A shoulder shot on a deer is often considered a good shot placement, aiming for the heart and lungs. However, a well-placed shoulder shot doesn't guarantee a quick, clean kill. Understanding how to effectively follow a blood trail after a shoulder shot is crucial for ethical hunting and successful recovery. This guide will cover essential techniques and considerations for tracking a deer wounded in the shoulder.
Understanding the Blood Trail After a Shoulder Shot
The nature of the blood trail after a shoulder shot can vary greatly depending on several factors:
- Shot Placement: A perfect shot, directly through the heart and lungs, will result in a heavier, brighter blood trail than a marginal shot that grazes bone or only partially penetrates vital organs.
- Caliber and Bullet Type: Larger calibers and expanding bullets create more significant blood loss, leading to a more readily visible trail. Conversely, smaller calibers or bullets that pass cleanly through may result in a lighter trail.
- Deer's Physical Condition: A healthy deer will likely run farther and leave a less consistent trail than a weaker animal.
- Terrain: Thick brush, uneven ground, and rocky terrain can obscure the blood trail and make tracking more challenging.
Types of Blood:
- Bright Red, Frothy Blood: This indicates a lung hit and is usually a good sign.
- Dark Red, Thick Blood: Suggests a heart hit, potentially a slower bleed.
- Streaks of Blood: Can indicate a glancing blow or a shot that didn't penetrate deeply.
- Absence of Blood: This is a concerning sign, indicating a possible gut shot or a miss. Proceed with extreme caution.
Essential Tracking Techniques
Patience and a methodical approach are key when following a blood trail. Rushing can lead to losing the trail and potentially losing the animal.
1. Give the Deer Time:
Allow the deer a reasonable amount of time to expire before beginning your tracking. This typically ranges from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on the shot's effectiveness. Respecting this waiting period improves the likelihood of finding the deer.
2. Mark Your Entry Point:
Precisely mark your starting point. Using GPS coordinates or visible landmarks is crucial for retracing your steps if necessary.
3. Follow the Blood Trail Methodically:
- Start slowly: Begin by carefully examining the immediate area around your shot location.
- Look for blood signs: Focus on the ground, leaves, and vegetation for any signs of blood.
- Use your senses: Employ your sight, smell, and even your hearing to locate the trail (a dying deer might make sounds).
- Avoid jumping ahead: Don't anticipate where the deer might have gone; carefully follow the trail.
- Maintain a wide search pattern: Don't only focus directly on the trail. Scan areas to either side.
4. Utilize Tracking Aids:
- Tracking poles: These help to move vegetation and avoid missing blood drops.
- Gloves: Prevent contaminating the blood trail.
- Headlamp or flashlight: Essential for tracking in low-light conditions.
What to Do if You Lose the Trail
If you lose the blood trail, retrace your steps, widen your search area, and revisit your entry point. Consider the terrain and wind direction—the deer may have circled back or sought shelter.
Ethical Considerations
Ethical hunting involves making responsible decisions throughout the process. If you’ve made a marginal shot or are unsure about the deer’s location, it's best to seek the assistance of an experienced tracker. Leaving a wounded animal to suffer is unethical.
Conclusion
Tracking a deer after a shoulder shot requires patience, skill, and a methodical approach. By understanding the characteristics of a blood trail and employing effective tracking techniques, hunters can significantly increase their chances of a successful recovery and ensure ethical hunting practices. Remember, always prioritize the humane treatment of the animal.
