Blood Trailing Tips

You just let an arrow fly at your target buck. He crashed through the woods and out of sight. Now what?

Carefully climb down from your treestand and search for your arrow. Evaluate any blood on the vanes or shaft as well as on the ground for indicators as to where your shot connected and when you should start trailing your deer.

Bright red blood: If you see lots of bright red blood, there’s a good chance you hit an oxygen-rich artery and your deer will expire quickly. Wait at least 30 minutes before following the trail.

Dark red blood: When you find dark red blood, your broadhead likely cut through the liver or muscle. A liver shot is lethal, but it can take longer for the deer to expire. Wait at least a full hour before tracking.

Bright pink/red with air bubbles: Bright pinkish red blood with little air bubbles throughout is a dead giveaway that you hit at least one lung. Deer can go a long way after a single-lung shot, especially if pushed, so be patient and wait 4-6 hours before tracking the blood trail.

Green or brown: If you find your arrow coated in foul-smelling green or brown gunk, you made a gut shot. Gut-shot deer can take a while to expire, so back out and only begin tracking after 12-24 hours.

Keep in mind that these are general rules, and every situation is different. If heavy rain or snow is rolling in, you might need to follow the blood trail sooner before it disappears. High temperatures can also prompt shorter wait times so you can preserve the quality of the meat.

If you start tracking your deer and bump it, back off and wait longer.

Tracking Dogs

If your blood trail has dried up, you’re pressed for time, or you simply want to expedite the process, consider taking a trained dog to help you follow the trail and locate your deer. You can train your own pup to track down animals or find a local who offers this service in many areas. Be sure to check your state’s regulations before using a blood trailing dog.