Quick Answer
After hinge cutting, follow up with frequent checks on the cut area for new blood trails, and consider using a tracking dog or a blood trail kit to locate the deer. This increases the chances of recovering the deer. A thorough follow-up is crucial.
Inspecting the Cut Area
When inspecting the cut area, aim to visit it every 30 minutes to an hour for the first few hours after the cut. This will increase the chances of finding a new blood trail. Bring a good pair of binoculars to scan the area from a distance, and avoid contaminating the area with your scent. Look for any signs of recent deer activity, such as tracks, droppings, or rubbed trees.
Using a Tracking Dog
If you have a tracking dog, consider using it to locate the deer. A well-trained tracking dog can pick up the scent of the deer even if there’s a slight delay between the cut and the follow-up. Bring the dog to the cut area and let it do its job. Keep the dog on a leash and follow its lead to track the deer.
Blood Trail Kit Techniques
If you don’t have a tracking dog, consider using a blood trail kit to locate the deer. A blood trail kit typically includes items like a blood detection powder, a scent article, and a tracking chart. Sprinkle the blood detection powder along the cut area and follow the powder trail to track the deer. Use the scent article to pick up the deer’s scent and the tracking chart to map the trail.
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