The WHTL Podcast - Whitetail Deer Hunting Tactics, Stories & Expert Guests

Welcome to the WHTL Podcast, presented by Moultrie. Your source for Whitetail Deer Hunting Tactics, Stories & Expert Guests. In this episode, we're back on the road in Iowa with Curt Headington. We Discuss:

• Seat time isn't everything; pick your battles for better odds in hunting
• Mimicking deer movement helps avoid detection while approaching stands
• Understanding thermals is crucial for successful whitetail hunting
• Historical data on deer movements can guide hunting strategies
• Be patient and methodical; don't rush to change setups without good reason
• High-pressure days can allow for more aggressive hunting tactics
• Early morning hunts benefit from calm thermals and reduced deer alertness
• Focus on specific deer rather than getting distracted by others
• Adapt your strategy based on deer behavior and environmental changes

And So Much More!

If you're serious about whitetail hunting tactics, understanding mature buck behavior, and staying ahead of the curve, you don't want to miss this episode.

Follow along on social!

IG - @WHTLDEER

TikTok - @WHTLDEER

YouTube - @WHTLDEER

Thanks again for all of the support from our partners—none of this would've been possible without them!

-Moultrie: https://bit.ly/moultrie_

-Hawke Optics | Use Code WHTL for 15% off: https://bit.ly/hawkeoptics_

-OnX: https://bit.ly/onX_Hunt

-Painted Arrow: ⁠⁠bit.ly/PaintedArrow

Welcome to the WHTL Podcast, presented by Moultrie. Your source for Whitetail Deer Hunting Tactics, Stories & Expert Guests. In this episode, we're back on the road with repeat guest and friend of the channel Thomas Mlsna. We Discuss:

• Don't assume deer movement from trail camera photos; they can be misleading.
• Keep scouting throughout November; deer behavior changes rapidly.
• If you're feeling discouraged, get out there and put in the effort.
• Historical data is crucial; learn from past hunting experiences.
• Pressure from hunting can push deer to lower-pressure areas.
• Use community scrapes to gather intel on deer movement.
• Anticipate deer behavior based on wind direction and food sources.
• Be methodical in your approach; plan your hunts carefully.
• Don't rely solely on trail cameras; they provide limited information.
• Embrace the unpredictability of the rut; stay adaptable and observant.

And So Much More!

If you're serious about whitetail hunting tactics, understanding mature buck behavior, and staying ahead of the curve, you don't want to miss this episode.

Follow along on social!

IG - @WHTLDEER

TikTok - @WHTLDEER

YouTube - @WHTLDEER

Thanks again for all of the support from our partners—none of this would've been possible without them!

-Moultrie: https://bit.ly/moultrie_

-Hawke Optics | Use Code WHTL for 15% off: https://bit.ly/hawkeoptics_

-OnX: https://bit.ly/onX_Hunt

-Painted Arrow: ⁠⁠bit.ly/PaintedArrow

Welcome to the WHTL Podcast, presented by Moultrie. Your source for Whitetail Deer Hunting Tactics, Stories & Expert Guests. In this episode, we're back on the road with someone who needs no introduction, the one and only Lee Lakosky. We Discuss:

• The podcast emphasizes the importance of authentic conversations over scripted content.
• Lee discusses the significant impact Tiffany has had on women's participation in hunting.
• The couple's home reflects their passion for hunting and features reclaimed wood with history.
• Lee shares nostalgic memories tied to the deer they've hunted and the stories behind them.
• He highlights the misconception that he only has a TV show, revealing his diverse interests.
• Lee prioritizes being a good father and husband above all else in his life.
• EHD (Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease) is a major concern for Lee in deer management.
• He expresses frustration over the focus on CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease) instead of EHD.
• Lee reflects on the challenges and sacrifices made during their journey to success.
• The conversation touches on the pressures of fame and the scrutiny from the hunting community.

And So Much More!

If you're serious about whitetail hunting tactics, understanding mature buck behavior, and staying ahead of the curve, you don't want to miss this episode.

Follow along on social!

IG - @WHTLDEER

TikTok - @WHTLDEER

YouTube - @WHTLDEER

Thanks again for all of the support from our partners—none of this would've been possible without them!

-Moultrie: https://bit.ly/moultrie_

-Hawke Optics | Use Code WHTL for 15% off: https://bit.ly/hawkeoptics_

-OnX: https://bit.ly/onX_Hunt

-Painted Arrow: ⁠⁠bit.ly/PaintedArrow

Welcome to the WHTL Podcast, presented by Moultrie. Your source for Whitetail Deer Hunting Tactics, Stories & Expert Guests. In this episode, we're back on the road with Bobby Worthington. We Discuss:

• Late October is prime time for hunting big bucks on scrapes.
• Running trail cameras over scrapes is essential for October success.
• October cold fronts significantly increase deer movement and hunting success.
• The atmosphere at the Deer Society fosters collaboration and excitement about hunting.
• Scrapes are key locations; hunt them based on historical patterns and current activity.
• Rain can trigger increased deer movement, especially after a storm.
• Calling and rattling can be effective in late October as bucks become more active.
• Accessing scrapes quietly is crucial; consider morning vs. evening hunts.
• Historical data on deer movement can guide your strategy for November.
• Stay positive and adaptable; every day in the field can yield new opportunities.

And So Much More!

If you're serious about whitetail hunting tactics, understanding mature buck behavior, and staying ahead of the curve, you don't want to miss this episode.

Follow along on social!

IG - @WHTLDEER

TikTok - @WHTLDEER

YouTube - @WHTLDEER

Thanks again for all of the support from our partners—none of this would've been possible without them!

-Moultrie: https://bit.ly/moultrie_

-Hawke Optics | Use Code WHTL for 15% off: https://bit.ly/hawkeoptics_

-OnX: https://bit.ly/onX_Hunt

-Painted Arrow: ⁠⁠bit.ly/PaintedArrow

Welcome to the WHTL Podcast, presented by Moultrie. Your source for Whitetail Deer Hunting Tactics, Stories & Expert Guests. In this episode, we're back on the road with Bobby Worthington. We Discuss:

• Success is mastering common skills uncommonly well over a lifetime.
• Big woods hunting differs from managed property hunting; it requires unique strategies.
• October 25th is a key date for hunting nocturnal deer as the rut approaches.
• Human presence can make deer nocturnal; some may be born with that trait.
• Understanding deer patterns is crucial; they shift as the rut progresses.
• Temperature affects deer movement; cold weather increases daytime activity.
• Hunting funnels and trails is essential for success during the rut.
• Experience in the woods is more valuable than internet advice or books.
• Jealousy exists in the hunting community; focus on sharing knowledge instead.
• Quality gear, like optics, is often overlooked but essential for successful hunting.

And So Much More!

If you're serious about whitetail hunting tactics, understanding mature buck behavior, and staying ahead of the curve, you don't want to miss this episode.

Follow along on social!

IG - @WHTLDEER

TikTok - @WHTLDEER

YouTube - @WHTLDEER

Thanks again for all of the support from our partners—none of this would've been possible without them!

-Moultrie: https://bit.ly/moultrie_

-Hawke Optics | Use Code WHTL for 15% off: https://bit.ly/hawkeoptics_

-OnX: https://bit.ly/onX_Hunt

-Painted Arrow: ⁠⁠bit.ly/PaintedArrow

Welcome to the WHTL Podcast, presented by Moultrie. Your source for Whitetail Deer Hunting Tactics, Stories & Expert Guests. In this episode, we're back on the road with Bobby Worthington. We Discuss:

• Insanity in hunting is doing the same thing, but variation is key for success.
• Be in the right funnel to increase your odds during the rut.
• October 25th is a crucial date for pre-rut movement and hunting sign.
• Hunting a rut funnel too often can diminish your chances; know when to move.
• Midday movement during the rut is often overlooked; stay alert all day.
• Expect to encounter mature bucks; don't leave early due to excuses.
• The rut is unpredictable, but you can still target specific deer in funnels.
• Time in the woods is a force multiplier; the more you hunt, the better your odds.
• Prioritize your hunting time wisely; don't let excitement lead to mistakes.
• As priorities change, hunting becomes more about enjoyment than just killing.

And So Much More!

If you're serious about whitetail hunting tactics, understanding mature buck behavior, and staying ahead of the curve, you don't want to miss this episode.

Follow along on social!

IG - @WHTLDEER

TikTok - @WHTLDEER

YouTube - @WHTLDEER

Thanks again for all of the support from our partners—none of this would've been possible without them!

-Moultrie: https://bit.ly/moultrie_

-Hawke Optics | Use Code WHTL for 15% off: https://bit.ly/hawkeoptics_

-OnX: https://bit.ly/onX_Hunt

-Painted Arrow: ⁠⁠bit.ly/PaintedArrow

Welcome to the WHTL Podcast, presented by Moultrie. Your source for Whitetail Deer Hunting Tactics, Stories & Expert Guests. In this episode, we're back in the studio with Steve Sherk. We Discuss:

• Lessons from a 150-camera whitetail study
• Running 150–200 trail cameras for patterns
• Cold fronts: overhyped or underrated for deer?
• Timing is key: what are the best hunt dates?
• Crop rotation changes deer movement yearly
• Early season insights from camera data
• Coldest morning hit hard in October hunts
• 42 daylight buck pics logged on October 15th
• November produced over 60 buck sightings
• Walking through the season week by week
• Buck photos doubled from 2022 to 2024

And So Much More!

If you're serious about whitetail hunting tactics, understanding mature buck behavior, and staying ahead of the curve, you don't want to miss this episode.

Follow along on social!

IG - @WHTLDEER

TikTok - @WHTLDEER

YouTube - @WHTLDEER

Thanks again for all of the support from our partners—none of this would've been possible without them!

-Moultrie: https://bit.ly/moultrie_

-Hawke Optics | Use Code WHTL for 15% off: https://bit.ly/hawkeoptics_

-OnX: https://bit.ly/onX_Hunt

-Painted Arrow: ⁠⁠bit.ly/PaintedArrow

Welcome to the WHTL Podcast, presented by Moultrie. Your source for Whitetail Deer Hunting Tactics, Stories & Expert Guests. In this episode, we're back in the studio with Jason Michael. We Discuss:

• Jason Michael predicts key dates for the 2025 whitetail season: Nov 1-2.
• Weather is crucial for hunting success; October 27-November 3 is a prime time.
• Paracord is versatile; use it for tying scrapes and securing gear.
• Smokey's pre-orbital deer gland lure is effective for attracting deer.
• A good grunt call can make a difference.
• Finding the best tree for hunting takes time.
• Use trail cameras to gather data and adjust strategies for future seasons.
• Take notes on hunting experiences to improve for next year.
• High winds can affect deer movement; monitor conditions and adjust accordingly.
• Celebrate small victories; every deer harvested builds confidence and skill.

And So Much More!

If you're serious about whitetail hunting tactics, understanding mature buck behavior, and staying ahead of the curve, you don't want to miss this episode.

Follow along on social!

IG - @WHTLDEER

TikTok - @WHTLDEER

YouTube - @WHTLDEER

Thanks again for all of the support from our partners—none of this would've been possible without them!

-Moultrie: https://bit.ly/moultrie_

-Hawke Optics | Use Code WHTL for 15% off: https://bit.ly/hawkeoptics_

-OnX: https://bit.ly/onX_Hunt

-Painted Arrow: ⁠⁠bit.ly/PaintedArrow

Welcome to the WHTL Podcast, presented by Moultrie. Your source for Whitetail Deer Hunting Tactics, Stories & Expert Guests. In this episode, we're back in the studio with Ron Willmore. We Discuss:

• Ron Willmore transformed Clinton Lake into a deer hunting hotspot
• 75% of bucks killed during the hunt made Pope and Young
• Ron has over 50 years of bowhunting experience
• He started bowhunting before compounds were available
• Clinton Lake had a deer density of 440 per square mile at one point
• Ron implemented a doe-first policy for hunters to manage the deer population
• The first hunt with this policy began in 1991
• 70% of antlerless deer killed were button bucks initially
• The iconic deer "Old Rivals" was a smart, elusive buck that evaded hunters for years
• Ron emphasizes hunting pressure management for successful deer hunting

And So Much More!

If you're serious about whitetail hunting tactics, understanding mature buck behavior, and staying ahead of the curve, you don't want to miss this episode.

Follow along on social!

IG - @WHTLDEER

TikTok - @WHTLDEER

YouTube - @WHTLDEER

Thanks again for all of the support from our partners—none of this would've been possible without them!

-Moultrie: https://bit.ly/moultrie_

-Hawke Optics | Use Code WHTL for 15% off: https://bit.ly/hawkeoptics_

-OnX: https://bit.ly/onX_Hunt

-Painted Arrow: ⁠⁠bit.ly/PaintedArrow

Derrick Dixon from Whitetail Research has been blowing up on YouTube — and for good reason. He's using thermal drones to uncover whitetail deer behavior in a way that hunters have never seen before. In this episode, Derrick shares how he quit his job (actually got fired the day his second child was born!) and went all-in on his dream: studying whitetails with cutting-edge drone technology. The result? Groundbreaking insights on mature buck bedding, travel routes, scrapes, rubs, morning vs evening movement, and thermals that could change the way you think about deer hunting forever.

We dive into:

• Why thermal drones may be the biggest breakthrough in whitetail research since GPS collars
• How bucks really move in the rut — mornings vs evenings
• The truth about buck bedding and if "J-hooks" really happen
• What scrapes, rubs, and travel efficiency reveal about mature deer
• Why some spots look un-huntable (and how to approach them)
• Derrick's personal story of betting it all on a drone and exploding on YouTube

And So Much More!

If you're serious about whitetail hunting tactics, understanding mature buck behavior, and staying ahead of the curve, you don't want to miss this episode.

Follow along on social!

IG - @WHTLDEER

TikTok - @WHTLDEER

YouTube - @WHTLDEER

Thanks again for all of the support from our partners—none of this would've been possible without them!

-Moultrie: https://bit.ly/moultrie_

-Hawke Optics | Use Code WHTL for 15% off: https://bit.ly/hawkeoptics_

-OnX: https://bit.ly/onX_Hunt

-Painted Arrow: ⁠⁠bit.ly/PaintedArrow