Best Sources For Aerial Photos And Topo Maps

Jay Gorman, Deer Park, TX: "How do I find current aerial photos and topo maps of the land I'm hunting?"

One of the best sources for aerial photos and topo maps that I've found is www.mytopo.com. Just browse this site and build custom maps to fit your specific needs. Also check out www.maptech.com, www.terraserver-usa.com, and, for aerial photos, www.apfo.usda.gov. Good luck and have a safe and successful season.

Searching For Guide Schools

Nick Chandler, Beaver Falls, PA: "I am currently searching for guide schools. I live in western PA and would like to find a guiding job after completing my training. I've spent a lot of time trying to find an outfitter somewhat close to home and was wondering if you had any tips to help me find this sort of information. Thank you very much."

Check out the guide school offered by Tim Doud of Bliss Creek Outfitters, 326 Diamond Basin Road, Cody, WY 82414; (307) 527-6103. I've hunted with Tim and other guides he has trained, and I have had excellent experiences for bears and elk with all of them. For further general information, go to www.google.com and do a general search under Guide Schools. Good luck!

Best Plants To Offer More Cover For Deer

Tracy Milligan, Clinton Twp., MI: "I just recently made a dream come true -- I bought my own land. It's only 20 acres, but it's mine! It is slightly hilled and mostly open. Large, scattered pines cover about 20 percent of the property, and two enormous oak trees stand at opposite corners. To the east are 20 acres of hardwoods, and to the west, 40 acres of dense pines. I want my land to offer more cover for the deer but to remain fairly open to provide clear shots. What fast-growing trees, shrubs, or other plants would be best to plant to achieve my goals?"

Although I'm not sure whether it's legal to plant these plants in your state, if you want a great wildlife cover/food plant, I'd suggest either multiflora rose or Russian/autumn olive. Trust me, the deer and other wildlife critters will love them! Now, before anyone jumps on me, let me emphasize that these plants are highly aggressive, and many states have actually outlawed them. Please note that with some mowing, burning, and herbicide spraying you can control these hostile but wildlife-friendly plants.

Red Dot Scopes

Terry Wells, Des Moines, IA: "I have seen red dot scopes advertised for bows in catalogs. How well do they work? Presently, I have a five-pin sight with a light and glow sticks, and I use a peep. But, I still have difficulty shooting in low light, and I'm seeking an alternative."

A red dot scope, mounted on a modern compound, works well, primarily as a single-yardage setup. The mounting bracket is adjustable for different ranges, but it can be a little cumbersome for quick yardage changes during a hunt. Another option to try would be to add a c-peep to your current setup. This style of peep, which allows maximum light transmission, has been popular among bowhunters having problems seeing their pins in low light.

Still Shooting Aluminum Arrows

Will Adams, Jackson, MO: "I'm the last guy in my circle of hunting buddies who still shoots aluminum arrows. I have had great success with Easton XX78 Super Slam Selects, using the same arrow to harvest three deer last year. Am I missing the boat, or should I stick with what gives me confidence?"

Good question! Carbon arrows are here to stay and are gaining popularity because of their durability, deep penetration, and other attributes. However, the Super Slam Selects are great shafts, and they obviously are doing the job for you. So I see no reason for you to change. The proof is in the pudding. Besides, confidence is the most important ingredient in success, and it cannot be bought at any price. Stick with confidence, and have a great fall.

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