Winter Hunting in South Western Ontario: Your Cold-Weather Guide from Triggers & Bows
Winter in South Western Ontario brings a whole new rhythm to the woods. As temperatures drop and snow settles across fields and forests, wildlife patterns shift, creating some of the most challenging and rewarding hunting opportunities of the entire season. Whether you’re gearing up for late-season whitetails, small game, or predator hunting, the right preparation makes all the difference.
At Triggers & Bows, we know what Ontario hunters face in the cold. Here’s your complete guide to staying warm, safe, and successful this winter.
Understanding Late-Season Game Movement
Winter dramatically changes how local wildlife moves and feeds. With food scarce and energy conservation becoming a priority, your strategy needs to adapt.
Whitetail Deer
Late-season deer hunting demands patience and precision. After the rut, deer shift toward survival mode, sticking to reliable food sources and dense bedding cover.
Watch for:
- Trails leading to corn and bean fields
- Deer beds on south-facing ridges absorbing sunlight
- Thick, brushy cover near farmland edges
Afternoon sits become especially productive as deer move earlier to feed before temperatures plummet.
Coyotes
Coyotes are extremely active during winter, especially as the breeding season approaches (late January into February). This is one of the best times to call them in.
Hot tactics include:
- Distress calls (rabbit, fawn)
- Howls and challenge calls later in the season
- Tracking fresh prints after new snowfall
A well-placed predator hunt is not only exciting but helps support local deer and small-game populations.
Small Game
Whether you're after rabbits or squirrels, snow-covered landscapes make spotting and trailing them much easier. It’s also a great way to stay sharp between big-game sits.
Gear You Need for Winter Hunting
South Western Ontario winters can be unforgiving. Staying warm and dry is essential, not just for comfort, but for your safety and focus.
Layering Done Right
A proper layering system helps regulate your body temperature while reducing sweat:
- Base Layer: Moisture-wicking merino or synthetic
- Mid Layer: Fleece or insulated jacket
- Outer Layer: Waterproof and windproof shell
Triggers & Bows carries a full range of winter hunting clothing, including insulated jackets, bibs, and cold-weather accessories designed for Canadian winters.
Cold-Weather Footwear & Accessories
Your feet and hands will make or break your hunt.
Stock up on:
- Insulated winter boots
- Wool socks
- Neck gaiters and balaclavas
- Trigger-friendly insulated gloves
- Hand and toe warmers
We offer multiple boot options and glove styles so you can customize your cold-weather setup.
Equipment Considerations
Winter demands reliable gear:
- Low-temp safe gun oils
- Optics with fog-resistant coatings
- Extra batteries for headlamps and trail cameras
- Portable heaters for blinds (use safely and legally)
Swing by Triggers & Bows for expert recommendations on what performs best in freezing weather.
Firearm & Bow Performance in the Cold
Cold weather can affect accuracy and consistency, so a little winter-specific maintenance goes a long way.
Firearm Tips
- Avoid heavy lubricants that thicken in the cold
- Check your zero before heading out
- Keep your rifle dry to prevent ice buildup
Bowhunting Tips
- Keep cams and strings clear of frost
- Test your draw cycle in full winter gear
- Store your bow inside your vehicle to avoid dramatic temperature swings
Our team can help you tune your bow or select ammunition suited for winter ballistics.
Snow Tracking & Winter Scouting
Snow is a natural blueprint of animal behavior. Use it to your advantage.
Look for:
- Fresh tracks and travel corridors
- Melted depressions indicating beds
- Clusters of droppings near feeding areas
Trail cameras are especially useful during winter, just make sure to run lithium batteries for longer life in the cold.
Where to Hunt in South Western Ontario
Our region offers a mix of woodlots, farmland, and conservation areas perfect for winter hunting, including:
- Norfolk County agriculture edges
- Brant County forests and private woodlots
- Huron and Middlesex County field systems
- Lake Erie shoreline and marshland for predators
Remember to always secure permission before accessing private land.
Stay Safe in Harsh Conditions
Winter hunts require more planning and awareness.
Key safety tips:
- Dress in layers to prevent both hypothermia and sweating
- Stay hydrated even in cold weather
- Keep your phone charged and bring a backup battery
- Let someone know where you’ll be hunting
- Be cautious around frozen ponds, creeks, or marsh edges
Your safety is your most important piece of gear.
Final Thoughts from Triggers & Bows
Winter hunting in South Western Ontario is challenging, but incredibly rewarding for those prepared to brave the cold. With the right gear, strategy, and mindset, you can turn late-season conditions into your greatest advantage.
Call us at 519.449.1001 or visit Triggers & Bows today for winter hunting clothing, cold-weather accessories, ammo, optics, and expert advice from local hunters who know the conditions firsthand.
Stay warm. Stay safe. Hunt smart, and enjoy everything winter has to offer.