[wmi]

Originally Posted by Berk

where i am in ohio i mostly hunt over fields and staging areas. with the right wind i see alot of deer but not the bucks im looking for. i like to shoot does and let the small bucks walk.

If you are hunting the staging area just outside of the fields you are hunting the wrong area. You need to hunt the staging area that is right next to bedding. If you are not sure what I mean now is the time of year to locate them. Just back track towards bedding and you will find them. They are usually smaller in size and sheltered from veiw. Once you see one you will know what I'm talking about. This is the area that bucks primarily scent check does. If it is buck bedding big bucks will hang up here until after dark. Most times there will be sign post rubs or a small group of larger rubs here. The reason for this is the testosterone build up of the buck while at rest and his sign to other bucks to stay out. Since you are usually right up against the bedding area they can be very tricky to hunt. Regardless of scent control wind is your biggest factor. Stealth is an understatement but it can be done. You are going to get busted half the time but payoffs will be much greater and mature buck sightings will go way up compared to the other areas you have been hunting. In early season hunting in the afternoons are best because unless you can be in your tree several hours before visable light mature bucks will already be there bedding up. Besides the rut these areas will be your number one spot for taking mature bucks consistantly. Important if you do hunt them early plan to stay all day. Bucks will get up midday for a stretch and possibly relocate within this area allowing for a shot. Hope this helps.