? about thermals

[Hard Knocks]

In preparation for my first elk hunt (archery) in 2014,I have been doing a ton of research.I understand the concept of thermals rising in the a.m,and falling later in the eve.My question is,If I am above them in the early morning,while the thermals are still falling,how do I prevent them from winding me?

 

[Hard Knocks]

My thoughts would be to not get directly above them.Move towards them at an angle,then come directly at them from the side.Any input would be greatly appreciated

 

[Jimbow65]

My thoughts on thermal generated air movement is that in a perfectly calm wind scenario under high pressure, the thermals may be predicable: down with the sinking cool air, and up with the sun warmed rising air. What about on an overcast day after the passage of a cold front are there still thermals?

Thermals are only a factor not the rule. Prevailing wind direction and wind speed factor in also. Don't forget the turbulence of the air movement over hills mountains and rolling terrain. add in the barometric pressure, and it is totally unpredictable.

Be aware of thermals and prevailing wind for general planning, but be constantly aware of air movement and use a wind checker.

good luck, Jim

 

[coloelko]

I have found that the wind is the Hunters worst enemy. Just try to stay on top of it using a wind checker and maybe a piece of string or yarn tied to your bow to keep you in check. Knowing what the wind should do and what it actually does is usually always crap shoot.
Best of luck to ya-

 

[beran_10]

To echo what the other guys mentioned....USE a Wind Checker. I find myself carrying my bow in one hand and the wind checker in the other anytime I am putting on a stalk. It seems to me that morning and midday thermals are generally predictable, but never automatic. Evening thermals you really have to watch. They seem to switch back and forth a lot more than when the morning thermal switches to the midday thermals. That is just my experience from where I hunt. I am by no means an expert. I think you willfind that after spending a bit of time in an area, you will figure out the "normal" thermals that occur with fair weather. Good luck and keep researching.

 

[IdahoDave]

It's been my experience that thermals on a timbered slope always slide downhill in the morning until about 10 am. Once the sun is up and warming the whole slope, then the wind currents start to shift around. I know this is counter to what many believe.
If trying to stalk during the day, realize your stalk will probably get ruined by shifting wind. Depending on the terrain this is where you get creative and shift your plans according to the wind. Hunt across drainages instead of up and down, make u turns or abruptly shift directions in flatter terrain. I have ambushed a number of deer and elk by abruptly shifting directions.
If you are stalking a trophy animal, most "experts" will back out and try again when conditions are better.

 

[Oldcarp]

The wind will change to your back in proportion of how close you are to elk Believe me I know

 

[Fullabull]

This is why you read articles about getting on the same level as the elk once you have located them. Once you know an area, you are familiar with how the thermals go but if it's a new place, locate then adjust accordingly.

 

[greatthosu]

I have found that the wind is the Hunters worst enemy. Just try to stay on top of it using a wind checker and maybe a piece of string or yarn tied to your bow to keep you in check. Knowing what the wind should do and what it actually does is usually always crap shoot.
Best of luck to ya-

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