Out-Of-State Whitetails Part 2: Zeroing In On An Area
This is part two of our recent series on hunting Out-of-State Whitetails.
James: Jared, thanks for joining us again. Last time, we talked about big picture stuff like choosing states and timing. Today, let's dig into how to zero in on specific areas once you've chosen a state. Say you've picked a place like Wisconsin or Kentucky. What's your next move?
Jared: Once I've settled on a state, I start by looking at the public land availability. Using Kentucky as an example, I'll pull up a map that shows all the public land areas. I'm looking for regions with multiple public land options nearby. This gives me flexibility to move around if needed.
James: So you're not just looking for one big chunk of land?
Jader: Exactly. I prefer areas where I have options. If you only have one big chunk on the east side of the state, but the west side has several smaller areas, I might lean towards the west. It spreads out the hunting pressure and gives me alternatives if one spot doesn't work out.
James: That makes a lot of sense. How do you start narrowing down these areas further?
Jared: Once I've identified promising regions, I start a process of elimination. I'll look at factors like road access, known high-pressure areas, and terrain features. Using mapping tools, I'll actually start crossing off or X-ing out areas that don't look promising - spots right by the road, areas where I know there's high pressure, or terrain that's not ideal for deer.
James: So you're essentially creating a custom map of potential spots. What resources are you using for this research?
Jared: I use everything I can get my hands on, James. Google Maps, onX, state-specific hunting maps - you name it. Each map can offer different information. For example, Google Maps might show recent clear-cuts that aren't on other maps yet. State websites often have information on private land that's open to public hunting. It's about layering all this information to get the fullest picture possible.
James: That's a great tip. Are there any other sources of information you tap into?
Jared: Absolutely. I'm a big fan of using local knowledge. I'll cruise forums and Facebook groups related to hunting in the area. Sometimes, you can get invited to local hunting groups where people share information. Just remember to be respectful - not everyone wants to give away their hard-earned spots.
James: Have you had success with this approach?
Jared: Definitely. When we went to Wisconsin, we talked to some local hunters on online forums. They gave us great advice about camping spots that would give us access to diverse terrain - river areas, ag fields, and more hilly spots. It really helped us plan our hunt more effectively.
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James: Once you've narrowed down to a specific area, how do you start picking out actual hunting spots?
Jared: This is my favorite part of the planning process, James. I start by looking for key terrain features - food sources, bedding areas, travel routes, draws, saddles, bridges. Using onX, I'll drop pins on spots that look promising. Then I'll layer on topographical maps, which often change my perspective entirely. A spot that looked good on satellite view might be terrible once you see the elevation changes.
James: It sounds like you're creating a very detailed map of potential spots.
Jared: Exactly. And it's an iterative process. As I add more information - topo maps, local intel, etc. - I'm constantly refining my potential spots. I might throw out some initial picks and add new ones based on this layered information.
James: How much are you considering hunting pressure when you're doing this?
Jared: It's definitely a factor. There are some tell-tale signs of high-pressure areas. For instance, if you see a two-track road going into public land, it's generally a good idea to avoid hunting within about 500 yards on either side. That said, pressure can be subjective. Some people hunt right off the road, thinking everyone else has gone further in.
James: Any tips for finding less pressured areas?
Jared: Look for natural barriers that might deter other hunters. Crossing a creek or climbing a steep hill can drastically reduce the number of people willing to access an area. Last year, I shot a buck in a spot that was actually very accessible, but you had to climb a big hill to get there. Most people weren't willing to make that climb, which left the area relatively unpressured.
James: As we wrap up, do you have any final advice for people trying to zero in on a hunting spot in a new area?
Jared: The most important thing is to be flexible. It's easy to get locked into one spot after all your research, but conditions on the ground can be very different from what you expected. Always have backup plans. If you arrive and find your chosen area is full of ATV riders or bird hunters, you need to be able to quickly pivot to another option. Being adaptable is crucial to success when hunting in new areas.
James: Jared, this has been incredibly informative. Thanks so much for sharing your expertise with us.