I had the pleasure of being hosted by David Riley in his home, surrounded by the impressive Michigan bucks he's harvested over the years. We kicked off the conversation by discussing the significance of taxidermy and the stories behind each mount. David shared heartfelt anecdotes, including the emotional journey of hunting after his accident, emphasizing that the experience and memories often outweigh the size of the rack.

As we transitioned into the main topic, David provided insights into his current preparations for the upcoming hunting season. He talked about his meticulous process of locating targets, shooting practice, and packing for his first out-of-state hunt in September. David's approach to hunting is deeply rooted in the experience and the process, rather than just the end goal of filling a tag.

We delved into the importance of out-of-state hunts and how they can be a learning experience. David encouraged hunters to take the plunge and go for it, even if it means starting with smaller, less popular states before tackling the big ones like Iowa or Kansas. He shared his own experiences of hunting in various states and how each trip has contributed to his growth as a hunter.

David also provided a detailed breakdown of his strategy for an early September opener. He emphasized the importance of glassing for two evenings and one morning before the season starts, to locate and pattern the deer. His plan involves a mix of light scouting, glassing, and being mobile to adapt to the conditions and deer movements.

Throughout the episode, David's passion for hunting and his methodical approach to the sport were evident. He stressed the value of the process, the lessons learned from each hunt, and the importance of doing things your way. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the game, there's a wealth of knowledge to be gained from David's experiences and insights.

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