Successful Public-Land Hunting

Photo courtesy of Missouri Department of Conservation

If you are like me, the majority of your hunting is done on public lands that seem to be crowded with other people.  This can be a major problem when it comes to hunting success.  However, there are some things that can be done to improve your odds of having a successful hunt.  It may not always be easy, but the reward can be worth the extra effort.

First consider hunting during the week when the majority of people will be at work.  This will definitely improve your odds by ensuring that there will be fewer hunters crossing your path.

Second, be sure you are where the other hunters aren't.  This will most definitely require some leg work on your part.  Don't just get to the parking lot and plant yourself in the first spot you come to.  Instead, get to know the area you intend to hunt.  Find a promising spot that is half a mile or more (the farther the better) and off the beaten path.  Most public land hunters are in too big of a rush to learn the layout of the land or to hike a long distance to achieve seclusion.

Third, consider purchasing a climbing tree stand.  This option allows you to easily change locations if another hunter does happen to wander into your chosen area.  You can simply move to another promising location and avoid having an intruder blow your hunt.  This also ensures there will be no unnecessary pressure from your stand by other hunters finding your stand and using it when you're not able to be there.

Last, get to the woods as early in the season as possible.  The earlier you hit the woods, the less likely your spot will be to have been over-pressured by other hunters.

By following these tips, you can greatly improve your hunting success.  Good luck and enjoy each adventure you experience.

- Any day in the outdoors is a good day