Is your hunt ruined if a deer blows?

Is Your Hunt Ruined If A Deer Blows?

The short answer is: not necessarily. While a deer blowing is a clear indication of alarm, understanding why it blew, and reacting accordingly, can still salvage your hunt.

The Deer Blow: An Alarm Call

The characteristic “blow” of a deer – a loud, forceful expulsion of air through its nostrils – is a primary alarm signal. It’s the deer’s way of saying, “Danger! Something’s not right!” Understanding the nuances of this behavior is crucial for any hunter.

Why Do Deer Blow?

Deer don’t blow just for fun. They blow as a result of detecting a threat. These threats can come in many forms:

  • Unseen Predator: The most common reason. They may have caught a whiff of your scent, or seen a flash of movement.
  • Unexpected Noise: A twig snapping, rustling leaves, or any unnatural sound can trigger a blow.
  • Suspicious Sight: Anything out of the ordinary, even if not immediately threatening, can put a deer on alert.
  • Territorial Defense: Does will often blow at other deer getting too close to their fawns. Bucks may blow at interlopers during the rut.

Is Your Hunt Ruined If A Deer Blows? – The Immediate Aftermath

The instant a deer blows, the surrounding deer population will be on high alert. This is a natural reaction. They will likely stop feeding, raise their heads, and scan the area for danger. This heightened state of awareness can last for minutes or even hours.

Salvaging the Situation: Reacting to the Blow

  • Stay Still: Movement is the enemy. Freeze immediately.
  • Assess the Wind: Determine the wind direction and whether the deer likely smelled you.
  • Remain Silent: Avoid any unnecessary noise.
  • Consider the Location: Are you in thick cover or open terrain? This will affect your options.

Techniques to Use After a Blow

Depending on the circumstances, you have a few options after a deer blows:

  • Wait It Out: If the deer didn’t definitively identify you as the threat, it might eventually calm down and resume its normal behavior. This requires patience.
  • Reposition: If the wind is working against you, quietly reposition to a new location.
  • Adjust Your Strategy: If the area is blown out, consider moving to a different hunting spot.
  • Use Calls Sparingly: A soft fawn bleat or subtle grunt call might reassure the deer, but use with extreme caution. Loud or aggressive calls will likely spook them further.

Common Mistakes After a Blow

  • Moving Too Quickly: Deer are highly sensitive to movement. Any sudden motion will confirm their suspicions.
  • Making More Noise: Avoid snapping twigs, rustling leaves, or talking.
  • Giving Up Too Easily: Patience is key. Don’t assume the hunt is over immediately.
  • Ignoring the Wind: The wind is your worst enemy if the deer caught your scent.

Wind Direction is Paramount

Knowing the wind direction is critical for all deer hunting, but it’s especially important after a deer blows. If the wind is blowing your scent towards the deer, your chances of success are significantly reduced.

Wind Direction Impact on Hunt Recommended Action
—————– ———————————— ——————————————————————–
Against You Very Low Chance of Success Reposition to a new location where the wind is in your favor.
Favorable Moderate Chance of Success Remain still and patient. The deer might eventually calm down.
Variable Unpredictable Assess the deer’s reaction and adjust your strategy accordingly.

The Importance of Camouflage

Good camouflage is essential for breaking up your outline and making it more difficult for deer to spot you. This is especially crucial after a deer blows.

Is Your Hunt Ruined If A Deer Blows? – Conclusion

Is your hunt ruined if a deer blows? Not necessarily. While a deer blow certainly makes things more difficult, it doesn’t automatically spell the end of your hunt. By understanding why deer blow, reacting appropriately, and utilizing smart hunting techniques, you can still salvage the situation and potentially harvest a deer.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If a deer blows and stomps its foot, is that a worse sign than just a blow?

Yes, the combination of a blow and foot stomp is a more definitive sign that the deer has identified you as a threat. The stomping amplifies the alarm signal and is often followed by the deer running away.

How long should I wait after a deer blows before moving?

There’s no magic number, but at least 20-30 minutes is a good starting point. The longer you wait, the better your chances of the deer calming down. If you see or hear the deer moving away, waiting even longer is advisable.

What if multiple deer blow repeatedly?

Multiple deer blowing is a strong indication that the area is completely compromised. In this situation, it’s best to move to a different location.

Does a deer blowing always mean it smelled me?

No, a deer blow can be triggered by sight, sound, or scent. However, scent is the most common trigger, particularly if the deer is downwind of you.

Can I use a deer call after a deer blows?

Using a deer call after a blow is risky. A very soft fawn bleat might reassure the deer, but any loud or aggressive call is likely to further spook them. The best approach is usually to remain silent.

What’s the best camouflage to wear when hunting in an area where deer are easily spooked?

The best camouflage is patterned camouflage that blends in with the surrounding environment. Consider the colors and textures of the vegetation in your hunting area and choose camouflage that matches.

How does weather affect a deer’s sensitivity to scent?

High humidity and wet conditions can amplify scent, making deer more likely to detect you. Cold, dry conditions tend to reduce scent dispersal.

What if the deer blows but doesn’t run away?

If a deer blows but doesn’t immediately run, it may be unsure of the threat or trying to pinpoint your location. In this situation, remaining still is crucial.

Should I try to rattle antlers after a deer blows?

No, rattling antlers after a deer blows is generally not a good idea. The sound of rattling antlers is likely to further spook the deer.

Is it better to hunt alone or with a partner in an area where deer are easily spooked?

Hunting alone is often preferable in areas where deer are easily spooked. The fewer people present, the less likely you are to make a mistake that alerts the deer.

How can I minimize my scent while hunting?

Use scent-free soap, detergent, and deodorant. Store your hunting clothes in an airtight container with scent wafers. Consider using a scent elimination spray.

Are some deer more likely to blow than others?

Yes, younger, less experienced deer are often more skittish and prone to blowing than older, more mature deer. Also, does with fawns tend to be more alert and quick to blow.

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