Deer Hunting in Snowy Weather

Different weather conditions bring different challenges for hunting deer. One of the most beautiful times to hunt is when there is snow falling, and snow on the ground. While snow may make hunting a bit easier than at other times, there are some drawbacks that also need to be considered. There are several things to take into consideration when heading out to hunt deer in the snow.

First, visibility is increased when there is snow on the ground. This can work to your benefit, or it can be a detriment to your hunt. You will be able to see deer more easily, and perhaps at greater distances, but the deer will also be able to see you at greater distances. Use the snow to your benefit. Because deer are prey animals, they will often bed down on the side of a hill, or a bench on the mountain looking down the hill. If you can get above the deer, you will be able to pick them out quite distinctly below you. Often, you will be able to see the deer before they are able to see you. If you can keep the element of surprise, you will be able to enjoy much more success. Falling snow, on the other hand, can decrease visibility. It does not take much of a snow storm to impede your vision, and allow a deer to go unnoticed.

Second, sound is muffled when snow is on the ground. This too can be a benefit or a detriment to your hunt. Snow on the ground makes it easy to still hunt without disturbing the deer. In fact, given the right conditions, a person could walk up to within just a few yards of a deer. Many hunters have been able to still hunt to within bow range (about 40 yards) of deer. The key to this type of hunting is to try to keep the wind in your face, and move slowly. Even snow can be loud if it is crunchy, so tread carefully, looking for softer places to step. The downside to the snow is that the deer will also be quieter. You will have to rely upon your eyes, rather than your ears to locate the animals. You will need to pay even closer attention to your surroundings if hunting from a stand, as a deer can sneak up on you from any direction and be on top of you before you notice it.

Third, if snow is on the ground, the temperature is lower. This seems like an obvious fact, but it may be overlooked. A hunter needs to decide what type of hunting he wants to do before heading out to the field. This will affect the amount of clothing that is necessary. Colder weather means that you will need more layers, especially if you will be hunting from a stand. It does not take much cold, wet weather to cut through standard hunting attire. However, if you will be still hunting, you want to make sure that you do not over dress. Too many hunters make the mistake of putting on too much clothing before heading out, because the air temperature is colder. Even moving at a slow pace, a hunter can generate quite a bit of body heat, that can be trapped by improper clothing. Dress in layers, and start with a layer that will whisk moisture away from the body. This will help fight off the cold tremendously. You should also have a good pair of boots, that will protect your feet against the cold, as well as give you good traction on the snow.

Hunting in the snow is one of the most enjoyable times to hunt. The setting is beautiful, and the conditions can put success in your favor. Many southern hunters have never had the opportunity to try hunting in snow, but every hunter should try it at some point in their careers!