How To Hunt Deer - Sportsmen's Empire

In this episode, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss their experiences during the rut season, focusing on Jason's recent hunting trip to Nebraska. They share insights on deer sightings, challenges faced due to weather and hunting conditions, and the impact of local wildlife management. The conversation also touches on family hunting experiences and the emotional highs and lows of the hunting season. In this engaging conversation, Jason Thibodeau and Dan Johnson discuss their experiences and strategies in deer hunting, particularly during the rut. They share personal anecdotes about their hunting journeys, the challenges they face, and the excitement of the season. The discussion covers various topics including hunting strategies, buck behavior, the use of decoys, and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. They emphasize the significance of adapting to changing conditions and the thrill of the hunt, encouraging listeners to stay motivated and enjoy the process.

Takeaways:

• The rut season is a critical time for deer hunting.
• Local conditions and management practices can greatly affect deer populations.
• Weather patterns have been unusual this year, impacting hunting success.
• Trail cameras provide valuable insights but can also lead to high expectations.
• Close encounters with big bucks can be both thrilling and frustrating.
• Hunting dogs can pose significant challenges for hunters.
• Family involvement in hunting can enhance the experience.
• Understanding deer behavior is key to successful hunting.
• Patience and adaptability are essential during the hunting season.
• The emotional rollercoaster of hunting is part of the experience. It's okay to miss; it's part of the learning process.
• Hunting can be challenging, but persistence is key.
• Timing and location are crucial for successful hunts.
• Understanding buck behavior can improve hunting strategies.
• Decoys can be effective but require careful planning.
• Look for signs like scrapes and rubs to find deer.
• Weather conditions can significantly impact deer movement.
• Stay positive and flexible in your hunting approach.
• Don't hesitate to ask for permission to hunt new areas.
• The late season can offer unexpected opportunities for big bucks.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer Podcast, hosts Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau share their recent hunting experiences, discussing strategies, observations, and the challenges posed by external pressures from other hunters. They delve into the importance of trail cameras for gathering intel on deer movements and the decision-making process involved in choosing hunting locations. The conversation highlights the impact of weather and hunting pressure on deer behavior, as well as the dynamics of family hunting outings. In this conversation, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss their hunting strategies as the season progresses, focusing on weather patterns, deer behavior, and the impact of coyotes. They share insights on the movements of does and bucks, the importance of choosing the right hunting environment, and practical tips for maximizing hunting success. The conversation emphasizes the excitement of the upcoming hunting season and the need for safety and preparation.

Takeaways:

• Hunting experiences can vary greatly based on location and conditions.
• Trail cameras are essential for gathering intel on deer movements.
• Weather plays a significant role in deer activity and hunting success.
• Family involvement in hunting can shift focus from personal goals to shared experiences.
• External pressures from other hunters can disrupt deer patterns and behavior.
• Understanding deer behavior is crucial for effective hunting strategies.
• Decision-making in hunting often involves weighing multiple factors, including intel and location.
• Maintaining a good relationship with neighboring properties can help mitigate hunting pressure.
• Managing scent and wind direction is critical when hunting near bedding areas.
• Adaptability is key in responding to changing hunting conditions and pressures. The weather plays a crucial role in hunting success.
• Understanding doe behavior helps predict buck movements.
• Bucks are starting to split up as the rut approaches.
• Coyotes can disrupt deer hunting but should be managed carefully.
• Staging areas and pinch points are ideal hunting locations.
• Trail cameras are essential for tracking deer activity.
• Hunting during rain events can lead to increased deer movement.
• Safety should always be a priority while hunting.
• Morning hunts can be effective as the season progresses.
• Patience and preparation are key to a successful hunting season.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer Podcast, hosts Jason Thibodeau and Dan Johnson discuss their recent experiences with trail cameras, deer activity, and the impact of agricultural changes on deer behavior. They delve into the importance of understanding deer movement, the influence of pressure on hunting strategies, and how to effectively utilize scrape activity for successful hunts. The conversation emphasizes the significance of gathering data and adapting hunting approaches based on environmental changes and deer patterns. In this conversation, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss various hunting strategies and techniques for the current season. They emphasize the importance of understanding deer behavior, timing, and risk management in hunting. The discussion also covers the significance of knowing one's hunting property and preparing for the upcoming hunting season. The hosts share personal experiences and insights, making it relatable for both novice and experienced hunters.

Takeaways:

• Trail cameras provide valuable insights into deer activity.
• Cold fronts can influence deer movement and behavior.
• Increased scraping activity indicates heightened deer presence.
• Pressure from agriculture affects deer movement patterns.
• Hunting near scrapes can increase chances of success.
• Understanding wind direction is crucial for effective hunting.
• Water features can help control scent and improve hunting proximity.
• Gathering data is essential for developing effective hunting strategies.
• Deer often change their behavior after agricultural activities.
• Identifying patterns in deer movement can lead to successful hunts. This time of year, I focus on hunting near bedding areas.
• Understanding deer behavior is crucial for successful hunting.
• Timing is everything; I don't hunt heavily until after Halloween.
• Patience is key; better hunting days are coming.
• Know your property and the deer patterns on it.
• Use wind direction to your advantage when hunting.
• Staging areas can be effective for catching deer.
• I prioritize family time during the early hunting season.
• Every property is different; adapt your strategy accordingly.
• Always wear your safety harness while hunting.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer podcast, hosts Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss the October lull in deer hunting, share their experiences with youth hunting, and explore how weather changes impact deer behavior. They also reflect on the balance between family commitments and hunting, and address myths surrounding deer movement, particularly in relation to bobcats and the supposed October lull. In this conversation, Jason Thibodeau and Dan Johnson discuss various aspects of deer hunting, including the importance of understanding deer patterns, effective hunting strategies, and the significance of safety measures. They share personal experiences and insights on food sources, staging areas, and the timing of hunts, particularly in relation to the October lull and pre-rut periods. The discussion emphasizes the need for preparation and observation to enhance hunting success.

Takeaways:

• The October lull is often overstated and can be mythologized.
• Youth hunting experiences can be rewarding, even without a successful shot.
• Weather changes, like cold fronts, can influence deer behavior significantly.
• Balancing family activities with hunting is a common challenge for hunters.
• Bobcats and other predators can impact deer populations and movement.
• Being in the woods is essential to understanding deer behavior.
• Cold fronts may not always lead to immediate hunting success.
• Planning hunts around family schedules can enhance the experience.
• Trail cameras provide valuable insights but may not always reflect current deer activity.
• Patience is key; better hunting opportunities often arise later in the season. The intro of the podcast was relatable and engaging.
• Setting trail cameras in travel corridors is effective.
• Deer patterns change with agricultural activities.
• Hunting food sources is crucial during this time.
• Staging areas are key for deer movement.
• Patience is important when hunting for specific deer.
• The October lull is a time for observation, not hunting.
• Safety harnesses are essential for tree stand hunting.
• Regular practice with a bow is necessary for success.
• Deer behavior shifts as the season progresses.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer podcast, hosts Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau share their personal hunting experiences, focusing on a recent successful mule deer hunt. They discuss the emotional aspects of hunting, the differences between hunting mule deer and whitetail, and strategies for dealing with unexpected situations in the field. The conversation also covers the importance of learning from failures and the significance of preparation and safety while hunting.

Takeaways:

• Hunting can evoke feelings of nostalgia and longing for home.
• Successful hunts require patience and persistence.
• Mule deer hunting presents unique challenges compared to whitetail hunting.
• Understanding deer behavior is crucial for successful hunting.
• Preparation and organization are key to a successful hunting experience.
• Learning from past mistakes is essential for improvement.
• The rut can change deer behavior and hunting strategies.
• Calling techniques can significantly impact hunting success.
• Unexpected encounters in the field require quick thinking and adaptability.
• Safety should always be a priority when hunting.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer Podcast, hosts Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss various aspects of deer hunting, including the importance of coffee and energy drinks for stamina, the challenges of hunting on small properties, the dangers of overhunting, and the effective use of trail cameras. They emphasize the significance of understanding deer behavior, the pitfalls of social media influence, and the necessity of scent control and weapon maintenance. The conversation wraps up with a strong reminder about safety in the field, particularly the importance of using harnesses while hunting.

Takeaways:

• Coffee and energy drinks are essential for stamina during hunts.
• Small properties can be effective hunting spots if approached correctly.
• Overhunting can lead to educated deer and reduced success.
• Trail cameras provide valuable insights but can also lead to overhunting.
• Understanding deer behavior is crucial for successful hunting.
• Social media can create unrealistic expectations for hunters.
• Scent control is important, but not foolproof.
• Regular weapon maintenance is essential for accuracy.
• Safety harnesses are a must for tree stand hunting.
• Patience and strategy are key to successful hunting.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer Podcast, hosts Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss their recent weekend activities, including coaching youth sports and the challenges that come with it. They delve into the insights gained from trail cameras regarding deer movement and behavior, emphasizing the impact of weather patterns on hunting strategies. The conversation shifts to the concept of core areas for deer and how these areas change throughout the season. They also explore early season hunting tactics, the importance of patience, and the significance of weather in late-season hunting. The episode wraps up with practical advice for hunters as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Takeaways:

• Coaching youth sports can be challenging yet rewarding.
• Trail cameras provide valuable insights into deer movement.
• Weather significantly impacts deer behavior and hunting success.
• Deer have different core areas for breeding and non-breeding seasons.
• Early season hunting requires patience and strategic planning.
• Food sources are crucial in determining deer bedding areas.
• Late season hunting can be highly effective after major weather events.
• Hunters should adapt their strategies based on weather patterns.
• It's important to prioritize safety while hunting.
• Enjoying the outdoors and observing wildlife is as important as hunting.

In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer podcast, Dan Johnson and Jason Tibideau discuss their plans for the upcoming hunting season and the importance of preparing their weapons. They emphasize the need to practice shooting with broadheads and to ensure that bows are properly tuned and fitted. They also discuss the importance of shot placement and the debate between fixed and mechanical broadheads. The hosts recommend visiting local mom-and-pop stores for expert advice and tuning services. They also discuss the weight and components of their arrows. In this conversation, Jason and Dan discuss their bow setups and preferences, including the importance of shot placement and the benefits of adjustable bows. They also touch on the cost of bows and the significance of practice in achieving success. The conversation then shifts to firearm season, with Dan sharing his experience with muzzleloader hunting and the need for thorough preparation. They discuss the role of woodsmanship and the enjoyment of being in nature, as well as the different types of fun and goals in hunting.

Takeaways:

• Practice shooting with broadheads to ensure accuracy and shot placement
• Visit local mom-and-pop stores for expert advice and tuning services
• Properly tune and fit your bow for optimal performance
• Consider the weight and components of your arrows for the best results Shot placement is crucial in bow hunting, and it is not solely dependent on the size of the arrow or broadhead.
• Adjustable bows offer flexibility and are a good selling point for bow manufacturers.
• The cost of bows can vary, but investing in quality equipment can enhance the hunting experience.
• Practice is essential in becoming a proficient hunter, regardless of the type of weapon used.
• Muzzleloader hunting requires additional time and steps for sighting in and cleaning the gun.
• Woodsmanship and understanding deer travel patterns and food sources are important skills for successful hunting.
• Hunting can be a personal journey, with different goals and types of enjoyment for each individual.

On this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles, Dan breaks down what he looks for in hunting spots while e-scouting public land. Recently, Dan found out that he finally drew a Kansas archery tag. He has never hunted Kansas, so he is starting from scratch when it comes to finding places to hunt. Because this is an out of state hunt, Dan is going to rely heavily on using digital maps to e-scout the public properties before he hunts them. You will hear what specific terrain features he is looking for, how may points of access he would like those properties to have, and one of the biggest contributing factors... food sources.

On this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles, Dan is once again solo venting his ideas and frustrations to his listeners. The first part of this episode is dedicated his disinterest in "Hunting Masterclass" themed content. Dan feels there is no shortcuts to becoming a better deer hunter, specifically bowhunting. Time in the woods is the best and most effective method of learning. Then, Dan breaks down a very quick look in to his summer and fall trail camera strategy that includes summer inventory, terrain features, and knowing your local doe group.