Hunting a Low Barometric Pressure System
One school of thought holds that an excellent time to be afield is just before a storm – a low barometric pressure system.
Proponents argue that deer react instinctually to the impending weather and begin to feed to survive the possibility of hours (or days) of inactivity and limited food.
For example, as barometric pressure falls, heavy winds move through the area, and a storm may follow. High winds can stifle deer movement, and those who choose to move are usually quite nervous, making their movements quick. That makes them even harder to kill.
Therefore, supporters of the claim that barometric pressure is a significant factor in whitetail deer movement believe it is essential to hunt at the beginning of a low-pressure system when the storm is knocking on the front door rather than when it has already blown the door down.
Hunting just before a low barometric pressure system rolls in is an excellent time to be afield.
Hunting a High Barometric Pressure System
Conversely, supporters propose that hunting just after a storm passes – a high barometric pressure system – is also a great time to be in the whitetail woods.
Once again, they emphasize timing is everything in taking advantage of this weather change, stressing the importance of being afield as soon as the pressure begins to rise to take advantage of optimal whitetail movement.
Ardent barometric pressure watchers say if you really want to see some serious movement, head to your stand during the storm to capitalize on the increased deer movement that begins to happen right as the weather is breaking and the pressure is rising.
What’s the Best Strategy?
Either one can work to help you tag out – but barometric pressure isn’t the only factor to consider when hunting deer.
Apps like HuntWise allow you to pinpoint exactly when the barometric pressure rises or falls so you are in the right place at the right time – either at your stand or immediately heading afield.
Weather the storm in your tree stand and be there when the barometric pressure is on the rise and whitetail are on the move.
