5 Tips For Planning A Deer Hunting Package In Georgia/Ohio/Virginia by Hunts Expert Chuck Larsen

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As a founding partner of North American Whitetail magazine I have had the good fortune to hunt whitetail deer from Canada to Mexico. Over the years I have developed a 5 point check list in selecting a good free-ranging whitetail destination.

For many of us that special deer hunt each year is a primary vacation commitment. With our time being an ever increasing valuable commodity we want to make the most of our hunt in terms of success and over all enjoyment.

Choose a good location: While whitetail deer are common in all states west of the Rockies, not all states produce many trophy deer. Current landowner efforts focusing on quality deer management are producing better antler growth and are rewriting the record books. Good genetics, available and supplemental food, along with age structure are the keys to growing big deer. Ask your operator/outfitter what kind of management program is in place. Most places that manage for big bucks keep very good records. Vague answers should raise a caution flag.

When to go: As long as you are in the woods there is always a chance to harvest a wall hanger, but some periods of the season are more productive for trophy deer. Pre rut and rutting activity usually increase your chances. The problem is nobody can predict with certainty when the rut will occur. The more time you can invest in the hunt the better your chances. With that said, late season hunting, with often less hunter pressure, is very productive. Sometimes there is a different price structure based on which part of the season you hunt. If you are willing to hunt late season ask for a price break.

Guided or unguided: Guided hunts simply increase your chances of success. The guide has been scouting and knows where the most productive stands are located. He may not share it, but there´s a good chance he has photographed the trophy buck you are hunting on a trail cam. He can also advise you as to what to hold out for in terms of trophy quality

Camp or lodge facilities: Since this is your vacation, having a good camp or lodge to retreat to after a day in the woods can and will make any hunt more enjoyable. The older I become the less I want to rough it. Ask the operator/outfitter whether you will have a private room, and how may hunters per bathroom. Too many hunters sharing one bathroom isn´t much fun. For what hunts cost today, it´s not unreasonable to expect good facilities and good food. Also, ask what to expect as far as amenities, and if you enjoy an adult beverage, is it available after a hunt or do you have to bring your own.

Value or bang for the buck: How much time and money you are willing to invest in a trophy hunt is a personal decision. Just remember that a bargain hunt will come with certain downsides and also increased risks when it comes to overall satisfaction. As in most things, good quality usually costs more.

For more information visit our website: www.burntpine.com

If you have a specific Whitetail deer hunting question e-mail me at: c.larsen@mindspring.com