By Wayne Nichols
Below average conditions, above average hunting. Hunting season is in full swing across Florida and our weather has been as well. Hurricanes and thunderstorms have a huge impact on hunting down here. While we regularly get afternoon thunderstorms and rain showers here, a hurricane can be just the ticket for an outstanding hunt. Now I’m not saying run out and climb in a stand when it’s terrible weather… that’s just stupid (yes, I’ve done it). Our game here, such as hogs and deer, are accustomed to bad weather and usually just hunker down and wait out a storm. The conditions a hurricane brings are a lot different…here is a natural phenomenon that the game can’t get used to, hunting before and after these systems can give you a huge advantage. It’s no secret animals know when mother nature is about to get nasty, really nasty. This more often times than not, causes game to act in ways that they normally do not do. Huge pressure differences scare the hell out of game, much like most of us, however we can leave while they can’t. Everything changes during these systems such as feeding times, feeding areas, nocturnal habits become daytime habits, travel routes, pretty much everything they normally do gets reversed or increased. Having local knowledge of an area is a huge key in success normally. Knowing when and where game travels and feeds is essential in a successful hunt, more times than not. These huge systems cause game to get out earlier and more often the closer they get, giving you an edge. Feeders and food plots will see a big increase in activity on these storm fronts. Earlier feeding times and increased feeding during daylight hours; with this increase in feeding comes more opportunities for you. Game will frequent more open areas than normal as well, such as fields, farms, pastures, marshes, etc. Hunting a few days before and after these systems is your best time to take advantage of the situation. Game will be more focused on feeding than what’s going on around them during these times. A few years ago, we had a hunt during a hurricane; bow hunt, 4 hunters. We were on the edge of it with winds in the 40’s, light rain, and in no danger. With all the noise in the bedding area, deer were out on the edges in the open. Simple strategy, downwind and skirt the inside edge. Four stalks and four bucks on the ground, don’t overthink it. Keep your safety in mind and get in/out before conditions are dangerous, it’s not worth it. As always take a kid hunting or fishing anytime you get a chance, stay safe out there.
