When the long summer days come to an end and fall approaches, many hunting enthusiasts began eagerly preparing for white tailed-deer hunting season.  This medium-sized deer is native to the United States, among other places.  The deer are absent from much of the western United States, however they can be found in places like the southern region of Missouri and Arkansas Ozark mountains.  These areas offer a wide range of hunting conditions for the white-tailed deer.  Some of the counties in Missouri have as much as 85 percent of wooded areas. The surroundings make for great hunting.

No matter where you decide to go hunting, it is extremely important that you get familiar with the area.  If you thoroughly scout out the terrain prior to hunting, you will have a much greater chance of success.  This is also the safest route to go.  It will help to know the area, In the event of an emergency.   Before you leave for your hunting trip, make sure you have a detailed topographic map of the area you’ll be hunting in.  Keep it with you at all times.

When it comes to your selection of firearm, the regulations allow for a wide range of choices.  It is legal to use a variety of weapons, including shotgun slugs, rifles or handguns that fire only centerfire ammunition.  It has been said that the best deer rifle is the one that any given hunter is able to shoot best.  That means, when selecting a hunting weapon, it is necessary to take into account the size, weight and experience of the hunter.  All these things have a bearing on how the hunter will handle the weapon. 

One option for hunting white-tailed deer is a.30 caliber rifle.  It is believed to have killed more deer than any other cartridge in the United States.  In recent years, however, other cartridges have been found to shoot accurately and easier, due to the lighter recoil.  Most rifles will typically include an open sight as a standard piece of equipment.  Beginners, however, are encouraged to use a peep or telescopic sight instead.  Whatever firearm you select, be sure to test it before the big hunting trip.  You should become thoroughly acquainted with the specific handling characteristics of the firearm you will be using.

During firearms deer hunting season, regulations require all hunters to wear a fluorescent colored hunter orange hat, shirt and vest (or coat).  This highly visible outfit is an important safety precaution.  Comfortable clothing is necessary, along with a good pair of insulated rubber boots for walking over rough terrain.   Due to abrupt weather changes, it is best to dress in layers.  This way you can stay warm when it’s cold and simply remove outer garments when the weather warms up.  It is also a good ideal to have a raincoat or poncho in case of rainy weather.

Hunters should also carry binoculars and a basic survival kit containing a rope, a knife, a compass, a flashlight, water, first aid supplies, an emergency shelter and waterproof matches.  Other useful items include materials specifically needed for field dressing a deer, like latex or rubber gloves, a strong plastic bag and a piece of cheesecloth.  The gloves will protect your hands when field dressing your deer and the plastic bag will provide a sanitary container for the heart and liver.  You can use the cheesecloth to protect the body cavity from insects in warm weather.  

Remember that being prepared for your hunting trip can mean the difference in how successful you are.  Whenever possible, do advance scouting of the area before the season starts.  Be alert to deer tracks and droppings.  Look for signs of plant browsing and antler rubbing on small trees.  Keep in mind that although advance scouting provides a big advantage, deer may sometimes change their location.  This happens as the acorns they love to eat begin to drop or depending on when breeding season begins.  Even still, there is no better way to succeed at white-tailed deer hunting than making the necessary preparations for your hunting trip.