October is one of the most exciting months for deer hunters in Indiana. As deer prepare for the rut, movement increases, and with the right strategy and location, you can make your time in the woods count. Below are tips along with recommended public hunting areas in Indiana to scout or try yourself.
Scout and Pattern Early
Use trail cameras in late September and early October to monitor deer movement before the pressure picks up. Look for rub lines, scrapes, deer trails, pinch points, and transitions between food and bedding areas. Walk the land in cooler parts of the day to reduce scent and spooking.
Mind Your Wind and Layers
In October, changing temperatures often shift wind patterns, so always double-check wind direction before heading out. Dress in layers you can remove quietly; early October can still be mild, but evenings get crisp.
Lean into Food Sources
Corn, soybeans, and acorns are key this time of year. Sit downwind of fields, mast stands, or ridgelines that funnel deer into feeding areas. Small openings in thick woods often create pinch points deer use on their way to or from feeding areas.
Hunt Overlooked Hours
Do not just sit first light or last light. Midday hunts can pay off, especially during warmer October days, when bucks cruise between feeding and bedding zones. Keep your setup mobile enough to adjust based on camera intel.
Always Prioritize Safety
Use a full-body safety harness when in treestands. Follow Indiana regulations: deer hunting is allowed from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset. Know local bag limits and check with Indiana DNR for up-to-date regulations.
Top Indiana Hunting Spots to Consider
Hoosier National Forest – Over 200,000 acres of hardwood forests and one of the premier public land deer hunting destinations in Indiana.
Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area – Though known for waterfowl, deer and turkey are also present in its upland woodlots.
Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge – In southeast Indiana, covering multiple counties with excellent deer hunting opportunities (with permit).
Kingsbury Fish and Wildlife Area – About 7,000 acres with wetlands, fields, and wooded cover, good for deer hunting.
J. E. Roush Fish and Wildlife Area – More than 8,000 acres in Huntington and Wells counties, offering deer and small game hunting.
Final Thoughts
October presents a great window: deer are active, rut is approaching, and cover still exists. With good scouting, smart setups, and respect for safety and regulations, you can increase your odds of a successful season. Success in hunting is as much about patience and patterning as it is about marksmanship.
