Book Review: Whitetail Strategies Vol. II

Book Review: Whitetail Strategies Vol. II

Paul E. Moore

Anyone looking to expand their knowledge of whitetail deer and deer hunting needs to read Peter Fiduccia’s latest book Whitetail Strategies, Vol. II. Fiduccia is known as the “Deer Doctor” and this book is crammed with knowledge and tips learned from a lifetime of studying and pursuing the whitetail. One doesn’t have to read Volume I first in order to understand this one – this book stands alone and is a terrific place to start on the quest for more hunting savvy.

Fiduccia’s book is divided into three sections. The first third of the book deals with most phases of tracking. The middle section of the book gives extensive coverage of deer vocalizations and deer calling techniques. The remainder of the book is my favorite portion because it deals with the rut and other important hunting information.

Tracking deer is one of Fiduccia’s specialties, so the first section of the book covers the full spectrum of tracking – both tracking to hunt and tracking a wounded deer. He discusses “old-school” tracking and explains what tracking is and is not. Readers will learn how to get started tracking, interpret tracks they find, and how to age and size deer. He also discusses scat, urine, and the old argument of whether one can tell if a track was left by a buck or doe.

The section on trailing wounded deer is a must-read for anyone who hunts. He explains how to interpret body language of deer shot in various parts of the anatomy such as lungs, heart, neck, abdomen, and others. He explains how to decipher hair left at the shot sight, blood color, and evidence at bedding sights. The guide on hair identification is a great addition to a hunting pack for quick reference when needed.

The section on calling may be one of the most detailed collections of information on deer vocalizations. Fiduccia explains many sounds made by whitetails, when they’re made, and why. He shares with the reader his experiences with calling plus how and when to use each type of call for the greatest success.

They call the third section of the book “Smart Hunting” and it deals with many important aspects of the hunt. Fiduccia covers all phases of the rut including the pre-rut, primary rut, post rut, and what he refers to as “phase four.” He also gives great attention to the “frenzy period” of the rut.

Chapter 11 focuses on the wind and how it is of utmost importance to the successful hunter. Prevailing wind, convection currents, and thermals all play their part to make or break the hunter’s day. He covers moon phases in chapter 12. In chapters 13 and 14, the author discusses decoying tactics, deer history, eyesight truths and fallacies, and much more. The final chapter is dedicated to the many external glands on a whitetail, what is known about their use, and how hunters can use glandular scents and secretions while hunting.

There is much to learn from this book by both newcomers and seasoned hunters alike. Fiduccia has imparted whitetail hunting tips to the reader that many people will not learn in a lifetime of deer hunting.

Whitetail Strategies, Vol. II is published by Lyons Press and is 280 pages with numerous color and black and white photographs. It is available in many bookstores or by visiting Fiduccia’s web site at www.deerdoctor.com. Other books and videos are also featured on the web site.