Deer Crossings: 8 Different Types That You Should Be Hunting
Should you work hard or should you work smart? We say you should work hard and work smart! This is particularly true when you are hunting whitetail deer, as both are equally important to success. This leads us to an important hunting tactic, especially for bowhunters: hunting near pinch-points, or deer crossings, as these are essential for success. Below are eight different types that you need to know and be hunting near:
Crossing #1: Topographic
This type of crossing is the low spot that is found between two hills. Many people call them saddles. Deer will prefer this area of travel, the path of least resistance. No matter what you call the crossing, it is a truly effective area for you to get close to the deer.
Crossing #2: River and Creek
For hunters who enjoy hunting in the bottomlands, this is probably one of the key crossings you will want to be familiar with. These are prime locations to find deer moving. If there is an area where a deer can walk or wade across, it is not going to swim – the path of least resistance, remember? When looking for river and creek crossings, keep an eye out for where the body of water creates an “S” shape. It is easier for the animals to cross to the other side.
Crossing #3: Ditch
To an extent, this is somewhat similar to a creek crossing, though it is a bit different. With a ditch crossing, it doesn’t have to be wet, as it can be dry. And, despite the terrain, these are common anywhere in the country. If you locate on with evidence of deer, you may want to spend some time camping in the area.
Crossing #4: Trail
With this one, all you have to do is look for trails that look well-used, especially ones that intersect with one another. Just keep in mind that you have to work with the wind since deer will be traveling in different directions. You need to make sure that you position yourself in the most appropriate direction so that they don’t sniff you out.
Crossing #5: Field
While cover is more productive to hunt in, field crossings can be effective in the right scenario. Take the time to become familiar with the area and you will see that deer have established patterns year-after-year. Learn those, and you will be good to go.
Crossing #6: Fence
Again, it is the path of least resistance. Man-made and natural barriers can work wonders at capturing deer. Look for areas with low spots, where fences may be down, or have spaces underneath that may allow a deer to go under or over with ease. When a deer lacks full energy, there is a better chance it will make use of a crossing.
Crossing #7: Road
Those road crossing signs aren’t on the side of the road for no reason; however, they don’t follow them. Instead, the signs follow them. The signs are placed up in areas after a certain number of deer-related vehicle accidents have occurred. Therefore, this means that the area is a high-deer-density area. If you are hunting within an area with these signs nearby, you need to pay close attention. Ultimately, it may be a good idea to start hunting in an area with those signs.
Crossing #8: Dam
When there is a natural land bridge near you, use it to your advantage. As already mentioned, deer don’t want to swim unless they are forced to do so. Therefore, they will use whatever means necessary – such as a dam bridge – to cross bodies of water to avoid swimming.
For more tips on deer crossings or to ensure that you have the right gear, contact Full Draw Archery.
