D11 (Deer and Bear)

[americanmade91]

Hi, I am a new hunter (Eric). My brother and I have set a few cams set up in D11. I am trying to scout those areas. Any idea of where to start? This is my first deer season on my own. I also have a bear tag for D11 for this year. I know to get high and glass (been doing that in San Diego at Mission Trails (and seen a huge buck) its a ecological preserve, so no hunting. I understand looking for tracks, scat, and glassing north or east facing slopes.

Questions:
1. How far should I be hiking in to find deer? Some guzzlers are able to be driven to (so I think opening day the spots will be blown out- seems like there are tons of hunters). Is it even worth it to try in those types of areas? I will be going in Oct in D11.
2. Altitude versus staying low where the desert meets the forest floor? Which would you say would be more productive?
3. Any other advice for me being a new hunter (no one in my family has ever hunted).

Thanks if you have read this far and seen the message. I appreciate responses, would like to learn from the best! I understand about the honey holes and not giving them away just curious if you have any pro tips.

 

[GracieWexler]

My overarching recommendation is to comb through this forum and others, the advice may have been posted 10, 15, 20 years ago, but the wisdom contained within is timeless. Also, talk to everyone you see when you're out and about in your hunting areas. People who are very cagey (and rightfully so!) about being specific on the internet will cheerfully give exact locations in person. As to your questions:

1. Hike farther than you would expect, like stupid far. Get off the beaten path as soon as the landscape around you opens up into deer-y looking territory. Climb, climb, and climb some more.

2. Altitude v. desert floor, I'll be honest, I'm not sure, although I personally tend towards altitude. But look for sign, check the weather, look up migratory patterns, ask around.

3. It's called hunting, not catching. Avoid hinging your enjoyment of the outdoors on whether or not you fill your tag.

 

[#1Predator]

All of these points are good. I would stay higher on the mountain. I've seen more deer killed higher than lower. October is a good time to hunt. Hunt north slopes when it's hot, south slopes when it's cold. Pay attention to the wind. Tie a piece of sewing thread on your barrel to constantly keep track of the wind. Lots of "hunters" are afraid of being more than a quarter mile from their truck. Equip yourself correctly, take a hike, enjoy the woods, be patient, eyes peeled for any form that's horizontal (things grow vertical, animal backs are horizontal) and stop often to look and listen.

 

[americanmade91]

This is very helpful! Thanks