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Late Season Tactics
Posted By Wisconsin at 12/27/2009 12:00:00 AM

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   As the season winds down it is hard to be optimistic about your chances of harvesting a deer, let alone a big buck.  But if your can endure the elements, this time of year can be a great time to get that buck you've been after all season. 

    First off, few hunters have the endurance to make it out this time of year so the woods are pretty quiet.  Deer finally get somewhat of a break from all the hunters stomping around the woods and they seem to relax a bit. It seems that mid morning and late afternoon are the best times to catch a deer trying to store up some winter fat.  Mid day can also be good as the deer try to take advantage of the warmer temperatures so they don't exert as much energy trying to stay warm.  So what that means is, SLEEP IN!  Try sitting mid morning for a change and see if you can catch a deer taking advantage of the warming day.                                                                                          

   Second, cold weather forces deer to be up on their feet and timing weather fronts can really help your action heat up.  Being on stand before and after a storm can be some of the best times to catch a deer in, or heading to, a food source.  Bucks will need to replenish fat reserves used up during the rut and are more likely to move during day light.

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Tracks in fresh snow will show you recent patterns.
Fresh tracks in snow and deer trails are obvious signs of patterns that have changed since earlier this year.  This means some quick scouting is necessary and can really pay off.  Bucks that have vanished in November to find estrus doe have magically returned and can make a slow season and great success.  

   

 So stay optimistic in these final days and try some mid morning hunts, timing weather fronts, and quick scouting.  Hopefully these tips will allow you to finish off the 2009 season with a buck on the ground. 

GOOD LUCK!

Ben Schlueter