Is scouting timber edges better before or after the hunting season?

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Pre-Season Scouting Pre-season scouting is essential for identifying the best timber edges to hunt. Look for areas with a mix of conifer and deciduous trees, as these provide a blend of food and shelter for elk. Use a combination of aerial imagery and on-the-ground reconnaissance to identify these areas. Focus on edges within 1/2 to 1 mile of a water source, such as a stream or river, as these are likely to be more attractive to elk.
Glassing Timber Edges After identifying potential timber edges, use glassing to observe elk behavior and movement patterns. Bring a high-powered spotting scope or binoculars to glass areas from a distance, ideally from a high vantage point such as a ridge or hilltop. Look for elk that are grazing in areas with a mix of grasses and shrubs, or those that are using the timber edge as a travel corridor. Take note of any patterns or consistent behaviors you observe, such as the time of day elk are most active or the types of trees they prefer.
Post-Season Scouting Scouting timber edges after the hunting season provides a more accurate picture of elk movement and behavior. Without the pressure of hunters, elk are more likely to use their typical travel corridors and bedding areas, giving you a better understanding of where to focus your hunting efforts. Look for signs of elk use, such as tracks, scat, or bedding areas, and use these to refine your target areas for the next season. Consider using a GPS device or mapping software to record your findings and create a detailed map of the area.