The Transition

As I wrote in my first book, “Aggressive Whitetail Hunting”, the reason why hunting can be so tough during this time frame has to do with something I’ve come to refer to as “The Transition”. Both the dear heard and the environment in which the deer live are undergoing major changes at this time.

Much of what happens during the transition period and the resulting negative effects it has on us as deer hunters can be blamed purely on a number of natural occurrences. First of all, there’s a fact that buck groups begin to break up. Second, mature bucks adopt very restricted, mostly nocturnal movement patterns at this time of year. And third, foods that whitetails may have been using as primary source of nutrition throughout much of the late summer, loose their appeal to the deer. Which means, that a big bucks travel routes and daily routines suddenly change.

But one of the most critical factors that occurs during the transition period is big bucks temperament. Since their not doing much in the way of rubbing and scraping and since their certainly not being sidetracked by hot does, big bucks are very much in tune with their surroundings. Put simply, they are the epitome of the ultimate survival machine at this time of year.

Obviously, taking big whitetails during the transition period is not an impossible task. And here are some keys to help you accomplish that goal.

• First of all, you must figure out exactly what it is the deer in your hunting areas will be eating come opening day.
• Second, because of their often restricted daytime movement patterns, your going to have to establish stand sites as close as possible to the bedding areas of big bucks.
• Finally, you must take all the necessary steps for ensuring that the deer your hunting don’t catch on to the new predator continually invading their domain. In other words, keep a low profile.

Not only must you prevent deer from figuring out the location of your stand site, you must keep your comings and goings an absolute secret as well. Along with always using the wind to your advantage, make sure you take all the necessary steps to ensure that your not continually contaminating your area with human odor.

I’m confident that if you apply these strategies, you will realize more successes during this tough transition period. Remember, hunt hard and always hunt safe.