We all want to kill mature bucks. Whether we've harvested a nice 12-point before or have yet to see one, the thought is always there every single season of a "dream" harvest.
However, to harvest a mature buck or even see one, proper scouting is crucial.
Have you looked in every possible spot to find that big buck? Today, we talk about three types of land to scout during the off-season to improve your chances of bringing home that trophy of your dreams.
Finding Mature Bucks Means Knowing the Land
First, they are called "mature" bucks for a reason.
The average deer's lifespan is only a short 2-3 years. Therefore, they have made it that long (or any longer) for a reason. They know the land, they know the tactics, and they are good at staying put.
However, that doesn't mean you can't still harvest one. All you have to do is know where to scout and understand their patterns.
As you plan your scouting time, check the following types of hunting land and mark what you see in your HuntWise app so you know exactly where to hunt during the open season.
1. Ridges
When scouting for smart, old bucks, the first point of interest should be within hilly terrain, or more specifically, ridges.
Thermals begin to increase when the sun starts heating the valley floor, and this causes the wind blowing over the ridge to create a tunnel that helps whitetail with their sense of smell. Bucks tend to bed part of the way down the ridge because this is where that tunnel is created.
So, don't be surprised if you catch an old buck cruising towards a doe at the top of your ridge. Their sense of smell is incredible, and they are already very wise. You might have to endure a little bit more wind, but it sure is worth it.
2. Oaks and Swamps
Your next point of interest should be oaks and swamps. Not only do swampy areas provide hunters with incredible activity, but they also usually have less human traffic.
Swamp terrain usually has oaks surrounding it and several oaks within the swamp itself, making it a very nice area for bucks to sleep and for you to plot your stand.
Take some time to scout this type of land, either private or public, and locate any swampy areas that have oaks mixed in. Not only is it providing the deer with a food source, but also a safe, so they think, area to sleep.
3. Secluded Swamps
Not only do you want to consider swamps in general, but the more secluded, the better.
Make sure you scout areas that are secluded by water. Bucks love water, as it keeps out coyotes, wolves, and, more times than not, humans. It is a safe haven for mature bucks who no longer want to be out in the over-pressured land.
Mature bucks thrive in areas that are wet, thick, and unbothered by most of their predators.
All in all, there are countless areas that mature bucks bed. Every type of terrain is easily accessible to you – it just depends on whether you are willing to take the time to scout, observe, and log all of the knowledge you are gaining during the off-season.
Use HuntWise to Mark Locations When Scouting for Deer
We have found these three areas to be major hotspots for locating mature whitetail. Spend some time locating these areas or finding your own hotspots; we promise you will increase your chances of success once the season rolls around.
As you scout these areas, make sure you have the HuntWise app with you. With Custom Markers and Hunt Areas, you can drop pins when you see buck activity on ridges and in swamps. Then, check your pins as you plan your hunt and target those areas on hunting day.
Download HuntWise and try it for free for a week while you scout!
Good luck, hunters, and be safe.
Content updated May 9, 2024.