Preparing Your Hunting Land
Preparing your property in the summer for a fall hunt is an important step to ensure a successful and enjoyable hunting season. Here are some key considerations and tasks to focus on during the summer months:
Habitat Management:
Food Plots: Plan and establish food plots to attract game animals. Select appropriate crops based on the local wildlife and soil conditions. Consider planting a variety of crops to provide a diverse food source throughout the hunting season.
Native Vegetation: Manage and maintain native vegetation to provide cover and natural food sources for wildlife. Clear out invasive species that could negatively impact the habitat.
Water Sources: Assess and maintain natural or artificial water sources on your property. Ensure they are clean, functional, and accessible for wildlife.
Trail Maintenance:
Clear Trails: Inspect and clear trails or access routes to key hunting areas. Remove fallen branches, obstructions, and overgrown vegetation to improve access and ease of movement.
Trail Cameras: Set up trail cameras along game trails and near food sources to monitor wildlife activity. This will provide valuable information about animal movement and patterns.
Stand and Blind Preparation:
Stand Placement: Determine the ideal locations for tree stands or ground blinds. Consider factors such as prevailing winds, game movement patterns, and visibility. Install or repair stands well before the hunting season to avoid disturbance closer to opening day.
Concealment and Maintenance: Ensure that blinds and stands are well camouflaged and blend into the surroundings. Repair any damage, replace worn-out materials, and secure loose components for safety and comfort.
Shooting Range:
Practice Shooting: Use the summer months to sharpen your shooting skills. Visit a local shooting range or set up a safe shooting area on your property. Regular practice will help improve accuracy and ensure you're comfortable with your hunting equipment.
Sighting-In Firearms: If needed, take the time to sight in your firearms for optimal accuracy. Make necessary adjustments to scopes or sights and confirm zeroing before the hunting season.
Scouting:
Early Season Observations: Spend time scouting your property during the summer. Look for signs of animal activity such as tracks, droppings, bedding areas, and feeding patterns. This will help you identify high-traffic areas and plan your hunting strategy accordingly.
Trail Camera Analysis: Review the images and videos captured by your trail cameras. Analyze the data to gain insights into the movement patterns and behavior of game animals on your property.
Safety Measures:
Property Boundaries: Clearly mark property boundaries with signs or visible markers to prevent trespassing and ensure safety.
Safety Gear: Check and replenish your safety gear inventory. This includes blaze orange clothing, safety harnesses for tree stands, hearing protection, and a well-stocked first aid kit.
Local Regulations:
Review Hunting Regulations: Stay up-to-date with local hunting regulations and any changes that may have occurred since the previous season. Understand bag limits, hunting seasons, and any specific restrictions or requirements in your area.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared for the fall hunting season. Remember to consider safety as a top priority and comply with all local laws and regulations. Good luck and enjoy your time in the field!
For more hunting tips, call Realtree Land Pro Mark James at (573) 405-0112.