Bowhunters dream of tagging a buck on opening day, but rarely think about what that means if it actually happens. In reality, if you live in a one-buck state, it can mean missing out on the rest of the season. Particularly the rut! And nobody wants that.
So what do you do? You tagged out early. Now what?Â
Rest easy, we’ve got you covered with some great ideas to help get you through the season, or extend your deer season, to maximize your opportunities this year.Â
Here’s a quick guide on what to do if you tag out early this season.Â
Hunt Another State
Depending on where you live, hunting a bordering state can be a simple option to get you onto some fresh hunting ground and an additional deer tag in your pocket. Yes, non-resident license fees continue to climb in many states, but you honestly can’t put a price on a great hunt, right?Â
Some states are obviously more affordable than others, and you might be surprised at the abundance of public land opportunities for the non-resident hunter that knows where to look.Â
Earn a Buck / CWD Bonus Buck
Do a little digging to see what opportunities lie within your home state for bonus buck opportunities. A number of states give hunters the chance to earn a buck by helping reduce the doe population. These buck tags are in addition to your standard annual buck tag.Â
Some states even allow you to earn a buck when you have your deer, buck or doe, tested for CWD. That’s a pretty good deal, and a great way to turn a few harvested does into an additional buck tag each year.Â
Hunt for Does / Fill the Freezer
When additional buck tags are not an option, you can likely still find satisfaction in the opportunity to shoot does somewhere across the state. In fact, many state wildlife officials are begging hunters to shoot more does to help tip the buck to doe ratios in a more favorable direction.Â
Now is a great time to fill the freezer without worry of blowing an opportunity at a buck. And stress-free bowhunting for does can honestly produce some of the most fun you’ll have all season – as well as a freezer full of meat.Â
Shoot does for your family, friends, neighbors, and the little old lady at church, too. There’s always somebody that can benefit from the meat, and you’ll have a blast helping making it happen.Â
Mentor a New Hunter
Want to get back to your roots this season? There’s no better way to stoke the fire than helping a new hunter establish their roots as a hunter. Regardless of the age, there are countless men, women, boys and girls that are eager to try their hand at hunting, yet simply don’t have a mentor to lead them.Â
All hunters should make it a goal each season to mentor a new hunter. And if you’ve got your deer tagged punched, this is the perfect time to make it happen. You’ll be surprised at the excitement you’ll find within yourself, as well as the new hunter, when you pass on the knowledge and wisdom you have to the next generation of hunters.Â
Film a Friend's Hunt
Another great way to add a new and exciting element to the hunt each year is to put a video camera in the mix. When your tags are all punched, take the time to film a friend on their next hunt.Â
The camera can be a blessing, or curse, to most any hunt. It’ll make a you a better hunter and you’ll have some great memories captured for a lifetime to look back on in the years to come.Â
Hunt Other Animals
Granted, there’s nothing better than bowhunting, but now is a great time to look into additional hunting opportunities across the state. Waterfowl, upland bird, squirrel hunting, or a rabbit hunt with dogs can all be a great way to help you stay in the woods long after your deer tag is punched.Â
In fact, many of these opportunities are best later in the season, when deer hunting can be a feast or famine venture. Take the time to look into hunting other species within your state. Who knows? You just might find your new favorite hunt.Â
Chores, Family and Football
Be careful! When your spouse finds out your tag is notched, they just might put you back to work on chores around the house. Chances are they need to be done, and this is the perfect time to knock them out.
Get caught up on all the projects you neglected before the season kicked off. Spend more time with your family! That’s something we all need to do better. And let’s be honest, hanging out with family while you’re knocking out chores or watching football can be pretty fun, too.
What about you? What’s your go-to plan when you tag out early?
Comment below, and let us know.
