Originally Posted by
Lunkerdog
Which season are you scouting for? Bow? Rifle? Muzzle? For the rifle season here in Northern Minnesota, I have found that the best time to scout is the first two week's after the season. I have also found that it pay's to stay out of any area that you intend to hunt for at least 2 weeks before the season.
My question is why to both statements.
Personally, I start about now, when the head gear is about at it's peak, by getting up, around areas with several fields, hedgerows. I get there before daylight, with good optics and sit for a couple hours after. Then again, a couple of hours before dark. I do this for several days in a spot, then move to another, even if I see a mature buck. Spot lighting between 1:00am and 4:00 am also.
I particularly keep my ears open around the hunting community, listening/fishing as to mature buck where abouts. I have permission to hunt a ton of land in the Southern Tier of NY.