Big Buck Patterns

[dcamacho13]

So far this year, I have taken an 8 pointer during the bow season and a doe this gun season (Illinois). This is the first year that I have filled the freezer early, and I have one gun permit left for a potential trophy.

I have some pics of two really nice bucks a week ago. They walked by during last shooting light from some CRP property that is separated by a creek with High grass and no hunting pressure. Fortunately, they have survived the first gun season (my buddy works at the processing plant in town). I have not yet harvested a trophy like these guys and I want to do everything in my power to at least get a shooting chance. Here are my questions:

1) How much are bucks dedicated to taking the same exact pattern of movement?
2) How long does it take them to come around full circle?
3) Should I place a stand in close proximity to the desired trail or should I give myself room (about 50-75 yards) just in case they switch paths?

I will have 4 days to hunt the Illinois second gun season. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Here are the pics that are making me lose sleep...

[dcamacho13]

Another question: do I focus on the stand that the deer have crossed under, or do I get a little aggressive and put a stand on the CRP property?

[dcamacho13]

Has anyone had experience hunting midday during gun season? I figure it wouldn't be too bad considering people are leaving their stands and spooking deer all over the place.

[ironhead]

Well,,,you have some great questions,,but need more information and opinions will vary. What stage of rut are they in??? When you got pictures were they with does?? How much hunting pressure have they seen??

During the rut,,the primary drive is reproduction for them,,they will do what it takes and do some things they would not normally do. Breeding takes preceidence over all other needs for that short time. There has been documented times of deer moving miles to breed.

Immediately after rut,,they will eat and rest in a safe unmolested area if they have one.

Bucks have a pretty small list of requirements that will keep them in an area,,,untill pressured.
BREEDING, Security, Dominance, Food,water,bedding,shelter.

[ironhead]

Hunting during the mid-day can be awesome, particularly during the rut. The two biggest deer (140 and 160 classes) i have taken have been later in the mornings,,say 1030-1130 am. I hunt travel paths and natural funnels primarily, i do hunt nearly all day. To get them, you have to be there.