Trail cameras are one of the most important innovations a deer hunter can employ. No longer do we have to wonder where deer are traveling and try to decipher the size of a deer’s antlers by reading a track in the dirt. Not only can we learn the quality of bucks in our area, but the time of day they frequent the camera spot. It doesn’t matter if a monster whitetail visits the scrape under your stand in the middle of the night. Where is he at dawn and dusk? Cameras can also determine patterns in whitetail behavior, and savvy hunters can actually learn the effects of moon phases, acorn drops, and other variables on deer.
Matt Pundenz offers seven ways to improve your trail camera results:
A proper trail-camera setup is a very important part of scouting and oftentimes the most overlooked. We expect to throw a camera on a tree and have deer walk past. I have highlighted some small steps I take to improve my trail-camera outcomes. By taking your time and following these steps, you will generate better photos and a more enjoyable scouting experience. In turn, you will have a better idea of the bucks on your property and locations to hunt them.
Location
Let’s face it: You will not get pictures of deer if there aren’t any deer around. Just like hunting, you want to pick a location that deer are frequenting at that given time of the year. This could include a water hole in the summer, large scrape during the rut or food source in the winter. The more evidence of deer in the area, the more photos on your SD card.
