Deer Hunting

Learn about hunting deer, including the best way to track and find deer in the wild, how to field dress and prepare deer meat for consumption, and the best calibers and shot locations to humanely shoot deer.

Articles & Guides About Hunting Deer

On this page you are invited to browse our articles about deer hunting. 

These articles answer common questions about hunting deer, including how to find deer bedding areas, how to keep deer from detecting your presence, shot placement tips for a humane and effective shot, and what to do with a deer after a successful hunt. 

Scroll down to learn more and read some of our helpful guides about deer hunting.

An array of various types of binoculars set against a springtime landscape. Each pair of binoculars distinct in design, capturing both compact and full-size models. Ensure all binoculars have a robust, outdoorsy aesthetic, suitable for hunting, with elements of camouflage or earth tones. The backdrop depicts a forest in early bloom, hinting at the month of April, with vibrant green leaves budding on trees and a clear blue sky above. The sun shines brightly, casting soft shadows. Remember, the image must be devoid of any text, brand names, logos, and people.

April 2024’s Best Hunting Binoculars

Understanding the Importance of Quality Binoculars for Hunting When you’re on the hunt, the ability to spot and track game at significant distances is crucial. It often means the difference between a successful expedition and

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A pair of well-designed hunting boots are posed in rugged terrain. The boots, sturdy and promising comfort and protection, bear no distinguishing brand marks. They are colored in natural tones - shades of brown and green, reflecting the colors of the outdoors. The boots are surrounded by typical hunting scenery, maybe soft moss, fallen leaves, and pebbles. Rays of early morning sunlight filter through the image, suggesting the dawn of a new day and hinting at the month of April. It's a breathtaking layout that breathes life into the concept of hunting boots without requiring any text or human presence.

April 2024’s Best Hunting Boots

Understanding the Importance of Quality Hunting Boots When heading out for a hunt, especially in the unpredictable weather of April, the right gear is critical for both safety and success. A key component of that

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A visually engaging still-life of several unbranded scent blocking products from an array of categories in a setting that suggests their outdoor use. The image should include items like a spray bottle filled with a liquid scent blocker, a soap bar for washing before hunting, a roll-on stick, and clothing detergent. All items rest on a rustic wooden table set against the backdrop of a dense forest during the month of April, showcasing blooming flowers and lush greenery. Furthermore, the scene is lit with soft morning light to invoke a peaceful atmosphere. Remember, no people, text, brand names or logos should be visible in the image.

April 2024’s Best Scent Blockers

Understanding the Importance of Scent Blockers When you’re out in the woods, trying to harvest that trophy buck, little details can make a world of difference. One of those critical details is controlling your scent.

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Depict an archery set consisting of various equipment typically used in the sport. Include items such as a modern recurve bow, a sturdy quiver filled with color-tipped arrows, a leather arm guard, an angular bow sight, and a finger tab. Ensure that the image is a striking arrangement of essentials against an abstract or forest background, giving the scene a rich composition. No individuals should be present and no text should appear anywhere within the illustration.

Best Archery Supplies for April 2024

Understanding the Essentials of Archery Supplies When you immerse yourself in the world of archery, whether as a competitive sport or a hunting activity, having the right equipment is not just about enhancing your performance

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Best Deer Hunting Caliber

Best Deer Hunting Caliber

If you’re getting started as a deer hunter, you need to understand weapons and calibers. In fact, caliber is one of the most important considerations when it comes to effectively and humanely hunting deer. Let’s

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A detailed scene representing hunting in harsh weather conditions. The set has a snow-covered landscape with thick fog. There are a variety of hunting rifles laid out on a clear tarp, each differing in size and structure, and ranging from bolt-action to semi-automatic rifles. The weapons are corrosion-resistant, featuring heavy barrels, and customized to withstand extreme cold. Binoculars, ammunition and a compass are visible next to the rifles. Note that no brand names, logos, or text should be visible and there are no people included in the scene.

Best Firearms for Hunting in Harsh Weather

Understanding the Challenges of Harsh Weather Hunting Hunting in harsh weather conditions poses unique challenges. From torrential rains to relentless snowfall and extreme cold temperatures, your equipment must withstand the elements to ensure a successful

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Best Food Plot for Deer

Best Food Plot for Deer

If you’re getting started with hunting, feeding deer probably hadn’t occurred to you as a strategy. But planting food for your prey can be a great way to hunt them. After all, when you plant

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A display of different types of hunting decoys. The center of the image is dominated by a glossy, lifelike duck decoy bobbing on a small body of water, itself surrounded by reeds and cattails. To the left, an imposing turkey decoy with a full, colorful fan of tail-feathers is grounded in a forest clearing carpeted with autumn leaves. On the right, a rugged deer decoy with a full rack of antlers occupies a realm of tall grasses and pines. The decoys are impressively realistic, showcasing intricate details and coloring. All of them are void of any brand names or logos, and there are no human figures or texts visible in the scene.

Best Hunting Decoys April 2024

Understanding the Role of Decoys in Hunting When it comes to hunting, especially for those who are passionate about deer hunting, the clever use of decoys can dramatically increase your chances of success. Decoys have

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Imagine an array of four hunting jackets suspended in the air side by side, each uniquely designed for various weather conditions and hunting terrains. From left to right: the first jacket is waterproof, vibrant orange, tailored for rainy weather, with patches of camouflage. The second is a light, khaki, breathable fabric, ideal for warm climates, with wide, functional pockets. The third is a thick, insulated, forest green jacket, ready for winter hunts, with faux fur lining. The last is a sandy brown color, designed for desert hunting, with heat reflecting technology. There's a lush forest backdrop. No people, text or brands are included.

Best Hunting Jackets April 2024

Understanding the Features of Top Hunting Jackets When scouting for the best hunting jackets for April 2024, there are crucial features you might want to consider. Durability, for one, is key; the challenges of the

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An array of hunting scopes meticulously arranged. Each one has a distinct design showcasing varying magnifications, reticle patterns, and body shapes that caters to hunters. One scope is noticeably bigger and farther advanced, indicative of its state-of-the-art features but bears no brand or logos. The background subtly suggests an outdoor setting, composed of gentle, forested hills under a clear, dusky sky, reflecting the natural habitat where these gears are customarily used. No people are shown in this scene to emphasize the focus on the scopes.

Best Hunting Scopes April 2024

Finding the Ideal Hunting Scope for Your Next Adventure When you’re out in the wilderness, tracking your quarry through rough terrain, the quality of your equipment can be the difference between a successful hunt and

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Best Time to Hunt Deer

Best Time to Hunt Deer

There’s a lot to learn if you’re new to deer hunting. Since it’s technically possible to spot deer at any time of day, maybe you’re thinking you can head out deer hunting in the afternoon.

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Can a 22 Kill a Deer

Can a 22 Kill a Deer?

A .22 cartridge is one of the smallest on the market. Because of its size and strength, it’s a practical choice for farmers or ranchers who need a gun for practical use. But can a

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Can Deer See Orange

Can Deer See Orange?

Talk to a hundred hunters and you’ll probably get a hundred different answers about what colors deer can see. Some will tell you that deer cannot see orange but others will say they can. But

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A tranquil forest landscape during autumn, with richly colored foliage of red, orange, and yellow. Dominating the scene is a deer hunting blind, carefully concealed with branches and leaves to blend in with the environment. It has a small entrance and a windows for observing the surroundings. Near the blind, some deer tracks indicate recent activity. A pair of binoculars, a hat, and a camouflage backpack illustrate the presence of a hunter without showing a person. The sun is setting in the distance, casting long shadows and warm light across the scene.

Choosing and Using a Deer Hunting Blind

Understanding Deer Hunting Blind Types When selecting the right deer hunting blind, it’s crucial to understand the different types available on the market. Each has distinct features tailored to varying hunting conditions and personal preferences.

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An illustrative image showing various deer hunting scenarios that hint at common errors. In the first scenario, a hunting stand is placed visibly in the open, not concealed. The second scene shows a hunter misjudging wind direction, depicted by the flow of leaves. In the third scenario, an inaccurate mockup of a deer's bed area shows incorrect placement of decoys. In the fourth scene, a lighted campfire in the hunting zone indicates a disruption to the quiet, serene environment. No people, text, brand names or logos are included.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Deer Hunting

Underestimating the Importance of Stealth Stealth is integral to deer hunting. Deer are exceptionally alert creatures with keen senses of smell and hearing. They can detect the subtlest of disturbances in their environment. One common

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Deer Hunting Checklist

Deer Hunting Checklist

In one way, deer hunting is like any other activity or sport: you’ve got to have the right gear. A good deer hunting checklist will keep you organized, and it’ll set you up for hunting

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An image demonstrating the concept of deer hunting in Missouri, without involving any human figures. Visualize different locations such as wooded areas, fields, riverbanks, and rolling hills typical to the state. Show signs of deer, perhaps a silhouette of a deer, deer tracks, or chewing damage on vegetation. No literary signs, brand names, or logos are featured in the scene. The colors should reflect a daybreak or dusk, common times when deer are active.

Deer Hunting in Missouri: Locations

Choosing the Best Locations for Deer Hunting in Missouri Missouri offers a diverse landscape that’s ideal for deer hunting. Several conservation areas and private lands are open for hunters each season. One prominent area to

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Deer Shot Placement Chart

Deer Shot Placement Chart

Shooting a deer the wrong way can cause undue pain and suffering to the animal, and it may mean you spend a long time tracking the injured deer through the woods (and have a long

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Do Deer Move in the Rain

Do Deer Move in the Rain?

Deer move around for a variety of reasons. After all, they’ve got to find food and safe areas to rest and sleep. They also move during the rut (breeding season). While we can often expect

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Do Deer Move in the Wind

Do Deer Move in the Wind?

When preparing for hunting season, one topic that usually sparks debate amongst hunting enthusiasts is whether deer move in the wind. Most hunters would probably say deer don’t move on windy days. Strong winds cause

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An immersive scene showcasing the essence of deer hunting in the wilderness of Alberta. The view is awe-inspiring, with the rugged Canadian Rockies framing the background, their peaks dusted with a light coat of white snow. In the foreground, a hunter's equipment is neatly displayed: a camouflage outfit laid across a tree stump, a high-quality, unbranded hunting rifle resting against a rustic log, and a pair of binoculars dangling from an overhanging branch. The untouched snow indicates the presence of deer through a trail of delicate hoofprints leading into the dense, evergreen forest. The entire scene is bathed in the refreshing light of a crisp, early morning sunrise.

Exploring Deer Hunting in Alberta

Understanding Deer Hunting Regulations in Alberta Alberta is a hunter’s haven, boasting a rich diversity of wildlife, including the coveted white-tailed and mule deer. Before venturing into the wild, it’s imperative to familiarize yourself with

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Illustration showing a serene forest setting with a group of deer at various stages of rest. Some deer are dozing while standing, indicating how certain species may rest without fully lying down. Other deer are laying down curled up in a meadow, showing a more resting phase. The surrounding nature scene is tranquil with trees, foliage, and small atmospheric details like butterflies or fireflies. Make sure no humans, text, brand names or logos are present in the image.

How Long Do Deer Sleep Per Day?

Deer Sleep Patterns Explored When it comes to understanding the resting habits of wildlife, particularly deer, there is a fascinating world just waiting to be discovered. If you might be wondering about the sleep patterns

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How Much Meat From a Deer

How Much Meat Do You Get From a Deer?

The challenge and thrill of deer hunting appeal to many hunters because it offers the chance to observe wildlife, establish a connection with nature, and participate in an activity that requires different skills. For others,

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Picture a tranquil autumn forest scene at dawn. Dew-covered grass and a palette of orange, gold, and crimson leaves create a soothing backdrop. In the foreground, a majestic deer, identifiable by its branched antlers and mild demeanor, lies peacefully on the ground. Signifying its life status, it's important to display the deer's ribcage moving slightly as if to suggest the animal is only resting. Remembering respect for the natural environment, display an array of informative signs (without texts) such as a careful hand reaching towards the deer while wearing gloves, binoculars on a stump near by, and a camouflage clothing left on a branch.

How to Approach a Downed Deer

Assessing the Situation When a deer is downed, safety is paramount for both the hunter and the animal. An impulsive approach can result in injury or the animal’s unnecessary suffering. Before moving toward the deer,

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How to Find Deer Bedding Areas

How to Find Deer Bedding Areas

Efficiently finding deer is one of the most important parts of hunting. There are many things to consider when searching for deer, and the best way to try and find deer is to think like

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How to Gut Deer

How to Gut a Deer

When you hunt deer and take down one of these animals, you must gut it as a part of the field dressing process. That is because if you leave the guts in, bacteria will contaminate

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A serene scene in the forest with subtle hints of a deer hunt. A pair of inexpensive binoculars lie on a weathered wooden table next to a rudimentary map of the area. A simple bow with an arrow is ready, resting against an aged log. A deer track imprinted in the soft ground nearby. In the distance, a deer quietly grazing, oblivious to the impending hunt. No people or branding present.

How to Hunt a Deer With Under $100

Essential Gear for Budget Deer Hunting Embarking on a deer hunting adventure doesn’t have to empty your wallet. In fact, with a bit of strategic planning, you can be prepared for a fruitful hunting season

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An illustration showcasing various items necessary for preparing for bear season. Included in the image is a pair of hiking boots, a large backpack, binoculars, and a bear spray. The boots are rugged, designed for rough terrain. The backpack is packed with supplies like a first aid kit, non-perishable food, and a sleeping bag. The bear spray has a bright color for easy visibility. The binoculars are sturdy and professional-grade. No brand names or logos are visible on any items, and no people are present in the image. The scene conveys preparation and safety.

How to Prepare for Bear Season

Understanding Bear Behavior and Habitat Bears are fascinating creatures with behaviors and habitats that are essential to understand when preparing for bear season. Depending on the species, bears can dwell in forests, mountainous regions, and

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How to Quarter a Deer

How to Quarter a Deer

Immediate field dressing is an essential part of deer hunting. It’s how to keep your venison safe and free of dangerous bacteria. But what about quartering a deer? If you don’t know how to quarter

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How to Track Deer

How to Track Deer

Tracking deer is essential for hunting, but you might be interested in tracking deer for other reasons. Enthusiasts, photographers, and ordinary nature lovers enjoy seeing deer in the wild. If you’re serious about seeing deer,

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Visualize a serene forest during winter, the barren trees cloaked in a fresh blanket of snow. Hidden among these trees, you find a majestic, mature buck, clearly past its rut. It's standing alertly, majestic antlers held high, seeming to listen for predators. There are nearby signs of struggle; disrupted snow and broken branches implying recently concluded duels. However, no human presence marrs this peaceful scene. All items and elements within the image are unbranded and devoid of text.

Hunting Deer After the Rut

Understanding Post-Rut Deer Behavior Grasping the nuances of deer behavior after the rut is crucial for hunters seeking success in the late season. During the rut, male deer, also known as bucks, are driven by

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A serene forest scene depicting various non-lethal deer management techniques. Towards the left of the image, a tall fence is displayed that restricts access for deer while allowing smaller wildlife to travel without hindrance. To the right, a combination of trees and plants that deer tend to avoid are planted. There are certain spots in the image showing organic deer repellents too. In the middle of the image, a group of deer are peacefully grazing, unaware of the deterrents in place to manage their population. The overall atmosphere is of harmony, cohabitation, and respect for wildlife.

Non-lethal Deer Management Techniques

Understanding the Need for Non-lethal Deer Management Managing deer populations is a complex issue that concerns many communities, particularly those in suburban and rural areas where deer are abundant. While hunting is a traditional approach

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A scene comparing pre-rut and rut deer hunting scenarios. On one side, visualize a calm forest with a healthy, solitary deer with antlers in velvet in a serene environment signifying the pre-rut period. On the other side, depict a more aggressive scene with two bucks locking their fully grown hardened antlers together, representing the rut period. The boundary between these two sides should blend seamlessly, reflecting the transition from one season to another. Ensure the image has no text, brand names, logos, or human figures.

Pre-Rut vs. Rut Deer Hunting

Understanding Deer Behavior: Pre-Rut Versus Rut When fall arrives, deer hunters start to witness significant changes in deer behavior. This transformation phases through two main periods known as the pre-rut and the rut. What is

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Tarsal Glands Deer

Tarsal Glands on Deer

Whitetail deer have several different kinds of glands, with each having its own purpose. The tarsal glands mean that each individual deer has its own distinctive scent so that others in their herd are able

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An image depicting the symbiotic relationship between dogs and hunting. There's a dense forest cloaked in mists of early dawn. One primary focus is a group of dogs, with breeds traditionally used for hunting such as beagles and foxhounds, standing alert at the edge of the woods. They exhibit keen senses, with noses to the ground, trailing the scent of their quarry. In the distance, a deer, maybe a whitetail, gracefully leaps through the bracken. No humans, text, or brands are present in the entire scene. The viewer can implicitly understand the dogs' role in deer hunting.

The Role of Dogs in Deer Hunting

Understanding the Vital Contributions of Canine Companions in Deer Stalking For centuries, dogs have been heralded as faithful companions in various human endeavors, particularly hunting. When it comes to tracking and hunting deer, a dog’s

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