I am planning on scouting frequently this season, but I do not know when to start. I live in southern Mississippi, right on the beach. It is hot down here, and I know that has some impact on the deer movements. I cannot wait to get in the woods to do some scouting, but seeing how the deer change habits due to the heat, I do not know if it would be wise to start scouting this early. When should I start? Thanks

i started already...the does should be giving birth soon, if they avent already in your area...the way i look at it is it doesnt hrut to start early...what have you got to lose... you can still enjoy your day in the woods

Scouting for deer is a tricky business. Scouting is the same as hunting only without the bow. Its, without a doubt, to early to really scout the bucks but you could begin to scout the does.. I suppose.

I don't begin to scout until well into late June and early July. It's during this period that bucks begin to actually start patterns here in northen Illinois. And when antlers are really beginning to show their majesty. Even when scouting, always remember to watch the wind!

April and May are great times to begin to shoot again, if you haven't already. Replace old strings, rests etc.

Hope this helps!

Hey Zak been a long time

I Scout all year long the deer don't move too far from where they are now especially early season deer hunting, they will be right where they are all summer. It's not unitl the nights start cooling down that they start to change their patterns. Right now it is very important to know your hunting area like the back of your hand get into some of those spots you didn't want to disturbe during the season. Now if you spook deer they have plenty of time to work there way back. As you get closer to the season you want to scout real lightly as that is when you don't want to be bumping the deer out of there. Good Luck Mike

I usually wait until July and even then I just scout the fields from 30 or 400 yards away.

I guess it all depends on exactly what you consider to be scouting. Since I love to be out there I'll get out there any chance I get. You never know what you can learn while you are enjoying being out there. You might even stumble onto a shed antler.

In my opinion, if you like being in the woods then get out there and enjoy it.

You can learn something everytime you go in the woods. Everytime I have a chance I'm out there. The more you learn the terrain the better hunter you become.