Preparing for the Season

Posted By Shield Field Staff Member - PJ Reilly at 9/8/2010 12:00:00 AM

            When the 2009-10 hunting season ended, it seemed like the next season was an eternity away. Now the 2010-11 season is just a few weeks out here in Pennsylvania and Maryland and there’s so much to do to prepare.

            The trail cameras have been running for about two months now, and it seems like there are a couple of bucks out there pjblog1.jpgworthy of an arrow or bullet. Besides just being a load of fun to play with, these cameras have been invaluable in elevating my hunting success.

And I’m not just talking about the clues they provide to figuring out a buck’s travel habits. I’m talking about how they give you an idea of what’s in the herd.

            If you don’t know there’s a 150-inch 10-pointer traversing your hunting area, then you might be more apt to shoot the first decent 8-point that wanders past. If the first legal buck that walks within range is what you’re after, then that’s not a problem. But if you’re interested in hunting a particular deer, or only the biggest deer in your area, then it helps to know the qualitypjblog4.jpg of the bucks that are out there.

            Get those cameras up and rolling now. Aim them at food plots and well-worn trails to and from feeding and bedding areas.

            There are cameras that allow you to check them remotely, but, if you’re just an average Joe like me, those are priced a bit high. Which means you’re going to have to go digital. And that means you’ll have to check your cameras.

            pjblog5.jpgWhen you do so, act like you’re going hunting and do everything in your power to avoid spooking deer and leaving your scent behind. Resist the urge to check your cameras every day. Give them time to take pictures. Check them once a week or so.

            When you do check them, go during the middle of the day, when deer are likely to be holed up in bedding areas. Also, spray yourself and your clothing liberally with Scent Shield White Lightning. And when you’re done replacing the card in your camera, spray it down with some White Lightning as well.

            The clock is ticking. Are you ready for the season?