Perseverance In The Late Season
As we near the late season, most hunters are getting burned out. It becomes more difficult to wake up for the morning hunt. You would rather stay warm in bed, than sit in the blistering cold. So, what will you decide to do? Will you persevere and harvest that late season deer? When you find it hard to get out of bed, remember 1 Chronicles 16:11 tells us “Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence conditionally!”.
Here in northern Ohio, the temperatures are usually rather cold this time of year. Deer are hitting any food sources that they have available. Cut crop fields or late season food plots can be highly productive. Created Outdoors Staff like the Domain Outdoors “Big Sexy” or “Comeback Kid” seed for our late season food plots. Where legal, baiting can be an effective way to fill the freezer. Using Moultrie feeders filled with corn, or even Domain Outdoors “Stockpile” can bring in some late season deer.
Paige Gersper Created Outdoors Junior Staff with her late season doe
Deer can be found spending time bedded on south facing slopes in the cold weather. The sun light will be more prominent allowing them to stay warmer. These areas are usually located near a food and water source. Setting stands above these locations can produce results while bow hunting. Sitting the opposite ridge or slope during firearms or muzzle loader season can increase your odds.
Still hunting can be an exciting change of pace if you have a large enough property to do so. Walk 5-10 yards and stop to watch for a bit, while following a fresh set of tracks. This tactic is a touch more difficult, however, it can be extremely rewarding when you are blessed enough to harvest a deer using this method.
It would seem that feeling of stagnation and burnout can be overwhelming and affect our faith as well. Have you ever been there in your faith? If so, you are not alone. It becomes more difficult to pray, and stay devoted in times of trial, or when our plans do not go the way we think they should. Isaiah 40:31 says “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.” Just as in hunting, in order to grow and strengthen your ability to persevere, you must put forth the effort. So, as you find it difficult to pray or go hunt, remember that perseverance will strengthen your faith and your relationship with Christ. So, pray often, especially when you are feeling burned out in faith.
Remember to send prayer requests and inquiries to have us speak at your outdoor events to the email addresses below. Until next time God bless.
Evan Gersper