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Hunting a big buck isn’t just sport; it’s a passionate pursuit that connects us with nature in profound ways. While the common wisdom in hunting advises us to be stealthy, mindful of the wild, and observant of a buck’s behavior, professional buck hunters know that there are secrets — unconventional tricks and trade often gained by experience — that can set you on the path to a trophy buck. Here are seven secrets you should consider to make a difference in your hunt.
Imagine this: you have spotted a magnificent big buck, and he is making his way across the field. The distance is great enough that you’re not confident you can hit your target. But one wrong move, one wrong sound, and he’ll take off in a mad dash for survival.
What’s the secret of getting closer? It’s about sounding like an inferior buck. In an unusual yet incredibly effective tactic, some hunters mimic the sound of inferior bucks to get the big one’s attention. This approach involves creating a cacophony of cracking logs and whipping brush, mimicking the distinctive sequence of pawing and scraping that big bucks make. You might even field yourself pinching your nose and emitting a whiny grunt-snort-wheeze to complete the illusion.
The rut season is the time when everything changes. Dominant bucks turn territorial, and curiosity piques their interest. So, how do you use their changing behavior to your advantage? You need to level up your preparedness skills. Bucks are drawn to the musk of other buks during the rut, so create a blend of buck urine and tarsal scent near your stand, or go a step further and use actual tarsal glands from a rival buck. Hang wicks soaked with these scents near your hunting spot, and you’ll send an irresistible invitation. It’s like ringing a dinner bell for trophy bucks.
During the rut, there might be better vantage points than treestands. The secret here is to get out of your stand and start stalking. Many bucks and does are no longer in their usual haunts as they become singularly focused on breeding. The woods may seem quiet, and your stand might appear cold, but that’s when the real action happens away from the core areas. The key is to locate these amorous pairs in their newfound territories and go to them.
Tradition says that staying put in your treestand is the way to go, but the rut calls for adaptability. When you spot a buck with a doe and conditions favor it, don’t hesitate. It’s time to embrace the art of still hunting. Move stealthily, ensuring all your shooting gears are ready, and position yourself close to cover. Be ready to take that perfect shot. This change in strategy can lead to thrilling close encounters and successful hunts.
Traditional scents like doe estrus and buck urine have their place, but here’s an unconventional secret that can give you the upper hand. Many people think any human scents are a deterrent. You’ve probably heard about how you shouldn’t touch a stray baby animal of any kind because if it smells like a human, the mother won’t take it back. It’s natural to assume the same for deer.
But, according to Dr. Grant Woods, a renowned biologist and hunter, human urine can actually be attractive to deer. They’re more likely to approach or ignore the scent than run from it. So, instead of traditional scents, consider using human urine on mock scrapes or real ones, which can lead to increased buck sightings, including those elusive mature bucks.
Deer trails can be your best friend or your worst enemies. Deer have a keen sense of smell, and your scent can make them wary. To avoid leaving behind your scent on these well-trodden paths, here’s an unusual tactic — leap over them. It may sound quirky, but this is an effective method to eliminate your scent from the trail and its surroundings. The result is Reduced chances of spooking a buck, which can lead to more successful hunts.
When the weather takes a harsh turn, so can your hunting tactics. This is where the secret involves literal and metaphorical sledgehammers. By breaking open frozen water sources near your hunting grounds, you create inviting watering holes for deer. This innovative approach lures bucks to the only open water source for miles to survive in freezing conditions.
In the end, conventional wisdom can only take you so far in the world of buck hunting. Big bucks often require thinking beyond the ordinary. The traditional way is good, but not always successful or the only way. Those who are willing to adopt these secret and unconventional techniques may find themselves at the forefront of trophy buck hunting.
During the rut, dare to leave your treestand, equip yourself with the right gear and kits, go stalking, and experience close encounters with the bucks and does. In this world of deer hunting, these secrets connect us with the wild in extraordinary ways. So, the next time you’re out hunting for that prized buck, consider these secret methods as your pathway to becoming a great buck hunter.
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