I simply did not care. I followed the muddy trail through the tangle of willows, into a draw full of hardwoods, into the heart of big buck territory. I was violating a whitetail sanctuary.

Entry into this holy of holies was strictly forbidden during bowhunting season. Neither I nor any of my friends would dare enter it for fear of spooking bucks hiding there. Today was different. Spring had sprung. It was primetime for shed antler hunting. Forbidden areas were now open. And scouting them in spring would prove to my advantage come fall. The same could work for you.

Snow or no snow, early March is the RIGHT time to put your spring turkey hunt plans in place.

Planning is critical if your goal is to tap a tom on opening morning. Staking a blind near a winter roost or loitering location can boost your odds for early season success.