In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer Podcast, Dan and Jason discuss their recent spring break adventures, coaching experiences in youth sports, and the challenges of balancing volunteer roles with parental expectations. They delve into shed hunting, the transition to traditional archery, and the strategic considerations of hunting during different seasons, including early season versus rut hunting. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding deer behavior and adapting hunting strategies accordingly, while also reflecting on the joys and frustrations of aging and the evolving nature of hunting. In this conversation, Jason Thibodeau and Dan discuss various hunting strategies, focusing on the differences between early season hunting and the rut. They explore the benefits of hunting outside of peak times, the importance of experience in hunting, and the financial aspects of hunting on public versus private land. The discussion emphasizes the value of teaching children about hunting and the outdoor lifestyle, as well as the opportunities available for hunters of all budgets.

Takeaways:

• Wisconsin Dells can be expensive for families.
• Coaching youth sports is about teaching kids to be better people.
• Youth sports have become overly competitive and frustrating for volunteers.
• Transitioning to traditional archery can provide a new challenge.
• Hunting strategies should adapt based on deer behavior and season.
• Early season hunting can be effective for filling the freezer.
• The rut can create chaos in hunting strategies.
• Understanding deer patterns is crucial for successful hunting.
• Volunteering in youth sports requires managing expectations from parents.
• Aging brings physical challenges that affect outdoor activities. Success in hunting can vary between early season and rut.
• Understanding deer behavior is crucial for effective hunting.
• Hunting can be a family activity, teaching kids about nature.
• There are many opportunities to hunt locally without traveling.
• Hunting outside of the rut can yield surprising results.
• Experience in hunting can lead to better strategies and success.
• Public land hunting offers unique challenges and learning experiences.
• Private land hunting can be costly but may provide better opportunities.
• The importance of adapting hunting strategies based on conditions.
• Enjoying the outdoors and sharing experiences with family is invaluable.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer podcast, Dan Johnson discusses the importance of setting realistic expectations for deer hunting. He emphasizes the need for hunters to understand their goals, the resources available to them, and the time they can dedicate to hunting. The conversation covers various aspects of hunting, including the significance of scouting, the impact of time on hunting success, and the concept of stair stepping in hunting experience. Dan encourages both new and experienced hunters to manage their expectations based on their unique circumstances and to focus on gaining knowledge through time spent in the field.

Takeaways:

• Setting expectations is crucial for success in hunting.
• Time spent in the woods is invaluable for learning.
• New hunters should stair step their goals and experiences.
• Understanding your environment is key to hunting success.
• Manage your expectations based on the time you can dedicate.
• Don't be influenced by social media when setting goals.
• Scouting is essential for finding deer and improving success.
• Experience is the best teacher in hunting.
• Know the caliber of deer in your area before setting goals.
• Hunting is a personal journey; each hunter's path is unique.

In this episode, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss their recent adventures, focusing on shed hunting and scouting for deer. They share their experiences with the unpredictable weather, the beauty of the driftless area, and the challenges of littering on public lands. The conversation transitions into scouting techniques, terrain analysis, and strategies for hunting in Northeast Iowa, emphasizing the importance of preparation and understanding deer behavior. They also touch on the significance of documenting findings and making informed decisions based on scouting observations. In this conversation, Jason Thibodeau and Dan Johnson discuss effective hunting strategies, focusing on scouting techniques, understanding deer behavior, and utilizing digital mapping tools. They emphasize the importance of terrain features, food sources, and the impact of hunting pressure on deer movement. Additionally, they cover camping regulations and planning for hunting trips, providing valuable insights for both novice and experienced hunters.

Takeaways:

• The driftless area of Iowa is a beautiful hunting destination.
• Littering on public lands is a significant issue.
• Scouting is essential for successful deer hunting.
• Understanding terrain can improve hunting strategies.
• Isolation in hunting areas can lead to better deer sightings.
• Documenting findings helps in making informed hunting decisions.
• Deer often bed on points for safety from predators.
• Public land hunting requires awareness of other hunters' presence.
• Preparation for physical challenges is crucial in steep terrains.
• Using tools like ONX maps can enhance scouting efforts. Scouting is crucial for successful hunting.
• Historical insights can lead to better hunting spots.
• Terrain features significantly influence deer behavior.
• Digital mapping tools enhance scouting efficiency.
• Understanding food sources is key to attracting deer.
• Camping regulations vary by state and should be checked.
• Weekday hunting can reduce competition and pressure.
• Observing wind patterns is essential for hunting success.
• Old sign can indicate past deer activity in an area.
• Patience and thorough observation are vital during scouting.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer podcast, hosts Dan and Jason discuss their experiences and insights into deer hunting, including the challenges of sharing knowledge, learning from mistakes, and the importance of understanding different hunting environments. They also delve into strategies for food plots and current events in land management, emphasizing the need for careful planning and adaptation in hunting practices. In this conversation, Jason Thibodeau and Dan discuss various strategies for creating effective food plots and staging areas for deer hunting. They explore the importance of understanding deer behavior, the cost-effectiveness of different food plot options, and the impact of crop rotation on hunting success. The discussion emphasizes practical experiences and insights into habitat management, providing valuable tips for hunters looking to optimize their setups.

Takeaways:

• People have a love for hunting and seek knowledge.
• Mistakes in hunting can lead to valuable lessons.
• Experience in hunting varies greatly among individuals.
• Different environments require different hunting strategies.
• Food plots can serve as staging areas for deer.
• Understanding wind currents is crucial for hunting success.
• Listening to podcasts can enhance hunting knowledge.
• Planning food plots requires careful consideration of deer behavior.
• Hunting experience is often underestimated in terms of hours.
• Sharing insights can benefit hunters across various regions. Creating staging plots can enhance deer socialization.
• Food plots don't need to be perfect to be effective.
• Cost considerations are crucial when planning food plots.
• Understanding crop rotation helps in hunting strategy.
• Natural-looking food plots may attract deer better than manicured ones.
• Timing of planting is essential for food plot success.
• Deer behavior shifts with changing agricultural practices.
• Utilizing neighboring properties can improve hunting access.
• Weather conditions can impact deer movement and food plot effectiveness.
• Shed hunting can be a rewarding activity during off-seasons.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer Podcast, hosts Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss their recent experiences in deer hunting, including shed hunting, strategies for effective hunting, and habitat creation. They share insights on slowing down during hunts, exploring new properties, and the importance of trail cameras. The conversation also touches on the challenges and rewards of using different types of batteries for trail cameras, as well as the excitement of trying new hunting techniques. In this conversation, Jason Thibodeau and Dan Johnson discuss various aspects of trail camera usage, deer behavior, and shed hunting strategies. They delve into the challenges of battery life in trail cameras, the impact of weather on deer movement, and the significance of food sources during different seasons. The discussion also covers the importance of shed antlers in tracking deer and the necessity of proper habitat management and food plot preparation for successful hunting.

Takeaways:

• Sometimes you just need to slow down and take advice.
• Harvesting a deer with a recurve bow is a new goal.
• Big antlers are exciting, but filling tags is important too.
• Creating ambush points can enhance hunting success.
• Habitat management can improve wildlife presence.
• Experimenting with tree cutting can create better deer habitats.
• Trail camera battery choices can affect performance.
• Shed hunting requires patience and attention to detail.
• Scouting new properties can reveal hidden opportunities.
• The more time you invest in hunting, the greater the rewards. Battery life in trail cameras can be misleading.
• Cold weather affects battery performance significantly.
• Deer behavior changes with food availability and weather conditions.
• Shed hunting can provide insights into deer movement patterns.
• Food plots may not always yield shed antlers.
• Understanding deer core areas is crucial for hunting success.
• Shed antlers can help in predicting deer locations during hunting season.
• Soil testing is essential for effective food plot management.
• Proper research can prevent costly mistakes in habitat work.
• Engaging in outdoor activities with family can enhance the experience.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer Podcast, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss their recent shed hunting experiences and the challenges and strategies associated with hunting large properties. They explore the benefits and drawbacks of having multiple hunting options, the importance of scent management, and the need for careful planning and observation when hunting. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding deer movement and adapting to changing conditions, while also encouraging listeners to engage in outdoor activities and prepare for the upcoming hunting season.

Takeaways:

• Shed hunting can lead to unexpected discoveries.
• Trail cameras can be deceiving in estimating deer size.
• Having multiple properties can lead to confusion in hunting decisions.
• It's essential to break down large properties into manageable sections.
• Scent management is crucial when accessing large hunting areas.
• Observation stands can help learn deer movement patterns.
• Understanding neighbor hunting pressure is important.
• Access routes can significantly impact hunting success.
• Engaging in habitat improvement can enhance hunting opportunities.
• Involving kids in outdoor activities fosters a love for nature.

In this final episode of the series on hunting small properties, Dan  and Jason discuss strategies for success, recap previous episodes, and emphasize the importance of timing, patience, and building relationships with landowners. They share personal experiences and practical tips for effectively hunting small and suburban properties, highlighting the need for careful planning and observation to maximize hunting success.

Takeaways:

• Identifying and accessing small properties is crucial for hunting success.
• Building relationships with landowners can open up new hunting opportunities.
• Patience is key when hunting small properties with limited access.
• Timing your hunts based on deer behavior can lead to better results.
• Practicing with your equipment is essential for confidence in the field.
• Keeping a journal of observations can help track deer patterns.
• Utilizing multiple stand sites can increase your chances of success.
• Understanding the pressure from neighboring properties is important.
• Breaking down larger properties into smaller sections can simplify hunting strategies.
• Always be proactive in seeking permission to hunt new areas.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer Podcast, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss the impact of weather patterns on deer hunting, share their Super Bowl experiences, and delve into the importance of accessing small properties for effective hunting. They emphasize the need for proper access routes to avoid spooking deer and maximizing hunting success. In this conversation, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss effective strategies for hunting small properties, emphasizing the importance of access routes, timing of hunts, understanding neighboring properties, and the critical role of wind direction. They share personal experiences and insights on how to maximize success while hunting in limited spaces, including the use of trail cameras and the necessity of careful planning to avoid over-pressuring the area.

Takeaways:

• Weather patterns significantly affect deer movement and hunting success.
• Mild winters can lead to fewer shed finds and smaller antler sizes.
• Proper parking and access routes can greatly influence deer behavior.
• Family activities around the Super Bowl can be enjoyable and memorable.
• Kendrick Lamar's poetic talent was highlighted in a trivia discussion.
• Personal preferences in music can vary widely among listeners.
• The rise of girls wrestling is impacting traditional sports like basketball.
• Accessing small properties requires careful planning and permission.
• Understanding wind direction is crucial for effective hunting access.
• Small changes in access can lead to significant improvements in hunting outcomes. Access routes are crucial for successful hunting.
• Lazy access can lead to poor results.
• Small properties can often become mere travel routes for deer.
• Trail cameras provide valuable insights into deer movement.
• Getting into your stand early can improve morning hunts.
• Understanding wind direction is key to accessing properties effectively.
• Neighboring properties can impact deer movement and hunting success.
• Overhunting small properties can quickly lead to diminished returns.
• Using terrain features can enhance your access strategy.
• Scouting should be done slowly to observe wind patterns.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer Podcast, hosts Dan Johnson and Jason Tibbado discuss their experiences with shed hunting and the intricacies of hunting small properties. They emphasize the importance of understanding the dynamics of small hunting areas, establishing good relationships with landowners, and navigating permissions and communication with other hunters. The conversation is rich with personal anecdotes and practical advice for hunters looking to maximize their success on smaller plots of land. In this conversation, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss the nuances of hunting small properties, emphasizing the importance of communication with neighbors, understanding property permissions, and the strategic use of trail cameras. They explore the significance of building relationships with landowners and neighbors, the etiquette surrounding trail cameras, and the need for careful scouting and analysis of small hunting areas. The discussion also touches on managing access and pressure, as well as long-term strategies for maximizing hunting opportunities on small properties.

Takeaways:

• Shed hunting can be a rewarding experience, especially in good weather.
• Understanding the layout and characteristics of small properties is crucial for effective hunting.
• Establishing a good relationship with landowners can lead to better hunting opportunities.
• Always clarify the terms of permission with landowners to avoid misunderstandings.
• Communication with other hunters on the same property can prevent conflicts and enhance the hunting experience.
• Shed hunting can provide insights into deer movement and behavior.
• It's important to be respectful and considerate when hunting near others.
• Offering help to landowners can strengthen relationships and secure hunting permissions.
• Knowing the history of a property can inform hunting strategies.
• Being adaptable and open to learning is key to success in hunting smaller properties. Communication is key in hunting relationships.
• Building respect with neighbors enhances hunting experiences.
• Understanding property permissions is crucial for successful hunting.
• Trail camera etiquette can prevent misunderstandings.
• Scouting small properties requires careful analysis of terrain and deer movement.
• Access routes and pressure management are vital for hunting success.
• Establishing long-term relationships with landowners can lead to better hunting opportunities.
• Patience is important when asking for permissions on new properties.
• Meeting neighbors can help in recovering deer that run onto their land.
• More hunters are engaging with small properties than large ones.

In this episode, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss their personal experiences with hunting, including the challenges of accessing properties, the importance of observation and mobility, and reflections on hunting gear. They share insights on how to improve hunting strategies and the significance of learning from past mistakes. In this conversation, Jason Thibodeau and Dan Johnson discuss the essential elements of successful hunting, emphasizing the importance of skill over equipment, the learning process through mistakes, and the significance of understanding pressure and access routes. They also highlight the value of scouting and the need for continuous learning in the hunting community.

Takeaways:

• The man cold is a real thing.
• Personal health issues can affect outdoor activities.
• Accessing hunting properties can be challenging.
• Don't overlook easy access hunting spots.
• Observing deer behavior is crucial for success.
• Mobility in hunting can lead to better results.
• Gear should not be the primary focus of hunting.
• Practice with your weapon is essential.
• Learning from mistakes is part of the hunting journey.
• Hunting can be enjoyable regardless of gear quality. You can get by with older equipment if you practice.
• Your equipment should feel like an extension of yourself.
• Mistakes are part of the learning process in hunting.
• Practice is essential for success in any sport.
• Teaching kids to hunt involves embracing the learning curve.
• Pressure from hunters affects deer behavior, including your own.
• Access routes are crucial for successful hunting.
• Scouting is irreplaceable; nothing beats being on the ground.
• Don't hesitate to ask for access to neighboring properties.
• Continuous learning is key to improving your hunting skills.