The Michigan Deer Hunter’s Guide to Finding Your Ideal Hunting Property
As a fellow hunter, this is the time of year where I start looking at land and dreaming about the hunting potential while I’m planning my hunts! Michigan is renowned for deer hunting and a lot of our team are avid hunters, so we know what to look for when helping you find the perfect piece of land. These are a few of the things we look for and consider when searching for hunting property.
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Prime Deer Habitat:
For a successful deer hunt, it’s all about location. Here’s what to consider:
- Deer Populations: Research the region’s deer populations, hunting success rates, and historical data. A healthy deer population is a good sign.
- Food Sources: Seek properties with abundant food sources like oak stands, agricultural fields, and places for potential food plots. Deer need to eat, and you want them close by.
- Cover and Bedding Areas: Dense woods, thickets, and swamps provide ideal cover for deer. These areas often serve as bedding spots during the day.
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Water and Travel Routes:
Deer need water, and they follow specific travel routes. Properties near freshwater sources, streams, or rivers are prime pieces of land. Additionally, deer trails and corridors that deer use to move between feeding and bedding areas create streams of deer traffic on property
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Topography and Stand Locations:
The terrain plays a significant role in deer hunting. Think about:
- Elevation: Higher elevations can offer better visibility and scent dispersion. Some hunters prefer elevated positions for their stands.
- Natural Funnels: Terrain features like ridges, valleys, and saddles can create natural funnels where deer travel, making them prime stand locations.
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Access and Infrastructure:
Accessibility matters. Check for existing trails, roads, or paths for getting to your stands, moving equipment, and game retrieval. A property with well-maintained access can save you time and effort.
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Land Size and Shape:
Consider the property’s size and shape. Larger tracts often provide more flexibility for stand placement and scouting, but irregularly shaped parcels can limit your options.
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Neighbors and Community:
A cooperative and supportive community can be a significant asset. Neighbors who share your passion for deer hunting can provide valuable insights and camaraderie. Also proximity to state or county hunting land can have a huge advantage giving you access to even greater areas to hunt.
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Future Potential:
Think about the long-term. If you’re interested in habitat management or improving the property for deer hunting, consider factors like timber quality and mineral rights. Don’t forget to think about other amenities for the future as well. Basic utilities like electricity, water, and sewage should be part of your consideration, especially if you plan to build a cabin or hunting lodge on the property.
Finding the perfect hunting property requires careful consideration. Working with a real estate agent that is passionate about and knows hunting, will help you secure your deer hunting paradise in the heart of the Midwest. Together, we’ll track down the perfect place for your hunting dreams to come true. Contact me to get started!
