I've been putting in my normal effort in the woods during this time of year scouting, small game hunting, stump shooting, etc. While out and about today I came across a ton of deer sign and spotted a dozen fat doe slowly making their way around the woods. I got to thinking while studying the doe and their every move. Other than a couple of good friends and my daughter, I've never really shared a good patch of woods with a group of fellow bow hunters.
The area I was in would be perfect to set up a few camps, with spots nice enough to set up tents and far enough back for a tranquil setting and plenty of deer to go around. A mixture of pines, hardwoods, swamps, streams and even a couple small remote cornfields make up the landscape. I walked for 3 hrs checking it all out and am certain it would provide a fun time for gathering.
I have to check with the DNR on how to obtain a camping permit for the area, but I see people do it all the time on the public land during gun season. Not sure how accessible it would be for a camper, but should be no problem for tents.
I will scout out the area more and welcome anyone who wants to come and see it for themselves, maybe prune and mark their stand locations early or I can set-up a spot for those who don't have enough time.. I have high expectations of the land and should have a few deer riding home with those lucky enough to get a shot.
I am set on having it the weekend of October 9th, 10th, and 11th. The moon phase and food sources produced during that week will be the best. I'm usually off on my own after that week as the pre-rut heats up.
This is still in the early stages of planning but I know my area very well and would be honored to have a deer camp down here. Fred Bear was known to frequent Yankee quite a bit and native tribes used the same area for their hunting grounds. Lots of history in there!!!
Let me know when you get a chance and I'll have it marked on my calender. I'm posting this as a traditional bow hunt, but if you have friends who shoot compounds, they are more than welcome too. We'll work on converting them! :D