Whitetail Deer Hunting After the First Snowfall

Every year the first snowfall becomes a little more unpredictable. When the ground gets a decent snow covering, food sources and bed areas shift just enough to potentially change the way you are hunting With snow and ice here to stay, and the first snowfall being one to hang around, there are a few things to consider now when hunting whitetail deer in Ohio.

Whitetail deer consume a large amount of corn stalks and spilled or leftover crops after harvest. Once the snow falls this food source is pretty much eliminated. Stalks become crunchy, hard, and frozen while any crops on the ground are covered and hard to find. The effort to eat either of these options outweighs the energy that would be gained. Places like briars, shrub areas, and hardwoods all become very important food sources through these times. If available, places with cover crops are also a viable option for hunting near.

Morning temperature rise is a great time to be in the woods. This is the top chance to catch a whitetail on the move between bed area and food sources. While it is still frigid and brisk, those few degrees can make a large boost in deer movement. Just before sundown as temperatures begin to drop many whitetail deer will make a final move towards food and water source before bedding down. Both of these are crucial eating times to keep body energy levels high during the time they are bedded down through the cold hours of the day and overnight.

Snow does offer you as a hunter some benefits as well. You can see a clear trail through the snow and where heavy travel is at. Tracking a whitetail deer you've shot also becomes easier because without a doubt the red trail of fresh blood will stand out against the white snow. Crisp snowfall also creates an environment that the dull brown coat of an Ohio Whitetail Deer will stand out against helping you spot your target easier.

When it comes down to taking home a big whitetail in the peak of the season, Hidden Hollow Whitetail Ranch can help. Guided hunts with a promised shot helps you as a hunter focus on the deer you want knowing the situation is just right. For more about the Ohio Hunting Preserve, visit our website here.