Let me start off by saying I eat what I kill. No life is taken without my benefit.
I learned my hunting skills by reading books from the public library. Then took this knowledge to the outdoors and taught myself.
I like a shotgun hunt. It is more challenging than just using a rifle from a tree stand shooting from a long distance. There is more chance for the deer to be wounded and get away using the rifle. You must very patient and some deer will detect you hunting just sitting on the ground. Hunting on the ground is popular in Texas.
3” buckshot shells work best in a magnum 12 gauge shotgun. You can get a 12 gauge pump magnum shotgun from a pawn shop for $150. Some hunters put 1 shell in for the first shot being a slug and the second shot being buckshot. Buckshot pellets to shoot if the deer is running away and you can be less accurate.
If you get a clear shot, aim for the head. Otherwise aim for the deer’s heart. Lead the deer (aim a little ahead to compensate) if its walking.
Where to sit: Sit up hill on the ground using a small chair. This would be above deer’s noses. They can smell well. Deer may use a path to get in and out of an area. Sometimes there is only one way in and out due to cliffs, etc…Sometimes the deer will take their hove and make imprints that are like circles in the ground. They ejaculate in these and wait for female deer. :smile: They may check these spots daily. Other signs to look for are tracks, scrapes from their antlers on trees/brush, and deer poop. Hunt down the firebreaks. These are areas cleared with a bulldozer to prevent fire from spreading if it starts. Trees that bear nuts and water are some other places to check.
Camouflage: You should be in camouflage although some orange alerts other hunters of your whereabouts. A army jacket and orange hat or cap works well. Deer piss on your feet should be good. Rub some you’ve bought all over your shoes. Also put some on your jacket. Don’t wash with soap the night before hunting. No smoking although a bowl is nice to get into nature. Chew tobacco if you must get your nicotine fix. Walk directly to your chosen spot and don’t wander around.
Its good to go the day before you hunt and check the area to see where you should sit. The next morning before sunrise when you go out, find your way with a flashlight. Some hunters hang toilet paper on branches to find their way. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to see deer.
Because its winter, you should dress warmly. Wear extra socks. You have to remain motionless (really no movement) or deer will see you. This can be cold and uncomfortable if not dressed well.
Gameland is a good place to go. You may have to pay a fee to the department of natural resources to hunt this. Paper companies grow stands of trees to produce wood for paper. Deer love these.
Things to take along on your hunt include food like potted meat and bread, Vienna sausages, and soft drinks. A warm thermos of coffee is always nice. Don’t forget a rope in your pocket to drag your deer if you get lucky.
Last edited:
(Post 300!)
