Sage vs Forest

[Muleyfanatic]

LAST EDITED ON Sep-24-13 AT 09:17AM (MST)[p]Just wondering what all you guys thought about hunting in sage vs thick forest and when they are right next to eachother? Where do you guys tend to find the most deer?

 

[mmwb]

Both provide cover. Browse will be a factor. I like to hunt the edges where different habitats come together. Sage/pines, pine/aspen, sage/ aspen, etc... A lot of that thick timber has small open patches with good browse, negating the need for a buck to expose himself.

 

[Zeke]

"Edge" is the word.
Mule deer are creatures of edge country. A mix of forest and sage would generally mean great mule deer country. Glass the edges early and late and you'll find deer.

Disclaimer: there are always exceptions to this rule.

Zeke

 

[lone_hunter]

I agree with Zeke, that edge is the key. However, it seems that over the last several years I see more deer more taking up residence in the sage especially when the pressure is on. Don't overlook sage areas. It can be tough as they hold up tight, and let you walk past them. If you see one deer there are likely others nearby. My 2 cents.

 

[littlebighorn]

+1 to Lone Hunter

While edges are great glassing areas early and late, I have for the past several years watched BIG bucks go right out in the middle of a sage hill and plop down. They will sometimes stay there all day and sleep. Believe it or not, thick sage can be cool under cover on a hot day so don't overlook it. Deer are almost impossible to see when bedded in thick sage, so look for an antler tip. If you find one with a steady wind, you can almost always get close, but don't overlook other bucks near by!
Good luck