ORIGINAL: GMMAT
Let's expound a little.....
"IF" I wanted to shoot does right up to the rut....and take my chances on a method that's proven itself (hutning does to get the bucks).....let's put the theory that's been discussed the last few days to the test.
I've been told, in the past, that I'm hurting my chances at a good buck by pounding the does leading up to the rut in 'their" (the does)area. If the bucks want bnothing to do with the does during this time.....how can this be occurring? How could hunting the does hurt my chances at a buck if they aren't even using the same area(s)?
Not saying Im going that route, this year.....just wondering.
A past post I wrote....
I personally do not subscribe to this tactic (hunt the does all season longfor bucks)..... I am not saying it is wrong to do so, only that I would never implement this strategy myself save the possibility ofthe major seeking phase of the rut. Even then it is sketchy for me.
I am certain that this tactic has brought an end to many fine whitetail, but I also feel it has allowed manymore to live.......
My thoughts are that while hunters are busy chasing the does all over the place throughout the early seasonthey are basically giving the does afine education on hunting pressure.... By the time the mature bucks would be spending time on the hoof during daylight hours in doe areas, the does will be extra cautious and moving under the radar..... Once the pressure has moved the does into daylight security cover until after dusk that will really hurt the hunters chances at eyeing up a good buck....
Basicallywhat I am saying is that the culmination of small mistakes over the early season can add up to enough pressure on the doesto alter their daily routine and cost one opportunities at bucks that would have been seeking does in easier locations to hunt than bedding and security cover.