As winter fades and early spring emerges, shed hunting season kicks into full gear. For hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and wildlife lovers alike, searching for antlers left behind by whitetail deer, mule deer, and elk is both an exciting challenge and a rewarding pastime. Whether you’re a seasoned shed hunter or just getting started, this guide will help you maximize your success in finding more antlers this season.
Why Shed Hunting Matters
Shed hunting is more than just a scavenger hunt for antlers. It serves several important purposes:
- Scouting for Next Season – Finding sheds can give you insight into the health and movement of local deer herds. If a mature buck dropped his antlers in a particular area, he’s likely to be in the same region come hunting season.
- Understanding Deer Behavior – Shed locations reveal where deer spend most of their time during the winter, helping you refine your hunting and scouting strategies.
- A Fun, Family-Friendly Outdoor Activity – Shed hunting is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends while getting some exercise.
Best Time to Look for Sheds
Timing is everything in shed hunting. If you start too early, bucks may still be carrying their antlers, and searching too late means you might lose sheds to rodents, weather, or other hunters. The best window typically falls between late February and mid-April, but exact timing depends on factors like:
- Geography & Climate – In colder northern states, bucks shed their antlers earlier (late January to February), whereas in warmer southern states, shedding can occur as late as March or April.
- Winter Severity – A harsh winter can force deer into predictable food sources, making it easier to locate sheds in concentrated areas.
- Pressure from Other Hunters & Animals – If you wait too long, squirrels, mice, and other critters may chew up the antlers for calcium, and other shed hunters may beat you to the best spots.
Where to Look for Sheds
Finding antlers isn’t just about covering a lot of ground—it’s about looking in the right places. Here are some of the best locations to check:
1. Feeding Areas
Deer spend a significant amount of time feeding during winter, which makes these areas prime shed-hunting locations. Look in:
- Crop fields (corn, soybeans, alfalfa)
- Food plots
- Oak flats where deer feed on acorns
2. Bedding Areas
Since deer bed down for long periods in winter, these spots often yield antlers that were loosened while bucks rested. Key bedding areas include:
- South-facing slopes (they get the most sun and warmth)
- Thick brush or cedar thickets providing wind protection
- Tall grass or warm-season grasses
3. Travel Corridors
As deer move between food sources and bedding areas, antlers often drop along the way. Focus on:
- Well-worn deer trails
- Fence crossings (bucks often jolt their antlers loose when jumping fences)
- Creek beds and ravines (steep inclines can cause antlers to fall off)
4. Water Sources
Deer need water year-round, and antlers can often be found near creeks, ponds, or marshes where deer frequently stop to drink.
Tips for Finding More Antlers
1. Cover Ground, But Slow Down
Many beginners make the mistake of walking too fast. Instead, slow down and scan the ground carefully. Look for the unique color and shape of an antler rather than searching for an entire shed at once.
2. Use the Right Gear
- Good Boots – Spring conditions can be muddy or snowy, so waterproof boots with good traction (like Trudave hunting boots) are essential.
- Binoculars – Spotting antlers from a distance can save time and effort.
- GPS or Mapping Apps – Marking locations where you find sheds can help you identify patterns over time.
3. Train Your Eyes for the Right Shape & Color
Antlers don’t always stand out; they often blend in with grass, sticks, and fallen leaves. Look for:
- The smooth, curved shape of an antler
- White or brown contrast against dark soil
- Shadows that reveal hidden tines
4. Go After a Rain
A light rain can wash away dust and debris, making antlers stand out more against the ground. Overcast days also reduce glare, helping you see sheds more clearly.
5. Bring a Shed Dog
Some trained dogs excel at finding antlers by scent. Breeds like Labrador Retrievers and German Shorthaired Pointers can be taught to seek out and retrieve sheds, significantly increasing your success rate.
6. Look for Clusters
If you find one antler, there’s a good chance the matching side is nearby. Bucks often shed both antlers within a few hundred yards of each other, especially in areas where they spend a lot of time.
What to Do with Your Sheds
Once you’ve collected some sheds, there are several ways to make use of them:
- Decorations & Crafts – Sheds can be turned into lamps, knife handles, and home decor.
- Dog Chews – Natural, durable, and packed with minerals, shed antlers make excellent dog chews.
- Selling Them – Some collectors and artisans pay good money for high-quality sheds.
Final Thoughts
Shed hunting is a rewarding way to spend time outdoors while gaining valuable insights into your local deer herd. By timing your search correctly, focusing on high-traffic areas, and using smart searching techniques, you can increase your odds of finding more antlers this season.
So lace up your boots, grab your binoculars, and hit the woods—your next great shed find is waiting!
