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How to Stalk Deer While Deer Hunting
Below is a great question I received from Dakota regarding How to Stalk a big Mule Deer Buck.
You can read my answer below Dakota's question.
Marty
Hey Marty,
I started bow hunting and im trying to get my first ever mule deer buck.
Can you give me tips an stalking up on mule deer?
I was stalking up on this mature buck but it heard me.
Dakota
Dakota,
Thanks for your email. Congratulations on becoming a bow hunter. The thrill and excitement of taking a deer with a bow is often greater than that of harvesting one with a rifle.
Taking on the challenge of stalking a deer adds to the excitement. You are putting your wits against those of big buck, a master at survival.
Stalking a mule deer with a bow is a great challenge. Mule deer are notorious for being spooked very easily.
It is not surprising the mule deer heard you. His ears are a bit larger than a whitetail deer and a mule deer is often more alert. That being said it is not impossible to stalk a mule deer.
Tips for stalking a muley are very similar to those used to stalk a big whitetail buck.
1.) Plan the stalk before you move. Look at all possible paths you can take for getting into bow range before you take the first step forward. Having a plan will keep you focused and prevent errors.
2.) When stalking deer keep the wind in your face. This keeps your scent from blowing in his direction.
3.) Stay low to the ground. Sometimes it is necessary to belly-crawl to get into range.
4.) Make small, almost non-noticeable, movements. When stalking deer, slow and steady will get you a lot closer for a shot. Quick movements will alert a deer to danger every time. I was stalking a nice doe one afternoon and it took me one hour to move 25 yards.
5.) Use the surrounding terrain to help conceal you. If there are rocks, trees or tall grasses between you and the buck, keep the objects between you and the mule deer buck.
6.) If the big buck lifts his head while you are moving forward, STOP. When his head is up he is scanning the area for anything that resembles danger. If the big buck senses danger, he will bolt.
As with anything perfect practice makes perfect. Notice I said perfect practice. Practice your stalking movements as often as you can. It may feel awkward crawling around in your back yard, but the more you practice the more natural it will become when you are out deer hunting.
Stalking any game animal is a challenge but can be done successfully as long as you are patient.
Good Luck and Great Hunting!
Marty Prokop
Posted by Marty Prokop
