Hunting Tips for Whitetail Deer

Here are some hunting tips for whitetail deer. Whitetail deer are the most commonly hunted big game animal in the United States. While whitetail hunting in Georgia is quite different than hunting in Maine, these tips can be used by hunters to be more successful no matter where they hunt whitetails. These hunting tips are designed for the beginning hunter but can provide a refresher for experienced hunters as well.

Focus on the Rut

The rut is the generally the best time of the year to take a whitetail buck. Bucks will often travel during the day, travel farther, and travel less carefully than at any other time of the year. The rut is triggered by a number of factors and its timing will vary depending on geographic location. Hunters can contact their local game department for an estimate on the timing of the rut in their area.

Be Ready

A long whitetail hunt can culminate in only a brief window of time to make a shot. Hunters need to be well practiced with their gun or bow to make an accurate shot. While hunting, hunters need to stay prepared as the deer may appear at the most unlikely of times.

Target Favored Foods

Favored foods of whitetail deer also vary widely depending on the region being hunted. However, areas with agricultural plantings, white oaks, and fruit trees are all solid bets. Again, the local game department is a good resource for determining preferred foods in an area. A bit of scouting by the hunter can also uncover areas where whitetails are feeding in their area.

Hunt into the Wind

Whitetail deer are blessed with keen senses that allow them to evade hunters and other natural predators. By hunting into the wind a hunter basically eliminates one of these senses. Scent elimination products are also useful tools in combating the deer's sense of smell.

Have Patience

Getting anxious on a stand or while still hunting plays into the whitetail's keen senses of sight and hearing. Hunters should move slowly at all times when deer hunting to keep from making noise or being seen.