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Why To Prep Bad-Weather Stands
By Mark Melotik
When most die-hard whitetailers think of ideal hunting conditions, I’d guess most would picture a cool, crisp autumn day some time in the late pre-rut, a period when mature bucks are finally getting on their feet and moving consistently in daylight. Classic conditions like those are what many of us live for, but the fact of the matter is that plenty of mature bucks are daylighting throughout the season — especially, during bad-weather when many hunters are back at camp waiting it out. Maybe the bugaboo is high winds or a wind direction that doesn’t often blow in your area. Maybe it’s searing hot early season conditions.
Few things will help you log more time on stand, and thus help increase your odds of success, as having a few bad weather stand options — stand sites you can make it a priority to locate during late-winter/early spring scouting sessions.
When high sustained winds are forecasted, a location tucked away in a leeward draw or a strategic hillside bench can not only make your sit safer but also will keep you solidly in the game to intercept bucks on the move. These areas might not make your A-list of stand sites but can be hunt-savers when you need them.
How about rainy conditions? It’s typically a good idea to pass on hunting during outright downpours, but if steady light rains are forecasted, hunting the edges of areas with conifers and other evergreens — proven preferred bedding areas in these conditions — can be a good play. Hunting the edges will prevent unduly disturbing the deer hanging in these hidey-holes.
You don’t have to be told that unusual heat keeps many hunters out of the woods. This, despite most of us knowing how important dependable water sources can be for deer during these stretches. This spring, find an isolated water source or two on lands you frequent and formulate a strategy for getting in and out when it’s hot as Hades. Such a stand can be a huge factor in your next early season hunt.
The truth is, bad weather provides whitetailers in the know with some solid advantages. But you’ve got to be out there hunting to score. Make the most of your spring scouting by keeping bad weather stand sites in mind.