlled environments, public lands are a treasure trove of diverse habitats and rich hunting experiences. Private land hunting may not be an option due to cost or other factors. Successfully scouting public land will significantly enhance your chances for hunting success. Here are some expert tips to get you started.

1. Research and Regulations

Before stepping into the woods, invest time in thorough research:

• Maps and Apps: Use topographic maps and GPS apps like OnX Hunt, Google Earth, or HuntStand to get a lay of the land. My favorite is Gaia GPS.
• Regulations: Check state and local hunting regulations. Each public land area may have specific rules regarding hunting seasons, permissible hunting methods, and areas off-limits to hunting. You don't want to waste massive quantities of time scouting an area not open to hunting or with special regs that don't work in your circumstances.

2. Understand the Terrain

Public lands encompass various terrains and ecosystems. Understanding these features is crucial:

• Topography: Identify high ridges, valleys, and water sources. Deer often travel along natural funnels like ridges and saddles.
• Vegetation: Look for areas with diverse vegetation. Deer need a mix of cover for bedding and open areas for feeding. Understand how mast affects deer feeding behavior and research whether food plots are put in the area you will hunt.
• Water Sources: Small ponds, streams, and other water features are prime hunting areas.

3. Seasonal Patterns

Deer behavior changes with the seasons:

• Early Season: Focus on food sources. Look for areas with abundant natural forage like acorns, fruit trees, and crop fields.
• Pre-Rut and Rut: Concentrate on travel corridors and doe bedding areas. Bucks will be actively seeking does.
• Late Season: Deer will be seeking high-calorie food sources to survive the winter. Focus on areas with remaining agricultural crops or mast-producing trees.

4. Boots on the Ground

Digital scouting is invaluable, but nothing beats firsthand experience:

• Scouting Trips: Plan multiple scouting trips during the off-season. Look for deer signs such as tracks, rubs, scrapes, and droppings.
• Trail Cameras: Set up trail cameras to monitor deer activity. Place them along trails, food sources, and bedding areas. This can be tricky on public land - use your discretion and good common sense. We have had gear stolen from public areas, so beware.
• Entry and Exit Routes: Plan your entry and exit routes to avoid disturbing bedding areas and to remain undetected by deer.

5. Focus on Edge Habitats

Edges, where two types of vegetation meet, are often hotspots for deer activity:

• Field Edges: Deer use the cover of the woods to approach open fields.
• Thicket Boundaries: Thick cover provides security, and deer often travel along these boundaries.
• Water Edges: Deer need water daily, making creeks, rivers, and ponds ideal scouting locations.

6. Human Pressure

Public lands can see significant human activity, impacting deer behavior:

• Remote Areas: Seek out less accessible areas where human presence is minimal. We often mark out any area on the map within 1/4 mile of an established road or trail. It's astounding how many fewer hunters we encounter using this rule.
• Weekday Hunts: Hunting pressure is typically lower during weekdays, increasing your chances of encountering deer.
• Adjust to Pressure: Deer will alter their patterns in response to hunting pressure. Be adaptable and look for fresh signs of deer activity away from heavily hunted areas.

7. Stay Flexible

Adaptability is key to successful public land hunting:

• Mobile Hunting: Consider using a lightweight, portable tree stand or a ground blind (be cautious on public ground with ground blinds!). Being able to move quickly and quietly is a significant advantage.
• Weather and Wind: Always hunt the wind. Deer rely heavily on their sense of smell, and improper wind direction can ruin your chances.

8. Network and Learn

Engage with the hunting community to gather insights and tips:

• Local Hunters: Join local hunting clubs or forums to exchange information.
• Workshops and Seminars: Participate in hunting workshops and seminars to learn from experts.

Conclusion

Scouting public land for deer hunting requires a blend of research, fieldwork, and adaptability. By understanding the land, monitoring deer behavior, and being prepared to adjust your strategies, you can unlock the full potential of public land hunting. Embrace the challenge, enjoy the process, and the rewards of a successful hunt will follow. Happy hunting!

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Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the game, public land offers endless opportunities for adventure and success. With these scouting tips, you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of deer hunting on public land.

5 Essential Summer Activities for Whitetail Deer Hunters in the Midwest

Whitetail Buck

As the warmth of summer starts to settle across the Midwest, whitetail deer hunters might be tempted to relax and take a break from their hunting preparations. However, seasoned hunters know that the off-season is just as crucial as the hunting season itself. To ensure a successful hunt come fall, here are five key activities to focus on during the summer months. These activities include preparation for hunters who own or have access to private land hunting opportunities, and those who hunt public land (Kansas Public Land Hunting...Missouri Public Land Hunting).

1. Scouting and Trail Camera Placement

Summer is the perfect time to get out into the field and start scouting potential hunting spots. Take advantage of the warm weather and longer days to explore new areas and check for deer activity. Look for signs like tracks, droppings, and bedding areas.

Trail cameras are an invaluable tool for monitoring deer movement. Set up cameras in strategic locations such as trails, feeding areas, and water sources. Regularly check and maintain these cameras to gather data on deer patterns and identify potential target bucks. This information will be critical for planning your hunting strategy in the fall.

2. Habitat Management

Creating a favorable environment for whitetail deer on your hunting property can significantly increase your chances of success. Summer is an excellent time to focus on habitat management activities such as:

• Food Plots: Planting and maintaining food plots can attract and sustain deer throughout the year. Opt for nutrient-rich plants like clover, soybeans, and brassicas, which provide essential food sources.
• Water Sources: Ensure that deer have access to clean water by maintaining existing water holes or creating new ones. This is especially important during dry summer months.
• Timber Stand Improvement (TSI): Conduct selective thinning of forests to promote the growth of desirable vegetation and create better bedding and feeding areas for deer.

3. Shooting Practice

Accuracy is crucial for ethical and effective hunting. Use the summer months to hone your shooting skills. Regular practice at the shooting range will help maintain and improve your marksmanship. Here are some tips for effective practice:

• Consistency: Practice shooting from various positions and distances to simulate real hunting scenarios.
• Equipment Check: Ensure that your bow or firearm is in top condition. Inspect for wear and tear, and make any necessary repairs or adjustments.
• Sighting In: Confirm that your sights are accurate. Make any needed adjustments to ensure precise shooting when it matters most.

4. Gear Maintenance and Preparation

Summer is an ideal time to inventory and maintain your hunting gear. Check each item for functionality and repair or replace anything that is worn or damaged. Key items to focus on include:

• Tree Stands and Blinds: Inspect for structural integrity, clean, and perform any necessary maintenance.
• Clothing: Wash and repair hunting apparel. Consider treating clothing with scent-control solutions to minimize human scent.
• Backpack and Essentials: Organize your hunting backpack, ensuring that you have all necessary supplies such as first-aid kits, navigation tools, and field dressing equipment.

5. Landowner Relationships and Permissions

If you hunt on private land, maintaining good relationships with landowners is crucial. Use the summer to touch base with them, express gratitude, and discuss plans for the upcoming hunting season. Clear communication can help secure or renew hunting permissions and might even lead to new opportunities.

Additionally, offering to help with property maintenance tasks, such as fence repairs or invasive species control, can strengthen these relationships and demonstrate your appreciation.

Conclusion

While the fall hunting season might seem far off, the summer months provide a valuable opportunity for preparation. By dedicating time to scouting, habitat management, shooting practice, gear maintenance, and building landowner relationships, you can set the stage for a successful and rewarding whitetail deer hunting season in the Midwest. So, lace up your boots, grab your gear, and make the most of the summer – the deer are waiting!

Apply to hunt elk in Minnesota

Elk

 Apply to hunt elk in Minnesota

Interested in hunting elk? Hunters have through Friday, June 16, to apply for one of 17 elk licenses offered this year by the DNR.

Seasons will run from early September to mid-October. Hunters can choose from two license options. One license is for an antlerless elk, which can be a female or a young male. The other license option is for either a bull or antlerless elk.

New this season, the DNR expanded the boundaries of Elk Zone 20 near Lancaster to better encompass areas where elk have been during elk hunting seasons. The zone expanded by about 6 miles to the west and 3 miles to the south.

Please review the elk season structure on the DNR website prior to entering the lottery to ensure you apply for the license you want.

For more outdoor information, visit www.family-outdoors.com

CWD detected in a wild deer in Grand Rapids, Minnesota

The discovery of a wild white-tailed deer infected with CWD within the city of Grand Rapids is prompting the DNR to update its response plan to better reflect a statewide approach to disease surveillance, management, control and education.

The health of Minnesota’s wild deer herd remains a top priority for DNR, and the department always has looked at CWD as a disease that could impact the entire state yet implemented aggressive disease management actions as needed in each area where CWD was found.

This new discovery doesn’t make CWD a statewide problem, but it does mean we need to take more of a statewide approach.

There now are eight areas spread across Minnesota, from north to south, where CWD has been found in wild or farmed deer. Despite these detections, the disease remains rare in Minnesota. Fewer than 1% of deer have tested positive for CWD in areas where the disease has consistently been detected during the past five years.

We’ll be seeking public input as we explore and implement enhanced efforts at statewide surveillance, information and education.

More details: Learn more about the DNR’s response to CWD

Get your 2 Cents Worth in On Minnesota Deer Hunting

 

Too often, we as outdoorsmen and women wait until after decisions are made - even when our opinion has been solicited - to get in our 2 cents worth.  Minnesota DNR is asking stakeholders to offer their ideas. Find information on the outdoors at Family-Outdoors.

Share your opinions on deer population trends by Feb. 13

Do you have an interest in deer management? Help us shape deer population goals for 28 of Minnesota's 130 deer permit areas by giving your feedback online through Sunday, Feb. 13. We’re looking for your input on deer population trends in the areas where you live, work and recreate. Regardless of your affiliation or interactions with deer, we want your opinions.

More details: Share your thoughts about deer populations

Making Your Property a Deer Destination - Wisconsin

 

Landowners can join DMAP year-round,
but the deadline is March 1 to be eligible for a site visit in 2022.
Photo Credit: iStock/Charlie Dobbs

Deer hunters know that the seasons they hunt are just a part of the picture.  Whether you own property and want to manage it to improve deer and other wildlife habitat, or are spending time year 'round in the woods on public land, learning trails and scouting, deer hunting offers a great way to learn about and conserve our resources.  Wisconsin is offering this program for landowners in this effort. At FAMILY-OUTDOORS, we want to support these efforts as part of the broader goal of getting families and individuals in the outdoors!

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is hosting a virtual open house for the public to learn about our Deer Management Assistance Program. 

Join DNR staff and current Deer Management Assistance Program (DMAP) members via Zoom at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 16. Be sure to pre-register to reserve your spot.

DMAP is a cooperative effort between the DNR, landowners and hunters to provide habitat and deer herd management assistance to those interested in managing their property for wildlife. Simply put, DMAP is a partnership for healthy deer, healthy wildlife and healthy habitat.

The DNR’s wildlife and forestry staff assist landowners with management practices that consider the ecological and social impacts that white-tailed deer have on the landscape. In return, DMAP cooperators can choose to share habitat information, collect biological data and participate in DMAP workshops.

This one-on-one relationship encourages communication and cooperation and makes DMAP a flexible and effective deer management program for private and public lands alike.

Since 2014, DMAP has helped Wisconsin landowners manage habitat for deer and other wildlife.

If you enroll 160 acres or more in DMAP by March 1, 2022, you will be eligible for a site visit by a DNR wildlife biologist and forester, as well as a customized management plan tailored to your property goals.

Landowners with properties of any size may enroll in DMAP at any time. And those with less than 160 acres may combine acreage with neighboring landowners to reach the 160-acre requirement and enroll as a DMAP cooperative.

More information regarding DMAP and how to apply is available here.

To receive DMAP email updates and other information, sign up here. Follow the prompts and select the "Deer Management Assistance Program" option, found under Wildlife Management.

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EVENT DETAILS

WHAT: Deer Management Assistance Program Virtual Open House

WHEN:  6-8 p.m. Feb. 16, 2022

WHERE: Join live via Zoom. Pre-register here

Minnesota DNR seeks input on deer population goals

Get insight into deer population goal setting next week during webinars scheduled for the 28 deer permit areas that will have their goals adjusted in 2022.

Affected areas are in portions of the southeast, Arrowhead and north central areas of Minnesota. Webinars are scheduled:

• Monday, Jan. 24, for north central DPAs
• Wednesday, Jan. 26, for northeast DPAs
• Thursday, Jan. 27, for southeast DPAs

People are strongly encouraged to attend the webinar for their DPA before formulating their responses to the online questionnaire on goal setting. At each webinar, the DNR will present additional information about each goal-setting block, seek participant input and answer questions. 

The DNR establishes deer population goals — how much of an increase or decrease is desired in a deer population in a particular DPA — as part of managing the state’s wild deer.

More details: Learn about deer population goal setting

South Dakota: Third Deer Draw - Municipal Archery Drawings Now Open

 

The third draw for South Dakota rifle deer seasons is now open with licenses available for West River Deer and East River Deer units. Paper applications must be submitted by August 6, and online submissions must be made by 8 a.m. CDT, August 11. Residents will be able to apply for any season that they do not already have a license in. Nonresidents can apply for West River Deer if they do not already have a license for that season and do not already posses licenses for two deer seasons. If you are applying via paper application, and you have not already purchased a Habitat Stamp, you must purchase one ($10 resident, $25 nonresident) in addition to your application. Remember, Special Buck licenses count towards a license being held in that season. MUNICIPAL DEER Online applications are also still being taken for limited resident public archery deer hunts in certain areas for the cities of Custer, Rapid City and Sioux Falls.  Applicants must provide a valid email address as email is the only way you will be notified whether you are successful on unsuccessful in drawing a license.  Successful applicants must attend a mandatory hunter briefing meeting prior to hunting. The dates and times of the briefing will be supplied in the email to successful applicants. Visit gfp.sd.gov/pages/municipal-deer/to learn more about requirements, restrictions and hunting zones.

Apply for a Deer License Today

Leftover Deer Licenses

Operation Deer Watch Launches Aug. 1 Wisconsinites Collect Scientific Data To Inform Deer Management

 

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will launch Operation Deer Watch on Aug. 1, allowing citizen scientists around Wisconsin to report deer sightings in their area, which provides crucial data for deer management.

Participation in Operation Deer Watch is simple, requires no registration and can be done using a computer or mobile device. DNR researchers ask participants to report deer sightings, including bucks, does and fawns, between Aug. 1 and Sept. 30 via an easy-to-use online form.

Data collected provides insights into the reproductive status of Wisconsin's deer herd and helps shape deer management for the state.

Many participants carry a printable tally sheet with them in the car to record sightings and then enter their results online later. For safety, participants should only record sightings when their vehicle is stopped, not while driving.

"This is a fun and useful opportunity for everyone to enjoy Wisconsin's plentiful wildlife," said Brian Dhuey, DNR Wildlife Population And Harvest Assessment Specialist. "The DNR encourages everyone interested in deer, from hunters and trappers to outdoor enthusiasts, to take part."

County Deer Advisory Councils also use data from the survey to develop deer season framework, harvest quotas and permit level recommendations.

Learn more about Operation Deer Watch by visiting the DNR webpage here.

Minnesota Deer Notes

Deer hunting season details available

Ready to plan ahead for the fall? Check out the details for the 2021 season in the Minnesota Hunting and Trapping regulations handbook, now available on the DNR website. Printed copies of the handbook will be delivered to hunting license vendors the first week of August.

Hunting licenses go on sale Sunday, Aug. 1. You can buy your license at any DNR license agent, by telephone at 888-665-4236, or online at mndnr.gov/buyalicense.

Archery deer season opens S

Saturday, Sept. 18, and firearms deer season opens Saturday, Nov. 6. Find out more on the deer hunting page.

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Deer bag limit name changes Bag-limit labels have been changed to make the limits clearer: "Lottery" is now "antlerless permit lottery" (one-deer limit) "Hunter choice" is now "either-sex" (one-deer limit) "Managed" is now "two-deer limit" "Intensive" is now "three-deer limit" "Unlimited antlerless" is now "five-deer limit" "Bucks only" remains the same, with the one-deer limit. Areas that were previously under an unlimited antlerless bag limit are now a five-deer limit.

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Early antlerless season expands

The DNR has expanded the early antlerless deer season, Oct. 21-24, to include more deer permit areas in central and southeastern Minnesota. The season increases opportunities for hunters in areas where deer populations are above population goals or where there is an increased risk of chronic wasting disease spreading. Permit areas open during the hunt are 213, 214, 215, 221, 227, 236, 277, 341, 342, 343, 604, 605, 643, 645, 646, 647, 648, 649, 655 and 701. Early antlerless permits go on sale Aug. 1.

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Check your deer permit area boundary Several deer permit area boundaries in southwest and northeast Minnesota have changed based input from the public, tribal communities and DNR staff. The permit areas affected are: 169, 171, 173, 179, 184, 197, 237, 259, 275, 276, 277, 281, 282, 283 and 295. Changes are depicted on the 2021 Deer Season Area Map and hunters should double-check the boundaries of any permit areas where they plan to hunt, as well as bag limits in those areas. Key CWD changes for the 2021 season Mandatory sampling of deer harvested in chronic wasting disease zones will resume this year during the opening weekends of both firearms A and B seasons. The names of the zones are simplified to three tiers: management zone, control zone and surveillance zone.  The surveillance zone has expanded following detections of the disease in wild and captive deer, adding deer permit areas 110, 184, 197, 233 and 342, and a portion of deer permit area 169. Late chronic wasting disease hunts are scheduled for Dec. 17-19 and Dec. 31-Jan. 2; additional details will be posted on the DNR website closer to hunt dates. Check out the regulations book (PDF) and the webpage for more information. Apply for special youth deer hunts Minnesota has special hunting opportunities for youth deer hunters. There is a limited number of permits for each hunt, with the individual hunts taking place on various dates during the fall in state parks and a national wildlife refuge. Adults must accompany youth during these hunts. Hunters may apply for special youth hunt permits through Friday, Aug. 20. Special youth deer hunts are different from the statewide youth deer season that does not require an application and takes place Oct. 21-24. Deer population goals released Results of the second year of deer population goal-setting are now available online. This year focused on portions of southwest and northeast Minnesota. Thank you to those of you who participated in the virtual engagement options this year! Next year will focus on deer permit areas in the northeast, north-central and southeast portions of the state (noted in green in the map) and will start later this winter. Stay tuned for details of when and how you can provide your input for those areas and check out the deer populations and goals webpage for more information. Webinar: How to get certified in firearms safety Do you know someone who wants to go hunting this fall? Join a chat with DNR conservation officers officers at noon Wednesday, Aug. 4, to discuss Minnesota hunter safety requirements, including how to get certified in firearms safety. The webinar is part of the Minnesota Outdoor Skills and Stewardship Series that aims to give participants quick, relevant information on upcoming seasons and events, and skills to help enjoy these opportunities. Registration is free. Feeding ban reminder Feeding and attractant bans are critical in limiting the spread of chronic wasting disease in wild deer. Due to the detection of CWD in Beltrami county, the deer feeding ban is expected to expand to include Beltrami County and neighboring counties this fall. Currently there are deer feeding or attractant bans in the following counties: Aitkin, Carlton, Cass, Chisago, Crow Wing, Dakota, Dodge, Douglas, Fillmore, Freeborn, Goodhue, Hennepin, Houston, Hubbard, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Mower, Olmsted, Pine, Pope, Ramsey, Rice, Scott, Stearns, Steele, Todd, Wabasha, Wadena, Washington and Winona. Learn more about what you need to do to help our wild deer, and the difference is between feeding and attracting deer, on the deer feeding ban webpage.