As a hunter begins to learn the basics of hunting big game, there are times when common misconceptions have become somewhat half-truth for the greenhorns. Of course there’s a truth in those as well, but learning from the elders is a better alternative than hearing a thousand accounts.
Buck-hunting strategies come and go depending on the trend. And just because it’s trendy doesn’t mean it will work for any hunter. In a way when meeting women somewhere outside, a sense of panache is needed and if it fits with a hunter’s character.
Old wives’ tales, old-time myths and such. In reality it’s more of an excuse for those who can’t seem to make a tag like they want. It takes an open mind and a healthy sense of learning to know when and where a buck may appear. Checking out clues such as rubbings may seem overrated, but Sherlock Holmes never dismissed anything that led to a clue in order to solve a mystery. If needed the hunter may have to take notes on starting positions on where deer may thrive. But that doesn’t mean they’ll start pitching that tree stand to wait for his first tag of the day. Sometimes it’s more beneficial to scout and observe some more as the hunter moves on to see if there are similar deer bedding elsewhere.
Having a bad start when it comes to hunting will always be a part of it. So it’s been a week yet no buck sightings of any kind. It doesn’t mean there are still more out there. To think negatively on the hopelessness of the hunt is already giving up, thus losing confidence and interest. Don’t give up until the fat doe sings.
Trailing and stalking may be similar, but the main root is to know where to go, and look beyond it. In a way when someone picks up a dime on the road and moves on, only to find five bucks that he missed. A heavy trail doesn’t assure a herd of deer nearby. It may just mean that they’re passing by, and might never come back. Just move on and keep watching for the signs.
And be realistic when it comes to hunting. Tagging a buck on the first week is just as good as getting a truckload. Remember, hunting grounds do vary, and so does the harvest.
