Photo by James Drozdowski Jr. Above is the opening weekend bragging post at one hunt camp in Belfast, N.Y. From the left are James Drozdowski Jr., Rick Flis, Mark Kwasniewski, Michael Krasniewski and John Kwasniewski.

The forecast is not new to any of us from Western New York: Heavy snow. We were bracing for a severe snowstorm this weekend and cold weather ahead, with accumulations expected to range from 12 to 30 inches. With prime-time southern zone big game hunting (deer and bear) coinciding with this winter wallop, hunters ask: How do you chase big game when Mother Nature calls the shots this way?

Deer in deep snow are survivors. The young learn from the elder deer. Experts note that deer behavior changes drastically in heavy snow: movements slow, energy conservation dominates, and established trails become critical. Deep snow drives deer into thick cover where they look for conifers and brushy ridges while limiting their forays to nearby feeding areas.

“During storms like this, deer are somewhat predictable,” says local hunter expert Jim Drozdowski. “They’ll stick to funnels between bedding and feeding areas and avoid open fields unless necessary.”

That’s where to hunt.

The funnel zones are narrow corridors between the bedding and feeding areas and are prime sitting or elevated stand locations. The thick edges of conifers or brush offer deer protection from snow and wind. Food sources nearby might include corn piles, apple trees, and residual field browse – all of these attract hungry deer. Don’t forget that wind matters: always position downwind of bedding areas; snowstorms amplify scent drift.

So this becomes a time for team tactics: hunt smart, not hard. Stand hunting may be the best recommendation for visibility if the snowfall rate allows it. The best strategy in deep snow is to remain stationary near deer corridors. Deer move slowly, leaving obvious tracks, which hunters can use to anticipate their path. If your camp or hunter group decides to conduct a drive, please use caution. Driving deer through deep snow is risky. It can exhaust the hunters, and the deer, too; deer often spook far from intended paths. Only attempt a drive if the terrain and snowfall conditions allow it. I personally like to stalk if others prefer to remain in camp. The walk and stalk can be super quiet with snow on the ground, but be sure to share with friends where you’re going and how long you plan to be out. It can be dangerous to go alone in a snowstorm. Making a rescue help-needed call is tough for the guys who did not want to leave camp to hunt in the blizzard stuff. Keep safe by communicating with them now and then.

Camp comfort is the easy way out. Severe storms can make venturing into the field dangerous. Staying warm, checking gear, and enjoying camaraderie with fellow hunters is not just safe, it’s smart. Sharing camp cooking and card games can strengthen bonds and keep morale high during tough conditions. It can be the best part on snowy weekends.

From my experience with snowstorm weekends, you need a plan. For example, on Day 1, the storm hits. Focus on safety. Only venture out if roads are passable. Early risers can monitor nearby funnels. On Day 2, the storm subsides, stand hunters should hit bedding-to-feeding corridors in early morning and late afternoon. On Day 3, the snow is settling, and light stalking or controlled drives can be effective. Rotate hunters to avoid over-pressuring the people on the drive.

Be patient; deep snow makes deer slower but predictable. Track deer signs in the snow; they’re a treasure map to deer movement. Dress in layers and plan for long sits. Staying patient and comfortable increases your chances of success and keeps you focused during extended waits. Always prioritize safety by avoiding icy slopes and snowplowed roads.

In conclusion, when the Western New York winter hammer slams down, the savvy hunter adjusts. Snowstorm weekends reward patience, knowledge, and strategic positioning over brute force. Make your plan, set your stand, watch the funnels, and let the winter woods reveal their secrets as the deer come to you.

Gotta love the outdoors!

CALENDAR

Nov. 30: Last day NYS Inland Musky Season/last day of regular NYS Black Bass season.

Dec. 1: First day of NYS Black Bass catch and release season – through June 14, 2026.

Dec. 1: Lake Trout Season opens for Lower Niagara River/Lake Ontario.

Dec. 2: Niagara Musky Association, monthly meeting, Eldredge Club, 17 Broad St., Tonawanda, 7 p.m. start.

Dec. 8 -16: NYS Southern Zone Late Archery/Muzzleloader Big Game hunting season.

Dec. 26-Jan. 1: NYS Southern Zone late archery/crossbow/muzzleloader special deer-only season. Regular firearms are not allowed.