Bowhunting Early Season Bucks On Public Land

Some public lands are designated as bowhunting-only for a short time before gun hunters begin to arrive. If that’s the case for your hunting area, make the most of those limited days. 

One of the main reasons I moved away from hunting on public land and switched to private land for many years was my negative experiences with other hunters during rifle seasons. 

Sadly, I had experiences such as seeing more hunters walking by my stand than deer throughout the hunt, which kept me away from hunting public land. Now, I use public land as a great way to begin the season, as well as one of my favorite spots to hunt later in the year when many rifle seasons have ended. 

When you plan your hunts to avoid other hunters and increased pressure, you will find that bucks are more relaxed, daylight activity is higher, and the woods are quieter. Focus intently during this early window and treat it like your peak season.

Bowhunting early-season bucks on public land isn’t for the faint of heart. It requires patience, sweat, and strategy. However, it also offers a chance to take a mature buck before he becomes nocturnal or vanishes under pressure. 

Avoid the crowds, pattern your deer, stay mobile, and be smart about your access. If you do, the early season just might become your favorite time to hunt public land. 

Remember, the woods don’t have to be filled with hunters to feel challenging; just one clever buck and a dedicated bowhunter can create the story of a lifetime.

Watch the video below on How to Find & Kill Early Season Bucks.