Out-Of-State Whitetails Part 3: Scouting

This is the 3rd part of our ongoing series on hunting Out-of-State Whitetails. Catch the full discussion here:

James: Jared, thanks for joining us again. Today, we're focusing on scouting. Once a hunter has chosen their out-of-state location, what should they do if they can actually visit the area before the season?

Jared: If you can get out there in the summer, James, that's ideal. The most important thing is to use your onX app constantly. You should be marking where you park, recording your walking path - everything. I've had experiences where I've found a great spot, thought I'd remember it, and then couldn't find it again later. If you record your path, you can see exactly where you went and even assess if there might be better ways to access certain spots.

James: That's great advice. Any other tips for in-person scouting?

Jared: Absolutely. Look for historical data - community scrapes, old rub lines, signs of deer activity. Also, pay attention to signs of human activity. You want to find areas that aren't heavily pressured. Oh, and here's a weird tip - if you find mylar balloons in the woods, pay attention. For some reason, they often settle in low areas near buck beds. I can't explain the science, but it's something I've noticed repeatedly.

James: That's fascinating! Now, let's say someone can't visit in person. How can they use onX or other digital tools to find promising areas?

Jader: When e-scouting, focus on topographical features. Look for ridges, breaks between different types of terrain or vegetation, field edges next to swamps or thickets. Always use the topographical map layer - it reveals so much that you can't see on satellite imagery alone. Look for draws, benches, saddles, and elevation changes. These are all potential travel routes for deer.

James: Any tips for those who struggle with reading topo maps?

Jared: If you're not comfortable reading topo maps, don't worry. There are plenty of online resources that can teach you. Just Google "how to read a topographical map" and you'll find some great tutorials. It's a skill worth learning for any serious hunter.

James: You mentioned looking for transitions between different types of terrain. Can you elaborate on that?

Jared: Sure. One strategy, which might be a bit controversial, is to look for spots where private land meets public land, especially in corners or hard-to-access areas. If there's a piece of private land that isn't hunted much, you might be able to catch deer moving between that sanctuary and public land. Just be sure you're always staying on the public side of the property line.

James: Now, what about hunters who can't scout in person at all? How do they prepare?

Jared: That's a common situation, especially for longer trips. When we went to Alaska, for example, there was no way we could scout in person beforehand. In these cases, you have to rely heavily on maps and any information you can gather. Search online forums, read reports from the area, and if possible, try to connect with a local who might be able to give you some insights. You've got to get creative when you can't be there in person.

James: That makes sense. How important is flexibility when you're hunting a new area?

Jared: Flexibility is crucial, James. No matter how much you scout digitally, the reality on the ground can be completely different from what you expected. You need to be ready to toss out your original plan and adapt. I think this ability to pivot intelligently is what separates good hunters from great ones.

James: Speaking of adapting, what are your thoughts on balancing scouting and hunting during the actual trip?

Jared: That's a great question, and it's something a lot of hunters struggle with. My philosophy is simple: if it's hunting season, I'm always bringing my bow. There's a quote from Dan Infalt that stuck with me: "If you're walking into the woods during hunting season without your bow or gun, it's like walking out into the woods without any clothes on." You never know when you might encounter that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

James: So you're essentially scouting and hunting simultaneously?

Jared: Exactly. You need to split your focus. Part of your brain should be analyzing the area, looking for sign, and thinking about future setups. But another part needs to stay alert for any immediate hunting opportunities. It's a balancing act, but it maximizes your chances of success.

James: That's great advice, Jared. Any final thoughts for our readers on scouting?

Jared: The key is to be out there as much as possible. The more time you spend in the woods, the more you learn, and the more opportunities you create for yourself. If you're on an out-of-state trip with limited time, hunt hard the entire time. Leave nothing in the tank. Even if you're just moving through the woods, you're increasing your odds of encountering deer and learning valuable information about the area.

James: Jared, this has been incredibly informative. Thanks so much for sharing your expertise with us.