Ask Winke: Questions & Answers

Entry and Exit Routes

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How can I access my stands when I have no way to avoid walking across ag fields?

Alex from WI asks:

I have a 300 acre farm that looks like a giant rectangle. My Cabin sits in the middle of it and is surrounded by corn and beans with woods bordering the outside of the rectangle. The farm is on top of a bluff and sloping down from the cabin on all sides. You say not walk through the ag on the way to your stand right? I don't have any other route to my stands....how do you think I should proceed? Thanks Alex

Winke Responds:

Alex, I would be looking for options: can you come in or out through a neighboring property? Sneaking in the back way is important for a morning hunt. Coming in through the open fields is normally not good for a morning hunt and sneaking out that way is normally not good for an evening hunt. You may have to plant some screens to sneak behind. I have a friend who planted hundreds of cedar trees to sneak behind to his stands. His farm sets up much like yours. You could also consider moving some trees, but that can be a big, big job. Another good option is to use Plot Screen from Frigid Forage to plant a screen behind which you can sneak. It works well when you follow the directions on the bag. Good luck. (4-6-12)
Should I avoid accessing the farm by driving into the farm? Is it best to stick to the edges?

gary from WI asks:

Bill, I've noticed that over the years of hunting my 1000 acre farm that the deer have moved to the periphery of the property and some neighboring tracts that don't have alot of cover. I plan on trying to change that this spring by bulldozing or forestry mowing along the fencelines of the property and instead of hunting from inside out, hunt from property lines in as the season progresses. I walked the edges this winter/spring and noticed this progression of bedding and deer movement towards fencelines. I believe that no matter how much you try to limit pressure that intrusion through the middle or interior of properties for anything other than food plotting becomes very detrimental to hunting. It takes some time to see it but over the last 6-7 years I can attest it does happen no matter how careful you are. Gary

Winke Responds:

Gary, Absolutely Gary. I coudn't agree more. I access everything off the county roads. We never access any part of the farm by driving into it. If we can't walk to it easily from a road and get to and from without buggering deer, always playing the wind perfectly, we don't hunt those areas. Of course, you can do all kinds of creative things to cover your intrusion (and you should) but not driving into the farm and parking there is a great start. Also, keeping your food closer to the middle also holds the deer closer to home. Have some plots that you rarely hunt. Good luck. (2-23-12)
How do you exit your stands or blinds on food sources at the end of legal shooting time?

Lance from WI asks:

I was wondering how you go about exiting your blind or tree stand while hunting a food source when deer are still in the field after darkness has set in and the hunt is over? I have always just tried to wait them out, so I don't have to blow them out of the field. How do you go about this?

Winke Responds:

Lance, Waiting them out can work sometimes, but generally it doesn't. I have someone drive in and move the deer off the field and then I get down or climb out of the stand. It works pretty well. You can't hunt the same spot every night, but if you spread the pressure around a bit you can get good hunts on food sources for the whole season this way. Best regards. (1-8-12)
Should I walk the edge of the feeding area quietly or walk throug the woods to my morning stand and risk making some noise?

bill from PA asks:

Hi Bill, Morning hunt access question!...I hope I can explain this clearly...just hung a new stand...the food source (corn field) I'll be hunting is below me due South...the bedding area is behind me due North.....with a west wind,I have a choice to walk in through the timber with the wind in my face or walk in along the edge of of the corn field which will cause me to loop in from the South.....so the choice is to make noise going through the timber or walk quitely along the edge of the woods allowing thefeeding deer to see my head lamp???

Winke Responds:

Bill, I would go through the timber. With a bit of wind, the deer won't hear you. I am not a huge fan of the headlamp idea though. I bet if you don't use it you will do just fine and the deer won't see the light flickering all over in the timber. I would definitely rather wait until gray light and get in their quick without the headlamp than to use and have the deer see it moving. The other option is to use a handheld flashlight and keep it pointed at the ground the entire time. That eliminates most of the light flickering through woods but still permits some improved visibility for walking. Good luck. Happy New Year. (1-2-12)
How do I hunt a farm in Buffalo County, WI that has only one place where I can access it?

Bob from MN asks:

I have hunted on very good land in Buffalo Couty WI for the last 3 years but have yet to get a chance at a shooter 140". I get trail cam pics and some are day time so I know that the big boys are here. I know that I must be making some mistakes on entering and exiting my stands. I have only one access point to the land and that is from the south west corner. The land is made up of a 20 acre field (corn/soybeans) 50 acres north of the field is swamp or marshland (tall grass some ponds but no timber. The north edge of the property is narrow riverbed with timber (very open when the leaves drop. The northwest corner (about 5 acres) is a steep ridge some oaks, some pines and other misc trees. My best sign is back on the ridge. Oh and the wind is always shifting. There is no public access to the river that boards it to the north. The only way I have back to the ridge is around the field to the far east side head straigt north along the river which turns straight west at the very

Winke Responds:

Bob, I never like it when I am forced to access an area from just one spot regardless of wind or where I want to hunt. My suggestion would be to hunt it only when the wind is from the north (N, NW or NE) and depending on what is to the west of you, possibly an E wind. Then skirt the field as wide as possible. If you can't sneak past the field then I would wait until after first light in the morning to go in so that the deer are clear from the fields. Keeping the element of surprise is much more important than hunting the best sign, so if you think deer may be detecting you as you head in there, you may need to stop short of where you really want to go. Also, anytime you sit down in a valley below a ridge the wind will swirl. I try to avoid such spots. If you can put all that to work - it is a chess match that takes some real thought, you will improve your chances for seeing deer. Rule number one: you have to keep the element of surprse - nothing else you do is even nearly as important as that. Good luck. Merry Christmas. (12-16-11)
I am bumping deer when I climb down. I hunt alone so I can't have someone drive in to clear the plot first; do you think a coyote howler would work?

Gene from NC asks:

Bill, love your show!! I've been having trouble at one particular stand with bumping deer in the evenings the past 2 times I've hunted it. I'm hunting over a small 1 acre field and the deer are in the field as it gets dark and they wont leave so I can exit undetected. And I dont want to sit up there long after it gets dark, and plus when it gets dark, I can't hardly tell if there still in the field or not. I hunt by myself so having someone come in on an ATV or truck to bump them off for me is not really an option. It's a really good stand. I was thinking of purchasing a coyote howl call and keeping it in my pack for these instances so the deer will take off (I assume they would). What are your thoughts & do you think that is a good idea?

Winke Responds:

Gene, I woulddn't do anything to draw attention to the stand. If it is legal there, consider setting a caller in the weeds across the plot and tripping it electronically. Also, again if legal, consider using a remote control monster truck to come running out of the brush on the other side of the plot. While still not ideal, (the deer will be leary of the plot after that) it is better than bumping them yourself as you climb down. Also, you may be able to get away with sitting slightly farther from the plot and either shooting farther or catching them before they get to it so you can get out easier. Finally, a screen such as Frigid Forage's Plot Screen might also help you to get out clean at dark. You are going to have to be creative here. Good luck. (11-30-11)
How can you hunt areas surrounded by open fields where it is nearly impossible to get to and from the stand without alerting at least some deer?

Nate from NY asks:

Bill, I love your show and website! You guys do a fantastic job! I tell everyone I meet who enjoys hunting whitetails to check out your website! My brother inlaw and I hunt a property that is virtually impossible to get into without alerting some deer in the area. The plots of woods we hunt are surrounded by fields. We try to enter our different stands in the best most strategic way possible, but still can never get in completely undetected. How would you or do you approach a property where you can't avoid alerting deer on your way in to your stand?

Winke Responds:

Nate, You may need to plant some screens to get in and out. We have been experimenting some with Plot Screen from Frigid Forage this year and It has opened up a wide range of new strategies and methods to get to and from stands. You can literallly create a hallway of tall grasses that you can walk through (or walk behind) as you approach and depart your stands. It is definitely something you should take a look at. Good luck. (11-20-11)
How do you get out of your stand at last light if deer are close? What are you wearing for base layers and what is that coverall you are wearing?

Andy Robson from IL asks:

Actually 2 questions- 1. How do you get out of the stand at dark when deer are close? Esp. late season. I have a great food source that I want to hunt a lot in the late season, but I worry I'll educate the deer trying to sneek out after dark...driving them more nocturnal. 2. What are you wearing for base layers? And what are those coverals you have on in the 11/10 video blog?

Winke Responds:

Andy, 1. It is best to avoid this situation by selecting a stand site where the deer won't be close. Otherwise, if you can't sneak away, you have no choice but to arrange for someone to come and scare them off with a vehicle so you can get out of there. If you try to sneak out after dark they will still bust you (but dark is better than dim light if you have to give it a try on your own). 2. I wear Cabela's Thermal Zone and ECWCS base layers. Very comfortable and warm. The coverall is a scent containment suit I developed with Cabela's back in 2003 and 2004. I still wear it. We (Cabela's and myself) are coming out with a new version of the suit during the coming months that will be available next fall. Good luck (11-19-11)
Is it OK to use a flashlight on the way to the stand in the dark?

Keshone from IL asks:

Is it ok to use a flash light when walking to the stand in the dark

Winke Responds:

Keshone, I prefer not to, but I usually until first light (when I can just see the ground). If you go sooner and want to use the light to avoid sticks, I would just keep it pointed straight down all the time so the beam isn't swinging all over the plaace. They see that and react to it. Good luck. (11-16-11)
Wondering if cutting across a big draw is a good way to get to my stand or will it bump too many deer?

Keshone Johnson from IL asks:

I was wondering would it be a good idea to cut through the middle of this big draw on one side and pop right up into my stand on the hill on the other side to keep my scent down but i wonder if i would bump to many in the draw when going through it.

Winke Responds:

Keshone, If you are going through during the day, they likely will bedded in there. So it may not be the best approach for an afternoon hunt. If you are going through at night (for a morning hunt) it might work better. Always try to go by a route that keeps you away from where the deer are at the time of your passage. Good luck. (11-14-11)
Any tips to help with the problems I am having with ground scent?

Blake from SD asks:

Bill, first of all, I love the day by day video journal. On your Nov. 3rd hunt, you talked about walking into your stand on an area where deer will be walking as well. Every trail I cut to my stands eventually gets occupied by deer. Are there any other tips/suggestions you can lend me or will this just be a never ending battle. Thanks and good luck with the rest of the season.

Winke Responds:

Blake, I started wearing waders back in the days when I was very gung-ho. I would wear PVC waders and the deer never smelled where I walked. I then took them off at the tree and slipped on my hunting boots. Short of that, you will always fight ground scent to and from your stands. Eliminator sprays will help, as well boots like the Elimitrax, but the only 100% solution I have found is the waders. Good luck. (11-5-11)
How should I access a stand I have at the back of the property that is 250 yards into the timber? Wait to first light? Go early? Go at midday?

Travis from MO asks:

Hey Bill I have a question about the best way to enter a stand that I am saving for the first day I can hunt it all day or most of the day during the rut (NOV 7th). In order to get to the stand I have to walk through about 250 yards of timber to get to the back side of the property . I am unable to gain entrance to the back side of the property due to the fact I cannot locate the adjoining property's landowner, otherwise entrance would be a no brainer. I was wondering if I should push in early in the dark, wait till first light or wait till mid morning to reduce bumping deer as I know they bed randomly across the ridge I have to cross. I enjoy the new daily videos and congrats on taking down Daggers. Thanks for your help, Travis.

Winke Responds:

Travis, Thanks. I would walk to the back of the property fast at first light. That is my prefered method of getting in. I like to walk fast. I think the deer are less sensitive to small sounds when the woods is waking up than they are in the dark. I don't like to use a flashlight because I always feel like I am going to lose my balance and step on a branch. I am much better using ambient light and moving fast. If it is windy, you can go sooner because the wind noise will cover your noise to the stand. Good luck. (11-5-11)
What cover can you suggest to plant for screening when going to and from your stand?

Brian from IL asks:

I've read articles from you on this, but what entry and exit route cover would you reccomend (remember 8ft milo article)? Like you warm season grasses have given mixed results. How do you protect Cedar Trees planted for cover?

Winke Responds:

Brian, Deer will leave the cedars alone if the numbers of deer aren't too high. If they are that high, you have to shoot some does too. I would consider Plot Screen from Frigid Forage. This is something that you have to plant every year, but it does work very well to hide you from the deer. The pro staff has had very good success with this product. For permanent cover, you will need to consider the cedar trees, I would try both for now until the cedars get well established (that will take at least ten years unless you can move bigger trees into the right spots). Good luck. (11-1-11)
I have a stand 50 yards into the timber. What is the best route to use to get to the stand?

Chris from MO asks:

How's it going Bill! I have a couple different questions for you. First of all, the stand where I'm hunting at in northern Missouri is near a 50 acre field but is about 50 yards or so down a path into the woods. There's only two ways to get from the house to the stand. One is along the treeline on the edge of the field, and the other is through the woods near a creek bottom. I can get there a lot more silently by taking the treeline on the edge of the field but I'm probably gonna get spotted easier that way. Which sounds like the better path to you? My other question is should you only use a grunt call or a snort wheeze if you have already spotted a deer? Thanks for the input. I love your website and show! I shoot a Hoyt Seven37. I know it has a big ATA length but my options are limited with a 32 in draw!

Winke Responds:

Chris, Enter in the morning via the creek bottom and then exit via the field. You might consider planting a screen such as Frigid Forage Plot Screen in the future. That stuff works great. In the evening, reverse the procedure - open field for entry and creek bottom for exit. Stay away from the feediing areas when deer are likely to be in those areas (dawn and dusk). Good luck. (10-24-11)
What is the best way to access my hunting area along a creek bottom; should I come in over the top or walk up the bottom itself?

Frank from PA asks:

Have been watching the show online and have learned alot with the tips. But im in a bit of a pickle. Ive been waiting to hunt this certain area for the october lull. The issue im having is how to backpack in so I dont make myself known? Its a wide valley, with a nice creek bottom(which is where I want to set up). I have easy access from the top but also from the creek bottom. The deer bed in both. What would your advice be so that I can get in and have the chance for a successful hunt?

Winke Responds:

Frank, Can you walk right in the creek? I do that in a number of areas that I hunt. It works great. I guess you need to know the terrain and cover well enough to know the route that will allow you to sneak in as secretly as possible. If there is a draw or ditch that comes down into the bottom from the ridge above, you might be able to use that to access the bottom. If not, you may have to access along the bottom (keeping cover between you and where you think the deer live). Also keep the wind an scent in mind. The biggest challenge in any hunt, in my opinion, is mapping out your entry and exit routes. If you spend enough time thinking about it, the solution will come to be. Be creative. Good luck.
I have a 20 minute walk to my morning stands; when should I leave to start walking, at first light or well before?

cw from VA asks:

Bill, love the website and shows. I love the enormous challenge of hunting whitetails, and the constant learning that is always involved.You guys do a great job of explaining and teaching why you use the hunting strategies and techniques you use. I have always had better luck during morning hunts. I have a 20 min walk to two of my morning stands and often wonder when is the best time to head towards my stand: an hour before daylight or at dawn.Would appreciate your thoughts. Really enjoy your articles on bowhunting and the book you wrote. Thanks and good luck with the hunt for "Big".

Winke Responds:

CW, I always wait until I can see the ground so I can go quietly. Some days that can be very early if the moon is up and bright and the sky is clear. Most of my walks are at least 20 minutes. I am still usually set up at legal shooting time. So that is my thought, leave just early enough to get there and set up by legal time. That way you have the best chance of seeing twigs, etc. and be able to walk fast. I have found that if you walk fast deer pay less attention to you than if you walk very slowly and use a flashlight. Good luck.
Likes Pastor Paul's devotionals, what can I do to get past 15 to 20 deer that I bump into on my way out of the tree stand?

Cody from WI asks:

Heyy Bill, it's me again. I have another question. On our farm I have to walk threw an 8 acre alfalfa feild with hardwoods on 3 sides of the feild, and my main "hot" spot is way in the back of these hardwoods on the far side of the feild down in a valley, probably one of the best rut stand's i could think of, but there's a problem..everytime i come out from tht stand and come over the hill, theres always 15-20 deer on the little alfalfa feild. So what you suggest me to do? And by the way, the one episode with Pastor Paul, is awesome! I really like it that you talk about our creater and talking about the prodigal son in Luke, and the one who is here for us! I came even more closer to this show because of the devotional Pastor Paul gave. Thank you Bill!

Winke Responds:

Cody, I love Pastor Paul's messages too. I am glad it registered with you. To answer your question: you need a different exit route - plain and simple. If you are bumping that many deer on your way out you are having a significant impact on your hunting area each time you hunt that stand. Personally, I would stop hunting it if I can't get to and from without alerting deer. Look for a different route even if it means adding a long walk to the end of your day. I used to stash a bicycle in the weeds to ride to my truck in some situations when I needed to take the long way out of the area. Good luck.
If you are going to spook deer, is it better to have a vehicle drive in and drop you off or to walk in?

William from IL asks:

Hey Bill, love this site man!!! Makes me not get any work done. My question revolves around getting in and out of the place your hunting. If you had a choice and it was possible would you rather get someone to physically drive you to a stand site and pick you up in some kind of vehicle even if you ran deer off. And would it be better than running deer off by WALKING in and out and them spooking that way?

Winke Responds:

William, It is better to drive in than to spook them walking, but it is even better yet not to spook them at all. That is what I am going to challenge you with - try to find stand locations that you can get to and from without spooking any deer. If you are spooking deer every time in and out (even if with a vehicle) eventually the hunting area is going to suffer and the deer will start to avoid those areas. It is better to keep them in the dark - find stands you can sneak to and from easier without alerting deer. Good luck.
How can I access my spot in Kansas where I have to enter through a feeding area in the morning?

Eric from KS asks:

Hey Bill, I friends with your prostaff from kansas. In fact I hunt only a few miles from Josh. My ques. is I hunt a sweet area known for monsters, but I have to walk by the food fields in the morn. to get to either stand we have up if I cut across the creek I walk thru an area were deer hangout, and end up spooking them. It is a north an south set-up which is the direc. the wind is usually blowing. I also get in there around 1 to 1 1/2 hrs before lite. Any type of knowledge would help. Mostly for early season.

Winke Responds:

Eric, Sounds like a tough situation. I would have to see the details to determine if there are options you aren't considering. I have had some success crossing the open fields (or better yet, walking their edges) after first light. When you can see if the deer are in the field with binos is the time to start walking. If they are there, you have to sneak around them or wait until they clear off. Does no good to bump them off 1 1/2 hours before first light if that is what is happening now. Maybe you are getting in clean, it is hard to know for sure as they don't always blow or stomp off when you bump them in the dark. Good luck.
I spooked some deer when I was leaving my stand; will that affect them?

Cody from WI asks:

Hey Bill, another question, the other night i was hunting, and walking out i jumped a deer in the grass next to me, and then there where about 9 deer in the alfalfa feild i had to walk threw to get out, they all ran off, will this affect them? Or will they not visit the feild to eat when its light out? Exspecially if they where bucks? They didnt sprint off, just one did, but they kinda jogged off the feild. Thanks a lot bill!

Winke Responds:

Cody, Yes, absolutely. You can't bump deer like that and expect them to keep moving naturally. You have to find routes to and from your stands where you don't bump deer. If you can't find such routes, you have to hunt other stands. You have to be disciplined on this: it is one of the main keys to successful deer hunting.
I have a great looking stand on several trails on a ridge, but I can't get to it without spooking deer; what should I do?

Nate from IA asks:

Hi Bill, this year my brother and I got permission to hunt some new property. We put a hang on stand on a ridge where there is a lot of trails that lead to the corn field about 70 yards away. The problem is, is that there is no great way to get in without spooking deer. What do I do? Pull the stand? or Hunt it?

Winke Responds:

Nate, Pull it. Or at least save it until the last few days of your hunting time. Never hunt a stand with poor access no matter how good it looks. You have to be disciplined here. Find another spot. It may not be quite as good, but if you can get in and out clean, it will eventually produce without the risk that you will educate a bunch of deer and make the farm harder to hunt. Good luck.
How can I get into my 40 acre hunting area to place stands without impacting the deer?

Steve from MO asks:

Hi Bill, I just lost my best piece of property to hunt but acquired a 40 acre square of timber that is surrounded by beans and corn on all sides of the property but one which leads to thick hardwoods. This property has 2 creeks that form into one bigger creek right in the middle. I have to hang stands this weekend and would like to know the best method to do this without blowing every deer out of there( hope you are able to respond before Sunday). Im hoping it is early enought to blow deer out and still have them come back. I would like to hear your thoughts on doing this with minimal intrusion. Thanks, Steve K.

Winke Responds:

Steve, Sorry I was not able to get back to you as quickly as you would like. I get a lot of these Ask Winke questions and I sometime fall behind in answering them. To answer your question, it is OK to blow them out, but I would do it with a loud noise such as a chainsaw. Sometimes you can sneak in undetected, but when you know you can't it is best to give them plenty of warning. They don't seem to be too worried about loud noises, but they don't like to be surprised. I hope it went well for you. Good luck.
How can I get to my stand along a winding river for a morning hunt without alerting deer feeding in the fields nearby?

Brian from OH asks:

Hey Bill! Love the show! I hunt on a section of CRP, mowed crp, and crop fields bordering a winding, curvy river. my question regards entering in the AM, as i work 2nd shift. one route, which is the most direct, takes me down an open lane with sparse, thick overgrown spots. my outline is broken up at times, but im visible to the east (beans, and corn) and i cant walk on the other side, bc i dont and cant get permission. 2nd route is walk down a creek bed going right through a cornfield, the walking along the corn through CRP, then out in the open about 70 yards to my stand, but coming much closer to the beans. the third option is to walk along the corn from the west heading east the entire route, but also walking partially through the CRP and walking near what little tree cover borders the river. the first route is the most direct, and its still about 1/2 mile, 3/4 mile off the road. and each route becomes longer. the 3rd route, being the longest. i should mention, that i know for a fa

Winke Responds:

Brian, Thanks for the support. Part of your message got cutoff, but I think I got the gist of it. If you can't get in clean, I would see if you can plant a screen (Frigid Forage makes Plot Screen, for example) for next year and solve the problem. In the meantime, I would consider waiting until first gray light to head in. That way you can move faster, watch (glass) the fields carefully to see if there are deer present and likely get past them. I have had to do that in the past. It is not ideal, but better than blowing them off the field. Can you float in on a boat or canoe? If the river is big enough, that would be another option. Good luck.
How do you get away from a large feeding area at the end of legal shooting time when there are deer feeding near your stand?

Ryan from IA asks:

When hunting over a destination food source in the evening and shooting time is up, what is the best way to get out when you have a number of deer in the field and close to the treestand/blind without letting them know your location? I have seen the plot screen, but in some areas I hunt it is not really an option.

Winke Responds:

Ryan, That is the toughest challenge in deer hunting. I would not make a sound or disturbance because they will associate the scare with your stand or blind. You have to arrange a distraction - someone drives up to run them off - or you need to stay away from that food plot. You do a lot of damage by running them off yourself. Your only other option might be to run a remote control "Monster Truck" from out of the brush on the other side or have a coyote howler hidden in the weeds away from your blind to clear the field. While I am sure this will work, I would definitely check with the game warden before using these methods to make sure they are legal. Good luck.
When entering and exiting, would you take the open route and risk being seen or the thick route and risk being heard?

Jack from MN asks:

When entering and exiting a stand would you take an open route and risk being seen or take a thick route and risk being heard?

Winke Responds:

Jack, Neither risk is a good one. I would rather try to eliminate risk. That said, I might take the open route entering an afternoon stand or leaving a morning stand but stick with the thick route when exiting an afternoon stand and entering a morning stand. I am going to assume the thick route passes near bedding areas, a place I don't want to be at certain times of the day (whenever deer are likely to be bedded). If you know you are going to be seen using the open route, you need to arrange a diversion like have a farmer drive out on the tractor and you jump off near the stand, etc. I would also look for low profile routes (anyway you can get in and out without being seen, heard or smelled). Good luck.
I am going to buy a chainsaw for clearing my entry and exit routes; is a 16-inch model good enough?

Jeremy from MI asks:

Hey Bill. Was going to purchase a chainsaw for trimming entry and exit routes to my treestands. Was wondering what size saw you use for this type of work? I was looking at a 16in model, but was wondering if I should go bigger? Thanks jeremy

Winke Responds:

Jeremy, A 16 inch bar model will definitely be fine for what you are doing. If you are doing a lot of tree cutting (felling trees) I would suggest bigger (more HP too) but for clearing work, 16 inches is fine. Good luck and be very careful. This is dangerous work.
Has used his remote control starter for his pickup to scare deer off a food plot when it's time to climb down.

Curtis from IA asks:

Hey Bill, Not a question but my experience on the million dollar question. I still haven't perfected it like most hunters but have tried a some different things that you have mentioned on here with some success. In the late season this worked for me. I parked my truck about 400 yds away from my blind in an open field. I have a remote start so I bring the keys with me and start it up and press the lock a few times to make the truck honk a few times. It worked most of the time but 2 times they didn't really move. Once you get them out of the field move fast because once they started coming back out of the woods by the time I got to my truck.

Winke Responds:

Curtis, That is good advice. I have also considered a remote control coyote howler set in the brush or an RC monster truck to run out of the weeds, but my fear is that they will associate those scares with the particular food plot or stand site. They would still be better than climbing down and spooking them, but when they get pushed off from something approaching from the distance, I think that is better. Now you just need to train your truck to drive to the food plot and pick you up. Good luck.
How can I get out of my stand on my food plot at the end of legal shooting time without spooking deer?

Dylan from MO asks:

love the show....I have a frigid forage food plot and love it but my question is what is the best thing you can think of to get out of my stand without spooking any deer, without moving my setup thanks

Winke Responds:

Dylan, That is the million dollar question that most of us have to face each fall. You have to be creative, but if moving the stand is not an option, you will need to rely on someone to come and move the deer off the plot with a vehicle so you can climb down and get out. That is about the only truly sure-fire way to pull it off. Good luck.
When you hunt near bedding areas how do you get out of your stand at the end of a morning hunt without spooking any deer?

Mike from IA asks:

Hey Bill. Enjoy your site, this is the best information out there that you can actually use and understand in my opinion. My question is when you're hunting bedding areas (like around a point where the deer are bedding) where do you put your stand location so the deer don't see you when you're getting out of the tree?

Winke Responds:

Thanks Mike. I usually set up on the downwind fringe of a bedding area. I try to position near the head of a draw if there is one approaching the ridge, or near some other terrain or cover feature that I can use to sneak out. If you are careful you will be surprised that is easier to get out than you think - but you have to stay out of sight and use the back of the tree for cover when you are climbing down. I used to hunt a spot where the deer always bedded near my stand. I carried a slingshot a some stones and nicked the closest one at climb down time. It ran off and the others followed, none of them knowing what caused the start. I often saw the same exact deer in the same exact spot again the next morning so I know it didn't bother them much. But that only works when they are close. Otherwise, you have to anticipate the challenge and set up near features you can use to sneak out. Good luck.
When hunting points in mountainous or hilly regions, which is the best way to approach stands, from the valley below or from the ridge above?

Joe from PA asks:

Bill, When hunting points in mountainous or hilly regions, Which is the best way to approach stand sights, from the valley below or from the ridge above?

Winke Responds:

Joe, It depends on time of day and where the deer are. Always approach from the opposite direction from where the deer are likely to be. If they bed high and feed low, then you have to approach morning stands from the side or above. Evening stands from the side or below. That is the best advice I can give short of actually knowing the behavior patterns of the deer in that area. Good luck.
How do you sneak out of a stand located on a food plot at the end of the hunt?

Kyle from IL asks:

Hey Bill when hunting over food plots in the evening, is there any tricks to getting out of the area and not spooking the deer that are in the plot? Thanks for your time. Kyle

Winke Responds:

Kyle, That is for sure the hardest part. I have two strategies. First, I have some stands that are right on the edge of cover or right on the edge of a ditch or ledge. I can climb down the back of the tree, settle out of sight and slip out that way. A friend of mine places his ground blind at the end of a row of round bales and then slips out the back and sneaks out behind the bales. There are also creative ways to get away clean if you start thinking about it. I have planted screens (or moved cedear trees into strategic spots) just so I can sneak out of an otherwise great stand. If the deer are right by the stand that doesn't work, so you have to wait for them to drift off a bit. The second situation occurs when hunting long food plots (like fingers) that extend into the cover from larger fields. The deer often enter the end of the point and work their way slowly toward the open field as it gets dark. Often in this setting the deer are gone by the time I climb down. If the stand doesn't fall into one of these situations, you have no choice but to arrange for someone to drive up and run the deer off with a vehicle. Look for the kinds of stands you can sneak out of first, but when they don't exist, realize it is not going to be easy.
How do you get out of a stand near a food plot at the end of the day without spooking deer?

James from WI asks:

How do you get out of your stand in the evening when hunting over a food plot without letting the deer know you are there?

Winke Responds:

James, That is one of the biggest issues we all have to deal with. The best way is to set up in a spot where the deer are past you by the time you climb down, in other words you set up in a spot where they end up feeding past or simply move on before dark. I have a few stands like this. In some cases they are small plots near larger ones (that is an ideal setup, they start in the small plot and head to the bigger one near dark). This also works with long food plots where they come out on one end and work toward the other end as the light fades. Otherwise, you will need to have someone come and scare the deer off the field by driving up to it at the end of legal shooting time. We do this all the time, especially when hunting from ground blinds. Good luck.
How do I get into my morning stand on the edge of a cornfield without spooking the deer in the field?

Jordan Champion from IN asks:

I have to enter my tree stand by crossing through a open corn field! i only hunt this stand in the morning so i walk it in the dark! what is the best way to get there? should i act like a deer and jog to my stand and hit a couple grunts like a rutting buck? or should i try to be as quiet as possible?

Winke Responds:

Jordan, If you can sneak in along the fence line without being noticed, that is the way to go. If you can't get by them, either consider waiting until first light and then sneaking around the deer or stop hunting the stand. I don't think the running, grunting thing will work very well. It might work if they can't see you, only hear you, but if the night is moonlit, you are sunk. I don't like setups like the one you describe and I avoid them. If you can't avoid hunting that spot in the morning, then I guess you just do the best you can but be forewarned you will eventually run those deer off. Good luck.
How do you get into a morning stand when the leaves are dry and crunchy?

Dan from MA asks:

Bill, I mainly hunt hardwood forests and am wondering what your position is as far as entering the woods and getting to my stand. It is IMPOSSIBLE to be quiet on my way in with all the leaves on the ground. Would you recomend trying to stay as quiet as possible or would you just walk normally not worrying about the noise you are making in the dark on the way in? Thanks again for any input. Dan

Winke Responds:

Dan, I would try to break up your normal human cadence by taking several rushed steps, stopping for a few seconds and then doing that again. I have done that effectively in the situation you describe. The other option is to literally run in, if you are physically capable. Deer don't relate that with danger. They will think it is a chase. I have even stopped and grunted when running and then took off again. It works amazingly well, but be ready as soon as you get to the tree because this will definitely attract bucks to the stand. Good luck.
Any suggestions for getting into my 55 acre hunting area? Deer seem to snort at me when I enter in the dark?

Jayson from MI asks:

First of all I enjoy looking forward to watching the new webisodes every week. I have learned alot just listening to your tips and tricks. I hunt on 55 acres of private property, what are your best suggestions for getting to your treestands without being detected? The property is mostly flat and has two tree'd hedgerows, one running east and west and the other running north and south. I usually get out an hour before sunrise and seem to always spook them. What are your suggestions?

Winke Responds:

Jayson, Some farms are just hard to approach. There may not be a good way to get in without bumping deer. Without understanding the situation better, I can't offer too much good advice. You might actually be better off in that situation to wait until first light and then use your binos to make sure the coast is clear as you sneak in. You don't always have to be in there super early to be successful, you just need to get in there without alerting anything. Good luck.
My camera shows that I have bucks near my stand at all times of the day; how do I get in there to hunt it?

jacob from MO asks:

I need help fast! I put out the trail camera and in 3 days got 350 pictures.no does all bucks.one will got atleast 160 and another high 140s.the problem is that all the pictures are during the day.all day.I get pictures of the same bucks at 11 2 4 and 7.how. do I get in here to hunt next week with them being in there all day.? There also coming from all directions so I'm not sure what wind I need? Help please! I will send you a pic of this giant.not bad for southwest Missouri.how can I send it to you?

Winke Responds:

Jacob, My guess is that this behavior will stop before the mid-Sept. opener (as the bucks shed their velvet and split up at this time, their patterns will change). But, assuming the best, here are my thoughts. Are there any natural disturbances in that area, like a farmer on his tractor moving round bales, for example? You can try to sneak in, but it would be better to try to take advantage of regular occurences. I have snuck into good stands over the years by riding on a tractor or rancher's truck and then jumping off at the base of the tree as the tractor kept going. If that won't work, you have no choice but to try to sneak in. Just make sure the wind is right (in your face as you sneak in) and hope for the best. I don't know of any other options. It is an exciting problem to have. I sure hope you can get that buck. Good luck.
Do you think it would be alright to use my sanctuary to sneak away from my stands but not actually hunt in it?

Curt from OH asks:

Bill, in our sanctuary we have a pretty major drainage that runs through the center of it. this sanctuary has been in place for nearly 7 years. What are your thoughts on opening the creek up from all debris and using it as an exit or entry trail. Sometimes when I get out of my stand it would seem like I would spook less deer on the way out if I could walk the creek and go right through the center of the sanctuary to take a long way out around. Is the risk to great that the big guys would still be in the timber and catch my wind that for sure would be drifting somewhere as I walk through. I find it hard to get myself to do this as I don't want to mess up a good thing that we have going already. I have pics of an incredible buck that is hanging out in our sanctuary this year and don't want to do something stupid.

Winke Responds:

Curt, I would stay out of the sanctuary for all but game retrieval. That is the best bet. I realize that by using it, you make your other stands better, but that defeats the whole idea of the sanctuary in the first place. My advice - stay out. Good luck with the big guy!
When should I climb down when there are deer feeding in a food plot in front of my stand?

Jack from KY asks:

Lets assume I'm bow hunting out of a tree stand that overlooks a clover field. Several does file out of the woods and feed in the field close to my stand location. Its getting dark and no shooter bucks show up in the field. If I climb out of my stand, I'm going to spook the does. How long should I remain in the tree stand after dark before climbing down and walk back to the truck ?

Winke Responds:

Jack, Until they are gone. That is the hard part about hunting near feeding areas. The best strategy is to hunt back slightly into the woods to catch the deer before they get to the feeding area or in a spot where you can climb down behind the tree and get behind a screen of brush or a low spot (ditch). Otherwise you have no choice but to wait until they leave or arrange for someone to drive up in a vehicle or ATV to run the deer off so you can climb down without alerting them to your tree stand. You can use binos to see better in darkened conditions. They gather some light making it possible to see forms well after the end of legal shooting light. With some moonlight, you can see deer with binos after "dark". Good luck.
When do you head to your morning stands? Do you hunt half days or all day?

Tim from NH asks:

Hi Bill, When going into a treestand or blind (bow season)do you go in at first light or in the dark 1 hour before, do you sit all day or half day's. Thanks for your time

Winke Responds:

Tim, I go in as soon as I can see the ground. If you start out any earlier, you will have to use a flashlight to avoid the sticks that crack. You will have to sneak. In the dark it is harder to make a quiet entry. When you can see the ground, it is usually a good indication to start out. I usually stay out for a half a day in each stand because my morning locations are generally different from my afternoon spots. In the mornings, I tend to hunt in or near bedding areas and in the evening I tend to hunt closer to feeding areas. I switch very late in the morning, close to noon. The only time I would consider staying all day in a stand is if I saw a big one bed nearby and I was waiting for him to get up or if I was hunting a stand that was both near bedding and feeding areas. I have some like that - funnels that lie between two bedding areas as well as between bedding areas and feeding areas.
How early do I need to get in to a food plot in the morning to beat the deer there?

Shawn from IA asks:

Hello Bill here is my question when hunting over a food plot in the morning. How early do I need to be in he stand before the deer show up to eat? I have just had it where I have scared some out of the area on my way to the stand. Thanks

Winke Responds:

Shawn, Ooo, boy. I am not sure I like anything about hunting over a food plot in the morning. You can't really beat them there as they likely will hang aroudn in that area most of the night before drifting off just before daybreak to head toward their feeding areas. They don't feed all night, but they bump in and out of these spots regularly. The only way it works to hunt a food plot in the AM is if the food plot is small (1/2 acre for example) and tucked close to bedding areas. That way, the odds are lower that the deer will hanging around it all night. They are more likely to just hit it as they head back to bed. Get in at least soon enough that you are ready by legal shooting time. There is no real advantage to getting there sooner. I never hunt larger food plots in the morning. It is too hard to know if the deer will be hanging around (they usually are) and where they are so you can avoid them. The odds are not in your favor hunting the larger plots in the AM. I wouldn't do it, period. Hunt closer to bedding areas (only coming in from the direction opposite the food) and you will enjoy better hunting while keeping your deer from knowing you are hunting them.
How can I get in and out of my stand when the route sets up terrible for the prevailing winds?

Dan collier from PA asks:

Dear bill, hear my question for you. how would you go about entering and exiting an area that you only have one way in and one way out when the prevailing wind is always from the west and thats thats the only way you can enter? and you only have permission to hunt the property im on and not the surrounding property? cause were i hunt here in central pa that my problem. and even if i did have permission to hunt the other property to come in on the down wind side i would spooke everything getting to my spots. look forward to hearing from you . thanks Dan.

Winke Responds:

Dan, It is hard to answer that without studying an aerial photo (and I don't want you to send an aerial photo as I would soon spend all day looking at everyone's aerial photos). Instead, I will offer a few ideas to help you figure it out on your own. First, not every farm sets up well for every wind. That is the reality we face. Sometimes you will have to either accept the fact that you are alerting deer and hope for the best (or better yet) hunt somewhere else until the conditions are right. Maybe that is not an option. If not, then you have to get creative. As funny as this sounds, maybe you need to take a small bivy sack with you when you go in and then sleep at the base of the tree at night and not come back out til the weekend is over. I have a friend who bought a rock climbing shelter (the kind of thing that guys sleep in when climbing sheer rock faces). He did this so he wouldn't have to walk in and out of one of his best (but hardest to access) stands. He simply put the portable shelter together at dark, attached it to the tree right above his stand and climbed in. Now that is what I call creative. I am not sure if he ever killed anything doing that or not, but it is a cool example what can be done if you think outside the box. You three options: either accept the fact that you are screwing your spot up and take your lumps, hunt somewhere else until the wind is right or try something a bit more extreme. Good luck.
If the water is high in the creek I normally use to access my best stand, should I use a different route?

Brian from MO asks:

Hey Bill, great show appreciate the info you provide. I try hard to have good entry and exit routes to stands. I am hunting a stand tomorrow that I usually access through a creek. I beleive the water will be too high to get in that way. Its my only stand in this area that is set up for a south wind. If i go in early enough do you think I should try to enter through a standing bean field? Do you beleive in a stealthy entrance enough not to hunt a great stand if you had to enter in a way that was not in the creek? Thanks for your opinion.

Winke Responds:

Brian, It really depends on your options. If entering the stand through the beans is still your best option for that wind, then that is what you need to do. At this point, however, if you have a lot of days left to hunt, I try really hard not to bump deer. They are so spooky at this time of the season that they don't forgive intrusion very fast. I guess I would still try to use the creek even if it means wearing longer boots (hip boots) and carrying your regular hunting boots. I have gone into spots on occassion wearing waders and then when I get to the other side I switch to my hunting boots and leave the waders on the shore. Good luck.
How can I hunt a big area with lots of deer where I always get busted by does heading to my stands?

Shannon from VA asks:

I hunt a semi-private parcel of land of about 1500 acres. The owner only allows bowhunting and only gives 10 to 12 hunters permission to hunt. The deer population is unbelievable. There are a good number of big bucks but the doe population is too high. I get busted going to and from the stand no matter how careful I am. During the rut the bucks dont have to go far before they find a doe in heat. So they dont move much. There are huge open timber forests mixed with a few crop fields and thick bedding areas. All bordered by a 22000 acre lake. The deer just seem to go wherever they want to. They very rarely follow trails. When bucks dont have to go far to find a doe in heat, how would you hunt them? How would you go about getting to your stand without getting busted by the does? Thanks P.S. Love your web site

Winke Responds:

Shannon, It is hard to answer that question accurately without seeing an aerial and topo of the place then getting a lot more information to support that study. More than likely there are several spots that will set up well. However, I don't want you to even think about sending me the maps because I barely have enough time to hunt the way it is. The first thing that jumps to mind is the lake. I would use the lake as much as possible access stands near its banks. Think in terms of inlets that separate two bedding ridges. The upper end of the inlet wills serve as a good funnel between the ridges and will concentrate buck movement and you can hunt it when the wind is blowing out toward the lake. You may also find that ditches or draws leading up from the lake make good access routes for morning stand locations. Timing is important. During the peak of breeding the bucks will be tied up, but leading up to this time and also leading away from this time you should be able to find them on their feet doing some cruising. I realize I didn't help too much, but hopefully this gives you a starting point, at least.
Do you use a light when going to your stands in the dark?

Brian from MO asks:

Do you use any light when going to and from your stand in the dark? Does a flashlight scare deer? What do you think about the green lights that they advertise does not spook deer and turkey?

Winke Responds:

Brian, I will do it occassionally, but I don't like to wave lights around. When I use them, I usually stop, keep them pointed downward to minimize the flickering in the woods, look at what I need to look at and then turn them off before I start walking again. I am not sure if deer are afraid of it or not, but the beam does reveal movement and I do know they don't like movement. I think if you just stood in one spot and shined a light in a single direction, they wouldn't notice it as new. But when you are moving and the beam is moving and the shadows are moving, that is too much movement, I feel. I try to wait until right at first light, when you can just see the ground, and then skate in there fast. That way I don't have to use a light to avoid branches and I can move quickly minimizing the amount of time I am potentially in a position to alarm them. I don't know anything about the green lights from experience. I would be interested in knowing that, however.
What are your thoughts on using the chainsaw to clear a ditch at this point in the fall?

Curt from OH asks:

Hey Bill, great site, I love the info on reading topo maps and reasons why you place your stands where. On the oct. 19th episode you're going in to clear out a drainage with the chainsaw. would like to get your take on this sort of activity during this time of the year. I know of a creek on our property that will be cleared in the near future:-) one thing im learning from this site is that hunting opprotunities rise when you hunt with the mind set of a really good "crook". I know this wouldn't fly very well but my new motto might be "hunt like a crook." :-) the sneakier the better.

Winke Responds:

Curt, From my experience, a little bit of chainsaw work is not going to spook the deer badly. They are less afraid of those loud sounds than they are of more subtle, sneaky encounters. When setting up stands, I would rather get in and out totally clean, but if I know I am going to bump deer anyway, I just make a lof of noise and give them plenty of warning. They don't seem to relate those types of human activity patterns with danger. Good luck. I like that: hunt like a crook.
Would you cross an open field to get to a morning stand?

Tye from AL asks:

Bill, another question for you on travel routes to the stand on the public ground I hunt in IL. One area I found while scouting back in July is an open gate that really funnels deer down. There are lush clover fields to the north and northwest, bean stuble to the west/southwest, and everything else surrounding the area is bedding/crp. A west wind is best for this spot and I plan on coming in from the cut bean field to access the stand. I considered coming in from the south which would be a half mile hike through crp that the deer bed in to stay off the beans; but with the beans being cut and all the clover in the area should I be concerned about bumping deer out of the bean field on my way in before daylight? I could use a creek to access the spot from the west as well, but I have no idea how much debris may be in the creek or what the water levels are at this time, if it was clear with low water it would be an easy choice, but I don't know. So what would Winke do; WWWD? Thanks

Winke Responds:

Tye, There are a couple of approaches you might look at. First, you should check the creek when yu get there and find out if you can go that route. That is definitely your first priority. Second, wait til first light one morning and sneak in there across the beans to see if there are in fact deer using it. If they are, you will have to come in the long way. You have to stay away from them on the way in even if that means a big detour. If they are off the field at first light, you can probably bust across there fast and get in pretty clean. Then the next time try it in the dark and go slow and quiet and see if you can hear deer running away. Also, bear in mind that you don't want to go in with a crosswind or you will mess up too much country with your scent. Int the wind is best, wind at your back a distant second, crosswind a big no-no. Good luck.
How can I hunt a small alfalfa patch without spooking the deer using it?

brett from OK asks:

Bill, i have been hunting a certain stand for several days now and i cant seem to get in or out of it during the late night or early morning without spooking the deer. its overlooking a small alfalfa feild, the deer feed in it at don and dusk. i read an article about using a cyote howler. how should i go about entering and exiting the stand?

Winke Responds:

Brett, As harsh as this may sound, you simply may not be able to hunt that spot unless you can find a way to get in and out without spooking deer. You may find a way to hunt travel routes nearby, where you have a better advantage, but I would resist the temptation to hunt right on the food. As soon as coyotes start climbing trees, I'll go along with the howler. Deer know where sound comes from. It is a shocking sound coming from a tree - that can't be good. Sure, it is better than climbing down and spooking them with your presence, but the coyote in the tree trick will eventually produce deer that avoid that field in the day just as surely as climbing down would. It is just very hard to hunt right on top of feeding deer and get away with it very often.
Won't you spook deer crossing pastures in the morning and evening going to your stand?

Marcus from GA asks:

Bill, thanks so much for that recent segment about reading topo maps for access and stand sites. I look forward to more of those. A question for you: you noted that deer would not be in that large pasture so that would obviously be your desired route to get to the stand. Why would deer not typically be in that pasture? Is it fescue or bermuda? Or does that mean you're looking at that stand as primarily an evening stand, so deer most likely won't be there when you are entering the stand in the middle of the day? But then, how about leaving the stand at night? Wouldn't you be walking right back through the deer? Sorry for all the questions! After finally realizing that stand access is one of your most mentioned tactics in your writings, I'm finally trying to implement it!! Any help is appreciated.

Winke Responds:

Marcus, Pastures probably mean different things to different people. Here, cattle pastures are generally not feeding areas for deer except maybe in the very early spring when the grass is firt coming up. The rest of the year, these spoiled deer are gorging on corn, soybeans, alfalfa and clover. So it is very rare that I would run into a deer in an open pasture in this country even at prime movement times. That is why the pasture is the perfect route to and from the stand for my situation. If they did feed in these areas, I would have to find a different solution to the puzzle.
I have to access my property right through the middle, should I use my ATV?

Luke from KY asks:

I am lucky enough to own a 600 acre piece of property in central KY. The property runs east-west along a ridge line for about 1.5 miles and is bordered by small creeks on both the north and south. The only access road runs east-west through the middle of the property at the top of the ridge. On the other side of these creeks are pastures and bottomland, where many of the deer travel to feed at night. Our property was clear-cut 15 years ago so it is very dense woods and thickets, and the deer usually bed on our property during the daytime. We use atv's to access our stands, and I am concerned that when we ride along the access road in the middle of the farm (particularly after the morning hunt and before the afternoon hunt) we may be spooking deer. We rarely spook deer from the stand, but after 5 yrs of QDM and light hunting pressure no one on our farm saw a 4+ yr old buck last yr. Do you think its from the atv's and do you have any other tips to see more mature deer?

Winke Responds:

Luke, I have done a number of property analyses for people over the years using maps and photos and there is one thing I always ask before I start working up a plan for them - can you possibly find a way to access the property from the outside? If not, if the only access is internal the property, it makes it ten times harder to hunt. That is because deer figure out when you are hunting them so easily when you are forced to come and go right through the property. I would rather have fewer stands and keep the deer uneducated than hunting everywhere and spooking them going in and out. Try to find a way to access the property from the outside - through neighboring properties. If that is not possible, you will have to give a lot of thought to low-profile entry and exit and then only hunt the places you can get to and from without alerting deer. What about walking in the creeks for one option? I realize I am not giving much concrete advice, but it is difficult in a few minutes to replace years of on the farm experience. So experiment with creative ways to get in and out - that will be the key for you. I would definitely ditch the ATVs for accessing the stands, for starters. You have to sneak in. Good luck.
Wading a small stream

Jason from IA asks:

Bill, You have said that you use streambeds to get to and from your stands to avoid bumping deer. I have also tried to use this approach to my stands whenever possible. Ocasionally I encounter a stream that is too deep to cross with knee high rubber boots and have had to &amp;quot;walk the tightrope&amp;quot; across a log in the dark with a stand on my back which is not much fun. I've heard of guys using waterproof gaiters or packable hip boots. Do you use or know of any products that would work in this type of situation? Thanks!

Winke Responds:

Jason, I understand that Elimitrax boots will work for that also. They are very light and easy to carry in a pack. I suspect if you don't do it often that you could even wade across without the boot mocs on over the top. I also use them a lot when walking to stands through grass and when setting my stands during the season. They work well. Good luck.
Should I sleep in my stand?

Ben from MO asks:

Bill, I'm having problems getting into my stand in the morning without spooking deer. The messed up thing is I am usually in the stand nearly 1-2 hours before daylight and still manage to spook deer on my walk in. My property is steep ridges that fall into bottom ground that is row cropped. When do you typically get into the stand for morning hunts and is it normal for deer to be 200 yards or more off of a cropfield that early in the morning? I still see plenty of deer but they are usually does and the deer I spook are usually loners. Could it be that these loners are my mature bucks I see all summer and then drop off the face of the earth in October? I've even gone as far as spending the night on stand and while it was the best morning of hunting I've ever had, it was also the coldest night's sleep I ever had. Any suggestions on fixing the problem?

Winke Responds:

Ben, You are definitely a hard core. I have never slept in my stand. However, a friend of mine once looked into buying a mountain climber's shelter (they hang from a single point and are called PortaLedges (http://www.backcountry.com/store/BLD1024/Black-Diamond-Single-Portaledge.html) and taking it with him (and a sleeping bag) for the evening hunt and then putting it together after dark, attaching it to a branch or tree step or whatever and sleeping in it all night and then taking it down in the AM in time to hunt. He never did it, but not a bad idea. I usually wait until I can see the ground to enter my morning stands and then I walk fast. As fast as I can. That way I don't stumble around and I don't step on many branches. I am usually in the stand and settled right about legal shooting time. It has gotten a little harder with the camera because of the extra 15 minutes required, but I still usually wait until I can just see the ground before I start walking. It is hard to say which bucks (or which deer) you are bumping. I don't think you can assume anything. Also, a little wind is nice. I hate trying to sneak into my morning stands on still mornings. I usually will stay away from my best spots on still mornings because that almost never works out well. Finally, you may need to reexamine where you have your stands to be sure they are in the most accessible places that are still good for hunting. Try to find stand locations near routes you can sneak in and out along. Without seeing the exact setup, that is about all the better I can do. Consider the mountain climber's tent. That would be a trip! Good luck. Bill