Use trail cameras to scout for deer.If you already own trail cameras, now is the time to put them to use.
If you don't own one, this is the perfect time to pick one up and put it in play. In hunting, there is no substitute for scouting prior to the hunt and a trail camera is a great way to improve your scouting by being your eyes in the outdoors 24/7.
In the months before the start of deer season, a trail camera offers the hunter the opportunity to view the quality of deer using his hunting grounds.
Theyre easy to use. Simply fasten the small camera to a tree where you suspect deer and other animals travel. The battery operated unit shoots infrared sensors into the area, and when animals pass through that beam, photos are taken.
As the season approaches, the photos you accumulate will offer insight as to how to pattern deer movements and tailor your hunts around those times.
While many hunters consider mornings and evenings as prime hunting periods, several trophy animals are taken each year during the mid-day hours. A trail camera could be just the ticket to pinpoint the travel times of a big buck in your area.
Several improvements have been made in these units over the past few years, including ease of operation; better photo resolution; precise readouts on date, time, temperature and moon phase; quicker response time; infrared night photos; and extended battery life.
When selecting a camera, take into account which features may be the most important to you. Three important considerations are type of batteries, activation range and infrared capabilities.
Good quality cameras will range from $80 to $200. Popular brands include Primos, Moultrie and Wildgame Innovations.
After you've made your purchase, give considerable thought about where you place it in the field. Ideally, it should cover a funnel area where the deer travel through a relatively confined area. Factor in the flash range of the camera, which varies from 30 to 60 feet on most cameras.
Check the camera at least weekly to see what kind of results you are getting. Take special care to not disturb the area while going to the camera to retrieve your photos.
Trail cameras are a great tool to add to your hunting gear. They may not only give you the chance to locate a trophy deer, but also greatly increase your chances of a successful hunt.
(Kevin Claire is an avid hunter and works as the hunting department manager at Lunkers.)