As the days lengthen and the weather warms, the late spring season presents unique challenges and opportunities for hunters. Whether you’re targeting wild turkey, black bear, or other game, understanding and adapting to the evolving behaviors of animals during this time can be the key to success. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to take advantage of spring patterns for your late-season hunts.
1. Understand the Behavior Changes in Spring
Spring marks a significant shift in the behavior of animals, driven by warmer temperatures and an abundance of new food sources. Deer, turkeys, and other game are becoming more active and mobile, as they forage for food after the harsh winter months. In particular:
- Deer: During the late spring, deer are transitioning from the rut and may be less concentrated in one area. They’re often found near food sources, such as new growth in fields or forest edges where tender vegetation is emerging.
- Turkeys: Spring is the prime time for turkey hunting, with gobblers actively seeking hens and establishing dominance. Knowing where they roost and understanding their patterns of movement can be a game-changer.
- Black Bears: In spring, bears are emerging from hibernation and are ravenously looking for food. They typically focus on easily accessible food sources like berries, insects, and carrion, so finding a good food source is key to successful hunting.
2. Location, Location, Location
Where you hunt can make all the difference in late spring. The shift in animal behavior often means they are no longer in their winter range, so understanding their springtime patterns is crucial for locating them. Key areas to focus on include:
- Food Sources: In spring, wildlife is actively foraging for fresh green growth, including tender grasses, early shoots, and fruit-bearing plants. Scouting areas with rich vegetation, such as farm fields, wetlands, and forest clearings, is a smart move.
- Water Sources: As temperatures rise, animals are more likely to frequent water sources. Creek beds, ponds, and rivers that are abundant with spring runoff are great places to focus your efforts.
- Nesting and Roosting Areas (For Turkeys): Understanding turkey roosting behavior is key for a successful spring hunt. Turkeys typically roost in tall trees in dense woods and travel to feeding grounds during the day. Scouting these roosting spots and setting up ambushes near feeding zones can yield excellent results.
3. Timing is Everything
The late-season spring hunt isn’t just about finding animals — it’s also about timing your hunt to when they are most active. This can make a huge difference in how successful your hunt is.
- Early Morning: Just before dawn and during the early morning hours is the prime time for turkey hunting. Gobblers are most active at dawn, searching for hens and establishing territory. Arriving early and using turkey calls to simulate hens can bring gobblers close for an easy shot.
- Late Afternoon: In the late spring, animals become more active during the late afternoon hours, especially as the temperature cools down. Deer, for example, may start to emerge from bedding areas and head toward feeding grounds. Setting up in areas near food sources is key during this time.
- Midday Lulls: During the midday hours, many animals will bed down and rest, so use this time for movement and repositioning to find more active areas. If you’re hunting turkeys, this could also be the time to use soft calls to pull in any stray gobblers that may be wandering.
4. Utilizing Spring Hunting Gear
While spring temperatures can be milder than winter, the weather can still be unpredictable. Hunters should be prepared for sudden changes in temperature, rain, or wind. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Camo Clothing: Early spring foliage can still be sparse in some areas, making camouflaging crucial. Opt for a layering system that includes moisture-wicking base layers, lightweight but insulated clothing, and breathable outer layers that keep you dry while still allowing flexibility.
- Calls and Decoys (for Turkeys): Turkey hunting in the spring is all about calling, and using the right turkey call can make all the difference. A combination of hen calls, gobbler calls, and decoys will help you draw in a tom. Don’t forget to scout roosting areas and set up early to have a clear shot.
- Bear Baiting (if applicable): If you’re targeting black bears, consider using bait to attract bears that have just emerged from hibernation. Placing bait in areas where bears are known to frequent (such as near dense thickets or water sources) can increase your chances of a successful hunt.
5. Adapting to Changing Weather Conditions
Spring weather can be unpredictable, with everything from sunny skies to sudden rain showers. This can affect animal behavior, but it can also be used to your advantage. For example:
- Rain: A light drizzle or overcast conditions often make for excellent hunting weather, as animals tend to be more active. Turkeys, in particular, are less cautious in wet conditions, and the rain can help mask your scent as you move closer to them.
- Wind: While high winds can make hunting challenging, they can also make animals less aware of your presence. If you’re hunting in areas with high winds, using a blind or adjusting your hunting methods to stay concealed can help keep you undetected.
6. Using the Right Hunting Techniques
- Spot and Stalk: Late spring can present challenges for stand hunting, especially with dense foliage and shifting animal patterns. Spot and stalk hunting, where you actively track animals and close the distance, is a great technique for the spring months. Look for tracks, signs, and trails that lead you to likely feeding or watering areas.
- Ambush Hunting: Whether hunting turkeys or deer, ambush hunting near natural funnels or food sources can be very effective. Setting up a blind or tree stand in strategic locations can allow you to wait for animals to come to you, reducing the need for movement and noise.
7. Stay Persistent and Patient
Late-season spring hunting can require a lot of patience. Animals are more spread out and harder to locate than in the winter months, and they may not be as predictable as in the fall. Be ready to adapt to the changing patterns, and don’t be discouraged by slow days. Persistence is key, and the rewards will be worth the wait.
Conclusion
Late-season spring hunting is a unique and rewarding challenge. By understanding the changing behaviors of animals, finding the best locations, and using the right timing and techniques, you’ll be well on your way to a successful hunt. Whether you’re chasing turkeys, black bears, or deer, the right strategy will help you take full advantage of the spring season and put you in position to bag your game. Stay patient, stay persistent, and embrace the beauty of spring hunting!
