Whitetail Landscapes - Hunting & Habitat Management

In this episode of Maximize Your Hunt, host Jon Teater shares insights from his hunting season, emphasizing the importance of strategy, patience, and understanding deer behavior. He discusses his experiences and the tactics he employs to maximize hunting success. Guest Ty Jennings shares his recent successful harvest and the details of his hunting approach, including the significance of scouting and adapting to changing conditions. The conversation delves into the nuances of deer movement, the importance of stealth, and the decision-making process when hunting. Listeners are encouraged to engage deeply with their hunting environments and to be open to new strategies for success.

Takeaways

• Embrace the hunting process and enjoy the journey.
• Getting ahead of deer is crucial for success.
• Scouting is essential during the hunting season.
• Understanding deer movement patterns can improve hunting success.
• Stealth and access are key components of effective hunting.
• Weather conditions can significantly impact deer behavior.
• Do not be afraid to move and adapt during a hunt.
• Invest time in understanding the landscape and deer habits.
• Be open-minded and willing to adjust strategies as needed.
• Hunting is as much about patience as it is about action.

Social Links

https://www.instagram.com/thewhitetailproject/

https://whitetaillandscapes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/whitetaillandscapes/

In this episode of Maximize Your Hunt, host Jon Teater and Johnny Stewart share insights on hunting strategies, lessons learned from missed opportunities, and effective scouting techniques. Jon and Johnny discuss the importance of understanding deer behavior, adapting to weather conditions, and finding the perfect hunting spots. The conversation emphasizes the need for knowledge and strategic planning in order to maximize success in the field. In this conversation, Jonathan Teater shares his insights on deer hunting, focusing on understanding deer behavior, habitat selection, and the importance of utilizing technology for hunting success. Johnny discusses the significance of water sources, terrain features, and the movement patterns of deer, emphasizing the need for patience and strategic planning. Jon and Johnny also highlight the importance of maintaining passion for hunting and avoiding burnout, encouraging hunters to enjoy the process and learn from their experiences.

Takeaways

• It's important to be vulnerable and open about hunting experiences.
• Knowledge and preparation are key to successful hunting.
• Scouting should be strategic, not just hopeful.
• Understanding deer behavior is crucial for effective hunting.
• Weather conditions can significantly impact deer movement.
• Fine-tuning hunting strategies is essential for success.
• Realism in hunting expectations helps in planning.
• Adapting to changing conditions is part of the hunting process.
• Finding the right spot requires experience and intuition.
• Patience and persistence are vital in hunting. Water sources are critical for deer during dry conditions.
• Diversity and cover in habitat enhance deer movement.
• Patience is key when approaching deer.
• Understanding deer movement requires knowledge of their habits.
• Weather conditions significantly impact deer behavior.
• Utilizing technology can enhance hunting strategies.
• Terrain features play a crucial role in deer movement.
• Maintaining a positive mindset is essential for enjoyment in hunting.
• Avoid burnout by balancing intensity and rest during the season.
• Learning from experiences and adapting strategies is vital for success.

Social Links

https://www.instagram.com/thejohnnystewart/?hl=en

https://spartanforge.ai/

https://whitetaillandscapes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/whitetaillandscapes/

In this episode of Maximize Your Hunt, Jon Teater and Ty Jennings discuss various hunting strategies, focusing on deer behavior, weather patterns, and the importance of in-season scouting. He shares insights from his experiences hunting on public land, emphasizing the need for adaptability, and understanding deer movement. The conversation also touches on the significance of gathering intel on deer, the challenges of navigating dense vegetation, and the importance of being aggressive in hunting tactics. Teater reflects on a personal encounter with a deer, discussing the lessons learned from failure and the value of persistence in hunting.

Ty and Jon discuss being aggressive and going after mature bucks and key points that will help you this fall. Ty discusses balancing and recalibrating his tactics to be successful, and going after mature bucks on the ground. Ty explains his tactics to access and identify bedding locations, and how deer are using wind.  Jon and Ty explain how vegetation funnels air flow to deer bedding locations. Jon discusses hunting funnels and a misnomer of hunting funnels during the rut.

Takeaways:

• Pay attention to weather systems for hunting success.
• Understanding deer behavior is crucial for effective hunting.
• Gathering intel on deer can significantly improve your chances.
• Aggressive hunting tactics can lead to better outcomes.
• Navigating dense vegetation requires careful planning and patience.
• In-season scouting is essential for adapting to changing conditions.
• Deer often prefer open cover for safety and visibility.
• Access routes should be varied to avoid patterning by deer.
• The relationship between food sources and deer movement is complex.
• Learning from failures is a key part of becoming a better hunter.

Social Links

https://www.instagram.com/thewhitetailproject/

https://whitetaillandscapes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/whitetaillandscapes/

In this conversation, Jon Teater and Greg Litzinger (Bowhunting Fiend) discuss the preparations and strategies for the upcoming deer hunting season. They cover various topics including scouting, food availability for deer, hunting techniques, and the importance of understanding deer movement patterns. Greg shares his personal challenges with a wrist injury and how it has influenced his hunting approach, particularly focusing on mid-October strategies. The discussion also delves into the nutritional preferences of deer, the significance of acorns, and the effectiveness of different camouflage techniques for ground hunting.

Greg explains hunting directly over or near beds and what locations he has had the most luck in locating deer. Greg explains why he is aggressive and what success he has had in hunting over bedding areas. Greg provides specific information on how mature deer enter bedding areas and how close he can be to bedding areas.

Takeaways

• Preparation is key for a successful deer season.
• Scouting helps identify deer locations and food sources.
• Understanding deer movement patterns is crucial for hunting success.
• Nutritional preferences of deer can change based on food availability.
• Mid-October is a prime time for hunting deer.
• Ground hunting requires different strategies than tree stand hunting.
• Camo and concealment are essential for staying undetected.
• Bottlenecks and travel corridors can increase shot opportunities.
• Adapting to physical limitations can lead to new hunting techniques.
• Observation hunts can provide valuable intel on deer behavior.

Social Links

https://www.instagram.com/bowhunting_fiend/?hl=en

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-RMHGxtq-0

https://whitetaillandscapes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/whitetaillandscapes/

https://www.instagram.com/whitetail_landscapes/?hl=en

In this episode, Jon Teater (Whitetail Landscapes) and Dieter Kochan (Face Off Bikes) discuss various aspects of hunting, focusing on strategies for reading the landscape, gathering intel, and understanding deer movement. They delve into the importance of weather and moon phases, the effectiveness of scrapes, and the role of trail cameras in hunting success. Dieter shares his recent hunting experiences in North Dakota and Michigan, emphasizing the need for adaptability and a well-rounded approach to hunting. The discussion highlights the complexities of hunting in different environments and the importance of continuous learning and sharing knowledge within the hunting community.

Takeaways:

• The podcast has grown significantly in popularity.
• Reading the landscape is crucial for successful hunting.
• Gathering intel through scouting is essential.
• Creating effective scrapes can attract deer.
• Weather and moon phases significantly impact deer movement.
• Understanding deer vulnerability is key to successful hunting.
• Adapting to changing conditions is important for success.
• Recent hunting experiences can inform future strategies.
• Trail cameras can provide valuable intel but may also scare deer.
• A well-rounded hunting approach increases chances of success.

Social Links

https://www.faceoffebikes.com/

https://www.instagram.com/rangermatthews/

https://whitetaillandscapes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/whitetaillandscapes/

https://www.instagram.com/whitetail_landscapes/?hl=en

In this episode of Maximize Your Hunt, host Jon Teater discusses various aspects of deer management and hunting strategies with Kip Adams from the National Deer Alliance. They explore the importance of habitat quality, the impact of deer life cycles on development, and effective population management techniques. The conversation delves into age class determination, the significance of balanced age structures, and the monitoring of recruitment rates. Additionally, they discuss the role of antler characteristics in age estimation, the importance of data collection for informed management decisions, and practical advice for hunters during the season.

Takeaways:

• Investing effort in property management yields better hunting results.
• Habitat quality directly influences deer growth and health.
• Shooting enough does is crucial for population balance.
• Protecting yearling bucks promotes a healthy age structure.
• Monitoring recruitment rates helps assess habitat quality.
• Harvesting strategies should adapt to local deer populations.
• Understanding tarsal glands can aid in age estimation.
• Antler growth trends correlate with overall deer health.
• Identifying individual deer enhances hunting experiences.
• Data collection is essential for effective deer management.

Social Links

https://deerassociation.com/

https://www.instagram.com/kipadams_nda/

https://whitetaillandscapes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/whitetaillandscapes/

https://www.instagram.com/whitetail_landscapes/?hl=en

In this episode of Maximize Your Hunt, host Jon Teater and Steve Sherk (Sherk’s Guide Service) reflect on the past hunting season, discuss the importance of land management and habitat improvement, and share insights on hunting strategies. Steve discusses pursuing an individual mature buck.  Jon discusses his objective for the hunting season and goals for harvest as it pertains to does and bucks. Steve and Jon emphasize the significance of creating the right atmosphere for hunting. Steve discusses the challenges of not hunting in October, and the strategies for guiding clients effectively. The conversation also delves into the importance of understanding wind and thermals, building confidence in hunting locations, and ultimately enjoying the hunting experience.

Steve discusses being the timber all year long and assessing the landscape, why deer are shifting earlier into fall ranges, acorn production, the importance of red oaks on the landscape and the ideal locations for early season hunting. Steve discusses the best locations and when to hunt deer in October. Steve ends with an important aspect of their only being a handful of days to hunt deer in October and be successful and picking the right times is critical to success. Jon Teater concludes with valuable tips for a successful hunting season.

Steve and Jon reflect on the hunting season, emphasizing the importance of proper setup and strategies for hunting in October. He discusses the significance of scouting, understanding deer behavior, and the impact of wind and thermals on hunting success. The conversation highlights the need for hunters to enjoy the experience and be grateful for the opportunity to connect with nature, rather than solely focusing on the kill.

Takeaways:

• Investing in land management enhances the hunting experience.
• Creating the right atmosphere is crucial for successful hunting.
• October is a prime month for hunting, especially with cold fronts.
• Guiding clients requires a strategic approach to hunting locations.
• Understanding deer behavior is key to effective hunting.
• Wind and thermals play a significant role in hunting success.
• Enjoying the hunting experience is as important as the outcome.
• Flexibility in hunting schedules can lead to better opportunities.
• Building confidence in setups can improve hunting effectiveness.
• Gratitude for the hunting experience enhances overall enjoyment.
• Building a management plan is key for sustainable hunting.

Social Links

Sherk's Guide Service – Guided Deer Hunts (sherksguideservice.com)

Sherk's Guide Service - Home | Facebook

Steve Sherk Jr. (@sherksguideservice) • Instagram photos and videos

https://whitetaillandscapes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/whitetaillandscapes/

https://www.instagram.com/whitetail_landscapes/?hl=en

In this conversation, Moriah Borgess (Wildlife Investments, Hollow Tooth Aerial, LLC), and Jon Teater discuss the importance of soil management in hunting property, the innovative use of drones for habitat management, and the critical timing and techniques for effective herbicide application. The conversation delves into managing invasive species, the precision required in herbicide application, and the environmental considerations that must be taken into account. Moriah goes through common and more specific herbicides that meet specific prescriptions for site and managing objectives.

Moriah discusses the efficiency of using drones to manage plants like phragmites, sweet gum, winged elm, autumn olive. Moriah discusses on the ground spray options and what concerns are created when debris is present. Moriah discusses old field management and benefits to wildlife. Moriah emphasizes the role of drones as a valuable tool for private landowners looking to enhance their hunting properties.

Moriah goes through his process of cleaning his drone and managing tank applications and cleaning tanks. Moriah discusses his business name and its origin. Moriah suggests drone work that can be done right now just before and during hunting season.

Takeaways:

• Soil management is the foundation of habitat improvement.
• Drones provide a less invasive method for herbicide application.
• Timing is crucial for effective herbicide use.
• Specific herbicides can target invasive species without harming natives.
• Wind conditions can affect herbicide application efficacy.
• Drones can cover significant acreage efficiently.
• Herbicide prescriptions should be tailored to the specific site.
• Understanding plant ecology is essential for successful management.
• Drones are becoming increasingly accessible for private landowners.
• Effective management requires a combination of techniques and tools.

https://whitetaillandscapes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/whitetaillandscapes/

Wildlife Investments – We apply scientifically proven, time-tested, methods to meet your management objectives and increase the recreational value of your property.

Hollow Tooth Aerial | Facebook

In this conversation, Jaden Bjorklund (Northland Habitat), Josh Streichert (JWS Logging) and Jon Teater discussion revolves around making hunting properties more appealing for logging. The main themes discussed include access to the property, volume and value of timber, and the role of landowners in facilitating the logging process. The guests emphasize the importance of factors such as property size, access, and timber contracts in attracting loggers. They also discuss potential pitfalls, such as dealing with pipelines and wetlands, that can complicate logging operations. The conversation highlights the need for clear communication and setting realistic expectations between landowners and loggers. 

The guests also touch on the benefits of having a professional forester or consultant involved in the process and the importance of flexibility on the part of landowners. In this conversation, Jon Teater, Josh Streichert, and Jaden Bjorklund discuss various strategies for making timber cutting more valuable and beneficial for landowners. They explore the use of government funding programs, such as EQIP funding from the USDA or NRCS, to supplement the income from logging. They also emphasize the importance of considering the long-term goals of the property and the potential impact of invasive species on timber regeneration. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the value of firewood and the potential benefits of cutting mature trees to promote forest health and increase wildlife forage.

Takeaways:

• Access and property size are important factors in attracting loggers to a hunting property.
• Dealing with pipelines, wetlands, and other obstacles can complicate logging operations.
• Clear communication and setting realistic expectations are crucial for a successful logging process.
• Having a professional forester involved can ensure efficient and effective timber management.
• Landowners should be flexible and willing to make compromises to facilitate the logging process. Government funding programs, such as EQUIP funding from the USDA or NRCS, can provide additional income for landowners who are cutting timber.
• It is important to consider the long-term goals of the property when making decisions about timber cutting.
• Invasive species, such as buckthorn, can hinder timber regeneration and should be addressed before logging.
• Firewood can be a valuable resource and a way to remove non-preferred tree species from the property.
• Cutting mature trees can promote forest health and increase wildlife forage.

Social Links

https://whitetaillandscapes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/whitetaillandscapes/

https://northlandhabitat.com/

https://www.instagram.com/northland.habitat/

In this conversation, Jon Teater and Andrew Little (AWESM Lab) discuss the importance of habitat assessment and management for deer populations. They emphasize the need for diversity and heterogeneity in landscapes, whether they are forested or agricultural. They suggest starting with an aerial photograph of the property and considering the neighboring properties as well. They discuss the importance of creating openings in forested areas to provide early successional vegetation and cover for deer. They also mention the need for a 365-day approach to habitat management, considering the different needs of deer throughout the year. In agricultural landscapes, they highlight the importance of managing for native forbs, grasses, and legumes to provide structure and high protein food sources for deer.

The conversation explores the importance of creating diverse habitats and assessing their value in achieving specific goals. The guests discuss the design and maintenance of shrubland areas and the challenges of abandoned agriculture areas. They also delve into the concept of prairie strips in agricultural landscapes and the benefits they provide for wildlife. The conversation emphasizes the need to identify and address limiting factors on properties and highlights the importance of patience and collaboration in conservation efforts. The guests also mention their podcast, Wild Ag, and the resources they provide on social media.

Takeaways:

• Habitat assessment and management are crucial for deer populations.
• Diversity and heterogeneity in landscapes are important for providing food and cover for deer.
• Creating openings in forested areas can provide early successional vegetation and cover for deer.
• A 365-day approach to habitat management is necessary to meet the changing needs of deer throughout the year.
• In agricultural landscapes, managing for native forbs, grasses, and legumes can provide structure and high protein food sources for deer. Creating diverse habitats is essential for achieving specific goals and maximizing the value of a property.
• Shrubland areas can be designed and maintained to provide cover and promote the growth of specific plant species.
• Prairie strips are a valuable tool in agricultural landscapes for increasing cover and improving soil health.
• Identifying and addressing limiting factors on properties is crucial for attracting and supporting wildlife.
• Conservation efforts require patience and collaboration with neighbors and professionals.
• The Wild Ag podcast and social media resources provide valuable information on conservation and land management.

Social Links:

https://whitetaillandscapes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/whitetaillandscapes/

https://awesmlab.unl.edu/

https://awesmlab.unl.edu/wildag-podcast/