Chasing Giants with Don Higgins

By Terry PeerSports Education Leisure How To Wilderness Hobbies

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70 min
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Chasing Giants with Don Higgins episodes

July 14, 2024 Episode 230 - Don says Switchgrass is not the best bedding.
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
1 hr 7 min
July 07, 2024 Episode #229 - Final Thoughts on the Buck Named Babe and Cameras are Out!
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.
1 hr 9 min
June 30, 2024 Episode 228 - Is Iowa Really the Best State?
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
1 hr 6 min
June 23, 2024 Episode #227 - Science Behind Summer Solstice and Whitetail
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
1 hr 7 min
June 16, 2024Ep. #226 - Mineral Site Placement and Predator Activity Special Memories of Fathers on Father's Day
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.
1 hr 12 min
June 09, 2024 Episode 225 - Big Antlers this Spring Mean Big Decisions this Fall!
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.
1 hr 3 min
June 02, 2024Episode 224 - Saving Fawns and Farming for Nutrients: Insights from Don Higgins
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.
1 hr 6 min
May 26, 2024Episode #223 - Why are Young Bucks Being Hit on the Roads This Time of Year?
Takeaways
It is important to provide food on your property year-round to attract and retain deer
Young bucks are often killed on the side of the road during this time of year as they disperse from their birthplace
Understanding the layout of your property and creating a plan is crucial for successful land management
Residual herbicides can help prevent weed growth in food plots
Consulting 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"
1 hr 3 min
May 19, 2024 Episode #221 - Crop Rotations for Food Plotters and Deer Water Holes
A fun episode this week as the guys were battling allergies from farm work. Key topics like Deer Fence, Water Holes, CWD, and crop rotations. You will enjoy this one. Have a blessed week.
1 hr
May 12, 2024 Episode #220 - Are Mature Bucks Smarter than Mature Doe?
Some great questions from listeners this week. Moles in miscanthus and is there a difference of intelligence over mature doe and mature bucks? Terry also takes some time to discuss his recent situation at home. We truly appreciate everyone's support!
1 hr 9 min

About Chasing Giants with Don Higgins

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Chronicling the constant pursuit of World Class Whitetails. Follow an experienced land manager, consultant, writer, and hunting industry expert throughout the year as he finds, targets, and hunts…