I talk to a lot of hunters throughout the U.S. and other countries as well. While talking to them it is interesting that even some of the best hunters I know still hold a firm belief of some common myths.


In this post I am going to talk about the top 10 myths and the actual truths behind these myths.






Myth #1: You don’t need to stay out on stand all day because deer rest during the day.


Truth: During the hunting season when deer are under the most pressure they are on the move all day long. Bucks especially are moving as they start getting into the rut.


Myth #2: The rut will only last a few days.


Truth: Does will come into estrous at different times. If a doe does not breed during this time, she will be ready again in about a month. This keeps the bucks active for quite some time.


Myth #3: A full moon means it will be a bad hunting day.


Truth: Scientific research has found that the second full moon after the fall equinox starts the rutting season in central and northern states.


Myth #4: Big bucks don’t walk in doe trails.


Truth: Big bucks will walk in doe trails during the rutting season.


Myth #5: Bucks will only bed in the thickest cover.


Truth: Bucks don’t only bed in thick cover but they will also bed in thin cover on hills and ridges where they can view approaching danger.


Myth #6: Big bucks will frequently roam in other territories.


Truth: Big bucks will usually stay in their home territory where it is safe. They will sometimes roam out of their area only during the rut.


Myth #7: Finding a lot of scrapes close together is an indication that there is a big buck around.


Truth: A lot of scrapes is usually a sign of a young buck showing off. Older bigger bucks will make larger scrapes, but not as many as the younger ones.


Myth #8: Bucks follow behind does to avoid danger.


Truth: A buck will walk behind a doe when she is in estrous.


Myth #9: If a deer is spooked, it will run for miles.


Truth: Although deer are very fast runners, they will usually only run a couple hundred yards when they are frightened.


Myth #10: You can tell the age of a buck by the size of it’s antlers.


Truth: Although they do get larger with age, it’s not an indication of age. The size of the antlers come from other factors such as genetics and food quality. The best way to age a deer is by the rings on the teeth.

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