Deer Hunting The Mast In the deer hunting world, the term mast
refers to the time of the season that the deer begin feeding on
a variety of deer food produced by trees and bushes. There are
two basic types of mast which are the hard mast and the soft
mast. The hard mast can include acorns, beechnuts, walnuts,
chestnuts, pecans, and others. The soft mast can include
persimmons, blackberries, dogwood berries, apples, and other
such fruits and berries. All are good food for deer. When the
mast trees and bushes start producing, often the deer will
immediately begin congregating to these locations. This deer
food source is needed to provide good nutrition and extra body
fat in preparation for the upcoming winter. Deer hunting near
these areas that offer such food for deer provide excellent
opportunities for hunters. Place stands located within sight of
the mast trees. Or set up along the travel routes leading to the
deer food. If no sightings occur during daylight, it may be
necessary to move closer to the bedding