Think blacktail won’t daylight over bait? They’re not stubborn; they’re spoiled for choice. We bring on Gary Sims—cofounder of Limbsaver and the mind behind Blacktail Solution—to explain how flavor, precision nutrients, and smart timing flip the script on nocturnal patterns while building a stronger herd. Gary grew up on the Oregon coast with elk and blacktail everywhere, and that background led him to a simple idea with big consequences: if a blacktail likes it, every other ungulate will eat it. The trick is getting them to like it consistently.

We dive into why west-side deer often ignore salt blocks, and how a true supplement fills the gaps: protein for tissue and antlers, calcium and phosphorus for bone density, selenium and zinc for immunity, and iron for oxygen-rich blood. Palatability is the hinge—blacktail are picky—so Gary micro-batches every bag for identical flavor and nutrient delivery. Then comes the behavior shift: put out a small amount in mid-afternoon to create urgency. Early visitors win, late visitors lose, and bucks start sliding into that 4:30 to last-light window instead of 10 p.m.

Along the way, we talk antler jumps from solid frames to genuine trophy class, better doe lactation and fawn vigor, and why this mix draws elk yet tends to be ignored by bears. We cover post-rut recovery, winter stress, and how targeted feeding can reduce wasted effort for weekend warriors. We also address the realities of bait bans, selective harvest, and what real herd health support should look like when seasons are short and pressure is high.

If your goal is bigger racks, healthier fawns, and more daylight chances, this conversation lays out the playbook: precision ingredients, consistent flavor, and timing that changes behavior. Tap to listen, then tell us your smartest feeding tweak or timing trick. If you enjoyed the show, follow, share it with a hunting buddy, and leave a quick review so more folks can find us.

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