How To Hunt Deer

Most hunters are missing out on the best times to find sheds—and they don’t even realize it. Discover how weather unpredictability, strategic stand placement, and terrain features can dramatically increase your success, even before the season starts. In this episode, Dan and Jason share real stories from their recent shed hunts—finding up to 11 sheds and deadheads in just a day and a half—and reveal the surprising patterns about where deer lose their antlers. You'll learn the key locations where most sheds are found: transitions between bedding and feeding areas, and along travel corridors in tall grass or CRP fields.You'll discover practical tactics like creating mock scrapes with scent-drenchers, adjusting stand locations based on deer movement, and using natural features like fence brackets to attract bucks. Plus, get insights on how weather shifts, like unseasonal snow or warm spells, influence deer movement and shed drop timing.This episode emphasizes that shed hunting isn't just about luck—it's about understanding deer behavior, terrain, and timing. Whether you're a seasoned shed hunter or just getting started, these tips can turn your next outing into a days-long success story.Tune in for honest stories, expert advice, and the motivation to get outside, educate yourself about deer patterns, and make the most of the season's hidden treasures. Perfect for any hunter eager to level-up their scouting, shed hunting, or habitat plans before the season kicks off. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau as they share personal stories, hunting experiences, land management tips, and the realities of outdoor life. This episode covers everything from out-of-state hunting strategies to the challenges of home improvement and family life, all with a humorous and insightful twist. Key topics: Out-of-state hunting strategies Land management and habitat improvement Family life and balancing outdoor passions Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer podcast, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss various aspects of hunting, including shed hunting strategies, the importance of scouting, and the dynamics of hunting pressure. They explore the challenges of managing tree stands, the impact of family on hunting decisions, and the dream of land ownership. The conversation emphasizes the balance between time and money in hunting, as well as the necessity of equipment maintenance for a successful season.  Takeaways Shed hunting is best done early to find untouched antlers. Scouting is crucial for understanding deer movement and patterns. Hunting pressure varies between bow hunters and gun hunters. Micromanaging tree stands can significantly improve hunting success. Family dynamics play a big role in hunting decisions and time management. Land ownership dreams can be complicated by financial and family obligations. Time spent scouting can lead to more successful hunting seasons. Understanding the terrain and deer habits is key to effective hunting. Balancing work, family, and hunting requires careful planning. Equipment maintenance is essential for a successful hunting experience.     Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss various aspects of hunting, including the challenges faced in education, financial struggles, and the behavior of deer. They share personal experiences and insights on hunting strategies, the evolution of their hunting goals, and the difficulties of accessing land for hunting. The conversation emphasizes the importance of enjoying the process of hunting rather than solely focusing on the size of the deer. Takeaways: Jason shares his experiences in a challenging preschool environment. The conversation touches on the financial struggles faced by independent workers. Deer behavior and their ability to recognize scent are discussed. The importance of hunting strategies and experiences is highlighted. The evolution of hunting goals over the years is explored. Land access for hunting has become increasingly difficult. The hosts reflect on their past hunting experiences and challenges. The significance of enjoying the hunting process is emphasized. The impact of economic realities on hunting and outdoor activities is discussed. The conversation concludes with reflections on the future of hunting. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer Podcast, hosts Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss various aspects of deer hunting, including the impact of winter weather on deer behavior, effective hunting strategies for small properties, and the importance of understanding wind direction. They share personal experiences and insights on shed hunting, big buck encounters, and the lessons learned from years of hunting. The conversation emphasizes the need for patience, adaptability, and strategic planning in hunting, especially in relation to deer movement and access routes.Takeaways:The renovation process can be challenging and time-consuming.Mild winters can lead to healthier deer herds and better antler growth.Understanding deer behavior during winter is crucial for hunting success.Shed hunting can provide valuable insights for postseason scouting.Small properties can be effective for hunting if managed properly.Wind direction plays a critical role in hunting strategy.Patience is key when hunting small properties for big bucks.Deer can adapt to their environment and survive harsh conditions.Using scent control methods can enhance hunting success.Learning from past experiences is essential for improving hunting tactics. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer podcast, Dan Johnson discusses the excitement of shed hunting as the season approaches. He shares personal anecdotes, tips for scouting and finding sheds, and insights into deer behavior. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding deer movement, key locations for finding sheds, and the joy of engaging in this outdoor activity with family and friends. Dan also touches on the unwritten rules of shed hunting and the camaraderie within the hunting community.TakeawaysShed hunting is a great way to get kids involved.It's important to scout while shed hunting.Look for terrain features that dictate deer movement.Destination food sources are key for finding sheds.Bedding areas can also be productive for shed hunting.Shed hunting takes a lot of miles to find piles.Mark locations of found sheds on a map for future reference.Shed hunting can be a fun group activity.Understanding deer behavior helps in locating sheds.Engaging in shed hunting keeps you active outdoors. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Discover how late-season deer scouting and shed hunting can transform your hunting success this year. With winter’s unique terrain clues and strategic timing, you'll learn how to find more antlers—and understand deer movement like never before. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the game, this episode offers actionable insights that will keep you sharp all year round.Deer behavior expert Dan Johnson joins us to break down the power of winter scouting. You'll discover why this dormant season is actually the best time to analyze terrain, track old sign, and pinpoint bedding areas—even with limited snow and changing weather conditions. From the importance of killing pressure for better shed discovery to using trail cameras and mineral supplements effectively, we reveal tactics that give you the edge during the off-season.We cover essential topics like:How to identify and interpret deer sign during winter monthsThe real impact of pressure and weather on antler shedding timingPractical strategies for barnacle-breaking terrain analysis, including water sources and travel corridorsWhen to go shed hunting for optimal results—plus, common rookie mistakes to avoidThe benefits of late-season observation for better deer herd management and future huntsWhy does this matter? Because the true advantage in deer hunting comes from understanding their habits during the off-season—long before the season starts. Overlooking winter scouting means missing out on crucial intel that can lead to bigger bucks and more successful hunts come fall. And with more states considering shed hunting regulations, knowing the best practices now will keep you compliant and ahead of the curve.Perfect for hunters wanting to deepen their knowledge or just looking for fresh tactics to boost their success next season, this episode will change how you approach the winter months. Tune in to learn how to turn the off-season into your secret weapon and start planning your next move today. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer podcast, hosts Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss their busy weekends filled with family activities, reflections on the deer season, and the impact of weather on deer behavior. They delve into the complexities of parenting in sports, the relationship between conservation and hunting, and the challenges posed by government regulations and wildlife management, particularly concerning CWD. The conversation highlights the need for informed hunting practices, community engagement in conservation efforts, and the importance of understanding the broader implications of hunting regulations. They also touch on urban deer management and the future of hunting practices, concluding with a look ahead to shed hunting and habitat improvement.takeawaysBusy weekends often lead to a lack of personal time.Weather significantly impacts deer behavior and shedding.Parenting in sports requires a balance of encouragement and pressure.Conservation efforts are often complicated by political and financial interests.CWD remains a pressing issue in wildlife management.Farmers and hunters must find common ground for effective conservation.Education about hunting regulations is crucial for future generations.Urban deer management can create tension between hunters and local communities.Community engagement is essential for effective conservation practices.Shed hunting and habitat improvement are important topics for the upcoming season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer Podcast, hosts Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau delve into the ethical complexities of hunting, focusing on the challenges of making decisions in the field. They discuss the impact of weather on deer behavior, the nuances of baiting laws, and the importance of conservation efforts. Personal stories and insights highlight the balance between tradition and modern hunting practices. Takeaways:Ethical hunting requires careful decision-making in the field.Weather conditions can significantly affect deer behavior and hunting strategies.Understanding baiting laws is crucial for ethical hunting practices.Conservation efforts are essential for sustainable hunting.Personal stories provide insight into the challenges of hunting.Balancing tradition with modern practices is key in hunting.Deer management involves understanding herd health and behavior.Hunters play a vital role in conservation efforts.Community involvement enhances the hunting experience.Ethical hunting is about more than just following the rules. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this conversation, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss various aspects of hunting and conservation, reflecting on their personal experiences and the importance of getting involved in local conservation efforts. They explore the meaning of conservation, the role of hunters, and the significance of teaching the next generation about wildlife management. The discussion also touches on the political aspects of conservation and the need for local involvement to ensure the sustainability of hunting and natural resources.Takeaways:Not every hunting year is perfect, but reflection is key.Involvement in conservation can take many forms.Teaching kids about hunting fosters future conservationists.Conservation is about actions, not just words.Local conservation efforts can have a greater impact.Recruiting new hunters is essential for the future of hunting.Understanding the politics of conservation is important.Supporting local organizations can yield better results.Conservation efforts should include diverse perspectives.Every small action contributes to the larger conservation goal. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Dan and Jason reflect on the New Year and the challenges of transitioning back to routine after the holidays. They discuss the bittersweet end of the hunting season, the importance of shed hunting, and the preparations needed for spring activities. The conversation also touches on family life, balancing commitments, and the anticipation of a new baby. They emphasize the need to focus on personal growth and enjoying the present rather than comparing oneself to others.takeawaysHappy New Year!Transitioning back to routine can be challenging.The end of hunting season brings mixed feelings.Shed hunting is an important spring activity.Preparation for spring is essential for success.Family commitments can impact hunting schedules.Focus on personal growth and enjoyment in the outdoors.Comparing oneself to others can lead to dissatisfaction.Planning for a new baby adds excitement and challenges.The importance of enjoying what you have. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau reflect on the past year of the podcast, discussing their experiences, lessons learned, and plans for the upcoming year. They touch on the importance of enjoying the present, the challenges of parenting, and the need for better time management in their hunting activities. The conversation also includes insights on deer hunting strategies, the introduction of new content on YouTube, and the significance of health and preparation for future hunting seasons.takeawaysThe podcast has evolved over the past year, creating a dynamic duo.Listeners appreciate a mix of humor and serious discussions.Time management is crucial for balancing hunting and family life.Reflecting on past experiences can guide future decisions.Health issues can impact hunting plans and strategies.The importance of enjoying the present rather than always seeking the next best thing.New content will be available on YouTube, expanding the podcast's reach.Deer hunting strategies need to adapt to changing conditions.Family involvement in outdoor activities is essential.Planning and preparation are key to successful hunting seasons. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer Podcast, hosts Dan and Jason discuss their holiday experiences, family traditions, and the challenges of hunting during the winter season. They share personal stories about chasing big bucks, the impact of poaching on deer populations, and the joys of shed hunting with family. The conversation reflects on the changing perspectives of hunting, emphasizing the importance of experiences over mere numbers.Takeaways:Family traditions play a significant role in hunting experiences.Hunting can be a bonding activity for families, especially with children.Chasing big bucks can lead to both success and regret.Poaching has a detrimental impact on local deer populations.Shed hunting is a fun family activity that fosters appreciation for nature.The experience of hunting is more valuable than the number of deer killed.Education gained from hunting can enhance future hunting experiences.The joy of hunting can come from watching others succeed, especially children.Changing perspectives on hunting can lead to more fulfilling experiences.It's important to balance the pursuit of big game with the enjoyment of the hunt itself. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This conversation explores the experiences of a substitute teacher and the dynamics within the classroom, touching on the challenges and rewards of teaching. It transitions into a discussion about food waste in schools and the implications of such waste. The latter part of the conversation shifts focus to hunting strategies, deer behavior in changing weather, and the importance of habitat management. The speakers reflect on their personal experiences and lessons learned through teaching and hunting.Takeaways:Substitute teaching can be unpredictable and rewarding.Students often test boundaries with substitute teachers.Food waste in schools is a significant issue.Hunting strategies change with seasonal weather patterns.Deer behavior is influenced by temperature changes.Scouting is essential for successful hunting.Public hunting requires different strategies than private hunting.Habitat management is crucial for deer survival.The school environment can greatly affect student behavior.Life lessons can be learned through teaching and hunting. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer Podcast, Dan Johnson and Jason discuss the challenges of transitioning from physical labor to teaching, the complexities of modern education, and the strategies for hunting during the late season. They explore deer behavior in winter, the importance of food sources, and the significance of habitat management after the hunting season. The conversation also touches on gift ideas for hunters and the involvement of family in outdoor activities, culminating in a wrap-up of their thoughts on the current hunting season.Takeaways:Transitioning from labor to teaching can be challenging.Modern education requires different strategies than in the past.Deer behavior changes significantly after the rut.Food sources become critical for deer survival in winter.Habitat management is essential for maintaining deer populations.Inventorying deer populations helps in understanding survival rates.Gift ideas for hunters can include practical items for the field.Family involvement in hunting can enhance the experience.Late season hunting requires different strategies than early season.Understanding weather patterns can aid in hunting success. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer Podcast, hosts Jason and Dan discuss the challenges of balancing family life with hunting during the holiday season. They share personal anecdotes about home renovations, the overwhelming amount of hunting gear, and the impact of snowy conditions on deer behavior. The conversation shifts to late-season hunting strategies, the importance of trail cameras, and the pressure of neighboring hunters. They also explore the dilemma of whether to pursue a big buck or fill the freezer with does, and the potential for out-of-state hunts. The episode concludes with a reminder about safety and preparation for the hunting season.Takeaways:Balancing family commitments with hunting can be challenging during the holidays.Home renovations can test patience and lead to unexpected challenges.Organization of hunting gear is crucial but often neglected.Snowy conditions can significantly affect deer behavior and movement patterns.Late-season hunting strategies should focus on food sources and deer patterns.Trail cameras are essential for monitoring deer activity and making informed hunting decisions.Hunting pressure from neighbors can impact deer movement and hunting success.Deciding between pursuing a big buck or filling the freezer is a common dilemma for hunters.Planning for out-of-state hunts can be beneficial for future seasons.Safety and communication are vital during hunting season, especially during drives. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The conversation delves into the dynamics of deer behavior during the rut and estrus cycles, emphasizing the significance of seasonal changes and their impact on deer movement. The hosts discuss the timing of estrus in does, particularly around Thanksgiving, and how colder weather influences deer patterns, shifting from rut activity to bed to food movements.Takeaways:The week of Thanksgiving marks a critical point in the rut.Estrus can still occur into early December.Heavy populations of does can lead to unexpected estrus cycles.Deer movement patterns shift significantly with colder weather.The transition from rut to bed to food patterns is crucial for hunters.Understanding these patterns can enhance hunting strategies.The rut action diminishes as the season progresses.Snow can impact deer movement and grouping behavior.Monitoring deer behavior is essential for successful hunting.Seasonal changes play a vital role in wildlife behavior. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer podcast, Dan and Jason discuss the challenges and joys of the hunting season, including family dynamics, strategies for success, and the importance of enjoying the experience. They share personal stories, lessons learned from missed shots, and the ethical considerations of hunting decisions. The conversation also touches on the use of decoys, the significance of comfort in hunting gear, and reflections on the season as they look forward to future hunts.Takeaways:The hunting season presents both challenges and opportunities.Family dynamics can complicate holiday schedules.New beginnings, such as having a child, bring excitement.Hunting strategies evolve based on experiences and lessons learned.Enjoying the hunt is more important than the size of the deer.Family involvement enhances the hunting experience.Shifting focus from trophy hunting to enjoying the process is valuable.Understanding deer behavior is crucial for successful hunting.Using decoys can be an effective strategy in hunting.Ethical considerations in hunting decisions are important. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this conversation, Jason shares his recent hunting experiences, detailing the thrill of the hunt and the decisions he faces in the field. He reflects on the ease of accessing his hunting property and the excitement of encountering various deer, including an impressive 11-point buck. The discussion highlights the emotional and strategic aspects of hunting, as well as the connection to nature.Takeaways:Hunting can be both thrilling and challenging.Decisions in the field often come down to instinct.Access to hunting grounds can influence success.The excitement of seeing wildlife enhances the experience.Strategic planning is key to successful hunting trips.Personal experiences shape one's approach to hunting.The thrill of the chase is a significant part of hunting.Wildlife photography can complement hunting experiences.Understanding deer behavior is crucial for hunters.Every hunting trip offers new lessons and insights. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The conversation delves into the behavior of bucks during the hunting season, particularly in November, highlighting how their responses to being bumped change as the season progresses. The speakers discuss strategies for hunting and the likelihood of encountering the same buck after an initial disturbance.Takeaways:Bucks become less cautious as November approaches.Bumping a buck in October has different implications than in November.Opportunities to hunt the same buck can arise quickly after bumping him.Understanding deer behavior is crucial for successful hunting.Timing and seasonality play a significant role in hunting strategies.Hunters should adapt their tactics based on deer behavior changes.The presence of does influences buck movement and hunting opportunities.Bucks may recover quickly from disturbances later in the season.Effective wildlife management requires knowledge of animal behavior.Hunters should remain flexible and observant during the hunting season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.