Fall archery season

Well the early archery season for does started off this past Saturday. I had several stands set up for me to hunt with my two daughters. We all were very excited and were looking forward to some early action this year.

As with most years, we stated off on Saturday evening with a buck sighting. It was a nice 6 pointer but, as I said, it is doe season, so all bucks get a pass. We tried my other spots in the New Hope area and we spotted several deer but none were closer than 75 yards. Each of the deer we have seen traveled nearly the same route so I made the decision to move our ladder stand to intercept them.

I like to start out hunting the outside edges and slowly move into an area as I discover the precise travel routes. This can be done early with trail cameras, but if you do not have quick and easy access to your hunting area, this can be a chore. I like to hunt with a climbing stand and stay mobile, watching what the deer are doing and adjusting on a day to day basis. This always allows you to choose a new tree based on wind direction and expected deer location.

Now with my daughters, I am using a ladder stand so moving the stand is more of an issue. Ideally, you want to move a stand around lunch-time on a day when rain is in the forecast so your scent will soon be washed away. If this is not an option, I recommend moving the stand and hunting it right away. This way you have an opportunity to take a deer before it gets wise to your stand.

I will have more updates and tips for you as the season goes on. Good luck and let DVO know how your season is going.

John Hawthorne

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