Quick Answer
When the ground is covered in snow, look for animal tracks, scat, and other sign that indicate recent activity. Focus on areas with sparse tree cover or where snow has been disturbed. Use snowshoes or skis to travel across deep snow and increase visibility.
Reading the Snow
When navigating through deep snow, use your eyes to scan the terrain for signs of animal activity. Look for places where snow has been disturbed, such as beneath trees, along trails, or near food sources. Snowdrifts can also indicate where animals have bedded down or traversed the area. Use a pair of binoculars to scan the horizon for signs of movement or tracks.
Snow Tracking Techniques
To identify and follow tracks, look for the imprint of hooves or paws in the snow. A set of deer tracks will typically consist of two parallel lines with the front tracks being slightly larger and more distinct. Tracks can also be identified by the direction they’re facing and the depth of the impression. To measure the size of the tracks, use a snow gauge or a set of calipers to take precise measurements.
Scout with Purpose
When scouting for deer in the late season, focus on areas with sparse tree cover or where food sources are readily available. Use a map to identify areas with known deer activity and target these locations first. When traveling across deep snow, use a compass to stay on course and avoid getting lost. Remember to take notes and record observations to help plan future hunting trips.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.