Hunting the wind
 

Hey guys im a new member on here but have been deer hunting for about 4 years and this year is the first year I have been serious about hunting using the wind. I have a few questions about hunting with the wind. My best stand is on top of a ridge that leads to a field to my right and both sides of the ridge are big valleys I have had deer come from all directions so how do I know what the best wind would be if they dont come from the same general direction? I know some people say keep the wind in your face but there is a bedding area at the bottom of the ridge behind me so that wont work.

RE: Hunting the wind
 

'hunting the wind' is a simplification...you have to base it on where the deer are MOST likely to move. You state there is a bedding area behind you, well that would mean you want the wind NOT to blow that way--so one direction is ruled out.Around most stands deer will be able to get downwind a fraction of the time--so to think you can find a spot that is not so, is probably not true. Play the probabilitieswith the wind.

One thing I found interesting is that you said your stand is on the top of a ridge--is is possible to hang your stand in a way that your scent can be carried out over the valley? I have a couple stands like this, but I have found that with a moderate breeze, and stands hung at least 18 feet off the ground, with the terrain dropping off sharply downwind--you can avoid deer almost ever busting you. Your scent would be over thier heads.

To hunt with the wind in your face is generally a bad rule--deer move better with a crosswind it seems to me. Makes sence if you think about it.