Spring Scouting - by T.R. Michels

While many hunters begin to pattern a buck in the fall, when it starts to shed velvet and make fresh rubs, it is actually easier to pattern a buck in the spring. Although the less used buck trails may not be as visible in the spring the rubs and scrapes are clearly evident. Even if the buck that initially made the rubs and scrapes has been shot other bucks will often use the same rub route. The trails used by bucks are chosen because they offer security. They are usually the safest means of travel from the buck's bedding area, through adjacent doe use areas, to nighttime food sources. more...