Deer Season is upon us, and for many hunters it is a magical time of the year. Opening Day full of anticipation and excitement like Christmas morning. The sun comes up and unwraps the terrain presenting the day like a gift to us hunters. In years past, it has always been a must hunt! Here are the environmental factors that should make your hunt successful, and a few that might blow it this weekend.
This will be the best opening morning weather I have seen in my decade of bow hunting. Frosty conditions are likely and this is fantastic! The first frosts of the year almost always evoke an increase in activity from deer. In fact, the most deer I have on trail cameras this year was underneath a high pressure right after our first frost touched the state with that cold surge early in September (see more about high pressure in my post below). This weekend's cool lows are a definite plus for morning sits, but the wind will also be a huge factor, and in an odd way. I am forecasting a very light NE wind at daybreak to switch to the ESE by 9am, but wind speeds will be under 5mph. This tiny zepher will often foil a good plan because even Iowa's subtle topography creates its own wind currents. This, plus the shifting high pressure could bust your hunt with a very light swirly wind in the wrong direction for your morning hunt.
The moon should be a non-factor this weekend. The waxing crescent moon will rise after noon and set by 9pm (check out the link to the right). It might help play into some early feeding activity, but I don't forecast a substantial influence on our quarry.
Based on the fight I heard and then saw in a frosty river valley last weekend, I'll take along the rattling antlers. Bucks are showing Pre-Rut behavior and a few big boys will be moving tomorrow morning, I'll have to see who's curious about my mock battle.
So set a loud alarm, and try to get some sleep. Deer Season 2011 will be off to a great start! Good Luck!
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