Updated March 2023
“Deer just don’t move in high wind.” This is a popular statement made by many hunters who believe that windy conditions negatively affect deer movement. Even though high wind may not be favorable to hunt in, deer still need to eat, drink and socialize. Studies have shown that high wind has little effect on deer movement, compared to other weather conditions. Deer will continue to move in windy conditions, especially at dawn and dusk and during the rut. The big difference in hunting whitetails in high winds is knowing where to find them. As winds begin to increase, whitetail habitat preferences change. Using different strategies and tactics will help you key in on specific locations where deer are spending their time in high winds. Deer do indeed move in high wind but move mainly to get out of it and stay in protected areas.
Deer Behavior and High Wind
High wind is classified as anything over 20+ miles per hour, with gusts well above that. Hunting in high wind is similar to hunting in the rain, where deer behavior changes. Excessive wind suppresses deer senses, making it harder for them to detect threats. Most notably, high wind hinders a deer’s ability to hear causing cautious behavior. During periods of high wind, deer will almost always migrate to thick cover and sheltered areas that provide protection. Whitetails will also use sheltered travel areas that provide a break from harsh gusts.
Wind is an environmental stressor to deer, which makes them want to minimize their exposure. In some states like Oklahoma and Kansas where it is windy often, whitetails are accustomed to these conditions and aren’t affected much. During times of the rut, high winds will not slow down deer activity.
Tips for Bowhunting in High Wind
If you’re on the fence about heading out to hunt on a windy day, you might want to consider giving it a try. When hunting in high winds, it’s best to target areas that are sheltered. Before heading out, take a look at a map and locate areas that will provide a good wind break and act as a natural barrier. If the wind is strong from the west, then hunt the east side of a wooded area as it will be quieter and more protected. Focus on calm areas where there will be fewer large gusts, especially around bedding areas and food sources. Areas with thick cover and are protected by trees are good spots to target.
In addition to thick cover, hunting naturally low areas is another good strategy. Low spots tend to be out of the wind and deer will use these areas as travel routes. Features such as valleys, depressions, drainages, creek beds and calm sides of hills are all great areas to set up a stand. Edges of swamps and other water features are other great locations to target as these areas tend to have a lower topography.
When hunting in high winds, it’s important to pay close attention to your scent. Scent control is crucial to successfully hunting in high wind. Scent can travel further faster during periods of high wind and can sometimes swirl if the wind shifts quickly. Thermals in the mornings and evenings can also cause your scent stream to fluctuate and should be taken into consideration. Always make sure to hunt downwind of areas you think deer will be and take extra precautions in keeping your scent at bay.
High winds can be a great time to close in on a big buck. By targeting specific areas where whitetails tend to migrate during windy conditions, you can set yourself up for a high chance of success. Using the strategies discussed above, hunting whitetails in the wind can be a great opportunity when done correctly. For more articles and buyer’s guides, please check out other posts from Bowhunting Depot!