I do the same as IL2H. I'll check it out on google earth and find funnel spots, transition areas, and edges of swamps. I also look for the thickets and nastiest spots on the property (bedding areas). Keep in mind that if it's too hard for you to get into then a wise buck will know that too. Then I strap on the boots and check those areas keeping an eye out for rubs, scrapes, tracks, scat and game trails. As far as when you should start scouting, all the time is always good. Keep in mind that their habits will change throughout the year but if you can locate bedding areas and food sources you'll be way ahead when season comes in. For scouting down south you'll find that it's a whole lot easier before all the rains kick in and flood the places up. Turkey season in the cypress is always a good time. As soon as it floods again you won't be able to see many trails or scrapes. Down south if you can find a dry head in the middle of a swamp then you can count on them bedding in it from my experience. Good luck.
I pull down every piece of tape I see and carry it back for proper disposal. Want to remember your spot? Find a landmark and use your GPS but quit trashing our woods.
:cheers
Just think what Daniel Boone would have thought of all these yuppees in the woods today...
In 1770 Daniel had been hunting Kan-tuck-ee for A YEAR when he linked up with his brother Squire who had brought supplies from their home in North Carolina (with no cell phones or GPS's...)
Later that year Squire left with the furs they had and sold them and returned with supplies....Daniel had been alone in the wilderness with a few dogs and a horse for company for MONTHS. The fact that they even found each other impresses me.
As an aside, many folks don't realize that Daniel explored the panhandle of Florida in 1765 with an interest of settleing there but his wife didn't want to move there....I guess some things just never change. LOL!!!
Good point yupees= gps weekend whores hunting during day light. Daniel Boon must think were idiots.
I remember hearing he meet his wife while she was looking for a lost cow. He was hunting, saw her in his torch light along the bank.
I totally agree with Dony and IL2H about hunting edges,funnels and transition ares. I'm an old topo map and compass guy but if I knew how to use google earth an aerial photo would save you miles of walking and id those type areas without leaving your computer but you still need to put in boots on the ground time. don't be afraid of moving about, everyone gets lost at some time or another and spending a night out in the woods aint the end of the world. for now if not always just carry enough emergenct gear to spend the night: extra food water, batteries, bug spray, matches/fire starter, hand saw, para cord, basic first aid, COMPASS. no need to go crazy, no sleeping bag or tent, keep it small/light. and always tell someone or leave a note saying where you are planning on going and when you expect to be back and when to call for rescue.
A compass and a map and your never lost.
Don't forget buying a quality compass and actually learning to read it.
Too many people think the little red arrow on their orange plastic safety whistle will lead them to salvation...
