Food Plot Newbie

I think I have buck fever… I’ve been beating my head against the wall all week thinking about food plots. I hunt my brothers 600 acre farm near Spooner. I have a spot I’m considering making into a food plot. It was clear cut about 10 years ago and is full of deer. It was great in years past because you could see forever yet it was thick enough to make the deer feel secure. Now it has grow up and is taller than my stand which leaves me with little visibility. A honey hole in the middle of the brush is my plan.
I though of the dozer idea but I would like to keep it cheep(er). My plan is to use a chainsaw and wack out an area and start a plot. The trees and brush are easily managable as far a cutting and moving. Is this a worth while plan? I hope to not kill myself doing it by keeping it small and expand it some every year. I was a horticulture major in college and grew up on a farm so I have a little understanding of this subject. I guess I’m just looking for some input on what you guys think. This plot will be used for archery and for rifle hunting. I’ve done the bait station hunt and left me looking for something more. I read every post under food plots today and I’m looking for more. Any info helps, thanks guys.

Steve

Definitely worth it ! Sounds like you have a killing spot in the makings ! The hunters that have the most success work a little harder than the rest ! Good luck and take before and after pics for us !

It will definitely be worth your time! Food plots are a huge part of my land management plan(s) as I feel they are an integral factor in deer numbers, holding deer, herd health, and nutrition needed for bucks to reach thier potential. I consider my plots to be worth every dime and minute I put into them as I have seen big divitends through the years.

There are many knowledgable and experienced food plotters here at IDO. Feel free to ask away. I look forward to hearing about your new plots

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It will definitely be worth your time! Food plots are a huge part of my land management plan(s) as I feel they are an integral factor in deer numbers, holding deer, herd health, and nutrition needed for bucks to reach thier potential. I consider my plots to be worth every dime and minute I put into them as I have seen big divitends through the years.

There are many knowledgable and experienced food plotters here at IDO. Feel free to ask away. I look forward to hearing about your new plots

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X2 – well said
I have more agricultural land, but the fundamental idea is the same. I’ve had theis property for 20 years, but finally focused on two things over the last couple years. Just because I have big plots of crops, doesn’t mean the mature deer like eating there. LOCATION is a huge factor in where to place the plot. Second is locating vantage points to be able to see the natural routes deer generally take to cross a landscape. Having a well balanced plot very close to a bedding area, where you can still see general travel routes will make a huge difference in your success.
I tend to be be very analytical and over analyze most things. But, I’m just suggesting to you that time is spent in identifying the best location. Its work, no doubt about that, but the rewards of having resident deer maintained on your property is well worth it.
I took a satalite view of my farm and started marking all the primary routes and bedding areas. As time went on, I was able to distinguish the main buck routes and bedding areas Vs does. By placing a plot near the bedding areas that were most used by bucks, I drew does into the buck’s primary areas and found they traveled less. Increased my deer per hour sighting while in my stands my many times over.

Good luck