There’s a quiet thrill in tracking — a sort of ancient dance between hunter and prey. No sudden shots, no fast-paced action. Just you, the woods, and the faintest signs that something passed through not long ago. If hunting is an art, then tracking is its brushstroke.
Whether you're bowhunting mule deer on Western public land, trailing a whitetail through swampy Midwest bottoms, or pursuing wild hogs in the South, understanding how to read animal signs and follow trails is one of the most rewarding skills a hunter can develop.
Let’s walk through the fundamentals of tracking game — with insights, tips, and stories to help you read the land like a seasoned scout.
