Ten Tips for Winter Hunts

While there is a great deal of debate about lunar phases, there is some consensus that the combination of a full moon and particularly cold nights get the deer up and moving. The next full moon is December 12 th – If it’s cold in your location, deer are likely to take advantage of the bright light to be active at night and take shelter at first light.
A cold weather front of strong intensity will generate strong feeding behavior. The combination of very cold weather which drives deer out of hiding, and strong winds which diminish their ability to hear movement, can be a good combination of weather features for a productive hunt.
Winter removes the sound of leaves and other foliage and make sounds travel further and more clearly. Put your quietest foot forward on winter hunts.
Acorns are a favored food for deer. As the winter comes on they are more scarce. Find the acorns and the deer will follow.
Deer are frequently at their most hungry at dusk. Choose an oak tree, corn field, or old fruit orchard as a great location.
Look for where tracks cross downed fence lines, or the higher ground along ponds.
Deer retreat to the densest cover they can find. The deeper you go into the area that deer find safest, the more likely you are to find a trophy.
Dress warm – Deer put on their warmest coats in the winter. Don’t underestimate the chilling effects of a long day in the woods. If you’re chilled, you may be less alert or a split second too slow to respond.
Use scents to stir things up. Carefully placed deer attractant, deer urine or tarsal scent may encourage interest and activity near your location.
By this point in the season deer are wary and are avoiding areas that have been active. Consider places that are seldom visited, least active.

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