How To Select The Best Hunting Stand Location?

Understanding Deer Behavior

In the Adirondack region of New York, whitetail deer are highly active during the early morning and late evening hours. To increase your chances of success, position your stand near areas with high deer activity, such as food sources like apple orchards, cornfields, and oak stands during the acorn season. For example, consider setting up your stand near a large oak tree that drops acorns in the fall.

Terrain and Cover

When choosing a stand location, consider the terrain and look for areas with good cover such as thickets, brush, or rocky outcroppings. Avoid open fields and areas with low vegetation, as deer tend to avoid these areas. Instead, opt for a location with a mix of open and closed spaces, allowing you to get a clear shot while remaining hidden from your target. For example, consider a location with a small clearing surrounded by a thick thicket of brush.

Identifying Travel Corridors

Travel corridors are areas where deer are likely to move through, such as along ridges, valleys, and near water sources. To identify these corridors, observe the deer’s movement patterns and look for signs of deer activity such as tracks, scat, and rubs. For example, in the Adirondacks, deer tend to move along the ridges and valleys, particularly during the rutting season. Consider setting up your stand near a known travel corridor to increase your chances of success.