FROM THE VAULT: In this episode, Jon Teater (Whitetail Landscapes) and Jake Ehlinger (Habitat Solutions 360) discuss food plots, property management, design, maintenance, and new property layout techniques. Jake explains his no till, food source options and how to reshape your property based on the neighborhood. Jake discusses his neighborhood and how to approach changes on a yearly basis. Jake's adaptive management style and his ability to be consistent and grow more tonnage per acre, allows him to pull in more deer and be less susceptible to over browse.

Jake discusses his current food plot regime, and breaks down why this is the better late season food plot option when trying to manage a larger deer herd. Jake details his property layout and how deer congregate on his property when he creates “green plots” and how his food plots will outcompete other options like soybeans. Jake discusses a combination of soybeans and corn and what ratio he plants each in to get maximum results. Jake provides an option for annual plants and other options you have for late season food.

Jake explains his neighborhood situation and what his neighbors are doing from a harvest to food perspective and how this impacts his property. Jake discusses the importance of his observation treestand and how you can observe much more through your own eyes as compared to trail cameras. Jake explains how trail systems he lays out will lead deer through his property for better hunting opportunities. Jon discusses the importance of observation data and why we should not ignore this information when evaluating deer movement. Jake explains his observation data and how bucks use cover and how deer move based on densities and wind direction. Jake explains how deer can avoid trail cameras and sometimes our reliance on trail cameras can be fraught with lack of or misinformation. Jon and Jake discuss how deer are individualistic and how data from trail cameras and observation lead to more information on deer behavior. Jon explains a strategy to pull a mature buck onto your property and the bits of information he relies on to ensure deer are going have increased interest in a property. 

Jake discusses changes over time and how he handles the maintenance and improvement side of his property as succession occurs. Jon explains what we need to consider as we are making changes on our property as we go through seral stages over time. Jake explains a recent change he has made to his property to ensure deer utilization is high. Jake discusses normal maintenance and specific changes that may be needed to ensure bedding areas remain permanent fixtures in a deer’s movement. Jake explains how to cut a focal area on his property through creating walls of cover, travel corridors, open and closed areas in the best locations. Jake continues to improve his and his client’s properties through these detailed methods of cutting and how he emphasizes diversity on the landscape.

Check out the Sportsmen's Empire Podcast Network for more relevant, outdoor content!

Social Links

http://habitatsolutions360.com/

https://www.facebook.com/HabitatSolutions360

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCetSptPTK0gmg0BE5oRnTTA

https://whitetaillandscapes.com/

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

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

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In this episode of 'Maximize Your Hunt', host Jon Teater (Whitetail Landscapes) and Jake Blow (Habitat Pro) discuss effective strategies for land management and habitat improvement to enhance deer hunting experiences. They delve into the importance of managing predators, the strategic placement of water sources like ponds, and the construction of berms to improve deer movement and hunting success. The conversation emphasizes the need for practical action in land management and the value of learning from the land and its wildlife.

takeaways

• Managing predators is crucial for effective land management.
• Ponds can significantly enhance deer movement and attract them.
• Deer prefer easy routes; understanding their behavior is key.
• Water sources are often the best initial investment for attracting deer.
• Berms can effectively stop sight and sound, improving hunting success.
• Building berms can be a quick and effective solution for screening.
• Deer are purposeful in their movements; design your property accordingly.
• Don't let analysis paralysis prevent you from taking action.
• Your deer will teach you about their habits and preferences.
• Taking action is essential for successful land management.

Social Links

https://www.habitatprollc.com/

https://www.youtube.com/c/HabitatProLLC

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 (Whitetail Landscapes) discusses land design and implementation with Jake Blow (Habitat Pro). They delve into the importance of infrastructure, the design and execution of food plots, the impact of wolves on deer hunting, and strategies for managing predator movement. The conversation also touches on the significance of elevated ponds for water management in hunting properties, emphasizing the need for careful planning and execution in land management projects.

Takeaways:

• The value of property is increasing, making land management crucial.
• Proper planning is essential for effective food plot placement.
• Infrastructure work can significantly enhance hunting properties.
• Wolves can impact deer populations, requiring management strategies.
• Predator management is vital for maintaining deer herds.
• Elevated ponds can improve water distribution in dry areas.
• Designing for deer movement is key to successful hunting.
• Investing in land management can yield long-term benefits.
• Understanding the relationship between predators and prey is essential.
• Hands-on involvement in projects can lead to better outcomes.

Social Links

https://www.habitatprollc.com/

https://www.youtube.com/c/HabitatProLLC

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 (Whitetail Landscapes) discusses land management and hunting strategies with guest Don Higgins (Higgins Outdoors), an experienced consultant in the outdoor industry. They explore the importance of habitat improvement, the mistakes made in property management, and the nuances of deer behavior and movement. The conversation emphasizes the significance of property layout, social dynamics among deer, and the need for effective communication between consultants and clients. Listeners are encouraged to take action in improving their hunting properties for better success.

Takeaways

• The podcast focuses on maximizing hunting properties through land management.
• Consultants should be engaged actively in the implementation process.
• Quality habitat is essential for attracting deer.
• Mistakes in property management can lead to years of lost opportunities.
• Understanding deer movement is crucial for successful hunting.
• The layout of a property can significantly impact hunting success.
• Social dynamics among deer are complex and individualistic.
• Setting a property apart from neighbors can enhance hunting success.
• Effective communication between consultants and clients is vital.
• Improving properties takes time and effort, but the rewards are worth it.

Social Links

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPE_A0TvKY5Hoe78xlrH6BA

https://www.facebook.com/higginsoutdoors/

https://www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com/

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 (Whitetail Landscapes) and guest Andrew Little (AWESM Lab) delve into habitat management strategies for hunting properties, focusing on soil health, turkey habitats, and the importance of neighboring land management. The conversation highlights the significance of nesting and brooding cover for turkeys, seasonal management strategies, and the ongoing journey of conservation. Listeners are encouraged to take simple steps to improve their land and learn about their properties to maximize wildlife success.

Takeaways

• Creating compost tea improves soil structure.
• Granular fertilizers can harm the microbiome.
• Understanding turkey habitats is crucial for management.
• Neighboring land management impacts wildlife success.
• Nesting cover is essential for turkey broods.
• Visual obstruction helps protect nesting turkeys.
• Management should consider seasonal changes.
• Conservation is a continuous journey.
• Simple steps can lead to significant improvements.
• Engaging with local landowners enhances habitat management.

Social Links

https://awesmlab.unl.edu/

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

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 (Whitetail Landscapes) discusses various strategies for improving hunting properties, including land management, habitat improvement, food plot strategies, and deer behavior with Perry Battin (Drury Outdoors). The conversation emphasizes the importance of nutrient management, soil health, and timber stand improvement techniques. Additionally, Perry and Jon explore the use of technology in hunting, summer preparations for the upcoming season, and the significance of safety and proper equipment. The episode concludes with thoughts on community and networking within the hunting world, as well as final preparations for a successful hunting season.

Takeaways

• Maximizing hunting properties requires effective land management.
• Engaging college students can provide valuable help in the field.
• Food plots should be strategically designed for deer movement.
• Nutrient management is crucial for healthy crops.
• Soil health impacts the success of food plots.
• Timber stand improvement can be done effectively in summer.
• Understanding deer behavior is key to successful hunting.
• Technology can enhance hunting strategies and property management.
• Safety equipment is essential during timber management.
• Networking with other hunters can provide valuable insights and opportunities.

Social Links

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

https://www.druryoutdoors.com/

https://whitetaillandscapes.com/

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

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

DruryOutdoors - YouTube

Get Ahead of Your Game | DeerCast

In this episode, Jon Teater (Whitetail Landscapes) and Lee Vandenbrink (Aerial Wildlife Solutions) explore drones, their benefits and how these tools can change your perspective on hunting and wildlife. This podcast episode explores the intersection of technology and hunting, focusing on the use of drones for land management, habitat mapping, and deer recovery. The host and guest discuss the importance of quality equipment, the benefits of using drones for surveying and mapping properties, and the ethical considerations surrounding deer recovery. They emphasize the need for accurate data to make informed decisions about land management and hunting strategies, while also addressing the evolving role of technology in the hunting industry.

Takeaways:

• Good quality equipment is essential for effective land management.
• Drones can provide high-resolution maps for property analysis.
• Thermal imaging technology is valuable for deer surveys and recovery.
• Understanding deer behavior is crucial for effective hunting strategies.
• Seasonality affects deer movement and habitat usage.
• Mapping can help identify vegetation types and health.
• Drones can assist in ethical deer recovery efforts.
• Technology should enhance, not replace, traditional hunting skills.
• Every property has unique characteristics that affect deer usage.
• The future of hunting will increasingly rely on technological advancements.

Social Links

https://aerialwildlifesolutions.net/

https://whitetaillandscapes.com/

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

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

In this episode, Jon Teater (Whitetail Landscapes) discusses various strategies for managing hunting properties with guest Travis Harmon (Creative Habitat. They explore habitat improvement techniques, the importance of patience in property management, and specific strategies for creating effective habitats for pheasants and quail. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding plant purposes, the timing of management activities, and the need for flexibility in planning. Additionally, they discuss the creation of sanctuaries for wildlife and the importance of maintaining diverse habitats.

Takeaways

• Every plant has a purpose in the landscape.
• Mowing is an effective tool for managing food plots.
• Patience is crucial in habitat management.
• Timing of management activities is critical for success.
• Stay flexible with your management plan as conditions change.
• Creating effective sanctuaries is essential for wildlife.
• Diversity in habitat improves wildlife populations.
• Understanding animal behavior aids in property management.
• Utilizing the right tools can enhance habitat improvement efforts.
• Don't rush improvements; observe and adapt over time.

Social Links

https://www.facebook.com/creatingwildlifehabitat/

http://creativehabitatllc.com/

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

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 Rocky Burrus SA Farms discusses various strategies for improving hunting properties, including habitat management, timber management, and the impact of solar farms on wildlife. Jon and Rocky Burrus (SA Farms Management) emphasize the importance of understanding deer behavior and creating effective access and road systems to enhance hunting success. The conversation also touches on community concerns regarding land use and the economic implications of solar farms. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various strategies for managing deer habitats to enhance hunting success. They explore the importance of molding deer behavior through habitat management, the strategic use of road systems to influence deer movement, and the creation of safe zones for mature deer. The conversation also touches on the significance of post-season assessments for habitat planning and the ethical considerations surrounding hunting practices, including fair chase principles.

Takeaways:

• Maximizing hunting properties involves strategic land management.
• Field conversions can significantly improve deer habitat.
• Timber management should prioritize wildlife over profit.
• Access roads are crucial for effective hunting strategies.
• Creating food sources can attract deer to specific areas.
• Solar farms can fragment wildlife habitats and impact deer movement.
• Community concerns about land use are important for local ecosystems.
• Understanding deer behavior is key to successful hunting.
• Effective road systems can enhance deer movement and access.
• Monitoring deer activity through technology can improve hunting success. Molding deer behavior is essential for effective hunting.
• Strategic road systems can influence deer movement patterns.
• Creating safe zones can attract mature deer to desired areas.
• Post-season assessments are crucial for refining habitat management strategies.
• Ethics in hunting practices should prioritize fair chase and animal welfare.
• Using natural features can enhance deer movement and access points.
• Monitoring deer behavior helps in understanding their patterns.
• Habitat management can lead to increased mature buck sightings.
• Effective hunting requires a balance between access and deer safety.
• Utilizing fencing and screens can direct deer movement effectively.

Social Links

SA FARMS Management Service | Facebook

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

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 the importance of land management and habitat improvement for hunting properties. He emphasizes the significance of soil amendments and the role of beekeeping in enhancing the landscape. The conversation with Bill Kaufman explores how to create a bee-friendly environment and the diversity of pollinators that contribute to a thriving ecosystem. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of maintaining bee habitats, the impact of non-native bees, and the human influence on bee populations. They explore the concept of rewilding and how to create sustainable environments for bees and other pollinators. The discussion emphasizes the need for ecological balance and the role of local communities in supporting beekeeping efforts.

Takeaways

• Soil amendments are crucial for successful food plots.
• Beekeeping can enhance biodiversity on hunting properties.
• Diversity in plant life supports various pollinators.
• Natural habitats should be preserved for bees and other wildlife.
• Mowing practices can impact bee populations positively or negatively.
• Understanding the role of different bee species is essential.
• Creating a balanced ecosystem benefits both hunters and wildlife.
• Collaboration with local beekeepers can enhance land management.
• Bees require diverse food sources for optimal health.
• Land management should focus on sustainability and ecological balance. Mowing around beehives helps prevent ticks and bee loss.
• Maintaining fields prevents encroachment of trees and supports bee foraging.
• Non-native bees can coexist with local species if managed properly.
• Human practices like herbicide use negatively impact bee populations.
• Rewilding can help restore ecological balance in landscapes.
• Creating diverse habitats supports a variety of insect life.
• Local communities can connect with beekeepers for support.
• Every plant in the ecosystem has a purpose and contributes to biodiversity.
• Invasive species can indicate nutrient deficiencies in the soil.
• Bees are efficient foragers and prefer to collect resources close to home.

Social Links

https://www.itsallbetter.com/contact

https://www.facebook.com/billthebeekeeper/

https://whitetaillandscapes.com/

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

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