In this episode of the Chasing Giants podcast, hosts Terry and Don discuss their recent winter hunting experiences, the impact of weather on deer physiology, and the recent changes in Illinois DNR's CWD management policy. They delve into the ethics of deer management, particularly regarding neighbor agreements on hunting, and share personal hunting superstitions. The episode also highlights upcoming community events and answers listener questions about deer behavior and management strategies. In this episode, the hosts delve into a variety of topics ranging from political opinions to deer management strategies. They discuss the implications of political affiliations on hunting and conservation, share insights on deer population management, and explore the use of thermal surveys for effective land management. The conversation also touches on breeding cycles in deer, food plot planning, and the management of switchgrass. The episode concludes with a look at upcoming events and community engagement efforts. Chasing Giants and Lester's Feet Merchandise can be purchased at: https://morancreekoutdoors.com Our Sponsors of Chasing Giants TV: Asio Camo Gear - www.asiogear.com Midwest Land Group - www.midwestlandgroup.com Victory Auto Group - www.victorykc.com 360 Hunting Blinds - www.360huntingblinds.com Real World Wildlife Products - www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com Mathews Archery - www.mathewsinc.com Gingerich Tree Farms - www.gingerichtreefarm.com Brenton USA - www.brentonusa.com Vortex Optics - www.vortexoptics.com Any use of reproduction without the expressed written permission of Chasing Giants TV LLC is strictly prohibited. #mathewsarchery #mathews #liftx #foodplots #archery #whitetailhabitat #giantbuck #chasinggiants #liftx

In this episode of the Chasing Giants podcast, hosts Terry and Don reflect on the new year, discussing personal goals and insights gained from consulting with clients over the holidays. They explore the advantages of property ownership for deer hunting, emphasizing the importance of creating optimal stand locations and understanding soil health for effective food plots. The conversation also touches on innovative hunting strategies and the impact of weather on deer movement, culminating in a segment where Don answers candid questions in the Higgins Hot Seat. The episode concludes with announcements of upcoming events and community engagement opportunities. In this episode, Don and Terry discuss upcoming seminars and events, emphasizing the unique content and community engagement. They highlight a significant fundraising initiative at the Midwest Sportsman's Classic and share prayer requests for community members facing health challenges. The hosts address listener questions about food plot management, deer culling strategies, and stand site effectiveness, providing insights based on their experiences. They conclude with personal reflections on goals and aspirations for 2025, focusing on positivity and community support. Chasing Giants and Lester's Feet Merchandise can be purchased at: https://morancreekoutdoors.com Our Sponsors of Chasing Giants TV: Asio Camo Gear - www.asiogear.com Midwest Land Group - www.midwestlandgroup.com Victory Auto Group - www.victorykc.com 360 Hunting Blinds - www.360huntingblinds.com Real World Wildlife Products - www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com Mathews Archery - www.mathewsinc.com Gingerich Tree Farms - www.gingerichtreefarm.com Brenton USA - www.brentonusa.com Vortex Optics - www.vortexoptics.com Any use of reproduction without the expressed written permission of Chasing Giants TV LLC is strictly prohibited. #mathewsarchery #mathews #liftx #foodplots #archery #whitetailhabitat #giantbuck #chasinggiants #liftx

In this episode of the Chasing Giants podcast, hosts Don Higgins and Terry Peer discuss personal updates, including holiday experiences and health challenges. They then transition into habitat projects, emphasizing the importance of diversity in food sources for deer. Don shares his innovative plans for food plots, including no-till practices and overseeding techniques to maximize yield and minimize chemical use. The conversation shifts to trail camera strategies, where Don reflects on his experiences with cell cameras and how to optimize their placement for better results. The episode concludes with insights on enhancing camera locations to improve deer monitoring. In this episode, Terry and Don delve into various aspects of deer hunting and management, discussing the nuances of aging bucks, the upcoming Midwest Sportsman's Classic, and effective timber management techniques. They also address common hunting conflicts with neighbors, explore deer foraging behaviors, and share insights on optimizing food plots for better deer attraction. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding deer preferences and the benefits of diverse food sources in hunting strategies. Takeaways The importance of supporting each other during tough times. Diversity in food sources is crucial for deer management. No-till farming practices can enhance soil health and reduce chemical use. Overseeding can maximize food plot yields. Trail camera placement can significantly affect the number of deer captured in photos. Good camera locations are created, not just found. Understanding deer behavior is key to effective monitoring. Planning for various weather conditions is essential in habitat management. Innovative farming techniques can lead to better results in wildlife management. Documenting the process can engage and educate others. The distance between a buck's gibblies and butthole is key to aging. Finding the biggest antlers is a primary goal for some hunters. Midwest Sportsman's Classic is a significant event for outdoor enthusiasts. Girdling is preferred for certain tree species in timber management. Fences may become common due to increasing hunting conflicts. Fescue is not a preferred food source for deer. Rotting turnips still provide nutrients for future crops. Combining grains and greens in food plots can be beneficial. Diversity in food sources is crucial for attracting deer. Understanding deer behavior can enhance hunting success. Chasing Giants and Lester's Feet Merchandise can be purchased at: https://morancreekoutdoors.com Our Sponsors of Chasing Giants TV: Asio Camo Gear - www.asiogear.com Midwest Land Group - www.midwestlandgroup.com Victory Auto Group - www.victorykc.com 360 Hunting Blinds - www.360huntingblinds.com Real World Wildlife Products - www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com Mathews Archery - www.mathewsinc.com Gingerich Tree Farms - www.gingerichtreefarm.com Brenton USA - www.brentonusa.com Vortex Optics - www.vortexoptics.com Any use of reproduction without the expressed written permission of Chasing Giants TV LLC is strictly prohibited. #mathewsarchery #mathews #liftx #foodplots #archery #whitetailhabitat #giantbuck #chasinggiants #liftx Chasing Giants, habitat projects, food sources, trail cameras, deer hunting, wildlife management, agricultural practices, no-till farming, regenerative agriculture, hunting strategies, hunting, deer management, food plots, timber management, Midwest Sportsman's Classic, aging bucks, hunting conflicts, deer foraging, brassicas, outdoor events

In this episode of the Chasing Giants podcast, hosts Terry and Don discuss Don's recent health scare and the overwhelming support he received from the community. They transition into a conversation about property management, specifically the concept of a 'ceiling' on what can be achieved with a property. Don emphasizes the importance of recognizing this ceiling and making informed decisions about property management. The discussion then shifts to late-season hunting strategies, encouraging hunters to stick to their goals and not compromise as the season winds down. In this episode, Terry and Don delve into various aspects of deer hunting and management, discussing the peculiarities of deer health, the survival rates of buck fawns, and the effectiveness of mock scrapes. They also address the controversial topic of the second rut, emphasizing that it is a myth, and share strategies for managing poaching and protecting crops. The conversation is rich with insights on deer behavior, health issues, and practical hunting tips. Takeaways Don received overwhelming support during his health scare. Every property has a ceiling that limits potential. Hunters should recognize their property’s ceiling before making decisions. Late-season hunting requires a commitment to original goals. Compromising hunting goals can lead to missed opportunities. The community's support often outweighs negative feedback. Health changes can lead to better lifestyle choices. Understanding deer movement patterns is crucial in late season. Hunters should focus on long-term goals rather than short-term gains. Videoing deer can provide satisfaction without compromising goals. The size of the abscess on the deer was unprecedented. A deer's age can be misleading based on physical appearance. Survival rates for buck fawns are significantly low due to various factors. Mock scrapes can be more effective with ropes than natural vines. Orphaned fawns may struggle with health issues due to lack of maternal care. Bacterial infections can severely impact deer health and antler growth. There is only one rut each year, despite common beliefs about a second rut. Proper management of deer herds can lead to healthier populations. Using Miscanthus as a screen can deter poachers effectively. Unethical hunting practices can undermine conservation efforts. Chasing Giants and Lester's Feet Merchandise can be purchased at: https://morancreekoutdoors.com Our Sponsors of Chasing Giants TV: Asio Camo Gear - www.asiogear.com Midwest Land Group - www.midwestlandgroup.com Victory Auto Group - www.victorykc.com 360 Hunting Blinds - www.360huntingblinds.com Real World Wildlife Products - www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com Mathews Archery - www.mathewsinc.com Gingerich Tree Farms - www.gingerichtreefarm.com Brenton USA - www.brentonusa.com Vortex Optics - www.vortexoptics.com Any use of reproduction without the expressed written permission of Chasing Giants TV LLC is strictly prohibited. #mathewsarchery #mathews #liftx #foodplots #archery #whitetailhabitat #giantbuck #chasinggiants #liftx

In this episode of the Chasing Giants podcast, Terry and substitute co-host Joe Miles discuss Joe's recent hunting experiences in Mexico, where he successfully harvested two impressive bucks. They explore the differences in hunting conditions and practices between Mexico and the Midwest, the emotional journey of targeting a specific buck in South Carolina, and the challenges Joe faced during his pursuit. The conversation highlights the camaraderie of the hunting community, and the lessons learned through both successes and setbacks. Joe shares his excitement about hunting in Mexico for the fifth year. The hunting conditions in Mexico are vastly different from the Midwest, offering more action. Joe emphasizes the importance of patience and perseverance in hunting. The management practices in Mexico contribute to the quality of the deer population. Joe discusses the pre-rut conditions he observed during his hunt. The age structure of deer in Mexico is well-balanced, with many older bucks present. Joe recounts the challenges he faced while pursuing a specific buck in South Carolina. Natural disasters, like floods, can significantly impact hunting conditions and deer behavior. The emotional weight of hunting can be alleviated by focusing on the journey rather than just the kill. Transparency in hunting experiences helps build a relatable connection with the audience. Chasing Giants and Lester's Feet Merchandise can be purchased at: https://morancreekoutdoors.com Our Sponsors of Chasing Giants TV: Asio Camo Gear - www.asiogear.com Midwest Land Group - www.midwestlandgroup.com Victory Auto Group - www.victorykc.com 360 Hunting Blinds - www.360huntingblinds.com Real World Wildlife Products - www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com Mathews Archery - www.mathewsinc.com Gingerich Tree Farms - www.gingerichtreefarm.com Brenton USA - www.brentonusa.com Vortex Optics - www.vortexoptics.com Any use of reproduction without the expressed written permission of Chasing Giants TV LLC is strictly prohibited. #mathewsarchery #mathews #liftx #foodplots #archery #whitetailhabitat #giantbuck #chasinggiants #liftx

Terry discusses his 2024 hunt for the buck he named King David. This will end up being a different type of hunting video than we have ever produced. The story of this hunt, buck, and hunting season will hopefully be an encouragement to all. Chasing Giants and Lester's Feet Merchandise can be purchased at: https://morancreekoutdoors.com Our Sponsors of Chasing Giants TV: Asio Camo Gear - www.asiogear.com Midwest Land Group - www.midwestlandgroup.com Victory Auto Group - www.victorykc.com 360 Hunting Blinds - www.360huntingblinds.com Real World Wildlife Products - www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com Mathews Archery - www.mathewsinc.com Gingerich Tree Farms - www.gingerichtreefarm.com Brenton USA - www.brentonusa.com Vortex Optics - www.vortexoptics.com Any use of reproduction without the expressed written permission of Chasing Giants TV LLC is strictly prohibited. #mathewsarchery #mathews #liftx #foodplots #archery #whitetailhabitat #giantbuck #chasinggiants #liftx

Chasing Giants Merchandise can be purchased at: https://morancreekoutdoors.com The guys are joined by Wes Delks on this episode. Wes came over to hunt with Don and Terry after he harvested his target buck in Indiana named UHAUL. Listen to the guys joke around and discuss why this first buck off Higgins 2.0 is so special to Wes. He also spends some time helping Don answer some questions. For more daily content through the entire month of November, please follow our Chasing Giants TV social media.

Chasing Giants Merchandise can be purchased at: https://morancreekoutdoors.com Don was feeling a bit froggy as he goes on one of his epic rants that has Terry laughing. It has been a while since we have seen Don fired up. Hear what he has to say about the slow rut after what he thought would be a fantastic November. For more daily content through the entire month of November, please follow our Chasing Giants TV social media.

In this episode of the Chasing Giants podcast, hosts Terry and Don discuss the significant impact of weather on deer activity, particularly in October and November. They share insights from their hunting experiences, analyze weather patterns, and provide strategies for maximizing hunting success during the rut. The conversation also highlights the importance of understanding deer behavior in relation to weather changes and the upcoming rut report from Chasing Giants TV. In this episode, Terry and Don discuss the impact of weather on deer activity, the introduction of a new segment featuring unscripted questions, and the upcoming Midwest Sportsman's Classic. They delve into the controversial topic of trail cameras on public land, offer advice on food plot diversity, and share strategies for finding bedding areas without spooking deer. The conversation also covers understanding wind patterns in hunting and establishing proper sanctuaries on properties, culminating in a celebration of recent hunting successes. Weather is the most critical factor affecting deer activity. October had some exceptional hunting days due to weather changes. Hunters should focus on the first week of November for optimal deer movement. The concept of the October lull is often misunderstood; it's more about weather than timing. Upcoming weather patterns suggest a fantastic hunting opportunity in early November. Personal hunting experiences can provide valuable insights into deer behavior. Chasing Giants TV will offer a new rut report featuring multiple hunters' experiences. Understanding barometric pressure and wind direction is essential for hunting success. Hunters should be flexible with their schedules to take advantage of peak hunting days. The best November weather conditions can lead to increased deer activity. Weather significantly influences deer activity patterns. The first week of November is expected to be optimal for hunting this year. Trail cameras can be a valuable tool for public land hunters. Diversity in food plots is essential for attracting deer. Finding bedding areas requires careful scouting, especially in winter. Understanding local wind patterns is crucial for successful hunting. Sanctuaries should be as large as possible to benefit deer movement. Hunters should focus on creating movement patterns to make deer more killable. The Midwest Sportsman's Classic offers unique opportunities for hunters to connect with experts. Recent hunting successes highlight the effectiveness of strategic planning.