Debunked: 10 Common Myths About Blood Trailing Deer and Elk
Tracking a wounded deer or elk is one of the most critical — and misunderstood — parts of the hunt. Over the years, a lot of half-truths have been repeated so often they’ve started to sound like gospel. But the truth? Every blood trail is its own mystery, and the best hunters are the ones who know how to read the signs without falling for the myths.
Here are ten common misconceptions about blood trailing — and the reality behind them.
Myth 1: Always Wait After the Shot
For decades, bowhunters have been taught to wait before following up on a shot. But that advice doesn’t always apply. Before you do anything, the first priority is to inspect the shot site thoroughly — while the details are still fresh in your mind. Where was the deer standing? What direction did it bolt? What does the immediate sign tell you?
Too many hunters skip this crucial step, and when it’s time to track, they don’t know where to begin.
Myth 2: Give Him Time to "Stiffen Up"
“Let him stiffen up” is another outdated bit of wisdom. The truth is, deer don’t stiffen until they’re dead. If a deer beds down, it’s usually because it feels safe or too weak to go farther — not because it’s already dying.
In some cases, it’s actually better to push a wounded deer, especially if the hit is non-lethal on its own. Keeping the heart pumping can accelerate blood loss and reduce clotting. If the wound isn’t fatal, letting the deer settle can lead to healing. Know your shot, understand the hit, and use that information to decide whether to wait or press.
And sometimes, moving quickly gives you a second shot opportunity — the one that finishes the job.
Myth 3: A Gut Shot Deer Is a Lost Cause
A shot a little too far back doesn’t always mean failure. Over half of a deer’s body mass lies behind the diaphragm. Gut-shot deer typically die within 8–12 hours, and rushing in too soon is often the only reason they’re lost.
If your arrow smells like a barn and has green stomach content, go back to camp and wait. That deer will likely be dead — maybe don’t push it into the next zip code.
Myth 4: Pick Him Up in the Morning
This might have worked 30 years ago, but in today’s world, predators are your biggest competition. Coyotes, bears, and even feral hogs can beat you to your deer overnight — and they don’t leave leftovers.
If you're confident in your shot and know the deer is dead, go after it. Waiting too long could mean showing up to a half-eaten carcass or nothing at all.
Myth 5: Wounded Deer Always Go to Water
It’s a common belief, but not always true. Deer often head toward areas they feel safe — places they've bedded before. Water can play a role, especially for gut-shot deer as fever sets in and thirst increases, but it’s not guaranteed.
Some deer will cross streams, rivers, or ponds simply because it’s in their path. Others never touch water during the escape. Focus more on bedding areas and cover than water alone.
Myth 6: Wounded Deer Won’t Go Uphill
Plenty of hunters have chased wounded deer uphill — sometimes straight to the top. If a deer’s safe zone lies in higher ground, that’s exactly where it’ll go, wound or not.
Yes, a mobility-impairing hit may discourage climbing, but don’t assume your trail can only go downhill. Follow the sign, not the myth.
Myth 7: Lung Shots Always Mean a Dead Deer
Most of the time, yes. A double-lung shot is usually fatal. But deer can survive single-lung hits, especially if the shot is high or only grazes the edge. Some hunters have even recovered deer years later that survived earlier lung wounds.
It’s rare, but possible. That’s why shot placement — and follow-up — matter so much.
Myth 8: If He Drops, He’s Dead
A deer that drops instantly might be down for good — or it might not. Many “instant drop” shots are the result of nervous system shock. It can wear off.
A shot near the spine can stun a deer but not kill it. Hunters have lost deer by celebrating too early or walking away. If a deer drops, keep your weapon ready and approach with caution. Don’t let a temporary drop turn into a permanent escape.
Myth 9: No Blood Means No Hit
This myth has cost more deer than most people realize. There are plenty of reasons a blood trail doesn’t start right away — or at all. Muscle and fat can plug exit wounds. Some deer won’t bleed externally for 100+ yards.
Tracking dogs and seasoned hunters often follow long trails with no visible blood. If you believe your shot connected, don’t give up just because the trail is dry. Look for tracks, disturbed brush, broken twigs, or a direction of travel. Trust your gut, and keep going.
Myth 10: The Dog Will Find Him
Tracking dogs are incredible tools — but they’re not miracle workers. A bad hit is still a bad hit. Even the best dog can’t recover a buck that’s still alive and chasing does in another county.
Many volunteer trackers take hundreds of calls a year, but their recovery rates are still around 50%. A dog increases your odds, not your guarantees. Don’t rely on one to save a marginal shot.
Final Thoughts: The Trail is Your Test
Every blood trail is different. The best hunters are part detective, part tracker, and part strategist. Don’t fall for myths. Learn from every track job, stay humble, and keep honing your craft. That next trail could be the one that teaches you something new — or helps you pass on the truth to someone else.
