Tracking deer can be a challenging and rewarding part of the hunting experience. To be successful, hunters need the right tools to help them locate and follow deer tracks through the wilderness. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a beginner, having the best tools can make a significant difference in your success rate. Here’s a look at some of the most effective and useful tools for deer tracking success.
1. GPS Device
A GPS device is one of the most valuable tools for tracking deer, especially when you’re hunting in dense forests or unfamiliar terrain. A handheld GPS can help you navigate the land, mark key locations like deer tracks, and track your route to avoid getting lost.
- Features to Look For: Look for GPS units with long battery life, pre-loaded maps, and clear navigation options. Some models even offer features like compass and altimeter readings for better navigation.
- Benefits: A GPS can help you mark the exact spots where you find deer tracks, blood trails, or other signs, making it easier to track the animal over long distances and varying terrain.
2. Trail Cameras
Trail cameras are excellent for monitoring deer movements before and during your hunt. These cameras can be set up at known deer paths, near food sources, or in areas where deer are likely to travel. With the help of a trail camera, you can gather important information about the timing and behavior of deer in your hunting area.
- Features to Look For: Motion-sensor cameras with infrared or night vision are ideal for capturing photos or videos of deer even in low-light conditions. Look for cameras with a fast trigger speed to ensure you don’t miss the deer.
- Benefits: Using trail cameras can help you determine the best times to hunt, predict deer patterns, and make your tracking efforts more efficient. By knowing where and when deer move, you can focus your efforts on the right areas.
3. Deer Scent and Lures
Deer rely heavily on their sense of smell, which can be a huge advantage when tracking them. The lures and scents can be used to attract deer or to mask your scent, making it easier to get closer to your target.
- Types of Scents: There are various types of deer scents, such as doe urine, estrus scent, or scrapes that mimic natural deer behavior. These scents can be applied to the area where you suspect deer activity or used on a scent trail to guide them toward you.
- Benefits: Using deer scents can help you track and attract deer in specific areas, increasing the chances of successful encounters and making it easier to follow their movements.
4. Tracking Dogs
Tracking dogs have been used for centuries to track deer and other game animals. A well-trained tracking dog can follow the scent trail of a deer, even if it’s miles long, and guide hunters directly to the animal.
- Benefits: Tracking dogs can be particularly helpful when dealing with wounded deer, as they can follow blood trails and scent markers that may be hard to detect by human hunters.
- Considerations: If you plan to use a tracking dog, make sure the dog is well-trained in tracking deer and has experience in the terrain you’re hunting. Additionally, some regions may require special permits for using dogs to track games, so be sure to check local regulations.
5. Binoculars
Binoculars are essential for spotting deer from a distance, especially in open areas or when trying to locate movement through dense brush. A good pair of binoculars can help you spot deer in their natural habitat without alerting them to your presence.
- Features to Look For: Look for binoculars with high magnification (8x to 10x is ideal) and a wide field of view. Waterproof and fog-resistant binoculars are great for use in all weather conditions.
- Benefits: Binoculars allow you to observe deer from a distance, helping you track their movements and identify patterns without having to approach too closely. This is especially helpful when hunting in areas where the terrain makes it difficult to get a clear view.
6. Deer Tracks and Sign Marking Tools
When tracking deer, one of the most important skills is identifying and reading tracks and signs. Tools that help mark and measure tracks can be invaluable when you’re in the field.
- Tools to Use: A simple track identifier, such as a small measuring tool or chalk, can help you mark the location of tracks or droppings you come across. This can help you retrace your steps later and keep track of deer movements in an area.
- Benefits: Being able to accurately read and mark deer signs helps you follow their movements more effectively, even in areas where the terrain may obscure your view.
7. Blood Tracking Kit
A blood tracking kit is crucial if you’ve made a successful shot but need to follow a wounded deer. These kits contain various tools designed to help you track blood trails and find the deer, even when the trail becomes faint or difficult to follow.
- Contents of a Blood Tracking Kit: A typical blood tracking kit includes tracking markers, a flashlight, scent-marking tools, and sometimes reflective tape to mark the trail. These kits can also come with specialized devices to help track and interpret blood patterns.
- Benefits: Blood tracking kits help you follow the deer’s trail when it starts to fade or become hard to see. They can also help you gauge whether the deer is moving in a certain direction, giving you clues on where to search next.
8. Deer Call
Deer calls are a great tool for attracting deer or luring them into range, especially when tracking becomes difficult. The calls mimic the sounds of deer, such as grunts, bleats, or rattling antlers, to grab their attention.
- Types of Calls: Grunt calls are effective for getting the attention of bucks, while doe bleat calls can attract both bucks and does. Rattle calls simulate the sounds of two bucks fighting and can trigger an aggressive response.
- Benefits: Deer calls can be used to help you locate deer, draw them closer to your position, or even stop a moving deer for a shot. They add an extra layer of effectiveness to your tracking efforts, especially in areas with dense cover.
9. Good Footwear and Gaiters
Your ability to track deer effectively depends heavily on your mobility and comfort in the field. Having the right footwear and accessories is crucial when walking long distances in difficult terrain.
- Footwear: Invest in sturdy, comfortable, and waterproof boots to prevent fatigue and ensure traction when hiking through rugged areas. A good pair of boots will support your feet and help you move silently.
- Gaiters: Gaiters protect your legs from debris, thorn bushes, and wet conditions while walking through dense brush. They can also help keep mud and water out of your boots while tracking deer.
- Benefits: Proper footwear and gaiters allow you to move quickly and quietly, making it easier to follow deer tracks and signs without getting bogged down by uncomfortable or wet conditions.
Conclusion
The best tools for deer tracking success are those that enhance your ability to read signs, follow trails, and navigate the wilderness efficiently. From GPS devices and trail cameras to blood tracking kits and good footwear, each tool has its unique role in helping you become a more effective deer tracker. By using these tools, you’ll increase your chances of success in the field and gain a deeper understanding of deer behavior and movement. Whether you’re new to hunting or an experienced hunter, having the right tools can make all the difference when tracking deer.
