With the advent of the game camera, aka trail camera, deer hunting has changed. We can have eyes on the game every minute of every day, if we want.
Getting photos of deer is relatively easy. Getting quality shots requires that you use these tools to the best of your advantage. Take these tips and get the most benefit possible from these handy devices.
• As late summer fades and opening day approaches, use your cameras to take herd surveys. Essentially, you set up a camera for every 75 acres of land and place an attractant such as shelled corn to draw in deer. Let your cameras run for two weeks and remove them. The pictures should give you a good representation of the deer that live or occupy your property. This information can help you establish quota, or limits based on the carrying capacity of your property.
• Another great method for hunters who have food plots is to set up cameras near the plot and get photos of the deer that are using it. If you do not have food plots, establishing a mineral lick with salt or a product like Trophy Rock to attract deer.
• For optimum efficiency, trail cameras must work. Cheap, inexpensive cameras will eat batteries. Look for camera brands that boast a one-year battery life. Second, large-capacity storage cards are a must. Cameras cannot distinguish between does and bucks, so your SD Card will get quickly full if a herd of does feeding.
• Setting for cameras are very flexible; a good standard is to take two photos every two to five minutes. This allows you to get multiple photos of deer without filling up your card.
• Don’t be afraid to move your cameras.
• When checking your cameras, do so in the middle of the day when deer are least active. This eliminates the chance of spooking game.
If you haven’t used trail cameras for scouting, you are missing one of the best tools available to see what is actually living on your land. Get one, get out there and set them.
Be the first to comment