Which Property/Stand for opening day????
 

Which property should I hunt opening day of Firearm here in Illinois:

160 acre tract- Standing corn on location(somewhat bad). Dozen shooters on film from last year late season, but havent seen one bowhunting yet. Moderate pressure-keep deer moving. Big deer killed here usually every gun season.

30 acre tract- First year hunting here, have seen 3 shooters bowhunting(130"-150"). Know of a borderline boone class on neighbor and a definite 180-190 class double drop nontypical within .5 mile seen and sheds found.
Low pressure-deer might not keep moving, other than rut activity. Some folks may push this property opening day or second day.

What you guys think? i am stumped as to where to go.

RE: Which Property/Stand for opening day????
 

I'd lean to the 30 based on pressure. If there's that many more hunters on that tract,your buck to hunter ratio is much lower...and the probability of YOU taking the big boy decreases. Plus, a wary buck usually knows where the hunters are. If you're in there and hopefully undetected getting in, you may have a couple of bucks sneaking in to lay low for awhile. That's just me though. You maysee less deer, but you also maybe the only one that gets to shoot. All depends on thehunters, their techniques,wind, etc.. surrounding your 30.

Good luck whatever you do.

RE: Which Property/Stand for opening day????
 

I agree with CH. The less pressure that there is in your area, the more likely that a big buck will stay in your area. They didn't get big by being dumb.

RE: Which Property/Stand for opening day????
 

Less pressure calmer deer and more relaxation for you.

RE: Which Property/Stand for opening day????
 

welp, in a little over a week i will let you know what happens, thanks guys!!