How to Hunt Ridges for Whitetails

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In order to hunt ridges for whitetails, it is important to have an understanding of how they behave. Whitetails use ridges for a variety of purposes, including travel, feeding, and bedding down. By knowing where they are likely to be at different times of day, you can increase your chances of success.

Early morning is a good time to look for whitetails traveling along ridges. They are often moving from their bedding areas to their feeding areas at this time. Late evening is another good time to hunt, as they may be traveling back to their bedding areas.

When looking for places to set up your stand, pay attention to any funnels or pinch points along the ridge. These are places where deer are likely to travel through, making them ideal spots for ambush hunting. Also look for any rubs or scrapes that may indicate deer activity in the area.

  • Find a ridge that is being used by deer
  • Look for tracks, rubs, and scrapes
  • Set up your stand or blind in a location where you will have a good view of the area and be able to see approaching deer
  • Be patient and wait for a deer to come into range
  • Take a clean shot and make sure the deer is down before approaching it

Ridge Top Buck Bed Hunting

Should You Hunt Ridges Or Bottoms?

When it comes to deer hunting, there is no right or wrong answer to the question of whether you should hunt ridges or bottoms. It ultimately comes down to what works best for you and your hunting style. That said, there are some general guidelines that can help you decide which type of terrain is better suited for your needs.

Ridge tops tend to offer a higher vantage point and can be easier to scan for deer movement. They also typically provide more cover for hunters, making them ideal for ambush-style hunting. On the downside, ridges can be more difficult to access and may not hold as much food or water sources as lower-lying areas.

Bottomlands, on the other hand, are often prime deer habitat due to the abundance of food and water sources. These areas can be easier to walk through and offer a greater chance of encountering deer. However, they can also be more open and exposed, making it difficult to stay hidden from prey.

Ultimately, the best way to decide whether you should hunt ridges or bottoms is by experimenting with both types of terrain until you find what works best for you.

How Do You Hunt Ridges During the Rut?

Ridge hunting during the rut can be a very effective way to take advantage of the deer’s natural tendencies. During the rut, bucks will often travel along ridges in search of does. This makes them more vulnerable to hunters who know how to take advantage of this behavior.

Here are some tips for ridge hunting during the rut: 1) Look for rubs and scrapes: Bucks will often leave behind telltale signs like rubs and scrapes when they travel along ridges. These can be great clues as to where they might be headed next.

2) Set up ambush points: Once you’ve located a likely spot where bucks might travel, set up an ambush point nearby. This could be a ground blind or tree stand overlooking the ridge. 3) Be patient: Don’t expect to see deer immediately after setting up your ambush point.

It could take hours or even days for bucks to show up. Patience is key when hunting during the rut. 4) Be ready to shoot: When a buck does finally show up, you need to be ready to take him down quickly and efficiently.

Practice shooting in advance so that you can make a clean kill when the time comes.

Do Bucks Bed on Ridges?

Bucks will often bed on ridges to stay above the snow line and to have a clear view of their surroundings. They will also choose a spot on a ridge that has good wind protection and is south-facing so they can soak up the sun’s warmth.

Where Do Deer Travel on Ridges?

Ridge tops are typically covered in a variety of different types of vegetation, including grasses, shrubs, and trees. These areas provide deer with food, shelter, and a place to escape from predators. In addition, the high ground gives them a better view of their surroundings and allows them to travel long distances without having to worry about running into obstacles.

How to Hunt Ridges for Whitetails

Credit: www.fieldandstream.com

Hunt Ridges Or Bottoms

When deer hunting, one of the most important things to consider is where you will hunt. Will you hunt in the ridges or bottoms? Each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Here is a look at both so you can decide which is best for your next deer hunting trip. Ridges offer a higher vantage point, making it easier to spot deer. They also tend to have more cover for deer, providing them with places to hide from predators.

However, ridges can be difficult to walk through because of the uneven terrain. You may also find yourself competing with other hunters for the best spot on the ridge. Bottoms, on the other hand, tend to be flatter and easier to walk through.

They also usually have more food sources for deer, such as acorns and grasses. However, bottoms can be wet and muddy, making it difficult to move around silently. You are also more likely to encounter other hunters in a bottom since there is less ground to cover.

So which should you choose? It depends on your preferences and what you are hoping to get out of your hunt. If you want an easy walk and a good chance at seeing deer, go for a bottom.

If you don’t mind a little extra effort for a better vantage point, go for a ridge.

Conclusion

In order to find the best spot for deer hunting, you should look for high ground where the animals will be able to see for miles. You can also use a topographical map to find these areas. Once you’ve found a good spot, set up your blind or stand in an area where you’ll have a clear shot at the deer.

Be sure to stay downwind of the animals so that they don’t catch your scent.

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