Outdoor Blog

What is a Game Trail?

Published

5 years ago

April 14, 2020

If you are new to the sport of hunting or you are only just starting to pip your interest in wildlife in general you may have come across the term game trail. In this piece, we will explain in detail as to what a game trail is. Answering questions such as what causes them and why they are there. Not only that but we will let you know what you can do after it’s discovery.

A game trail camera may be employed in order to monitor the activity upon the game trail to see what’s really going on along its tracks. If you want to improve upon your hunting abilities or even if you’re just curious about what’s going on in nature, then read ahead. You’ll find out what a game trail is and how to use a game trail camera to see what’s going on

When you’re on one of your regular walks through the forest, keep a sharp eye out for game trails.

What is a game trail?

The short answer to the question is that game trails are pathways and routes that are formed by animals treading on top of them. The hooves and feet overturn the ground underneath causing it to form a common path. Time and time again animals will walk over these routes which causes a permanent path to be formed. They walk over them so much that these routes are often part of an animal’s daily route.

Game trails circle around in various ways, sometimes linking up with other ones and sometimes petering out. They tend to link where an animal sleeps, their feeding grounds are, and where their watering holes are. They may use different trails depending on the season such as being closer to the lower ground than on a hillside in the wintertime. This is due to the snow on the higher ground driving herbivorous to where there are still spurts of grass growing.

Game trails do not only point out the directions that the animals go in but they also show us which species live in the area. Hooves from deer will leave a deep mark on the ground. Additionally, deer and other herbivores often travel in herds which means that more are walking on top of the same path which deepens the marks that they make upon it.

Carnivores such as bobcats, on the other hand, do not tend to travel in groups and tend to travel in solitude if they are not with their young. The exception to this is wolves who travel in large packs in search of their prey. Because predators tend to travel solo their trails are harder to pick out. Also, they are lighter than deer or moose so their feet don’t create as big an impact on the ground below. Paws also distribute their body weight more evenly than the hoof of a deer which digs into the ground churning the dirt up.

Why do animals use game trails?

When a deer runs through a game trail, they can do so at speed. This is because they have already cleared the way over the years. If they were to run through the thicket they risk tumbling and ignoring themselves when fleeing from prey. But when they are skipping along the same trail as they have hundreds of times before, their feet will find the spots where their hooves fit into place with natural ease. Therefore, game trails are also a thing of comfort for deer as it is their means to escape from danger.

How long can a game trail stay for?

If you live in an area that faces heavy snow in the winter, take a walk in the forest when it’s covered in a blanket of snow. Due to snow lying on an area for a few days you will soon be able to notice where the animals game trails are due to the snow making it obvious. It is particularly easier to spot the game trails of predators due to paw prints becoming a lot more apparent than they would be if there was no snow.

It can also be harder to spot game trails if you are in an area that is more prone to heavy rain. The rain creates mud which can wash away from the obviousness of the trail. However, this can also make it easy to pick up trails as there are prints left behind.

Overall though, game trails can last for generations. As long as deer keep following along a trail that works for them they will keep doing so and as will their young. As long as these trails link the deer between food and water sources then they shall continue to use it. Why change something that isn’t broken right?

You must also consider that many animals have much poorer vision or a different type of vision for humans. Also, they don’t tend to have the same type of instinct for exploring and are quite territorial. Thus, they are likely to stick to the same trails as they are used to and they know that it will take them to comfort and safety.

Remember to carefully examine the leaves on the ground to check to see if deer are treading across it.

How to spot a game trail

There is quite often a bit of confusion between what trail has been made by animals and what ones have been made by humans. Your first point of reference to decide who it was made by is to look at the rest of the ground. If there is not too much of a difference between the trail and the rest of the ground then it is more likely that an animal made it. A human trail greats more of a distinction due to the treading down from shoes and hiking boots.

You should also take a close look at the makeup of the trail. You will perhaps notice a ‘tramline’ running through the middle. If it is fairly wide then it is likely to be from a deer. Think about when you are walking. Your feet are not spread far apart thus the trail left behind by humans will be more central.

Pay particular attention to leaves and other debris on the path. If there are leaves stuck to the trail within the mud then it is more likely to be because deer are treading across it. This is because the hoof of the deer will push the leaf down into the mud and the mud will stick to the topside. The flat sole of a shoe shall not penetrate the leaves as deeply however.

What to do when you find a game trail

When you find yourself a suspected game trail you should start to think about installing a trail camera. A trail camera shall confirm to you whether or not it is a game trail by the passing of fauna over a set period of time.

Choose a discreet spot somewhere along the path. You must make sure that it is likely to be out with the deer’s direct line of vision. It is recommended to fasten your game camera to a tree or to a branch at around three feet high from the ground. This is approximately the shoulder height of deer and offers the best shots to tell you the size, sex, and health of the deer.

Make sure that there are no obstructions for your game camera when you’re installing it. If there are any branches or bushes within the game camera’s line of vision then these could set off the motion sensor when the wind blows. Your game camera should also be positioned so that it gets a clear view of the trail so that it will have at least a few seconds to get some snaps. For example, if it is facing sideways with a low field of vision you are only likely to get some brief, blurry snaps that only show part of the deer.

You should also face it in a direction where the sunlight won’t affect it as much. The majority of the sun’s brightest glare comes at sunrise and at sunset, so make sure that your trail camera is not facing east or west. Depending on the location and general brightness of the area you are in you should consider whether or not you should face your camera to the south. This is the sun’s peak position throughout the day so if it is in a clear area and the sky doesn’t tend to be cloudy and overcast then perhaps it is best to face your camera to the north. This means that the light is coming in from behind and it will minimize the amount of glare on your trail cameras footage.

Also, take the general terrain into consideration. If it is in a heavily wooded area with limited light this can often be an ideal spot for your game camera. If it is dark then an infrared camera is one of the recommended ones to get the job done. These best sellers have no glow infrared, low glow infrared, or a gentle red light, none of which deer can see on their color spectrum. When the infrared flash goes off you will get a clear photo when the light is lacking or if it is a night shot.

What to do once you have set a camera by the game trail

You must also be tactful when it comes to checking on your game trail camera. If you visit it too often then it could perhaps ward the deer and other wild animals away from the trail if your scent becomes apparent and there is too much general activity. Deer can smell your scent from around half a mile away. So even if you don’t see any when you are checking on your camera you can expect that there is one further up the trail that knows you’re there.

One of the other things you should not do is to visit your game camera on consecutive days. A deer can hear your car door shut and can hear you trekking through the thicket. If you do that the next day the deer shall remember you and know to stay clear of the area for the next while. We understand that when you find a suspected game trail you want to know for sure that it is one, but being patient shall always yield better results.

Ideally, you should only pay a visit to your hunting camera once around every three or four weeks. The less the better. The only things that you should be checking it for is to take your memory card out of the SD card reader to check for results and to change the battery when it’s required.

One tip that we have so you don’t have to change the battery too often is to only use the recommended lithium batteries for your trail camera. If you opt for the cheaper alkaline batteries then the picture quality of your will often gradually diminish. With lithium batteries the power it takes to create the megapixels for the shot will stay consistent until the battery fully loses its power. This should last for many months and there should always be a constant 1.7 volts running through your hunting camera.

We know that many of you will have itchy feet to find out what walks down the game trail that you’ve come across. One way of knowing pretty soon without having to physically check on it is by investing in a cellular trail camera. These have a SIM card installed within them and when a photograph is taken of the game trail it will send the photo directly to your smartphone. Although this is an expensive option it means that you don’t need to visit your wildlife camera as often and thus you don’t disturb the game trail as much.

After you do the first check of your camera’s SD card you’ll soon know whether or not you’ve been successful in discovering a game trail. Deer and other critters tend to use the same trails on a routine basis, sometimes even every day and night. After a few months of espionage on the trail, you’ll soon be able to figure out roughly how many deer use it, how often they pass along it, and at what time they do it. With this information, you can begin to carefully plan how you will go about getting the kill that you want.

You can also pinpoint if there are any particular animals you want to go for. Maybe there’s an old buck that keeps passing by that’s long done his time and is no longer an essential member of the circle of life. These are great ones to target, and a 12 pointer shall look great when you place it’s antlers up in your trophy room. With careful management of your trail camera, you can turn this discovery of a game trail into a whole summer – and even longer – of fun.

Carefully researching a game trail before the hunting season starts can land you with a big buck.

Final Verdict:

Coming across a suspected game trail is a very exciting prospect. You want to find the routes that the deer and other wildlife love to roam in order for you to be on top when the hunting season opens. When you discover what you think is a game trail, first of all don’t tell anyone. You don’t want people to be walking near it or along it as this may scare away all of the deer.

Worse still you want to make sure that you’re the only hunter that knows about it. There would be nothing worse than finally getting to the day that you set out to get that big buck only to find out that it has vanished and that someone else has beaten you to the kill. The best game trails are the ones that nobody else knows about. You can have years of fun hunting along your favorite hunting grounds. Be sure to not overdo it though – you’re going to need some deer for the future seasons!

Remember to keep in mind how to make sure not to spook the deer on the trail. Infrared cameras should not spook them as they will never notice the flash when the camera goes off at night. Also be wary of approaching your camera to check on the memory card too often. The last thing you want to do to the game trail that you’ve invested so much time into is for the deer to be scared away from it.

Bonus tip: Here’s a quick video of a well set up hunting camera on a game trail. This is what you can expect if you set everything up just right!

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

3 months ago

September 25, 2024

Caleb Cole

Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

4 months ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

6 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.