Episodi

  • Takeaways

    The new Chasing Giants and Mission Whitetail series aims to provide relatable content for hunters.

    EHD outbreaks are a significant concern for deer populations, especially in Illinois.

    Deer can develop resistance to EHD, but this is less common in northern areas.

    Cell cameras may affect the behavior of mature bucks, leading to fewer pictures.

    Community engagement and positive actions within the hunting community are essential.

    Effective communication with neighbors can prevent hunting disputes.

    Food plot management should prioritize access and deer safety.

    Rut funnels are key areas where bucks travel during the rut.

    Personal experiences in hunting can lead to challenges, especially with notoriety.

    Pawpaw trees may be a viable food source for deer, requiring specific growing conditions.

  • In this episode, Don Higgins discusses his buck forecast for the year based on his trail camera observations across three different states. He notes that the antler growth this year has been fantastic, likely due to the mild winter and early spring. He predicts that there will be some giants killed, with bucks over 200 inches and even over 220 inches being harvested. However, he also highlights the issue of herd management and the lack of older age class bucks in the population. Don emphasizes the importance of being good stewards of the resource and managing the deer population to prevent crop damage and maintain good relationships with neighbors. In this conversation, Don and Terry discuss various topics related to deer hunting. They talk about the mindset of hunters who consistently shoot young bucks instead of waiting for a mature buck. They also discuss the use of cell cameras and how changing the upload frequency can affect deer behavior. The conversation touches on the positive changes that can occur when following a consulting plan for deer management. They also discuss the challenges of planting food plots and the importance of timing and weather conditions. The conversation concludes with a discussion on using deer decoys and how often to hunt a mature buck from the same stand.

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  • In this episode, Terry and Don discuss the weather and the condition of their food plots. They address concerns about seed germination in dry conditions and offer advice on when to replant. They also discuss the possibility of deer detecting cell cameras and share their observations on the topic. The conversation then transitions to the topic of moving trail cameras and the importance of dictating deer movement on your property. They also answer questions about using Deadly Dozen as a cover crop in a garden and determining summer and fall ranges for deer. In this conversation, Don and Terry discuss various topics related to deer hunting. They talk about the role of food in late season hunting and how deer gravitate towards bedding cover and prime food sources. They also discuss the use of mock scrapes and the best time to switch trail cameras to mock scrapes. They touch on the idea of patterning bucks and the challenges of hunting in areas with steep terrain. They also mention the use of mulch as a pathway to a tree stand and the concept of venting or pulling air out of a blind. The conversation concludes with a discussion on when it's too late to scout for the right tree to kill a target buck.

  • In this episode, Don and Terry discuss the early shedding of antlers and the potential impact on the rut and hunting seasons. They also talk about the effects of an early fall on bow hunting and gun hunting in Illinois. The conversation touches on topics such as weather, deer movement, crop harvest, and hunting strategies. In this conversation, Don and Terry discuss various topics related to deer hunting. They talk about the early season behavior of bucks, the movement of mature bucks during late summer, the influence of genetics on antler growth, and the importance of finding hunting properties with minimal human intrusion. They also mention the upcoming Shipshewana event and the auction of Don's books to support Lester's Feet.

    early shedding, antlers, rut, hunting seasons, early fall, bow hunting, gun hunting, Illinois, weather, deer movement, crop harvest, hunting strategies, deer hunting, bucks, scraping, velvet shedding, fall range, camera history, mature bucks, summer range, genetics, antler growth, permission farms, human intrusion, Shipshewana event, auction, Lester's Feet

  • In this episode, Don and Terry discuss Don's birthday, recent rain in the forecast, planting food plots, the early fall season, EHD concerns, and customer service experiences. They also answer questions about terminating and replanting a clover plot and reviving a drought-affected clover and chicory plot. In this part of the conversation, the hosts address some technical difficulties with the Sunday night prayer time segment and announce that it will be included at the end of each episode. They also discuss the importance of balancing obsession with hunting and other priorities in life. Don shares his experience of gaining knowledge and improving his hunting skills by prioritizing family and other aspects of life. They also discuss the challenges of gaining access to properties and the importance of understanding a buck's rut range. The hosts conclude by discussing the upcoming weather forecast and their plans for the week.

    keywords
    #birthday, #rain #forecast, #foodplot, early fall, #EHD, customer service, terminating plot, replanting, #clover, drought, Sunday night #prayer time, technical difficulties, #obsession, #hunting, priorities, knowledge, access to properties, #rut range, weather forecast, plans

  • In this episode, Don discusses his busy week and the challenges he faced while hunting for a giant buck in Ohio. He also talks about the new web show he's working on and the meetings he had with companies related to farming for nutrients. Don shares his decision to not pursue the buck in Ohio due to low odds of success and the presence of other hunters on the property. He also mentions spending time with his family and the launch of a new deer feeder by a friend. Don and Terry discuss the status of their fall plots and answer listener questions about buck travel patterns and the impact of their practices on doe genetics. In this part of the conversation, Don and Terry answer questions from listeners about influencing buck genetics, advice for hunting mature bucks on permission properties, and the relationship between doe body weight and buck antler size. They also discuss the impact of an early antler growing season on when bucks shed their velvet, and the strategy of culling bucks based on their rack size. Don emphasizes the importance of hunting bucks where they spend their daylight hours, focusing on bedding cover rather than food plots.

    keywords:
    busy week, hunting, giant buck, Ohio, web show, farming for nutrients, meetings, low odds, family time, deer feeder, fall plots, buck travel patterns, doe genetics, buck genetics, hunting advice, doe body weight, antler size, culling bucks, bedding cover, food plots

  • Summary:
    In this episode, Don and Terry discuss observations of antler growth based on camera footage and weather conditions. They highlight the impact of weather on antler growth and the importance of considering the current season's growth when deciding whether to target a buck. They also discuss the challenges and considerations of fall food plots, including the timing of planting and the impact of weather conditions. The conversation touches on the genetics of deer populations and the potential for genetic improvement on small properties. They also address the question of transplanting trees and provide tips for successful transplantation. In this part of the conversation, Don and Terry discuss the importance of timing when it comes to tree cutting and suburban hunting. They also address a question about fall food plot planning and the impact of pre-emergent herbicides. Lastly, they talk about a study on food plot size and buck visitation, and the implications for different regions.

    Keywords:
    antler growth, weather conditions, buck observation, fall food plots, genetics, small properties, tree transplantation, tree cutting, suburban hunting, fall food plot planning, pre-emergent herbicides, food plot size, buck visitation



    Takeaways:
    Weather conditions, such as a light winter and early greenery, can have a significant impact on antler growth in deer.
    Consider the current season's antler growth when deciding whether to target a buck, as the next season's growth may not be as favorable.
    When planning fall food plots, it is important to consider the timing of planting and the impact of weather conditions, such as rainfall.
    Genetic improvement of deer populations on small properties is challenging, but letting bucks with better genetics live and pass on their genes can have some impact.
    Transplanting trees is best done when they are dormant, but if transplantation is necessary during the growing season, it is important to get as much of the root system as possible and provide ample watering. Timing is crucial when it comes to tree cutting, and it's best to wait until the tree is dormant for better success.
    Patience is important in both hunting and projects like suburban hunting.
    Pre-emergent herbicides can limit the types of crops that can be planted in a food plot, but the recommended plant back periods are often longer than necessary.
    The location of a food plot is likely more critical than its size, and the volume of food supplied can be important in certain situations.
    The study on food plot size and buck visitation may have different implications depending on the region and the layout of the property.

  • Summary
    Don Higgins and Joe Miles announce the launch of a new online hunting show called Chasing Giants TV, a Mission Whitetail series. The show will feature Don and Joe sharing their experiences and strategies for hunting whitetail deer. They will be joined by a diverse group of hunters, including Bobby Worthington, West Delks, Terry Peer, Steve Shields, Chris Yates, Bryhn Kraft, Brandon Epperson, and Ty Miller.

    The show will provide a platform for hunters of all levels to learn and be inspired. Osseo Gear is the main sponsor of the show, and the first episodes will be released in September. In this conversation, Don, Terry, and Joe discuss various topics related to hunting and habitat management.

    They cover subjects such as camera placement, acorn crops, grafting trees, and the impact of floods on deer populations. They also talk about the adaptability of whitetail deer and the importance of proactive management decisions. The conversation ends with a discussion about upcoming hunting trips and projects. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights and tips for hunters and land managers.

    Keywords
    hunting, whitetail deer, online show, Chasing Giants TV, Mission Whitetail series, Asio, hunting, habitat management, camera placement, acorn crops, grafting trees, floods, deer populations, adaptability, proactive management

    Takeaways
    Announcement of a new online hunting show called Chasing Giants TV, a Mission Whitetail series

    The show will feature Don Higgins and Joe Miles sharing their experiences and strategies for hunting whitetail deer

    The show aims to provide a platform for hunters of all levels to learn and be inspired

    Asio Gear and Real World Wildlife Products is the main sponsor of the show, and the first episodes will be released in September Proper camera placement is important for capturing quality footage and monitoring wildlife activity.

    The acorn crop can vary from year to year, and it's important to select fruit trees that ripen later in the season for hunting purposes.
    Grafting a female limb onto a male persimmon tree can result in a female persimmon tree.

    Deer are highly adaptable and can thrive in various landscapes and conditions.
    Proactive management decisions, such as limiting doe harvest, can have a positive impact on deer populations.
    Flooded areas can be repopulated by deer as the water recedes and new vegetation grows.
    Fall plots with diverse plant species can provide attractant throughout the season.
    The Mission Whitetail TV show will feature hunting adventures in various states and countries.
    The hosts express their appreciation for the support and friendship of their listeners and guests.

  • Summary
    In this episode, Terry and Don discuss their recent trail camera findings and when to plant fall plots. They also touch on their thoughts about recent political events. Don shares his experience speaking at an event in Wisconsin and talks about the abundance of fawns he's seen on his trail cameras. They emphasize the importance of timing when planting fall plots and recommend backdating from the expected first frost. They also address a listener's question about dealing with reed canary grass in deer habitat. In this conversation, Don and Terry discuss topics related to deer hunting and land management. They cover subjects such as converting reeds canary grass sites, the effectiveness of mineral blocks, the challenges of getting products into major retail stores, the impact of EHD on deer populations, and their personal hunting and life goals. Don shares his goals of shooting a 180-inch buck on public land and two more bucks over 200 inches, while Terry emphasizes the importance of using his new business as a ministry and leaving a legacy for his children. They also address the misconception that Don only hunts big bucks on his special property.

    Keywords
    trail cameras, fall plots, planting, timing, reed canary grass, deer habitat, deer hunting, land management, reeds canary grass, mineral blocks, EHD, retail stores, hunting goals, life goals

    Takeaways

    Timing is crucial when planting fall plots, and it's important to backdate from the expected first frost.
    Planting fall plots too early can result in the plants becoming too mature and losing their palatability.
    Reed canary grass is a challenging grass to deal with in deer habitat, but burning it off and planting potted trees can help establish better vegetation.
    Spraying around the trees to keep the reed canary grass at bay is necessary for the trees to thrive.
    Observing the abundance of fawns on trail cameras can indicate a successful fawning season. Glyphosate and clethodim can be used to convert reeds canary grass sites into better quality deer cover.
    Mineral blocks like Trophy Rock may attract deer, but they do not provide the same nutritional benefits as products like Maximizer.
    Getting products into major retail stores like Amazon can be challenging due to the demand for high profit margins.
    The recovery of deer populations after an EHD outbreak can take several years, especially if hunting pressure remains high.
    Don's hunting goals include shooting a 180-inch buck on public land and two more bucks over 200 inches.
    Terry's life goals involve using his new business as a ministry and leaving a legacy for his children.

  • Summary
    In this episode, Terry and Don catch up on their recent activities, including filming with Steve Shields and preparing for the Midwest Sportsman's Classic. They also discuss the new Ninmax batteries and answer questions about deer movement and tree planting. Don emphasizes the importance of playing the wind when hunting mature bucks, despite a study that suggests otherwise. He also provides advice on shading potted trees to prevent heat damage. In this part of the conversation, Don and Terry answer questions from listeners about scenting rope scrapes, promoting bedding in cattails, learning the movement of bucks, managing overgrown fields, and shooting albino or piebald deer. They also share updates on Lester's Feet and upcoming events. Don mentions that his days of seminar tours are winding down, and Terry shares his travel plans to Tennessee and the Gulf of Mexico.

    Keywords
    podcast, filming, weather, food plots, trail cameras, deer block, batteries, hunting show, tree planting, wind, deer movement, scenting rope scrapes, bedding in cattails, learning buck movement, managing overgrown fields, shooting albino or piebald deer, Lester's Feet, upcoming events, seminar tours, travel plans

    Takeaways
    Playing the wind is crucial for hunting mature bucks
    The new Ninmax batteries are now available on the Real World website
    The Midwest Sportsman's Classic will feature a Legends Roundtable and more events
    Shading potted trees can help prevent heat damage Scenting rope scrapes can be done in the fall, but it wouldn't hurt to try it earlier
    Aged rope scrapes and natural materials like pine branches or grapevines can attract deer
    Trail cameras are essential for learning buck movement and determining stand locations
    Overgrown fields with weeds and saplings can provide excellent cover for deer
    Switchgrass is not necessary if you already have good cover in an overgrown field
    Shooting albino or piebald deer is a personal choice, but legality and the buck's size and age should be considered
    Lester's Feet continues to make a positive impact on children with disabilities
    Don's seminar tours are winding down, so take the opportunity to see him if he's in your area

  • Summary
    Don discusses his recent activities in scouting deer properties and the progress of his Ohio property. He also shares the emotional journey of hunting and harvesting a buck named Babe, and the impact it had on his perspective and relationships. Don and Terry also answer questions about feeding and baiting deer, and Don expresses his preference for gravity-fed feeders. In this part of the conversation, Don and Terry answer questions from listeners about antler development conditions, hunting strategies, and dealing with hunting neighbors. They discuss the varying growing conditions across different regions and emphasize the importance of playing the wind when hunting mature bucks. They also address the challenge of hunting with family members who have different hunting approaches and stress the importance of valuing relationships over deer. Additionally, they discuss the use of Miscanthus as a screen to block a neighbor's view and mention that

    Keywords
    deer properties, scouting, Ohio property, emotional journey, relationships, feeding deer, baiting, gravity-fed feeders, antler development, hunting strategies, hunting neighbors, playing the wind, family hunting, Miscanthus, Real World Wildlife Products

    Takeaways
    Scouting deer properties and setting up trail cameras is an important part of deer hunting preparation.
    The emotional journey of hunting and harvesting a buck can have a profound impact on a hunter's perspective and relationships.
    Gravity-fed feeders are preferred over automatic feeders for feeding deer, as they are more reliable and keep other animals away from the feed.
    Revolutionary advancements in gravity-fed feeders are on the horizon, which will improve feed capacity and reduce feed loss. Growing conditions for antler development vary across different regions.
    Playing the wind is crucial when hunting mature bucks.
    Valuing relationships with family members is more important than hunting success.
    Miscanthus can be used as a screen to block a neighbor's view.
    Real World Wildlife Products will not be going public.

  • Summary
    In this episode, Don and Terry discuss Don's trail camera deployment, his creative spring on his property to keep deer off his soybeans, and the recent changes to deer hunting regulations in Iowa. They also provide an update on Don's daughter's health and answer a question about preparing fall plots when weeds have taken over. In this conversation, Don and Terry discuss various topics related to habitat management and deer hunting. They provide advice on managing weeds in food plots, the timing of herbicide application, and the importance of not disturbing the soil after spraying. They also discuss the benefits and challenges of frost seeding switchgrass and the use of cover crops. The conversation touches on the age of harvested does and the impact of bobcats on the deer population. They also mention the upcoming release of Real World batteries.


    trail cameras, deer hunting, soybeans, herbicides, Iowa, cancer, fall plots, weeds, habitat management, deer hunting, weed control, herbicide application, frost seeding, switchgrass, cover crops, doe harvest, bobcats, Real World batteries

  • In this episode, Don Higgins and Terry discuss the summer solstice and its impact on wildlife, particularly whitetail deer. They also talk about Don's recent experience of hanging a stand using a Quiet Cat bike. The conversation then shifts to the upcoming travel schedule for Don in July. They explore the physiological effects of the summer solstice on soybeans and whitetail deer, including antler growth, shedding velvet, and the timing of the rut. They also address questions about deer injuries and their impact on antler development. The episode concludes with a question about who will take over Chasing Giants when Don retires, to which Don responds that he has no plans to retire anytime soon. In this part of the conversation, Don and Terry discuss their plans for the future of the podcast and their hunting endeavors. They also answer questions from listeners about custom hunting gear, seatbelt warning suppression devices, and concealment for hunting blinds. They emphasize the importance of the hunter community in developing innovative hunting products and share their favorite custom gear. They also discuss the challenges of purchasing land and the importance of conducting thorough research before making a purchase. Finally, they provide updates on the availability of their new lithium batteries and the success of Lester's Feet, a charity organization they support. summer solstice, wildlife, whitetail deer, soybeans, antler growth, rut, deer injuries, retirement, podcast, future plans, hunting gear, custom gear, seatbelt warning suppression devices, concealment, hunting blinds, land purchase, research, lithium batteries, Lester's Feet

  • Takeaways

    Real World will be offering affordable trail camera batteries on their website, providing a cost-effective alternative to the expensive Energizer batteries.The delayed hay harvest has led to increased fawn mortality as the fawns are in the fields when the hay is being cut. This is a reminder of the cause and effect relationship in the ecosystem.Planting potted trees in the fall can be beneficial as they are more likely to survive and establish compared to bare root trees planted in the spring.While cedars can be invasive in some regions, they make great cover and are drought-tolerant. Their growth and impact vary depending on the region.The placement of mineral sites in the same spots year after year is unlikely to significantly attract predators, as deer will become hyper-alert in those areas. Predators are highly adaptable and will find ways to hunt and survive regardless of human interference.Regretting shooting a particular buck is unnecessary because it opened doors for other bucks with more potential to thrive.Hunting goes beyond just hunting and can have a positive impact on the lives of others.Waiting until July to put up trail cameras allows for a better understanding of a buck's antler growth.The main culprits for land management challenges are poor property layout and too many hunters.Being a disciple and sharing the word of Jesus is not limited to preachers and pastors.The impact of a father's love and support can be profound and lasting.Weddings are emotional and special moments that highlight the growth and values instilled in children.The joy and blessings of Father's Day are celebrated and shared.
  • In this episode, Don and Terry discuss the potential for an exceptional antler growing season due to favorable weather conditions. They highlight the importance of the current year's antler growth and how it may not be replicated in future years. They also discuss the challenge of deciding whether to shoot younger bucks that may have exceptional antler growth this year. The conversation then shifts to the topic of planting fruit trees for deer and the importance of choosing disease-resistant varieties. Don shares his approach to planting and caring for fruit trees, including spraying them with micronutrients. In this part of the conversation, Don and Terry discuss various topics related to deer hunting and land management. They talk about planting fruit trees in sanctuaries, the use of plastic weed mats, converting food plots to a more natural approach, the effectiveness of crimper rollers, the time it takes to gather enough data on a new hunting property, and the impact of feeders and water holes on deer. They also address the issue of ticks on deer and the use of garlic in feeders. The conversation ends with personal updates from Don and Terry.

    antler growth, weather conditions, future growth, shooting younger bucks, planting fruit trees, disease-resistant varieties, caring for fruit trees, spraying micronutrients, deer hunting, land management, fruit trees, sanctuaries, plastic weed mats, food plots, crimper rollers, data gathering, feeders, water holes, ticks, garlic

    Takeaways
    -The current year's antler growth may not be replicated in future years, making it important to consider shooting younger bucks with exceptional antler growth.
    -Choosing disease-resistant varieties is crucial when planting fruit trees for deer.
    -Spraying fruit trees with micronutrients can help promote their growth and health.
    -It's important to avoid excessive intrusion on deer properties, especially during the early stages of antler growth.
    -Monitoring and managing crop growth, such as corn and soybeans, can provide valuable food sources for deer. Plant fruit trees on the edges of sanctuaries to enhance stand sites and attract deer.
    -Avoid using plastic weed mats around trees as they can cause the roots to grow on top of the ground.
    -Consider converting food plots to a more natural approach using regenerative agriculture practices.
    -Crimper rollers can be effective but require the right timing and ground conditions.
    -It takes at least two to three years to gather enough data on a new hunting property to consistently be successful.
    -Feeders can be used to supplement deer nutrition, and water holes are not critical on most properties.
    -Expect Healthy Deer technology from Real World has anti-parasitic ingredients that can help with ticks.
    -Garlic can be added to feeders to benefit deer health.
    -Personal updates: Don is going on a business trip and working on the next issue of Whitetail Life magazine, while Terry is preparing for his daughter's wedding and pursuing a career opportunity.
    -Prayers are requested for Andrea's last radiation treatments and clean skin, as well as for Terry and his wife's career venture.


  • Takeaways

    Understanding the challenges of managing fawns and the importance of protecting them during the birthing season.Recognizing the significance of farming for nutrition and the impact of regenerative agriculture on food plots.Appreciating the innovative approach of Real World Wildlife Products in developing high-quality, nutrient-rich products for deer health and antler growth. The importance of using fertilizers with micronutrients for nutrient-dense plots.The attraction of nutrient-rich plants to deer and the impact on deer behavior.The challenges of managing deer in urban areas and the need for undisturbed bedding cover.The significance of Sunday night prayer time for the deer hunting community and the sense of community it fosters.
  • Takeaways

    It is important to provide food on your property year-round to attract and retain deerYoung bucks are often killed on the side of the road during this time of year as they disperse from their birthplaceUnderstanding the layout of your property and creating a plan is crucial for successful land managementResidual herbicides can help prevent weed growth in food plotsConsulting can be a positive experience, but there are challenges such as sleeping in motels and dealing with awkward encounters with listeners The hunting community is diverse and filled with interesting encounters and experiences.Land management and consulting can be challenging, but also rewarding when clients understand and implement the advice given.Timing for hunting can vary depending on weather conditions, but the last week of October and the first week of November are often good periods to target.Leaving a legacy in the hunting community should involve using one's platform to spread faith, speak the truth, and stand on principles.Memorial Day is a time to remember and honor the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families.

    Sound Bites

    "If my plots taste better than anything around, guess where the deer is going to be in my plots.""These deer that are being hit on the road are these young bucks that have just dispersed from their birthplace in recent weeks.""The whole idea of not providing food at certain times of the year is absolutely plumb ridiculous.""Is this really who I think it is?""I love hearing that kind of stuff.""I know within 30 minutes if this client is going to get it"
  • Don and Terry try to catch up on answering some listener questions in this episode. Several good ones include Miscanthus, Chemicals, Food Plots, Shade and a great question from the state of New York about the most important aspect of Hunting Whitetails.

  • Don and Terry spend time talking about each of the spring food plot types of seed and discuss timing and planting methods. New questions include hunting industry, mowing clover, screening / structure in food plots, and more.