In this Dropping Pins episode, Derek dives into the mindset and strategies behind successful hunts, especially with his upcoming Illinois trip. Between old spots and fresh sign, Derek breaks down the tendencies hunters have to rely on familiar locations versus taking on new territory. Through stories of past hunts with his dad, Derek shares how sticking to the “known” can pay off—like it did during a memorable rut hunt up north—and how it can backfire when you’re too married to a spot that just isn’t working anymore.

From mobile setups to navigating the latest trends in public land hunting, it’s all about keeping an open mindset and letting fresh intel lead the way. Whether it’s using historical knowledge or adapting on the fly, Derek encourages everyone to mix in a little exploration. We’ve all had those places we keep coming back to, but sometimes a fresh approach is exactly what’s needed to bag that mature buck.

So, if you’re gearing up for the rut or planning a hunt of your own, join Derek for this episode packed with relatable stories and practical tips that might just help you beat the odds this season.

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