Finding a deer after a shoulder shot can be challenging, but understanding blood trail characteristics is crucial for a successful recovery. This guide delves into the specifics of tracking a deer wounded in the shoulder, offering insights into blood characteristics, trail patterns, and essential tracking strategies.
Understanding Shoulder Shot Blood Trails
A shoulder shot, while potentially lethal, often results in a less profuse blood trail compared to shots to the heart or lungs. This is because the shoulder area contains large muscle groups and bone structures which can impede blood flow and reduce the immediate blood volume at the wound site. However, a well-placed shoulder shot will still produce a trail, albeit one that may require patience, careful observation, and an understanding of deer behavior.
Blood Characteristics After a Shoulder Shot
- Blood Volume: Expect a moderate to light blood trail. The volume will depend on the shot placement and the deer's overall health and vigor.
- Blood Color: The blood may be bright red initially, indicating arterial bleeding. As the deer runs and the wound clots, the color might darken to a brownish-red, reflecting venous bleeding.
- Blood Consistency: The blood may be frothy or bubbly if a lung is nicked. Otherwise, it will generally be relatively consistent in texture.
- Presence of Tissue: You might see muscle tissue, fat, or hair mixed with the blood. This is common with shoulder shots, as the bullet passes through dense tissue.
Trail Patterns After a Shoulder Shot
- Initial Run: A deer wounded in the shoulder will typically run a significant distance immediately after being shot. This initial run is often characterized by heavier blood, indicating more significant initial bleeding.
- Slowing Pace: As the deer loses blood and strength, the trail will often become less frequent and the blood spots smaller. Expect to see this transition after the initial frantic escape.
- Stopping Points: The deer may pause to rest or assess its injuries. These rest periods often leave heavier blood concentrations than those left during prolonged movement.
- Final Stage: As the deer weakens, the blood trail might become a mere seepage, with small drops or smears visible. This is often the phase that requires the most careful tracking.
Effective Strategies for Tracking Shoulder-Shot Deer
Tracking a deer after a shoulder shot requires patience and attention to detail.
Essential Tracking Equipment
- Good quality knife: Crucial for clearing vegetation and following trails.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from blood-borne pathogens and thorns.
- Tracking pole or stick: Assists in finding blood drops.
- Headlamp or flashlight: Needed for low-light tracking.
- Rangefinder: Helpful for confirming shot placement and distance.
- First-aid kit: Safety first.
Step-by-Step Tracking Guide
- Mark the shot location: Use a GPS marker or visible landmark.
- Follow the initial blood trail: Begin your search along the most obvious trail.
- Pay attention to blood characteristics: Note color, consistency, and quantity.
- Look for signs of slowing pace: Smaller blood spots or less frequent trails signify this.
- Check for resting points: These areas frequently show greater blood accumulation.
- Search thoroughly: Don't overlook small drops or smears. Use the tracking pole to clear away vegetation.
- Consider deer behavior: They often seek thick cover to hide.
Case Study: A Challenging Shoulder Shot
A hunter recently took a shot at a deer which he believed was a perfect shoulder shot. The initial blood trail was relatively light, however, it was present. He followed it for over 300 yards. It was in a very dense area, filled with thick brush and undergrowth. Over the next three hours, he methodically worked the trail, finding small blood spots. After several hours of diligent tracking, he discovered the deer in a small thicket, where it had succumbed to its injuries. This emphasizes the importance of persistence in tracking shoulder-shot deer, even when the trail is minimal.
Tips for Increasing Your Success Rate
- Shot Placement: Aim for the shoulder area slightly forward, aiming for the point of the shoulder, to maximize the chances of a vital hit.
- Broadside Shots: Broadside shots offer the most accuracy for shoulder shots.
- Follow-Up Shots: If the deer runs a considerable distance after the first shot, consider a follow-up shot only if you have a clear, safe shot.
- Ethical Hunting Practices: Always prioritize a quick, clean kill to minimize suffering.
- Knowledge of your area: Understanding the terrain helps to anticipate deer movement patterns.
Following these strategies, and maintaining your focus will significantly improve your chances of recovering your game after a shoulder shot. Remember that patience and meticulous observation are key to a successful track.