Using a Ground Blind on 5C doe hunt??
Pennsylvania
Contributors to this thread:
I am planning on taking my son with me to the UBP 5C hunt this year. We are becoming new members of the UBP so we have never been there before. Since we are both still new to hunting I was wanting to use a ground blind. What do you guys think? I was going to bring it up with me on the first day, set it up and hunt. Of course I would camo the blind with brances, leaves, ect... My son is only 8 so he definitely will not be going up a tree stand on his own. The other alternative would be to get a 2-person tree stand. With a tree stand though I don't know how good he would do sitting in one all day long. Where as with a ground blind we can be more comfortable and he could take a nap or use his game w/o getting seen or heard.
Overall I just think it would be more enjoyable for my son then anything. What are your guys thoughts on this?? I really would like to get our first deer at this UBP hunt if given the chance but more then anything I want my son to have a great time.
Thanks in advance, Chris
That would work fine. Several folks used ground blinds last year.
Awesome! Thanks for letting me know. Were any successful though??
Most people I have talked to about a blind have said the same thing as you stick n string. It's just I want my son to have a good experience. I don't think he will be able to pull 35lbs. on his bow by hunting season this year so I think he would enjoy a blind much more. Now by next year he could be ready and I would get a tree stand in the spring and practice using it with him. Right now I just want to focus on shooting my girl as much as possible.
Chris, blinds really are the best way to go for kids that age. Bring a comfortable chair for him. The type my son likes are the foldable stadium chairs with the arm rests. You might even consider bringing a sleeping bag or something thick like that to take a nap on the ground if he prefers.........All day is a long time, so play it by ear.
Deer reaction to blinds varies. If your going to do a same day set the best chance your going to have is to back against cover, if not actually in cover and then brush it in. Pile dirt and leaves against the bottom of the blind(on the inside) on all four sides against the gaps between the blind and the ground. Close the windows directly behind you two and leave the fronts as well as some peripheries open. You will be seen if the windows behind you are open. Wear dark clothes and don't worry if they're camo, it's irrelevant. Best of luck. :)
All day is forever to an 8 year old, especially stuck in one spot. Their patience varies and you know your child better than anyone, but if he's not ready for an all day sit, consider a mid day break for him. I've never been to one of those hunts, but I'm sure some folks meet back at camp for lunch to relax, shoot, and share experiences.
Chris- several of the hunters use ground blinds at 5C every year and are successful. A few spots you actually need to use a blind as the trees are too small to use a treestand. Dan will work with you to put you in a spot that is suitable for a blind if that is your preference.
Usually early in the season like that, the deer mostly move in the early morning and late afternoon/evening, so everybody meets back at camp to see how the morning hunt went, share info and discuss strategy for the evening hunts. Also, we will probably be doing more bowfishing at mid-day this year after all the fun we had last year! :)
I think you and your son will have a great time!
Oh, and I agree- a blind is definitely the way to go with an 8 y/o!
I'll be the oddball and say that I don't think a blind is best way to start an 8 year old.In fact,I don't think bowhunting period is the way to start an 8 year old.I feel that bowhunting is something that they should gradulate into but that's just me.
Doug, I think it's all in the attitude. If you take the youngin' and emphasize the sights and sounds you see and explain what is going on and point things out to them and not emphasize the shot or the kill as being the most important thing, i think the blind is the way to go. It allows you to talk to them softly and you can get away with movement that you could not if you were out in the open. It also allows them to read or play a video game during those "lull" periods.
I think starting any child at any age on any type of hunting is a good idea. I believe if they start, like Rut said, appreciating the experience and not just the kill they will soak in all that's presented to them. Sure, they'll get bored at times but they'll still learn.
I started in the woods at 8 with my grandfather training beagles. By the time I was 10 he was taking me along hunting and I would carry my toy pump shotgun. He taught me how to catch bees to find bee trees. Took me fishing on all-day outings.
There were times I wanted to go home and sometimes we did leave early but learning to enjoy and appreciate that time helped me tremendously.
dougell, why do you think a blind is not "the best way" to start an 8yr old? I know too many folks who have done just that, myself included, with great success. Have you started many 8yr old kids another way? And what does "gradulate in to" mean? Sorry for all the questions, but I have no idea where your going with this.
Roger,I almost didn't want to post on this because people get insulted easily and my views are not meant as a slight to the way anyone hunts or how they teach their kids.
I have a son that started to hunt two years ago as a 7 year old and I started him without the use of a blind and he's been successful with both deer and gobblers every year.We don't use blind,decoys,shooting houses or foodplots
Again,don't take any of this as an insult because that's not my intention.I'm bull headed and opinionated about hunting and kids but I don't look down on how anyone else does it.I just have my own views.First,I think way too many people are focused on success rather than just the experience and learning process.Kids learn by blowing opportunities.Second,I also think people don't give kids enough credit for being able to shoot,sit still be alert and just plain get why they're out there.
I started out by just teaching my son to have an appreciation for just being out in the woods.That started when he was able to walk.As soon as he was able to shoot,he started with both a gun and a bow.Prior to letting him shoot at any live animal,I had him shoot literaly thousands of rounds of rimfire and several hundred rounds of centerfire at deer targets and from field positions.He shoots his bow almost daily and shoots a rifle at least three times a week when the weather is decent.When we hunt I don't use a blind and here's why.Sitting in one spot for hours on end can be boring for a kid that doesn't understand how animals move.I'ma still hunter and that's what we do 90% of the time.There's so much to teach a kid when you're on the move that they can't be bored and so much more happens.They learn to read the wind,sign and use the terrain to their advantage.When we hunt,he carries a bipod that he can shoot standing up with if need be and I carry his rifle.When we see a deer,I just hand him the rifle and he shoots it.I won't brag about his success but he's tagged out every in an areas with what most would consider an area with no deer.When he was seven,I was a little more hands on but he still killed two bedded deer that year.Last year,I really didn't assist him in anyway.He saw every deer before I did and waited for the shot he wanted.We do sit at times but there's very little pressure where we hunt and I have better success moving.We don't see a lot of deer either.Most days we see anywhere from 1-5 in an entire day.He's never been programmed to see more than that and he's been taught about the habitat,what deer eat,what they don't and what it means if they're eating stuff that they really shouldn't be eating.It's tough to teach a kid that when they're playing flappy bird in a blind.He's had a pile of missed opportunities,passed on many shots he didn't feel comfortable with but realizes with time and patience,it will come together.He wanted to hunt during archery season this coming year in the worst way but he's not shooting enough KE so I bought him a crossbow,which was against my better judgment.He's been doing well during turkey season,learning patience and I feel he's ready to sit in a stand for several hours this year.Two yerars ago,it would have bored.Being a successful bowhunters takes a different mindset and a different set of skill.I didn't think he was ready for that two years ago but I have no doubt that he's ready now.That's what I mean by graduating into it.He's seen enough dressed deer to understand anatomy,experienced good hits and poor hits with a rifle and goes to enough 3-d shoots to understand shot placement.I just feel bowhunting takes a different set of skills and experience and it should be earned.Again,just my perspective.
I take this journey with my son pretty serious.It's a year long obsession and we have a blast preparing year round.Each year that passes,I'm amazed at what he's able to do.This past year I was shocked and to be honest,if it were legal,he'd be carrying his own gun and I wouldn't be afraid to let him post on his own while I went around to do some quick drives for him.
We hunted two days this year in spring gobbler season and we were just running and gunning.He killed a bird the first morning of the youth season and we got another one this past saturday.Both times we got pinned down and he had to sit motionless for over 45 minutes.Last year I wouldn't have believed we could pull it off but now,I have as much confidence in him as I do most adults.
That's just my perspective Roger and it's not meant to degrade the way anyone else hunts.My son is a normal 8 year old that doesn't possess any special skills or abilities.We just spend a pile of time preparing in the off season and fun doing it.
Parry,I think it's more than just that.Kids,at least in my case seem to get way more satisfaction and drive if they're the one's that put most of the work in,learn to understand the animals they're after and miss a few opportunities before they get to tie their tag on an animal.If you really think about it,most of us love hunting because it's a year long mission.Making the shot is antoclimatic.
Doug everything you said I understand and do agree he would enjoy that way of hunting. The problem for me is that I don't have all that knowledge you have. I never had a dad to take me hunting or anyone so I am still very new to all this. Not that you had anyone teach you but from the things you've said I can tell you are an extremely knowledgeable hunter. I have been researching online as much as I can but I know the real knowledge is gained out there in the woods. This will be my 2nd time hunting, first was the hog hunt which is no comparison to deer hunting as I'm told. I was planning on going to the 5C hunt to meet some guys and hopefully learn from them too. I will be the one behind the bow this time. But I do plan on taking him out for rifle season after the 5C hunt and I thought the 5C hunt would be a good place to get him out in the woods and start learning about nature together. I suppose we could just roam around the area and hunt that way you suggested. I honestly don't expect to get a deer my first time and I refuse to take a bad shot and if it's a good way for my son and I to learn I would do it.
The same way I don't want to rush my son I don't want to rush myself either. I want to learn all those things you mentioned like reading the wind, how to tell signs of deer were in the area, using terrain, ect... maybe even do a little stalk hunting and blind hunting both? I try to take what you guys tell me and learn from it. I would rather take my time and learn the right way and become a great Hunter then just run out there and be an ok Hunter. I am hoping my son and I will be hunting for years to come and I know I'm not going to learning everything this season. I hope to meet some other great huntes like you guys that would be interested in hunting with a new Hunter like myself.
dougell, this is a picture of the deer my son took in Flintlock season this year and he also killed one last year with the muzzleloader......He's just 13 and didn't shoot either from a blind. Both were killed on public access property. No one said you must always use a blind once you've hunted from one and no one ever said you can't learn woodsmanship if you've ever hunted from a blind. Likewise, no one's going to take offense by your hunting methods. A few years ago when I killed a spring gobbler with a vintage recurve and without the aid of a blind, the guys here got the biggest kick out of the story - NO ONE took offense. Likewise, no one took offense when I shared my experiences of shooting them out of blinds, in the past. Being opened minded goes a long, long way in life.......Just saying, friend. :)
Chris, back to the question at hand.
I have an orchard that went completely unhunted last year at 5C. The place is polluted with deer, and I'm sure your son will have a great time there. I believe we will also have a vineyard, that the landowner expressed interest in us thinning the herd.
Sometimes around here, you ask a simple question, and you get anything but a simple answer. Just come to the event. Your son will leave there with more memories than you could imagine. And you will build friendships, like we all have, that will last your lifetime.
We will start an official 5C thread sometime around July. Stay tuned....
Roger,I never said there isn't a place for blinds,even though I wouldn't use one.I'm simply stating that I don't feel they're "the best" way to start a kid hunting.I know quite a few guys that thought a kid needed a blind and the kids really never stuck it out because they were bored.The parents usually blame it on a lack of deer but the reality is,hunting is fun and being in the woods is fun if you develop that appreciation early on.People focus way too much on the kids having to have success early and often.I feel that's the wrong way to look at raising kids in general.
I'm not directing any of this at you or how you mentored your son because you've obviously done well.However,I constantly read that you should put a blind over a foodplot and stick your kid in there with a game of some sort.To me that's the exact opposite of what you should be doing.A few years ago,I took my daughter to a youth field day and a guy was giving a short seminar on mentoring kids.That exactly what he said to do.Put a blind up and give the kid an ipod.
Deer hunting can be boring if you simply sit there all day looking out a little window,it's hard for a kid to stay focused.For that reason,I really don't think archery hunting is the best way to start most kids in the outdoors.Again,just my view on things.
Chris,you just need to take it slow,learn everything you can and have fun without putting pressure on you or your son.You'll make mistakes,miss some opportunities but it will be a great feeling when it all comes together.The important thing is that you're taking the time to learn with your son.I know nothing about 5C but if I were you,I'd try to make some contacts and get permission to hunt some places.Take your son with you and make each scouting trip an adventure.Your son will be glad just to spend time with you and be included.As soon as I find a box that bow will fit in,I'll ship it out to you.
If I were you,I'd also pick up a cheap inline.You can move around more and hunt during the fall when the weather isn't as much of an issue.
What Bowjo said. Get there and LOTS of people are gonna help you, and drop whatever they are doing to help your son. Simple as that.
I've never been to the 5C hunt, but I can imagine the campfire discussions that will aid your and your son's growth in the sport. I bet if you asked, you might even find someone willing to let you and your son tag along with them in the woods.
Whatever method you choose, it'll be a great time. Maybe a mixed method is in order, like still hunting throughout the day between natural blinds where there's enough concealment to diddle an iPod? You'll both gain something by walking, as well as by sitting quietly. Best of luck, whatever you decide. If you're ever in western PA during the season, I'll gladly share what I know while in the woods.
Alan- you make a good point. There is plenty of time to talk with other hunters and share experiences and pick up some tips. One of the nice things about the 5C hunt is everyone is willing to share info and pointers and tips. Everyone wants to see everyone succeed and especially so the less experienced and kids. I believe we have had a few first deer taken at 5C. Always great to see that!
Slopole- appreciate the advice doing both seems like a good route to go. I also appreciate your offer in regards to teaching me what you know. Once I get more prepared and it gets closer to hunting season I'll have a better idea of how much time I'll have. I've saved most of my vacation time for hunting this year. Hoping to get out at much as possible depending on where I am able to go hunting. The 5C hunt I already took the 4 days off for. I would enjoy going out west and hunting with you.
I am not as concerned with actually getting a deer as I am with learning how to hunt. Getting out there in the woods seems to be the best way, if I am lucky enough to get a deer that would be great but just getting out there and learning is awesome especially with my son.
Chris spend some time at the campout in Aug. You and your son will never forget it.
Chris, I've had deer in range and relaxed using a blind at the 5C doe hunt. I did not have the angle I wanted and had one deer behind another, but blinds can work. Deer are often, but not always skittish around a new blind. However, I've also had them "investigate" a blind and walk well into range, and as noted above most of them are younger deer, including bucks, which of course is not an option at 5C.
I think a blind is ideal the for an 8 year old as it allows movement, naps, soft conversation, and more. We (my family) have had some success with two person ladder stands, but most of them are a little low in elevation. I'd use the blind in this case.
Also, depending upon where you live and the arrangements Dan and Joe have made with landowners, setting up the blind a few days or so early may be an option. That would be Joe's decision.
Look forward to seeing you there.
Chris,that bow should be at your house today.I'd take it and your son to a pro shop and let them adjust the draw length.It has a wide range of adjustment and it's easy to do.Otherwise,it should be ready to go.I hope you both enjoy the journey.
Hey Doug I can't thank you enough. It actually worked out perfect, I have off today and tomorrow. He's at school now I can't wait to see the look on his face when he comes home to a new bow! He's going to be so excited now that he has a good bow and not just a little beginner one. Again if you or your son ever need anything please don't hesitate to ask. I'll be sure to post some pics of him with the new bow thanks!
No problem Chris.I hope your son get's the fever for the outdoors.There is nothing in the world like sharing the woods with an enthusiastic kid.I actually feel bad for people that never get a chance to experience it.
My son turns nine this month and asked for a gun safe for his birthday.It brought a tear to my eye lol.
Chris- I look forward to seeing some pics!
Doug- nice job! :)
This is awesome.......best anything to happen here in a very long time.
Get him shooting and if you have the time,try and take him to either the Potter county bow festival or the Forksville bow festival at the end of the summer.Either one would be an awesome time.I promise you'll both have a blast.My daughter runs in Rodeos so I've missed the last few years at both places.This year,I'm gonna make it a priority to free up one of those weekends.It's tough juggling two different kids that do different things.
At least your kid's are doing things, in to activities, that is cool.
I can relate Doug! Daughter is in swimming and son is in a bowling league. Always driving somewhere! ;-)
It never ends and the older I get,the more I realize how much I'm past my prime lol.We go from baseball to football to wresting and I'm married to a herd of horses.Hunting always has been and still is a priority.Trying to steal a few hours here and there each week to prepare and to actually hunt is a challenge.My wife doesn't work but still puts about 20k miles on her jeep running kids around.They're only young once and your only cool for so long so I won't miss a minute of it right now.All that other stuff is fun but when you're in the woods,your focus changes and there's no distractions.Sharing that with a kid is the best thing in the entire world.Seeing them have success is great but seeing them appreciate just being out there is what it's all about.
Rut', I can relate; we have one who's a classic ballet dancer and has been studying since the age of 3(she's 15 now) and Junior will test for his black belt Taekwondo late this year........Of course, his first love is hunting and fishing with dad 'though. :) I would not trade any of it "for the world" as they say. The only regret me and the wife have is that we didn't have more kids.
Well said guys- wouldn;t trade it for anything! And makes the quiet time sittin' in the woods even more special.