Deer

Big Mystery-Two Big Bucks Found Dead

Big Whitetail Bucks Found: An End of An Era for Two of Our Hit List Bucks

Grant and his wife Tracy discover two big dead bucks! It's the end of trapping season and the end of an era for two of our hit list bucks here at The Proving Grounds.  Shed hunting leads the way to finding two awesome bucks that died from EHD.  Watch this episode for the full story along with some clues on how to know if the antlered buck skulls you find are the result of the disease known as EHD.

Favorite Food Plots: Wheat for Winter Bucks

Everyone who dabbles in food plots and deer habitat management develops favorite plants for the various seasons. After 30 years of experimenting I think I've tried about every seed imaginable, but in this occasional series I'll profile my top picks for various seasons.

Tips for Hunting Deer in February

From a practical standpoint,hunting sheds is a tremendous aid in hunting the deer that grew them. Finding shed antlers in your hunting area in February and March can tell you a great deal about the number and quality of bucks you are likely to see during next hunting season.

Look for sheds where animals are feeding and around water. Brushy ravines are also a good place to look. Be aware that some states classify sheds as animal parts that require a tag just as if you’d hunted them during open season, so check the game regulations in your state.

Hunting Deer Late in The Season

Look for areas that have received little disturbance since mid-season and secluded feeding areas. Areas that have had little to no hunting pressure are prime late season hunting hot spots.

If you have set blinds, stands, or areas that you or others typically hunt in your area, get away from them! Deer pattern people as much or more than people pattern deer.

Moon & Weather - Hunting Tip

During late season it is important to time moon phases. Deer become more nocturnal during the winter partly because of energy benefits they receive by resting during the day when it’s warmer and moving around to feed at night when it’s colder.

However, during the dark of the moon or several nights with heavy cloud cover, deer will be much more active in the mornings.