Reading the Outdoor News newspaper I came across an article written by Tom Venrsky that was interesting and I thought sportsmen would also find it of interest. Tom starts out by saying, “Are trailcams giving us too much information?”

Trail cameras have put us in the woods around the clock. They are constantly spying on deer trails, scrapes, watering holes or any other spot we feel needs to be monitored 24/7, and trail cameras help us to determine which bucks are in the area, how big they are and their daily habits. They also tell us, are deer feeding under oak or apple trees at night? Where are they bedding down during the day?

If you set up enough trail cameras strategically placed in a location, you can accurately determine a buck's travel patterns and daily routine. Trail cameras have also reduced the need for preseason scouting.

It is very interesting to check your trail cameras every year to find out how many bucks are in your hunting area, and how big they are. The cellular trail cameras can be addicting, forcing you to check your phone throughout the day to see what has been moving through.

Yes trail cameras can give hunters a pretty complete picture of deer numbers, antler size and travel patterns in a localized area and a lot of information about the game we pursue, but the question is, is it too much?

It's certainly a thrill to see the bucks on the camera, but we must be concerned that it won't be as much a thrill if one appears near your stand during the hunting season. You already knew it was in your area, thanks to the cameras, so the element of surprise will not be there.

It almost seems like an unfair advantage. With all of the advancements in firearms, archery, crossbows and muzzleloaders plus gear, do we need any more advantages to kill a deer? You be the judge!

Some changes in PA's

Bear Stations!

Because of COVID-19, there are some last minute changes made in the Pennsylvania bear check stations. There will be limited opportunities for the public to observe bears as they are checked-in.

There will also be no harvest maps or tally boards at check stations. Further restrictions may apply at some stations. However, real-time bear harvest totals can be viewed at pgc.pa.gov. Check with your local Game Warden for your nearest bear check station.

Hope everyone had an enjoyable Thanksgiving!

Jack Danchak is the President of the Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs of Sullivan County.