As I said last week, I found an active scrape on a ridge. the ridge trail leads into a thick pine area. the other end of the trail goes into a green field. I hunted three straight mornings-each time entering the woods near the scrape (downwind) well before sunrise. each time, I spooked one deer, right at the scrape area. it ran off each time, into the thicket. I never could see it. finally, monday, I decided to enter the area about 30 minutes after first light so I might could get a look at the deer. once again, I got right near it, and it ran off, this time the other way. I found a matted down, bedding spot up on the ridge. what can I do? think it is the buck? how can I ever find out? it is impossible!

I had 3 doe walk up on me the first morning, about 30 minutes after spooking the lone deer.