Americana Outdoors E-Magazine - August 2020

SCOUTING CAMERAS AND WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW by Wade Middleton

Scouting cameras are one of the most important tools you can use during the season to locate key hunting areas, identify deer, manage properties, and even find a few surprises now and then. I’ve used scouting cameras all year long for several years now while relying on them to inform me what’s in an area, helping me make decisions on when to hunt areas as well as when to not hunt areas. Additionally, they’ve been invaluable in helping me to determine game populations and the health of the herd in several areas to help determine how many deer and turkeys are in an area as well as identify predator issues. Some of the main things I’ve learned over the years when it comes to scouting cameras are broken down below to help you whether you’re a first timer or seasoned veteran of using scouting cameras.

near food sources, field edges where trails come into key areas, near water sources (especially in dry times), and finally over bait (where legal). These high percentage areas will provide photos that not only provide an inventory of the bucks and does on your property but also insight on where and when the deer are traveling in certain areas. Keep in mind I am not saying these are the best places to find a big buck, but they will certainly help provide insight on game in the area.

PLACE THEM IN HIGH PERCENTAGE AREAS

I prefer to place my Stealth Cam scouting cameras