As those fast flying dove continue to humble even the best of wingshooters, I can’t help but look forward to October! Bow/Crossbow season is just around the corner and I wanted to share some techniques that will improve your chances at harvesting a mature Texas whitetail.

First things first, start putting out the groceries! Within the next few weeks, your wheat, oats, turnips, barley, and Austrian peas need to planted. This type of natural forage will not only improve the health and wintering ability of deer, it will also serve as a seasonal attractant that hunters should capitalize on. If your hunting area is not conducive to food plots, try to create other types of “food plots” (corn or protein feeder sites). A pelleted protein ration will aid in lactation for does, pre rut weight gain, and post rut recovery for bucks. If this is not possible for you, then stick with plain old cracked corn.

As winter approaches and natural browse becomes scarce, corn can offer vital energy to a deer. And as we all know, corn is one of God’s gifts to the deer hunter due to its ability to draw deer to an area. Another type of forage for deer is mast. Mast consists of acorns, pecans, and fruits produced by trees and shrubs. Take advantage of this type of forage by either hunting in an area that produces this, or simply transport this type of forage to a site that you have already established.

Trail cameras are another excellent way to improve your success rate. Utilizing trail cameras will educate you on the deer that frequent an area. I can’t tell you how many times I have passed on good bucks opening morning because trail cameras have told me that a better deer is frequenting an area.

Remember that hunting deer in October is based solely upon feeding/watering patterns. Doe are not yet receptive; therefore a buck’s main concern is what’s on the menu. By providing easy supplemental forage and studying trail cameras, you can increase your chances at harvesting a mature whitetail.

Don’t forget to wax your strings,

Cole

About the Author:

My name is Cole Stevens. I am a private wildlife/fisheries biologist and owner of Superior Wildlife Consulting. I am a graduate of Texas A&M University and my wife and I moved to Brownwood in April of this year. I have been an outdoor enthusiast all of my life and can honestly tell you that hunting and fishing brings out the best in me.

Cole can be reached at hcstevens@yahoo.com for questions or comments or visit his website at