I'd say if you found a previous year's shed, you're in pretty good shape. He's certainly found something in that area to keep him around, or coming back.
The early season will be your best option. Shortly after they rub their velvet, they'll be broadening their home range, and you may not see him during daylight. Having pictures both late at night and in the late morning is also a good sign that he likes to sleep near by. DON'T over pressure him, and only hunt set ups with the perfect conditions (right wind, moon phase, not too hot, etc.). Don't take any chances that will let him know he's being hunted.
Something I like to do is to set up a mock scrape. Somewhere close to where you've been getting the pictures (food plot edges for example) close to a good stand or blind, is a good place to start. Take it easy with the scent, especially to start with. Let the deer make it their own, and they'll add plenty of scent.
The key is low impact! Be sure to use good scent proof boots and spray. The less they know you've been around the better.
Try not to disturb the area too much. If you don't already have a stand or blind set up, do it NOW, or look to a different area. Or pick out the spot, and hang a stand the day you intend to hunt it. That first day has proven to be productive, but the following week or two may not.
Stay concealed, stay calm, move slow, pick a spot, and keep those broadheads sharp!
High points in the woods looking down into the plot are also good places to set up, along with the predominately down wind side of the field.
Hopefully you'll get a few more pics of him to let you know his preferred times of being there.
Whatever you do, don't let him know that you are there. Go in and leave undetected. If he busts you, you'll be lucky to see him again during shooting light. Good luck, and keep us updated. I want to see a hero pic with a bloody arrow!
Topic: O.k., good buck on camera, now what? (Read 370 times)
