Deer hunting BS thread

New hunter here looking for some guidance. I've watched hours of videos and read about strategies and "how-tos." I don't come from a hunting family. So I am on my own for this experience.
What I am asking is more the "unwritten" code of conduct while hunting public land. I don't want to be "that guy" and ruin someone elses hunt. Any safety tips and words of advice for a new guy? What could you tell me that you wish you knew when you first started? What should I do if I know another hunter is nearby?
My situation will be rifle hunting for a deer on public land in southern Wisconsin. My biggest goal is have a safe shooting lane and know what is behind my target and a perfect broadside presentation. It's not worth it to me to have anything less than that.

 

I dont hunt a lot of public land, but fora newbie you may wanna just limit yourself to afternoon hunts so that it is daylight going in and you can see what will be the back stop for you to shoot at before you get set up. It will also help If you get out there earlier than everyone else (here people usually try and get in the stand around 2 pm so I would say plan to be there an hour early) that way you wont walk up on someone that is already set up and hunting... Also try not to get lost coming out in the dark, mark a spot on your GPS or get a hunting app where you can set points for your truck and your stand so you dont get turned around... I know a guy... Also hunt till dark, just like getting out there early, no one wants someone walking through on them 30 minutes before dark, and wear orange

 

Going in early on public land is a good call anyway because other hunters are likely to jump deer walking in and they may head your way

 

Rain came a little early... Maybe it will do this for a couple days. Those soybeans that looked great 6 weeks ago were struggling maybe they will biunce back and some greens will be up soon.

 

Exactly what the other guys said. If you already have a spot picked out, go in extra early. That way it's up to them to walk away. But don't be surprised if they don't. I hunt only public land and have for almost 30 years. People will amaze you at the things they will do for 'their' spot. But some people are great. It also pays to have a backup spot or four.
Best of luck and please keep us posted on your season!
Btw: if/when I encounter another hunter I turn and walk straight away, trying not to ruin their hunt.

 

5 different bucks but nothing I wanted kill

 

Here’s a few pics from the my hunting trip I’m currently on...

 

Practice shooting at a range and scout ,scout ,scout the land you are hunting . Also most people are lazy if you show up on your public land super early and get back in further than any other hunters are willing to go you will be one step ahead of the “game” so to speak . Also follow your local hunting rules and regulations .

 

make sure your rifle is properly sighted in...
Dont rush your shot. You will get adrenaline rush when you first see a deer in range. Take a deep silent breath, relax, if the deer is close only move when a tree is blocking the deers view of you. Dont move any if it spotted you. It may take a few minutes but it will eventually move. Give a minute or two for your adrenaline to calm down a bit. Hopefully it comes across for a broadside shot. Aim just behind and above the front elbow, Squeeze the trigger, if you feel like you had a good shot or it drops go look for your animal, if it was an unsure shot give it a min 30 minutes to go look for blood. If in doubt back out go look later or next day if possible. Typically you will know if you had a good shot or not. If it does a high jump kick when you shoot thats a good sign.good luck!

 

Prattsville and Conesville. How bout you ?

 

I live in Columbia county and hunt right behind my house . I also hunt New Jersey and Pennsylvania!

 

Very nice. How’s your bow season going so far ? It has been very slow by me. Hopefully it picks up as the weather cools off.

 

I have only hunted NJ so far this year . A friend is leasing 60 acres . Hunted 2 days and saw 15 doe and 5 different bucks but nothing big enough for me .8 pointer or better or I let it go . It’s actually got to be a decent 8 ,no scrubs .

 

Same here. But usually by now I have a pic of a shooter. I’m sure it will heat up, it always does. Send me a picture of that bruiser when u get him and hopefully I will do the same.

 

Going back to ,NJ,Pa the week of Columbus Day to try again . I might get out this week behind the house at some point.

 

I had a weird bow season, started off too hot, then weather was dicey then got busy...sucked up my month of Sept..

 

Hit list deer for sure. Have 3 years of history with him. First picture is end of 2017, Next few are 2018, and lastly this year. Back of the napkin scoring puts him at 165"

The white ring around his right eye is a dead giveaway

 

He’s a beauty !

 

My sons been using sticks for guns in the yard, so I cut this out right quick. Two coats of Tru-Oil and he’ll be good to go. Til he’s a bit older!