[Double Lung 20]

I hunt some woods that don't have many water sources nearby. Last weekend, I found an area that was a low spot that had a little bit of water in it. There were deer tracks all through it. There was also a very old, but rather solid stump in the center of the location. I did not notice any minerals or other bait at the area, but how do I make sure I can hunt near this location? At first I thought it was a mineral site, but upon further inspection, I couldn't determine there was anything more than just muddy water. The stump also wasn't chewed or ripped apart.

 

[YankeeHunter]

I'd say if YOU feel comfortable with it, go ahead and hunt nearby. It's been pretty dry, so they may just be attracted to the water source.

If there is any doubts I would not, because other than digging up and removing any mineral laced soil, I am not sure how to get the site bait free.

Maybe someone else can clarify better as to how long a site would be considered to be baited after the mineral block has disolved into the ground.

 

[bloodhound]

how do I make sure I can hunt near this location?

Take me there and I will tell you if we can hunt it,

just kidding

I'd say it's up to you? Good luck and shoot straight

 

[Double Lung 20]

It's public property. I didn't see any signs of deer nearby but it was amazing the concentration at this water hole. I might hang a trail cam there or sit there an evening before the season. I would try to observe the deer to see if they are drinking the water or if they are licking and trying to consume something other than the water.

 

[bloodhound]

Cool
Get them pic's posted up ... Looking forward to seein the pics

 

[Woods walker]

Right now with the heat spell and little rain I wouldn't be surprised to see a lot of activity around a water hole. However that could all change with a change in the weather so I wouldn't make it my only stand choice.

 

[corey22]

What JohnS said. If there is no evidence that minerals were
poured there then it is safe to hunt there. Most likely it
is the water they are coming to now.

 

[Hiamovi]

If the water pool goes low would bringing in a few drums of water and filling it up be considered baiting?

 

[Woods walker]

No, but it would be a waste of time.

 

[Hiamovi]

Why is that John?Say a guy had rain barrels behind his house and quad with a trailer to haul them and it was still dry out.Would the animals seek a new water source when the pool gets too low?I know rain will come at some point and most likely cause flooding.Leaves are already falling from trees here most likely due to lack of rain.A few weeks ago the trees left sap on my customers cars from the leaves.

 

[Woods walker]

Once hunting season starts the deer's movements and habits will change, that along with the breaking of the dry spell we are now in will give them other sorces of water. I know they hunt water tanks out west but you are talking about no other water for very long distances, there is no such place in PA. I don't think the result will be worth the effort.

 

[Double Lung 20]

Right now with the heat spell and little rain I wouldn't be surprised to see a lot of activity around a water hole. However that could all change with a change in the weather so I wouldn't make it my only stand choice.

I agree. I have many stand choices, but I was going to give this a shot in the early season just because of the amount of deer sign present. There are also many oak trees near the watering hole which provide acorns. The water was so muddy that I can't believe the deer would be drawn to the location to drink it.

 

[Hiamovi]

Thank you John.You quelled my curiousity on the issue.A very good friend of mine was chosen for the title of WCO.I trust he will be as good as you.If he makes it through the class.I have no doubt in my mind he will.He is one of the most upstanding people I have met.Perhaps the reason he was chosen.