Early prep time gets hunters prepared for season openings

ALBANY ‒ With archery season just over a month away and firearms season opening Oct. 19, the meter is running on getting preseason chores done. And the list might be longer than you think.

If you have permanent stands, now’s the time to clear shooting lanes that may be overgrown or obstructed. It’s also a great time to cautiously check for bees, hornets, and other squatters in and near your stands. If stands are secured by straps be sure that they are not rotten or that squirrels have not damaged them. Remember they need periodically to be adjusted to take up for tree growth and potential loosening due to motion. If secured by screws, nails, or other fasteners be sure that they are nor compromised.

Clear a clean path to and from the stand to make access safer and quieter. Doing this now is less likely to disturb deer patterns as they become established closer to the season and the rut.

If you are hunting new property, there are numerous clues to deer activity remaining from last season. Rubs and scrapes should still be evident, providing clues to travel routes between feeding and bedding areas. Sheds may still remain, giving insight into possible bucks on the property.

Regardless of how long you’ve been hunting a property, now is definitely the time to put out game cameras if you do not do so year-round. The same is true for food plots and feeders. If you have not been feeding year-round, it’s time to get with the program. It is also not too late to put out mineral blocks.

Over the past few years, I have had success in attracting deer through the use of 36-inch diameter plastic wading pools, sinking them in the ground near a mineral block. If possible, keep them full using water barrels or jerry cans. If not, they will actually do pretty well with natural rainfall during the fall and winter months.

When placing new blinds or stands always consider:

· Predominant seasonal wind direction;

· The position of the rising and setting sun;

· Where will your most likely shots be? Position your stand so the angle of these shots can be made safely, easily and comfortably;

· Take into consideration where others may be or have already placed stands.

Once these things have been sorted out, it’s not too early to start assembling your gear and accessories. It’s amazing what you can’t find 12 hours before opening day. It’s also a good time to visit the Mike Carpenter Range to be sure that your bow or firearm are still hitting where you aim.

Special Photo: Georgia DNR