Quick Answer
The best time for trailing deer is typically early morning, around dawn or shortly after, when the deer are most active and the terrain is still relatively quiet.
Best Trailing Time
Trailing a wounded deer, especially when following a blood trail, is most effective during the early morning hours when the deer’s activity increases. This is usually around dawn or shortly after, between 6:00 and 8:00 AM. During this time, the deer’s senses are still recovering from the night’s rest, making it easier to track them.
Tracking Tips
When trailing a wounded deer, it’s essential to move quietly and stay focused on the blood trail. Aim to move at a rate of about 1-2 miles per hour, allowing you to cover ground without spooking the deer. Keep an eye out for signs of recent deer activity, such as fresh tracks, scat, or disturbed vegetation. If the blood trail leads you through thick cover, consider using a tracking stick or probe to help locate the deer’s path.
Wound Trajectory
When following a blood trail, pay close attention to the wound trajectory. A deer typically runs with its head low and its body positioned in a straight line. The blood trail may lead you to a point where the deer suddenly changes direction or drops into a water source. This can be an indication that the deer is trying to escape or has succumbed to its injuries. In these situations, it’s crucial to move cautiously and use cover to get closer to the deer without spooking it further.
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