Mathewsbow1

I just bought a Garmin Rino 120 with the Topo map software. I have been reading in magazines where hunters have been more successfull looking at Topo maps versus deer signs (scaps, rubs, etc.) when looking for deer paths. My question to you is, how and what do I read on the map to find the most likely path deer will travel. I would greatly appreciate any tips or suggestions you may have. Please include any resources (books, websites, etc) you think may benefit me.

Thanks and good hunting!!!
jt

dick_cress

I would never plan hunt or go hunting without studying and carrying topo maps. I think they are extremely important for many reasons, some of which you mentioned in your query. However, they are but one of many tools that you should use in planning and hunting.

rosko2

Mathewsbow1,

Topo maps show you the contour of the land. By becoming proficient in understanding what a topo map is telling you, you can come very close to pinpointing good stand locations just by looking at the map. A deer will travel the route of least resistance when they know they can safely. The topo map will show you these areas and contours. If you look at the topo map and see a whole bunch of lines very close to each other, that signifies a steep part (or fast elevation change) in the ground. If there is steep way and a " not so steep" way to cross a ravine or other obstacle in the middle of the woods, the deer will choose the " not so steep" way 9 out of 10 times. This is why topo maps are so helpful when doing an evaluation of stand positions. The best advice I can give you is to look at topos of different areas that you actually have access to. By taking a topo out in the woods with you and actually seeing the ground that the map is describing, you' ll be an expert topo map reader in no time!
Hope this helps.

Joe

cgarrett55

Is there any web sights out there for this issue.

GVDocHoliday

I believe this will give you a very good start:
http://www.bowsite.com/bowsite/featu...whunter/topos/