Hunting Whitetail Deer

Whitetail deer hunting with .357 Magnum ammo

Hunting Whitetail Deer

Hunters in North America have generations of experience in hunting whitetail deer. Deer are hunted with handguns, rifles, bow and arrows, muzzleloaders, and even cameras. People hunt deer for food and for sport. Whitetails are the most common deer in the U.S., although their size can differ by region. They roam the eastern U.S. although they have been seen west of the Rockies, as well as throughout Canada and Mexico.

Here are some things to know when hunting white tails:

Know the Rules

Every state has specific rules about hunting, including locations. You should ensure that the location you choose is legal, whether it’s on public or private land. Owners of private land must approve your presence. Regardless of where you hunt, you must have a license. The license will state when you can hunt using a specific type of weapon. Game Commissions and Game Wardens also regulate the type of ammunition that can be used.

Tools

Tools make or break a hunting trip. Hunters have a list of tools that help to make each trip a success. This list includes the type of weapon you’ll be using (.30-30, .243 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, handgun or bow), ammunition, camouflage clothing, water, food, cell phone, and a hunting knife, to name a few. Going into the woods unprepared can be fatal, especially if you are a novice hunter.

Location, Location, Location

Deer have incredible senses. They rely on their senses to survive in the wild. Every hunter has an opinion on how best to hunt deer, whether its in a tree stand or by stalking them through the woods. Smart hunters learn the lay of the land before going out into the woods. You must know the signs of deer in the area and look carefully. Deer leave telltale signs of their presence in the form of droppings, scent, fur, horns, trails, and rubs on the trees. Learn to track, and most of all, learn to listen. Keep in mind that it is easy to get lost in the woods, particularly in winter. Carry a compass and mark your path if necessary.

The Buddy System

Hunters often go alone into the woods, but it’s a dangerous move. You could suffer an injury that prevents you from getting home safely. You could be cornered by an injured animal or break an ankle. If you insist on traveling alone, carry flares and a cell phone to get help if needed.

The buddy system ensures that you will have help if needed. A buddy makes the trip more fun and can be helpful when it comes to flushing out a deer or removing your pretty from the woods.

The Ultimate Sport

Experts have called deer hunting the ultimate sport. Whatever your goal, make sure you use the right tools, take precautions, and respect the land. Never leave a wounded animal to die and use safety measures so that you can go hunting again next year.