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Hunting in the snow is one of the most effective and exciting ways to improve your chances of success in the field. Snow provides a unique opportunity to see what’s happening in the woods in real-time as it assists with tracking movements, identifying bedding and feeding areas, and narrowing down patterns you might otherwise miss. It’s not without its challenges, but with preparation and attention to detail, hunting in the snow can pay dividends not just during the hunt but throughout hunting seasons to come.
One of the biggest advantages of snow is the clarity it brings to tracking. A buck’s track is generally larger and wider than a doe’s, about the width of three fingers and the length of your palm. Does, by comparison, have narrower, shorter tracks, usually the width of two fingers. Pay attention to stride length and track depth, as heavier, older deer tend to leave deeper impressions, especially in softer snow. If you’re hunting on public land, a lone set of large tracks can be a clear indicator of a buck, while groups of tracks often belong to does.
Following tracks after fresh snowfall is one of the most valuable learning tools for a hunter. Look not only at where the tracks lead but also at the behavior they reveal. Are the tracks weaving and zigzagging through thick cover? That might indicate a bedding area nearby. Are they heading straight toward an open hillside or downwind of a patch of red oaks? That’s a strong clue the deer is feeding. Understanding these patterns can help you decide whether to set up near a bedding area before first light or intercept deer as they head to feed in the late afternoon. I find evening hunts especially productive in the late season, as deer are more active and visible when moving to their food sources.
Another thing to consider is aging tracks. Snow can make it easier to distinguish fresh tracks from older ones. Fresh tracks will have sharp edges, look clean, and might still show snow crystals where the hoof broke through. Older tracks become rounded and can start to fill in with wind-blown snow or melt slightly if temperatures rise. Learning to judge track age can save you from following a trail that’s already cold.
Hunting in the snow also requires gear that keeps you warm, dry, and mobile. Layers are key, and I always start with merino wool as a base layer. It’s lightweight, traps heat, wicks away sweat and retains warmth even if it gets damp. On top of that, I prefer thick fleece outer layers for insulation and wind resistance. Fleece is quieter than many other materials, which is especially important when everything is amplified by the silence of the snow-covered woods.
Footwear is another critical consideration. If you’re planning to hike a lot, insulated hunting boots offer good balance, traction, and warmth. For less mobile hunts, rubber boots are a better choice for keeping your feet dry when sitting for extended periods or walking through wet snow.
Accessories can make a big difference in comfort and efficiency. I always carry an electric hand warmer, which doubles as a phone charger. A lighter is another must-have, stored in a waterproof pouch for emergencies. Fogged optics are a common problem in the cold, so I pack an anti-fog lens cleaning kit for my scope and binoculars. These small details might not seem critical, but they can make or break your ability to focus on the hunt when the moment comes.
Pay close attention to feeding areas during late-season hunts. Acorns under red oaks are an excellent food source if they’re still available, and agricultural fields with leftover crops like corn or soybeans can also attract deer. Snow makes it easier to see where deer are digging or pawing for food, so scout these areas thoroughly. Once you find a high-traffic feeding zone, getting there a few hours before sundown can increase your odds of success. If you’re setting up near bedding areas, arrive well before dawn to avoid spooking the deer as they return.
Finally, hunting in the snow isn’t just about immediate results. It’s an incredible opportunity to gather information for future hunts. Take notes on what you observe—where the trails lead, which areas are most active, and what terrain features seem to concentrate deer movement. These details will help you understand the land better and prepare for other seasons when the snow isn’t there to guide you. The lessons you learn from hunting in the snow can help you become a more adaptable and successful hunter year-round.
--Outdoors Allie
