the set-up For wild turkeys, the set-up or blind location is just as important as it is for trophy bucks. When You Gotta Go, You Gotta Go Sometimes it just makes sense to move on a gobbler you are working. This is particularly true of "hung-up" birds that for one reason or another won't come in. However, moving is a risky maneuver because if that bird spots you, your chances are zip. Woodcraft For Gobblers Given the choice of good woodsmanship or good calling for turkey hunting, a lot of Pros would have to grit their teeth and say woodsmanship is more important. Turkey Calling Style A lot of people say "contest-style" calling isn't effective for real turkey hunting. Stop, Don't Stalk Experienced turkey hunters have always advised beginners not to try to stalk a gobbler. The simple truth is that it is nearly impossible to do successfully. When To Back Down A prime calling tactic for old boss gobblers who have heard it all and are tired of hearing it is less calling. for more information go to www.realtree.com

thermal currents: It's not just wind that can betray the hunter's scent to deer. Normal air currents called thermals can also do you in. When Deer Scout You: We all scout for deer and sometimes are able to pattern a particular buck. It shouldn't surprise you to know that deer learn our normal hunting patterns and adapt to them. late winter Search: Late winter deer scouting can be the most productive scouting of the year. Stand Contamination: If you hunt one area enough, the deer are going to know about it, particularly wise old bucks. Move Stands for Trophies: Eventually, any stand site becomes "contaminated" by your presence -- both odor and activity.

Summer Scouting: For bowhunters, right now is not too early to start your scouting for the upcoming bow seasons. The early archery seasons are just around the corner. Hold Low: Having videotaped many bow shots at deer and taken a few myself, I know a bit about "string jump." Take Your Best Shot: Whether you hunt with gun or bow, there is usually a time when the animal presents the optimum shooting opportunity.

Scout For Next Season: A lot of Team Realtree Pros prefer to do their deer scouting for the next season immediately after the current season's end. Early Scouting Pays Off: A late-summer look at your deer hunting area can pay dividends come opening day. Post-Season Deer Scouting: Perhaps the most useful thing we can learn from post-season deer scouting is where the deer, and particularly the bucks, end up. Take A Winter Walk: Want to see lots of deer sign? Deer sign that is plain as day? Take a walk in the winter woods. Deer Knowledge Zones Deer best know the areas they frequent most. This means they are quicker to spot a change and react more strongly to it in areas where they spend much time.