SkiParkGuy
FNG
Yesterday I went out to a a remote area of California to scout for turkey season. It looked promising from e scouting with great habitat of rolling hills covered with grasslands, oak groves, and plenty of running creeks. I saw zero turkey sign, but immediately started seeing lots of deer tracks. It didn’t take long before I saw a herd of 16 deer on a ridge. After that it seemed I couldn’t stop finding deer. I literally found a group of seven, feeding on an opposite hill side, as soon as I looked through my binoculars. Turns out I’d stumbled upon their winter grounds. They’ll be gone by the summer, but it was a great experience for me being a new hunter.
I stalked within 30 yards of a buck to practice for archery season. This was my first time getting that close to one. I planned my route, walked quietly, and paid attention to the wind. He stood broadside and if he’d been in season, etc... I would’ve had a great shot.
I only got in about two miles and was only able to scout a small percentage of the land. I’m going back to see if I can find any turkeys further in. I’m wondering if it makes sense to practice spotting/stalking the deer or if I should leave them alone? Like I said this is their winter grounds and they’ll be long gone by the time the season opens. I don’t plan on hunting this area this season. I’m also under no illusions that their behavior now is very different than during the season.
I stalked within 30 yards of a buck to practice for archery season. This was my first time getting that close to one. I planned my route, walked quietly, and paid attention to the wind. He stood broadside and if he’d been in season, etc... I would’ve had a great shot.
I only got in about two miles and was only able to scout a small percentage of the land. I’m going back to see if I can find any turkeys further in. I’m wondering if it makes sense to practice spotting/stalking the deer or if I should leave them alone? Like I said this is their winter grounds and they’ll be long gone by the time the season opens. I don’t plan on hunting this area this season. I’m also under no illusions that their behavior now is very different than during the season.