Ethan,
I prefer to shed hunt after an area is burned! It’s much easier to find sheds after an area has been burned and rain (to wash the black of the antlers).
The response of mushrooms depends on the timing of the fire.
Enjoy creation,
grant
March 2, 2016
Brian,
We will host a Field Event April 1st and 2nd. For more information about this event check out: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/spring-field-days-2016-april-1st-and-2nd-registration-21092207360
We will share our deer hunting, trail camera, etc., techniques during this event!
Enjoy creation,
grant
February 15, 2016
Zack,
Thanks for watching GrowingDeer!
Our next Field Day will be April 1st and 2nd. Check out the following link for more information: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/spring-field-days-2016-april-1st-and-2nd-registration-21092207360
I look forward to visiting with you then!
Enjoy creation,
grant
February 8, 2016
Bryce,
The April 1st and 2nd Field Event will be at The Proving Grounds which is near Branson, Missouri and 30 minutes south of Bass Pro’s world Headquarters and largest store in Springfield, Missouri!
For more information, check out: http://www.eventbrite.com/e/spring-field-days-2016-april-1st-and-2nd-registration-21092207360
I look forward visiting with you then!
Enjoy creation,
grant
February 8th, 2016
James,
The habitat looks like mulie country, and the deer looks like a mulie to both Daniel (used to work in Colorado) and me (used to work in Nevada). We believe it’s a mulie.
Enjoy creation,
grant
February 8, 2016
Perry,
Whew – you got me on that one! Mushrooms are very digestible. I know deer eat many varieties of mushrooms but never find the in deer rumens. They simply digest very quickly.
Enjoy creation,
grant
February 8, 2016
I am attending Murray State next fall and they have an incredible study abroad program. I’d love to see the world and study the subject I am most passionate about. Thank you so much for your time!
Brendan,
I’d go to the South Island of New Zealand! They are the world leaders in deer nutrition! The country is beautiful and safe, and the hunting and fishing is fabulous!
I’m a deer guy. If you are interested in other species you might opt to go elsewhere.
Enjoy creation,
grant
Will,
This property sounds like it is in a good neighborhood based on your description! That’s a huge factor of the quality of the property. If the price and location fits your needs then it may be a good fit! I suggest you seek God’s will in this and all decisions. He’s the one with perfect wisdom of the current and future needs for your life.
Enjoy creation,
grant
February 7, 2016
Trent,
I agree with you that hogs can do a HUGE amount of damage to habitat and other wildlife populations. This is why I support the Missouri Department of Conservation’s proposal to ban hog hunting on lands they own and/or manage. Folks aren’t likely to release hogs in areas where they can’t be hunted. This is the same approach others states have used.
I’ve pre-baited hogs, moved in traps, monitored the traps, etc., and then had the sounder move because someone disturbed the hogs. Hogs are very intelligent.
Even more than supporting the current proposal I wish the fines would be significantly increased for those caught transporting feral hogs, poaching deer, etc. Most of these fines are so low in Missouri that they are not an effective deterrent.
Enjoy creation,
grant
February 7, 2016
(Duplicate: fixing Typo on my email address)
I have heard you say that acorns are actually detrimental to antler development. That is causing me to re-think my plan to plant oak trees on my property after a selective timber harvest this spring. Are their better mast crops/options for me to consider. My property is located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Thank You,
Dan Carlson
Dan,
Acorns contain tannic acid which blinds to calcium. As the tannic acid is removed by the deer’s digestive track so is some calcium. In addition, acorns are very low in protein.
Deer LOVE acorns. So having a few oaks can be great for patterning deer! I don’t like it when acorns are the primary component of a deer’s diet throughout the fall and winter. I really like fruit trees. There’s often just as many acorns available on neighboring properties. However if there are apples, pears, etc., where I can hunt they may be the only fruit within the local herd’s home range. I have a variety of fruit and nut trees in my treeplot! The folks at http://www.FlatwoodNatives.com have been very helpful in selecting the right fruit varieties for the climate and soils where I live.
Enjoy creation,
grant
February 7, 2016
Tim,
I use Trophy Rock’s Four65. Either will work fine! I prefer Four65 as there are more pounds per dollar!
I’d recommend starting with four sites – one is each quadrant of your property. If lots of deer start using a site add another in that quadrant. If you are getting bucks on camera that aren’t using a site, add another site near where those bucks were photographed.
Enjoy creation,
grant
February 5, 2015
On a separate note, could you recommend a food plot seed variety for central Tx? Hot & Dry! The land owner runs cows on my lease also. I have the electric fence you use. Just haven’t put it up yet. I want to plant asap.
Thank you,
David
David,
Good to hear from you! I’ve know some landowners that bury (and cover) each carcass. This requires lots time and resources. Others dig a deep pit. I really dislike this technique as raptors and possible humans could become trapped in these pits. These pits often fill with water and become stinky, nasty messes that pollute ground water.
I find a location on the predominately downwind side of the property (away from neighboring houses, etc.), and dispose of carcasses there on top of the ground. Vultures and other scavengers will find this site and keep it literally picked to the bone!
The “downwind” side of the property is key. This keeps the scent of the carcasses from attracting predators across your property.
During the spring/summer growing season soybeans are about as drought resistant as any forage crop. That’s why they are grown in western Kansas, Nebraska, etc. Forage wheat, or a blend of forage wheat and brassicas is a great blend for the cool season.
During extremely dry summers, no quality forage is productive without irrigation.
Enjoy creation!
grant
February 5, 2016
Marty,
I’m confident there’s some “good” deer hunting in Bath County, Kentucky. An easy way to learn about the quality of future hunting sites is checking out the county soil survey. This may seem boring but there’s a wealth of information!
Check out this useful information:
In 2005, about 29,000 acres in Bath County was used for crops (24). Of this acreage, about 2,800 acres was used for alfalfa, 21,000 acres for other hay crops, 920 acres for tobacco, 2,600 acres for soybeans, and 1,500 acres for corn. Wheat is the most common close-grown crop.
Quickly we learn there are not many soybeans there. If bucks with big antlers are your objective you may need to create lots of quality food plots. I believe you’ll find the top rated counties for large-antlered bucks in Kentucky are on the western side where soybean production is highest.
For more information check out: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_MANUSCRIPTS/kentucky/KY011/0/Bath_KY.pdf
Enjoy creation,
grant
February 5, 2016
Ray,
I managed the deer herd at the Weller Mountain Club that was near the Paul Smiths College for years!
The GrowingDeer internships are not paid. There is a mileage stipend. For more information check out: https://www.growingdeer.tv/view/growingdeer-internship-opportunities/
Enjoy creation,
grant
February 5, 2016
-Jonathan (science nerd and deer hunter)
Jonathan,
Thank you for sharing the kind words!
Climate change is not my area of expertise. From the research and data I’ve read I am not concerned about climate change. It seems to be much more of a political agenda than a legitimate concern. In fact, there’s data that shows the earth is in a cooling phase. Many climatologist don’t agree with the climate change theories.
I’m 54. When I was freshman in college the prevailing theory was that the earth was entering the next ice age. Glaciers were predicted to grow so large that the ocean levels would decrease and most US ports would be dry. I spent a semester studying about the next ice age. That theory was totally opposite from the current theory. Yet the current climate change proponents claim they are following data/trends for hundreds of years. So did the “next ice age” proponents.
Until there’s better evidence I won’t be a proponent of climate change.
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 31, 2016
Mason,
Cedars that are cut below the lowest limb won’t sprout or continue to grow. I simply cut cedar trees/stumps off as close to the ground as possible and plant over them.
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 31, 2016
Luke,
We never saw Chainsaw or heard of a neighbor tagging him. Hopefully he’ll show back up!
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 31, 2016
Jason,
We don’t host the shed hunt. We will host a Field Event April 1st and 2nd and demonstrate our food plot and hunting techniques! Several of my friends will be here including James Harrison who is the seven time world champion owl hooter!
We’ll release more information about the Field Event Monday at http://www.GrowingDeer.com!
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 26, 2016
Phillip Vance,
You did the right thing waiting to pursue the deer knowing the shot was back. Hits back like this can take many hours for a deer to expire.
A deer wouldn’t have drown due to the two holes in the body cavity. The deer would still be visibly floating in the slough if it had swam the open water and not made it across.
I hope that you are able to recover the buck soon!
GrowingDeer Together,
Matt Dye
2015-01-25
Johnny,
God speaks to us through His word – the Bible, through other people (BIble study classes, etc.) and through His creation (being outdoors, etc.) if we are seeking Him. Having a Bible on the shelf, but not reading it isn’t an invite for God to communicate with us. Ignoring the beauty and power of God when looking at HIs creation isn’t inviting Him to communicate with us.
Basically if we truly seek God he will always be there for us. I hope you will intentionally spend some time each day being quiet and seeking God. I get up early almost every morning and Read God’s word (the Bible) and spend some quiet time reflecting on what I read.
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 25 2016
charlie,
The characteristics to look for vary based on the landowner’s objectives. The habitat quality and deer management practices on neighboring properties is probably the most commonly overlooked characteristic. Current deer population levels and historical harvest trends and quality are also commonly overlooked.
I strongly recommend having an uninvolved third party inspect the property before an offer is made. It’s easy for consumers to only see the good qualities and overlook potential hurdles. Purchasing a property is a large investment. Take time to do thorough research!
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 21, 2016
I was doing a European skull mount the other day and noticed something I’ve never seen before. Inside the nasal cavity of this deer was pure black, almost like it was rotten. The deer was harvested only 3 or 4 days ago, is this an indication of sinus infection, disease, or something else?
Shannon,
I’ve never seen a deer with a black nasal cavity and am not aware of any condition that would cause this. I suspect it could be from an injury, etc. Was there a funny odor associated with the discoloration?
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 21, 2016
Thomas,
Most accuracy issues with archers is caused by their shooting form. The best tool I’ve found to correct form is the Blind Bale technique. Check out the GrowingDeer episode at the following link for an example of how I use the Blind Bale practice technique to improve my accuracy. This technique has REALLY helped me. Remember that practice doesn’t make perfect. Perfect practice makes perfect!
https://www.growingdeer.tv/#/how-to-get-ready-for-deer-hunting-now
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 21, 2016
Hey Brody,
Thanks for reaching out to us on this. We do not use any special technique or editing software as we upload videos onto Facebook. We simply select individual videos straight off of our SD cards and upload to Facebook. The quality of the videos and pictures is attributed to the Reconyx cameras (http://www.reconyx.com/). They produce great video quality as you can see from the posts.
It maybe the trail camera or perhaps a different/older version of a go-pro that makes these videos blurry for you as you upload.
I hope the issue can be resolved, please feel free to share any great videos you have captured with us on our page.
GrowingDeer Together,
Matt
2016-1-14
Just curious if there is ever a chance of seeing any future videos of the growing deer team doing any goose or duck hunting? I thought it might be kind of neat to see! Might help break up the off season. I understand it doesn’t necessarily relate to “growing deer”, but it is a part of enjoying the great outdoors!
Thank you for sharing your experiences with everyone, My family has learned so much from you the past few years and we have implemented your teachings into our own “proving grounds” up here in Mid Michigan. Keep up the great work you all are doing.
best wishes,
Spencer Miller
I wanted to share with you a couple photos, all these deer have been harvested off of our small 35 acre lot. 2 of them this past year and the others in recent past years. People say you can’t get it done without 100s of acres of land. I would tell them to watch your videos and use some of your techniques and you sure can! – i through a goose hunt photo in there from this year too just for kicks!
Spencer,
Those are some very nice bucks! Congratulations!
Adam duck hunts fairly regularly and I go occasionally. However, we don’t live close to a major flyway. This time of year we are busy trapping and preparing to do prescribed fire!
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 14, 2016
Tim,
Habitat loss is clearly the primary cause of declining qual populations in the southeast and throughout the USA. There are properties that have worked to improve quail habitat throughout the southeast and they have great quail populations!
It’s not a single issue such as fire ants, turkeys, deer, etc. It’s habitat.
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 12, 2016
Isaiah,
Wow!! Congratulations to your grandfather!
Thank you for sharing the information!
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 10, 2016
Ryan,
I’m very sorry to hear about Curtis. May God bless Curtis with healing and you with peace and wisdom during this difficult season.
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 10, 2016
Blake,
Thank you for watching GrowingDeer! I haven’t kept count of how many deer I’ve tagged. I’ve had a very blessed hunting career!
I always enjoy visiting with fellow hunters. You might consider joining us during one of our Field Events. We’ll host two this year. They will be April 1st and 2nd and August 12th and 13th. We’ll share more information about these events at http://www.GrowingDeer.com soon!
Enjoy creation and I hope our paths cross!
grant
January 10, 2016
I have 92 acres in Central Kentucky. I’ve implemented many habit management techniques in the last 10 years. I’m looking to take it to another level to improve the deer herd. I’ve watched GrowingDeer.TV and the Field Days intrigue me. I’d love to see what’s happening at the Proving Grounds first hand.
When will Field Days for 2016 be posted? How do you register? Cost per person?
Do you provide small group tours (2-3 people) of the Proving Grounds during the year? If so, how would you register and what would be the cost?
If you provide small group tours, would you recommend the tour or the Field Days?
I appreciate the feedback.
Mark,
We plan to host two Field Events during 2016. The first will be April 1st and 2nd and then August 12th and 13th. We limit registration to 100 folks and the cost will be $200 per person. This includes most meals, great prizes, VIP shopping discount at Bass Pro, and LOTS of hands on information. I hope you attend one of these events. We’ll announce how/when to register soon and these events always fill quickly. Registration cost is $200.
We do offer a few private tours. These are designed to give very specific information on the subjects requested by the guest. There’s much more information about our tours at: https://www.growingdeer.tv/view/our-place/.
I look forward to visiting with you.
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 9, 2016
Brian,
We’ll host a Field Event April 1st and 2nd and August 12th and 13th! We’ll provide more information and open registration soon at http://www.GrowingDeer.com! These events do fill early so be watching and sign up quick!
I look forward to visiting with you!
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 6, 2016
Briain,
We’ll host Field Events April 1st and 2nd and August 12th and 13th. We’ll announce more information and when to register during the next few weeks on http://www.GrowingDeer.com.
I look forward to visiting with you!
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 1, 2016
Give it some thought and hopefully we can make a partnership with this project.
Phil Gardner
585 356 8466
Phil,
I’m thrilled you are writing a book of devotions! I don’t know much about the book publishing business. I suggest you work with someone that understands the publishing business and go from there. Keep me posted!
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 1, 2016
Connor,
It’s possible a deer injured itself on the glass. However, I suspect that would be a rare event and the source of the wound was from something else.
Enjoy creation,
grant
January 1, 2016
Bert,
I have already shared your comments with Dead Down Wind!
Dead Down Wind is safe to use on skin. I’m not sure how an insect repellent would fit with that criteria.
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 31, 2015
I have some video that I would like to put together of my 6 year old son’s hunts this year. I was curious if you could share some of your thoughts on the process that your team goes through in preparing your videos. I believe your videos are the best out there, and I know in order to produce the amazing videos you do with such a short turnaround, then you have got to have some type of system that you follow. For example, is there some sort of basic outline you follow in order to get the message and best parts of the hunt across to the viewer? How do you come up with the “narration” part for the video? Do you review all the footage and write a script and then record the narration and then put the video together? How do you choose which footage to include? Etc, Etc.
Any advice or input would be very much appreciated.
Thanks & God Bless!
Click here for suggested “best practices” to make your video the best it can be. If you’re limited to a cell phone, click here for a few basic tips for better cell phone video. Additionally, it’s not necessary to give “shout outs” to products used. Simply showing the sponsor products successfully used in a “natural” setting is sufficient.
Most important when videoing your hunts – have fun and enjoy creation!
Tracy
Thanks,
Mike Gregoire
Shelby, New York
p.s. Adam has been a great addition to your show and it’s nice to see him get more comfortable in front of the camera over time.
Mike,
Thank you for sharing the kind words!
We have and continue to use a variety of cameras from inexpensive to Sony EX3’s, etc.
I suspect the quality difference you see is more due to the skills of our post production guy, Blake. He’s extremely skilled!! I don’t have a clue what all processes he uses to produce GrowingDeer. I find it amazing he produces a new episode weekly, year round and has done so for 300+ weeks without missing a week!!
Adam’s a huge part of our Team and a trusted friend. I also enjoy watching him mature in front of and behind the camera. I’m blessed with a wonderful team!
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 29, 2015
I really do enjoy your program. Thank you for the information you share.
Please let me know about you police on hearing protection. You have a wonderful platform to inform, to educate, and to save the hearing of our future hunters.
Ben,
I do encourage all hunters (on my show and otherwise) to wear proper hearing protection. However, I don’t “police” them. I have constant ringing in my ears due to shooting competitively for years without wearing hearing protection. I agree with your concerns but believe there are enough regulations. I believe education is much more powerful than legislation.
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 29, 2015
Mark,
Unfortunately, Adam, Daniel, Matt or I have seen or had any trailcam pictures of Chainsaw in months. I hope he survived and shows up soon!
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 28, 2015
Keith,
Currently I don’t have any engagements planned near Nashville. We’ll host another Field Event at my place (near Branson, Missouri) April 1st and 2nd. We’ll share more information about that event soon at http://www.GrowingDeer.com.
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 28, 2015
Joe,
Yes – the acorn caps and leaves are from a swamp chestnut oak. They do produce very large acorns and deer love them! For more information checkout: http://plants.usda.gov/factsheet/pdf/fs_qumi.pdf
Enjoy creation,
grant
Walker,
Thanks for sharing the kind words!
We like the web so all our episodes are available 24/7/365. In addition we like not having to run commercials.
Thanks for watching and enjoy creation,
grant
December 23, 2015
David,
Jeff asked a very similar question. You can see my response to Jeff at: https://www.growingdeer.tv/view/ask/what-do-you-think-about-the-new-regulations-impacting-deer-seasons-on-missouri/
I’m glad my property isn’t in a CWD zone and that I can still use Trophy Rocks!
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 22, 2015
Matthew,
Redneck did have a contest to deer hunt with Troy Landry this year!
I’m not sure what their plans are for next year.
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 21, 2015
Yet in the videos I watch, including your staff, I do not see that being done. Is it just not necessary or are they just not including that in their video footage?
Your thoughts?
Love your show. Keep honoring the Lord. Thank you.
Gary,
It’s certainly important to confirm any deer (or other critter) is dead before getting to close. I simply look at the critter and watch it’s chest as I’m approaching. It will be obvious if the critter is breathing as even shallow breaths will cause their chest to raise and fall.
Thanks for watching GrowingDeer and for sharing the encouraging words!
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 16, 2015
Zach,
We plan on hosting a Field Event April 1st and 2nd and another August 12th and 13th. Registration is $200 and includes meals, lots of goodies from our partners, etc.
These events fill up quickly as we limit attendance to 100 folks. We’ll announce the exact dates and how to register soon at http://www.GrowingDeer.com.
I look forward to visiting with you!
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 15, 2015
John,
We are tentatively planning on hosting two Field Events during 2016. The first will be April 1st and 2nd. The second will be August 12th and 13th. Registration will be $200 and includes meals, etc. We limit attendance to 100 folks so we can visit with everyone/answer their questions. There events always fill fast so if you wish to attend sign up as soon as we announce them on http://www.GrowingDeer.com.
I look forward to visiting with you!
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 15, 2015
Doug,
For a good technical guide to identifying white and red oaks check out: http://www.fs.fed.us/foresthealth/technology/pdfs/fieldguide.pdf
If you are more of a visual learner, I share how to identify white oaks at the GrowingDeer episode: https://www.growingdeer.tv/#/deer-hunting-see-more-deer
Tracy and I lived and hunted in South Carolina for years. Finding white oaks were the key to many of our venison meals!
Enjoy creation,
Grant
December 15, 2015
Zach,
Trappers do need a permit to trap in Missouri unless they are trapping on land they own. For more information, check out: http://huntfish.mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/regulations/trapping-regulations
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 10, 2015
Respectfully in Christ,
Matt Downing
Matthew,
I appreciate your service to our nation! You’ll enjoy Big Cedar – it’s beautiful!
I’m currently with my father while he’s having his fourth chemo infusion. I believe Adam will be hunting this weekend. We will be hosting a Field Event during April 1st and 2nd and August 12th and 13th. I hope your schedule allows you to visit with us then!
Enjoy creation,
grant
Adam,
Trapping is the the best method to remove hogs. My clients have had the best results with the Boar Buster traps.
I suggest you act quickly! With only five hogs you may be able to use a traditional trap and most state agencies will gladly loan traps for catching hogs! I recommend setting the trap correctly the first time as hogs learn quickly and are very difficult to get back in a trap if it misfires, etc.
Please never release a hog from a trap – don’t spread the problem!
Enjoy creation,
Grant
December 10, 2015
Phil,
None of the GrowingDeer Team is registered to operate a drone. I enjoy the footage but haven’t found them necessary or extremely beneficial except for showing footage to those that can’t be present. Maybe someday!
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 10, 2015
Rob,
GrowingDeer can be viewed at http://www.GrowingDeer.com and the GrowingDeer YouTube channel. There’s more information here at http://www.GrowingDeer.com and a new episode is published each Monday year round. It’s not available on YouTube till Wednesday.
All 300+ episodes are available 24/7/365 on the web!
We can’t offer the additional content or be available 24/7/365 on TV so we have no plans to broadcast on cable.
Thanks for watching and enjoy creation,
grant
December 10, 2015
Luke,
Tracy and I purchased a bit of land to the south of our original tract. I haven’t updated the map yet. Thanks for the reminder! I’ll work on updating the map during a rainy/snowy day this winter!
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 10, 2015
Tom,
I enjoy opportunities to speak at churches and share the gospel! I speak at several annually. I’ll be happy to share a list of tips to hosting a successful wild game banquet even if you have someone else speak.
You may wish to watch a recent seminar I gave at: https://www.growingdeer.tv/clips/#/echos-of-excellence-listen-to-success
You may hear my testimony at: https://vimeo.com/26253319
I’ll be in Florida during March 2016 if that fits the schedule.
I’ll reach out to you via email with more information.
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 8, 2015
I am a huge fan of your show. I enjoy the education as much as the hunt. I am writing today to see if there may be a way you can help. My in-law’s lost everything in a house fire this last Monday. They did have insurance but they having lost everything their Bows is the least of their concern. I know it may be a long shot but is there anyway that you can talk to some of your sponsors and see if we can help them? They are the people who introduced me to hunting and I am forever grateful for that. If there is anything you can do that would be awesome. If not that is fine.
God Bless
Joshua Epperson
P.S. I hope your father is doing well and I will keep praying.
Joshua,
I’m very sorry to hear about the fire at your inlaw’s. I’m thrilled they weren’t harmed!
We don’t manufacturer or have inventories of goodies to share. Most of our partners are very involved with charities of their choosing. Locally I’m speaking at an event to raise money for a school. I suggest you consider some similar local events! Folks that live locally and know about this horrible event will likely wish to help – local sporting goods stores, etc.
I sincerely thank you for praying for my father! He’s having a rough time with this round of chemo.
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 4, 2015
Trent,
Whether shooting with a gun or bow, there are some principles that apply to both!
1. Focus on a very small spot. In fact aim at the smallest portion of the target you can see. There’s truth to the saying “aim small, miss small.”
2. Follow through! See the target after you shoot! If shooting a bow, see the target until the arrow strikes the target.
3. Remember that perfect practice makes perfect. When practicing, make sure you use good techniques during each shot! Practicing with bad techniques simply reinforces bad habits.
4. Remember that shooting is mostly mental! So practice the techniques without firing a shot!
There are several GrowingDeer episodes with shooting tips. The following is a link to a recent show with tips for shooting a bow: https://www.growingdeer.tv/#/deer-hunting-focusing-on-the-kill-zone
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 3, 2015
Jim,
Thanks for watching GrowingDeer!
We don’t sell DVD’s etc. However, all 300+ past episodes are available at GrowingDeer.com for free 24/7/365.
I hope this helps!
Enjoy creation,
grant
December 3, 2015
John,
In Missouri (where I live) hunters may take two bucks with a bow (only one before gun season) and one buck with a gun.
Every buck tagged at my place is either mounted or a European is created. We consume all the venison – the biggest trophy!
Enjoy creation,
grant
November 30, 2015
Myself and 7 other guys lease a 1400 acre farm in Mason County WV. We take 3-4 130 up class deer each year and 3-4 small 1-2 year olds.Our farmer is a old school guy who will NOT allow any does to be taken We know the small bucks need to walk but we also all love deer meat. An average day in the field yields 10-20 sightings. We have a large population although low in good bucks. . I estimate or ratio to be 1-5 with respect to mature bucks and does. This place has excellent habitat and water along with 300 acres of additional corn and bean field. It could be a trophy farm if we could get him to see the importance of responsible doe management. We don’t want to look elsewhere as its 30 minutes from most of our homes and we can leave our gear out without worry of it being stolen. Any help? Do you do consultations? He needs to see an expert face to face. Attached are a couple of pics from this year of the big one and the average buck here.
Rod,
Sounds like you do have a great lease! It can be tough to convince some landowners of the need to harvest does. You are wise to consider an outside source. The Biblical statement that “A profit has no honor at home” if often true when it comes to deer management.
We’ve been incorporated 26 years and our primary work is helpijng landowners/leasees develop site-specific deer management plans. Feel free to send a brief description of your lease and a contact phone number to info@GrowingDeer.tv and I’ll get back to you soon.
Enjoy creation,
grant
November 25, 2015
Luke,
Thanks!
Two Face was tagged on a neighboring property. We are still occasionally getting pictures of Handy. Chainsaw is missing in action… I hope he shows up soon!
Enjoy creation,
grant
November 24, 2015
Clint,
Congratulations on tagging some venison!
I suspect that doe either stepped on some trash (the band) or someone captured that deer as a fawn, put the band one, and then released the doe.
Biologists wouldn’t put such a band on deer. We use collars that are expandable or will break away with pressure encase the deer gets caught in brush, fence, etc.
That’s a unique find!
Enjoy creation,
grant
November 23, 2015
God Bless,
Todd Trahan
Todd,
Currently all 300+ past episodes are available for free on line! Do you have a suggestion?
Enjoy creation,
grant
November 23, 2015
Last Friday I shot a buck with my .270 at about 40 yards. The shot hit a limb but still hit the deer a bit farther back either in the liver or guts. I was using ballistic tips and i believe the bullet flew right through him making a small exit and entry hole. The blood was difficult to track but right after I shot the buck it began to rain lightly. By the time I found first blood it was starting to wash out. First thing I found was a bed with a good amount of blood in it. Then I tracked blood for about 100 yards until it began to difficult to track. It snowed overnight and I looked again Saturday but with no luck. Do you think this deer in findable or should I continue hunting other bucks? For reference I put a picture of where I believe the hit was. Thank you!
Brandon,
Ballistic tipped bullets are designed to expand rapidly. If the bullet hit a limb I strongly suspect it would have expanded before it hit the deer. It would have made a large entrance and even larger exit hole. It a ballistic tip bullet hit the liver there would usually be a lot of blood.
I suspect that either the bullet didn’t enter where you believe or only a fragment of the bullet struck the deer. In either case, all hunters have an obligation to make an intense effort to retrieve game they’ve shot. If snow covered the sign I’d ask a few buddies to help you search the area. Watch for coyote tracks, listen for crows, etc. Such scavengers will often find deer carcasses rapidly!
I hope you recover the buck!
Enjoy creation,
grant
November 23, 2015
John,
Congratulations on tagging a buck!
If preserving as much meat as possible is your goal, you may wish to aim behind the shoulders. A shot through both lungs will result in the deer expiring quickly.
When bullets impact the shoulder or large bones they expand rapidly. This results in more damage along the wound channel. If the bullet only passes through ribs and lungs it rarely damages much meat.
Enjoy creation,
grant
November 20, 2015
Frank,
I don’t have any speaking engagements scheduled in Illinois. We will be hosting another Field Event at The Proving Grounds during April and August. We’ll share dates and more information soon on GrowingDeer.
Enjoy creation,
grant
November 17, 2015
Thanks in advance!! Happy Hunting!
Nathan,
Thanks for inquiring about joining our Pro Staff! Most of our partners offer our Pro Staff great discounts, deals, etc. We have an extensive Pro Staff application process. The first step is showing us some of the footage/hunts you’ve produced. Are any of the hunts you produced posted on line?
Thanks again for inquiring and enjoy creation,
grant
November 13, 2015
Jeremy,
Usually Weeping Willows shade out vegetation from growing beneath them. Deer like cover that’s from the ground to three feet tall.
On smaller properties it’s just as important to consider the habitat quality and hunting pressure on neighboring properties! Remember deer are very selective feeders. They tend to eat the best food within their home range. Hence, they may eat the leaves of Weeping Willows during certain times of the year at one location and never tough them at another. In general Weeping Willows are not a preferred deer browse.
I’d also look for signs to see if the property floods and if so how frequently. Is the property part of a travel corridor – do deer regularly pass through it going to better sources of food or cover? Often times deer travel edges of streams. I suggest scouting along the stream for rubs made during past years. This would indicate deer have used this area as a travel route for years.
Enjoy creation,
grant
November 12, 2015
John,
I don’t know the answer to your question. There are many variables such as the condition of the deer before it was harvested (calm, running, etc.), where the wound occurred, etc.
In general, I like to recover deer and start eviscerating them within a few hours.
Enjoy creation,
grant
November 12, 2015
thanks
Jeff,
I’m thrilled to know you and your family will take time to honor God and study His word while in deer camp!
I read (and share) almost daily a devotional from Richard Blackaby (http://www.blackaby.net/) or Rick Warren (http://rickwarren.org/devotional). There are many such studies available on line. These can also be printed out if there’s no internet service available at your camp.
I share these with a group of my friends almost daily along with a few of my thoughts. I’ll be happy to add you and members of your family/friends to my email list. I use the blind copy option so everyone’s email addresses are protected.
Enjoy creation,
grant
November 11, 2015
Again, I am sorry for your pain and sorry if I overstepped bounds. I saw the love you two share and think his witness would be powerful to your viewers.
Andy
Andy,
Thank you for watching GrowingDeer!
My father is bashful and has extreme hearing loss. Unless the interview is in person, I doubt he would participate. In addition, he’s having OK days and tough days due to the chemo infusions. This therapy is scheduled to go on for months.
I’ll be happy to visit with you. You may get my contact information from the Pro Staff member you referenced.
Enjoy creation,
grant
November 9, 2015
Conor,
Thanks for inquiring! I normally accept applications for our internships from college sophomores and juniors in wildlife management and film/creative departments. Applicants send in a copy of their college transcript, three references (including past employers, etc.), and a resume.
I typically accept one intern during the spring and fall semesters and three during the summer. Interns travel with us. My current intern, Kyle, is packing for us to go film in Kansas as I writing now!
I look forward to reviewing your application materials!
Enjoy creation,
grant
November 5, 2015
My question to you is , does CWD affect horses? I have seen reports of it affecting cattle. This would be a issue for her as the deer feed in the same fields that the horse do at times.
Thanks for your time sir.
There’s no evidence of CWD impacting horses or cattle. It only impacts deer species. Mad Cow disease is closely related, but isn’t the same.
You might try sharing the Chronic Wasting Disease Alliance’s web site with her so she can learn the dangers of baiting in areas where CWD has been confirmed. If she loves deer, she should stop baiting in an area where CWD has been confirmed.
Education is usually the best tool.
Enjoy creation,
Grant
November 5, 2015
Kaleb,
We’ve may host a turkey hunting and habitat event during early April. We’ll certainly host an event during August. We’ll announce dates, etc., during an upcoming episode at http://www.GrowingDeer.com!
I look forward to visiting with you!
Enjoy creation,
grant
November 3, 2015
If you are unable to get back to me on such short notice, I understand completely.
Thank you,
Jesse
Jesse,
You are wise to prepare ahead of time for such interviews! I suggest always being polite and stay on target/subject. Wildlife biologist have studied the bear population in Florida for years and have lots of biological data. Such management helps keep populations balanced with habitat and other species while reducing human/bear conflicts.
Stay positive and don’t be drawn in to a fight. Know you will loose in the editing room so simply never say anything that you will regret. Remember the interviewer/editor always has the last word!
Thank you for telling the truth and protecting our resources and hunters!
Enjoy creation,
grant
Since I can remember I have wanted to work with wildlife and be a part of the DNR. I stumbled on your site months ago and the questions I have had, have been answered very thoroughly by you and your staff. They have helped me become a better hunter and naturalist.
I read you do not have any funds allocated for new interns this coming summer. But I was wondering if you would accept me as a volunteer this summer? I plan a week long vacation every year and I would love to spend a week this summer volunteering my time and labor helping you and your team at the proving grounds. The only payment I will accept is in the form of education and an amazing learning opportunity.
Please let me know if this would be something you would consider!
Thanks.
Jeremy
Jeremy,
Thanks for being part of the GrowingDeer family!
Typically our interns are here for a minimum of ten weeks. We need time to teach, train, and get to know. I’ve never considered a volunteer for a week. That’s seems a bit risky for both of us. You might travel here and it rain all week or all or some of us may be scheduled to be working out of state that week, etc.
I suggest you consider starting by attending one of our Field Events. These events are usually over a Friday and Saturday and we tour The Proving Grounds and share many of our hunting and habitat management techniques. This is focused learning experience. We’ll announce the next event on http://www.GrowingDeer.com.
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 27, 2015
My name is William Lee, I am an undergraduate senior at the University of Minnesota, Crookston location, and part of the Natural Resources Management Program here. In my composition course we had to pick a theme that we would write about for the entire semester, I chose the topic of quality deer management. I have already written a definition paper, just defining what QDM is and different aspects of it. Now I am writing an ethnography paper, which is the study and observation of a culture or people. As part of my paper my professor recommended using email interviews, because they are easy to quote from and use in a paper. So if you or part of the growing deer.tv crew could tell me what QDM means to you personally and what aspects you think are important to deer manager or any observations, and personal feelings, you have about deer management. I would ask that I could pull quotes to use in my paper, I would appreciate if you could take the time to email me back and if not thank you for your time.
-William Lee
William,
Quality Deer Management (QDM) means hunters assume an active role in managing deer and deer habitat. This often means hunters are active year round and not just during deer season. It also means hunters make an active choice to improve natural resources, not just consume natural resources.
QDM often matures into a lifestyle versus an infrequent activity. I believe this involvement and advanced education is extremely beneficial to a wide range of natural resources and society at large. QDM develops a vested interest and when citizens have a vested interest in improving natural resources all of society benefits.
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 27, 2015
Clayton,
I simply treat folks as I wish to be treated. I don’t show up during meal time or late and offer to trade work or payment for trespass rights. There’s a huge amount of wisdom in Jesus’ words of treat others as you wish to be treated.
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 27, 2015
This is only my second year hunting and my first bow hunting, I tagged a nice buck last fall with a rifle and was thinking that it would be easy to bow hunt, after all, I got a buck my first season out. I was wrong. I have to say that bow hunting is much harder than rifle hunting and wanted to say how impressive it is that you and your team make it look so easy.
On a positive note, I am in the right places at the right times and absolutely love seeing all the deer that I am given the opportunity to see daily.
Best Regards,
John
John,
Congratulations on tagging a buck and taking up bow hunting! It sounds like you are doing a great job scouting and placing blinds/stands!
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 21, 2015
Ronnie Lowe
Ronnie,
I sincerely appreciate your intentional prayers for my father! He’s doing well given he is 85 years old and going through chemo. I’ll share your thoughts with him. He’s eager to get better and hunt again!
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 19, 2015
Love the show, we will be in Theodosia hunting in a couple of weeks.
Thanks again,
Tommy
Thomas,
Thank you for sharing the kind words! I hope you are blessed with an enjoyable hunt near Theodosia!
We publish most of our wishlist bucks on our Facebook page (Grant Woods). You may scroll through and check them out there and on past episodes at http://www.GrowingDeer.tv!
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 19, 2015
Seth,
Deer’s nutritional needs change throughout the year. They require more protein during the growing season and energy during the fall and winter. There are many supplemental feed products that are created to supply a deer’s needs throughout the year. I haven’t researched these products and don’t know enough about them to make a good recommendation.
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 19, 2015
I know you are big on scent control, and I was curious what your thoughts are on this research/testing . . .
Zach,
That’s interesting research. I wish it had been designed a bit more scientifically with better controls, etc. There’s no doubt a trained dog is an incredible tool!
I agree that simply using a field spray has limited ability to control all odors. I prefer to use a complete system of personal hygiene, cleaning my gear, and then field spray. This includes only using towels that the scent has been removed, etc.
If you watch our hunts at http://www.GrowingDeer.tv I’m confident you’ll agree our system is worth the effort.
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 19th, 2015
Thanks a ton!!
Kind regards,
Zak
Zak,
The tenderloins can only be removed by exposing the underside of the spine. Hence I rarely use the “gutless” technique. In addition, I like to inspect the rumen (stomach) content to learn what the deer has been consuming.
Unless the stomach content is making contact with meat, spoilage takes many hours. The amount of time depends on the air temperatures, etc. Remember that deer season opens in the coastal South Carolina counties August 15th! I’ve been there many years when the daytime temperatures were 100+ degrees and I never had a deer spoil.
I often bring the whole deer back to camp/my home to dress. I prefer to clean the deer where I can use a water hose and keep the meat clean!
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 19th, 2015
Kevin,
I’ve never hunted caribou. Such hunts are big commitment! I encourage you to check several references before committing to any guided hunt!
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 19, 2015
Frank,
I’ve never hunted in Reynolds county. Reynolds county is primarily timbered. There is very limited crop production in that county. The topography is mountainous. If you enjoy hunting mountains it might be a good opportunity.
Reynolds county is a notorious for illegal dog hunting. I always suggest folks take the time visit with each neighboring landowner before purchasing or leasing property!
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 19, 2015
Mike,
I’m sorry for the inconvenience! We haven’t changed anything and haven’t heard any complaints from other viewers.
You might try restarting your computer and clearing the cookies or trying a different browser. Please let me know if one of these suggestions work!
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 13, 2015
I am a big fan and a long time viewer of your show.
I have 3 questions
1. In the first picture I am showing you it is easy to see I have a lot of Axis doe on my property. I only have 3 Axis bucks. How many doe’s should we take out for us to get our population back to normal? Or do we not need to worry about it?
2. We have 3 Axis bucks and I was wondering if you could age 1 of them for us? And who you shoot any of them or wait until they are bigger?
3. Is aging a Axis the same process of aging a white-tail?
Timothy,
I don’t know much about axis deer. I do know they taste good!!
Axis deer are closer related to elk than whitetails. They typically remain in herds and each male has a unique breeding cycle. You may see hard-antlered axis bucks throughout the year. That’s to say their breeding cycle isn’t synchronized like deer, but is asynchronous like cattle.
Most mammals’ bodies change shape as they age in similar patterns. These changes include the shoulders and hips becoming more developed, the back and belly sagging as they age, etc. These changes can revert if the critter lives long enough.
I suspect Axis bucks show changes in their body shape similar to whitetails.
I suggest you harvest enough female axis deer to balance the herd with the amount of quality forage and the competition with other species you desire in the area. I suggest you only harvest males if there is a surplus (more than three) and the male is an age or level of maturity you desire.
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 13, 2015
Blessings,
Duane
Duane,
Thank you for sharing the kind words! If the thinning is standard timber stand improvement work and crops, etc., aren’t to be replanted then I wouldn’t worry about the stumps. If you wish to plant a crop for wildlife and the crop isn’t to be mechanically harvested, then I typically plant around the stumps. I either use a no-till drill that is small enough to fit in between the rows or broadcast the lime, fertilizer, and seed. I’ve been testing a no-till drill made by http://www.Redexim.com in Holland. I’ve been very pleased with the drill.
If a crop is to be planted and mechanically harvested the best practice will be to have the stumps removed with a trackhoe, etc.
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 13, 2015
Thank you,
Bobby Shepperd
479-799-3241
Bobby,
Thanks for sharing the kind words! We haven’t set a date for the 2016 Spring Field Event yet. We’ll share it on http://www.GrowingDeer.tv as soon as the date is set.
I look forward to visiting with you!
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 13, 2015
Hayden,
I’m not aware of a single scientific study that has shown a negative impact to deer (or humans) from Roundup Ready crops. The vast majority of crops throughout the Midwest (and the world) are Roundup Ready. This has been true for many years and still the Midwest products the largest deer (and turkeys).
The deer populations in the Midwest have decreased since the 2012 outbreak of Hemorrhagic Disease. This disease has been studied for 50 plus years – long before Roundup technology was available.
Enjoy creation,
grant
Bobby Shepperd
Fayetteville, AR
Bobby,
We do announce each Field Event and accept registration a few months before they are scheduled. We’ve received may requests and may schedule a Field Event this spring and feature turkey hunting strategies and food plots. Is this something you would like to attend?
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 12, 2015
Jeremy,
Our editor, Blake, has purchased a HUGE library of music during his 25+ year career. He makes all those choices and purchases. Make sure and have permission to use whatever source of music you select.
Enjoy creation,
grant
Josh,
I really dislike trespassers! If the local law enforcement officers won’t help (sheriff, conservations officers, etc.) then try working with neighbors or anyone that will cooperate.
I’ve found that if trespassers are pursued they will find an easier place to work their mischief.
Finally – be careful! No deer is worth doing something that will alter your life!!
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 8, 2015
Kristian,
We worked with a group out of South Carolina to develop and maintain our website. There are many groups that help create websites and some sites on line that offer this service very reasonable and or free.
I hope your projects work out well!
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 8, 2015
Bryan,
As far as I know Butterbean is still roaming The Proving Grounds (and probably neighboring properties also)! We haven’t got any pics of him lately. However, there are lots of acorns at my place and deer don’t need to move are far to feed or bed.
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 8, 2015
Amulek,
I don’t know about a current sweepstakes to win a ScentMaster. You should check out their website at: https://redneckblinds.com/
Thanks for watching http://www.GrowingDeer.tv!
Enjoy creation,
grant
October 8, 2015
Regards,
Scott Tullos
Scott,
I used to work around wild horses in Nevada. They were fun to watch but did a lot of damage! They destroyed browse in that desert environment and literally sealed springs shut by trampling.
I suspect the wild horses are attracted to the feeders and food plots and will dominate them. Wild horses have very few predators and have no reason to abandon quality food sources that are easy to obtain. You might try using electric fences to protect the food plots. However, horses tend to walk through most types of smaller fences. A better technique may be to stop feeding and see if the horses will leave and seek an easier food source.
Deer rarely leave their home range. They will readily shift to a different part of their range to avoid danger. Horses typically have a much larger home range and I suspect they will move on once the easy food sources are removed.
Enjoy creation,
grant
Will you be doing any speaking engagements near Birmingham, AL in the near future? I’ve just discovered your videos and would love the chance to hear you speak in person.
Keep up the good work!
John
John,
I will be speaking at a church near LIttle Rock October 15th and at the Bass Pro in Memphis October 17th and 18th. I look forward to visiting with you!
I recently gave a seminar to a local school. You may watch that presentation at: https://www.growingdeer.tv/clips/#/echos-of-excellence-listen-to-success
Enjoy creation,
grant
Dylan,
Unfortunately, the last time we saw Pumpkin Face was during October 2012. He walked by Adam and me and he was clearly limping.
There was a widespread outbreak of H.D. in this area that year. Tracy found Pumpkin Face’s skull later that year. He apparently died from H.D.
Enjoy creation,
grant
Barrett,
Thank you for sharing the encouraging words.
We didn’t notice a substantial increase in deer activity in the areas we treated with Deer Trac. Have you given it a try? If so, what were your observations?
Enjoy creation,
grant
Jeremy,
I frequently use and compare several sources of weather data. These include:
1. The National Weather Service.
2. Weather Underground.
3. Intellicast.
4, Etc.
I haven’t found any source that accurately forecast barometric pressure more than a few hours out. I believe whether the barometer is rising or falling is more important than the exact barometric pressure. So – any source is probably fine as long as it’s easy to use. I don’t see any need to have a barometer unless you need exact readings for research.
Enjoy creation,
grant
Brian,
As you referenced there are many variables. However, I suspect you have plenty of time! Deer season starts in south Florida during late July and in South Carolina August 15th. Many days it’s 100+ degrees in these areas on opening day!
There are literally millions of deer tagged annually when the temperatures are above 60 and many folks spend hours getting the deer out of the field before processing. As long as your hunts do not take significantly longer than normal the meat should be fine!
Enjoy creation,
Grant
Todd,
You may be referring to seeing one of our Pro Staff members hunting in Switzerland County, Indiana (the only state with a Switzerland county that I’m aware).
I do frequently hunt in Kentucky with a very good friend. Thanks for the offer to film us! Adam, Daniel, Matt and I usually are traveling and hunting/filming together.
Enjoy creation,
grant
Brandon,
Like you, I live in an area with very poor soils and no production corn or soybean crops. There’s never been a Boone and Crockett and only one Pope and Young buck recorded from the counties where I hunt. The largest buck I’ve tagged scored 168″. I most proud of the number of four year old and older bucks we’ve produced and tagged!
Both my daughters took nice bucks last year. You can watch their hunts at: https://www.growingdeer.tv/#/deer-hunting-the-hard-to-pattern-buck-quotdrifterquot-at-206-yards
Enjoy creation,
grant
Paul,
I doubt those are Roe deer antlers if the main beams are 40″ long. You might Google “Roe deer antler images” for a better idea of the average sizes.
I checked on the UK Ebay page for average prices of Roe deer antlers: http://www.ebay.co.uk/bhp/roe-deer-antlers
I suspect you can search a bit and find the value of such antlers in the states.
Enjoy creation,
grant
Brendan,
Morrell makes many different types of archery targets. Check out this link to see the different styles and prices: https://www.morrelltargets.com/
Enjoy creation,
grant
Jeff,
I’ve never found (and I’ve searched) one refereed (peer reviewed) study that shows any negative impact on humans or deer (or other critters) from GMO crops. Literally tens of millions of deer, turkey, etc., have feed on GMO crops with no reported impacts. In fact, the largest deer in the world are consistently harvested in the midwest were 90%+ of the crops are GMO.
GMO crops have been the most studied crops in history and still no credible reports of harm to humans and wildlife. Even Reader’s Digest recently reported that’s there’s never been a study that’s found any evidence of GMO crops causing humans harm.
Lots of folks make wild claims based on emotions. The fact is that GMO crops save a huge amount of fossil fuels, soil erosion, soil compaction, etc., by significantly reducing tillage.
Enjoy creation,
grant
Can you tell us what type of Safety System (Tree strap) you use when you get into your stand, in order to anchor yourself to the tree?
When I watch the videos it looks like some type of rope system that is wrapped around the tree, which you clip into via your safety harness karabiner.
Thanks in advance for all your help and advice.
Drew from Ontario.
Drew,
I use a full harness from Summit (http://www.summitstands.com/harnesses) and always use a climbing system like the http://www.summitstands.com/seat-o-the-pants-climbing-system.
These systems allow me to remain tethered to the tree from when I leave the ground till I return. Adam does a good job of explaining this system in the GrowingDeer episode at this link: https://www.growingdeer.tv/#/deer-hunting-focusing-on-the-kill-zone.
I don’t allow any of the GrowingDeer Team to climb a tree without using this safety system.
Enjoy creation,
grant
Tracy and Crystal spend countless hours each year in the late winter and early spring hunting for shed antlers! Crystal (our shed dog) was selected because she displayed signs of having a high search instinct. This is similar to training a duck dog except you substitute antlers. She was started as a puppy chasing a ball with an antler tine stuck in it. As she grew she was put on larger and larger antlers. They were thrown out in the yard so that they had a bit of a roll to them. Once her “desire” for antlers was firmed with lots of praise and reward, we moved to playing hide and seek games. You can easily find out more by searching online. Check out AntlerDogs.com or various other videos on youtube. If you enjoy training dogs, this is a fun and rewarding project!
My question is this; I don’t have a range finder, and have never harvested a deer with my bow from a tree. What are some good techniques to judge the distance, and what sight pin I should shoot if I’m 20 ft in a tree?
Cooper,
Thank you for watching GrowingDeer and for sharing the kind words!
Each individual has different skills at estimating yardage. I suspect that experience is the best “technique.” Before I had a range finder I was constantly estimating yardage while I worked, etc., I’d estimate the yardage to an object and then step it off. Even with lots of practice it’s easy to be off a few yards and that can be enough to be the difference between bringing venison home or eating tag soup.
I suggest you step off distance from the stand to known points. For example, if you are comfortable shooting 30 yards, then use tree, rock, etc., to mark 20 and 30 yards from the stand. Having the known distances will reduce the error when estimating a deer that’s at 25 + – yards.
I use the same sight pin for each distance as I do when practicing from the ground. The biggest difference between shooting from and elevated position and from the ground is the need to bend at the waste when shooting from an elevated position. If you simply drop you bow arm, it changes the relationship between your grip, sight, and eye. Bend at the waist and keep everything in the same relationship as you did while shooting from the ground and your shot will be true!
The only time it would be necessary to change sight location for the same yardage is if you are shooting at an extreme incline. This is rarely the case with most shot opportunities from a tree stand.
Enjoy creation,
grant
Shane
Shane,
I looked and didn’t find a scope made specifically for a .45-70. Several of the Nikon scopes work well with the dangerous game calibers. Those heavy rounds may have a similar trajectory. I suggest researching those options!
Enjoy creation,
grant
Our Editor, Blake, suggests the folllowing:
For a Gopro: Hero4 Silver’s a good Go-Pro. It cost less than the Black version. Use the record mode of 1920 x 1080 at 30 fps.
For the 70D: Adjust your settings to use a record mode of 1920×1080 at 30 fps.
Editing software: We use Final Cut Pro and Premiere Pro. I’m sorry, but I do not have experience with other editing software. I can only suggest that you find something that works well with a variety of formats.
Mike,
There’s been rumors for decades about sulfur blocks helping reduce ticks on cattle and other critters. I’ve tried them and never seen obvious results. I’ve Googled the subject and haven’t found any research that supports the claims. However, that doesn’t mean sulfur doesn’t help remove ticks. However, if it does it’s not well documented.
I look forward to hearing updates about your experiences!
Enjoy creation,
grant
Kurt,
There are several wetland plants that deer eat during the growing season. These can provide a source of protein, but rarely are high in energy. There’s usually some hammocks (high dry places) where oaks, white cedar, etc. grow. Often deer that seek cover in wetlands venture to neighboring ag fields to consume grain crops.
I’d have to know what’s available to know which specific species deer in your area are eating.
Enjoy creation!
grant
I have bow hunted for several years now and have had trouble with safety harnesses. I have yet to find one that allows me to shoot 360 degrees from my stand. I am on a fixed budged and would like to get one for under $80. Is there a particular brand or style that you prefer to use while bow hunting?
Billy,
The most important characteristic of a safety harness is that you use it literally every time you climb!! There are way too many treestand accidents.
I use the STS Deluxe harness from Summit. Like most harness it attached to the tree via a strap. I can easily turn side to side and shoot with while wearing the harness. I never climb without a harness. The STS works great for my staff and me!
Please don’t climb without a harness so you can continue to enjoy creation!
grant
Joe P. (Virginia)
PS – The persimmons I planted went from 9″ to 6′ in just the Spring !!
Thanks, as always, for your guidance. I look so forward to seeing your program every week. Congrats on the 300th episode.
Joe,
There’s no need to prune the limbs and leaves growing inside a tree tube. During the late dormant season you should prune the malformed and excess limbs about the tube. Different species benefit from different levels of pruning.
Check out this link for more instruction about pruning fruit trees: https://www.growingdeer.tv/#/deer-hunting-secret-how-to-create-a-hot-spot-now
Enjoy creation,
grant
Rick,
All of our past episodes are available at http://www.GrowingDeer.tv. The episode you requested can be viewed at: https://www.growingdeer.tv/#/deer-meat-how-to-process-your-own
Enjoy creation,
grant
Thank you,
Scott
Scott,
These are not symptoms of CWD or H.D. (commonly called Blue Tongue). These conditions could occur if the deer didn’t expired quickly and wasn’t processed within in a reasonable time. They could also occur if the deer had been previously wounded or had an infection.
Sounds like it was wise to not consume the venison.
Enjoy creation,
grant
Joe,
Thank you for the kind words! We offer a lot more information at GrowingDeer.com than we can on YouTube. We release a new episode every Monday about 6:30am Central time.
Deer, it seems bucks more than does, tend to break their foot just above their hooves. I don’t know if this is from fighting, chasing etc. I’ve cut into a few of these on tagged bucks and they always appear to be a calcified joint or bone. I’m always amazed at how well deer can survive with such injuries.
I hope our paths cross soon!
Enjoy creation,
Grant
My wife and I love your show. We would like to know if you do a guided hunt at the proving grounds?
Thanks Brian and Alaura Dumont Dayton Tx
Brian and Alaura,
Thank you for the kind words!
I spend so much time hunting with my father and daughters that we don’t offer guided hunts. We do host a Field Event each August! It’s a lot of fun and we share our hunting and habitat management techniques!
Enjoy creation,
grant
Thank You!
Walter Lee
(214) 499-8604
Walter,
You are wise to seek counsel about your “unheard of idea.” I wish you much success!!
I’ve consulted on several projects and find it enjoyable to help folks turn an idea into reality!
Enjoy creation,
grant
Is 1cam/50acres to much?
Also what settings do you have on the camera? Delay interval? Number of pictures/trigger?
Thanks,
Phil Scott
Phil,
The accuracy of a trail camera survey can potentially be increased by increasing the number of cameras and the number of pictures each camera takes per deer visit.
More pictures should allow for better identification of individual bucks. More camera stations should pick up a few more deer as some deer won’t use stations where other, more dominant deer frequent.
The trade-off is steps that accumulate more pictures will add more time to analysis process.
The number of acres per camera is influenced by the habitat. If the survey is conducted in an area with lots of pasture and/or ag fields then deer will be bottle-necked into smaller areas and fewer cameras will be needed. If the area is primarily cover than more cameras will be required to conduct an effective survey.
Deer tend to hang around bait a long time. There’s no problem taking more pictures but I usually set my Reconyx cameras to take two pictures with a 10 second interval between pictures. I use a five minute delay to keep from getting bunches of pictures of the same deer.
I never use a correction factor. Correction factors are best guesses. I use the actual numbers and compare them year to year. The trend of the deer herd’s demographics is more valuable and probably more accurate than the estimates!
There are detailed instructions of how I conduct a trail camera survey at: https://www.growingdeer.tv/view/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/Conducting-a-Herd-Survey.pdf
Enjoy creation,
grant
As always keep up the great work and can’t wait to watch episode 301.
Aaron,
This sweepstakes is now closed.
Enjoy creation,
grant
Rick,
I believe you are looking for the GrowingDeer episode at the following link:
https://www.growingdeer.tv/#/deer-meat-how-to-process-your-own
May you be blessed with plenty of fresh venison this fall!
grant
My name is Joshua Farley, and I was wandering if ticks on deer in early season have any negative effects on the meat of the dear. I hunt in central Ok and many people around here that I know do not hunt early season do to the fact that most dear will have a good amount of ticks on them. Many of the does that I get on camera will have large amounts of ticks on the neck and around the ears(like in the picture’s posted). I appreciate any information and god bless!
Joshua,
Deer at my place are loaded with ticks also! I’ve taken deer during the first week of season for years and never noticed any problem with the meat. The problem may be keeping ticks off you during the early season but I’m not aware of problem with venison due to deer having ticks.
Enjoy creation,
grant
Jordan,
I was blessed to know what God wanted me to do from an early age. I found a fawn that had been poached in a field on the farm where I grew up. From that day I wanted to work with deer. I encourage you to intentionally seek God’s will for your life and follow His will.
As you mature and determine what God has planned for your life, maybe it will lead to where our paths cross!
Enjoy creation,
grant
I have a buck showing up on my cameras and I am struggling to tell if he extremely young or if he has some sort of genetic problem. He seems short in body size compared to other bucks here in Minnesota. I will post a picture of him last year and this year. I would love your advice on how old he is.
Thanks,
Frank
Frank,
The buck’s legs appear too long for his body. His neck merges with is chest well above his brisket. If you cover his antlers he appears like a large-bodied doe. These are all signs of a 2 year old buck.
There are very rarely genetic “problems” with deer. I believe this deer is healthy and has great potential!
Enjoy creation,
grant
Terry,
Thank you for watching GrowingDeer!!
Raccoons can remove most of the feed from feeders and discourage deer and other critters from using the area. The bird feed companies have spent gads trying to build a feeder that raccoons and squirrels couldn’t use. They haven’t succeeded yet. Without being able to trap the raccoons I’m not aware of any system that keeps raccoons away for an extended period of time.
Enjoy creation,
grant
Is there any research on the subject of old bucks losing antler mass as they age? Do you have any suggested reading on this subject?
Thanks in advance! Also thank you for all of the time and effort you put into sharing your passion/profession. It is a great example of true Christian values of giving back!
God Bless,,
-Caiden
Caiden,
Thank you for the kind words and for asking God to bless our work! I truly appreciate your prayers!!
I’m not aware of any published research that indicates bucks will lose antler mass as they mature or reach extreme maturity. Most bucks increase antler size (including mass) till they are seven years old or older. Very few bucks live this long in the wild.
Based on my observations, even senile (extremely mature bucks in captivity) bucks may decrease in overall antler size, but not in antler mass. This is especially true of basal circumference. Antler pedicles (the specialized tissue where antlers grow from the skull) increase with age. I’ve never known or heard of then decreasing.
Enjoy creation,
grant
Kyle,
I look forward to visiting with you during our 2016 Field Event! We haven’t set a date yet. We’ll likely announce a date on GrowingDeer this spring. These events sell out quickly – be sure to register soon when we open announce the Event!
Enjoy creation,
grant
Chase,
Congratulations on almost completing your degree and having a successful football career! That’s very exciting!
Some folks call me a consulting wildlife biologist. It’s really no different than a wildlife biologist. I research and share my results. Some wildlife biologists work for government agencies. I work primarily for private landowners, but have worked for corporations and government agencies.
Thank you for asking God to bless my family! That’s a huge blessing to me!
Enjoy creation and listen to where God wishes to use you!
grant
I wanted to thank you for your advice on degrees in Wildlife Biology. I have contacted UGa and Mississippi State for information from Dr. Karl Miller and Dr. Steve Demaris. My dad had came across Dr. Moore at abac.edu.
I had a question because Dr. Moore let me know that a two two or two years at ABAC and two years at UGa would be a good option for me since my family is in Thomasville. The degrees are different one is BAS applied science and the other one is a BS, but only UGa has the Wildlife Biologist degree.
My dad says I can save money going to the local school first get the core classes out of the way and then go to UGa and be better prepared from the core applied classes at abac, Dr. Moore indicated it is highly competitive to get into UGa. Can you give any advice?
Second question I am still in high school but I would like to know how to go about coming to field days next year as an intern? I am prepared to work time before and after the event.
Thank you for your time.
Parker Maroney
Parker,
I’ve known several wildlife biologists that went to school for two years at ABAC and finished their wildlife degree at the University of Georgia! I agree with your father – that’s a fine program!
Wherever you go take each class seriously and be intentional about your career objectives. For example, take the written and speaking communication skills classes very seriously. These skills are essential to all professions! School choice is important, but not as important as each student’s desire to learn and participate in activities that will benefit their career.
We rarely accept candidates for our intern program unless they are a junior or more advanced in college. Our internship program is designed to last a college semester. Most schools give credit for such field experience.
I hope you will consider doing an internship with us at you progress through a wildlife degree program!
Enjoy creation,
grant
Clayton,
There’s 10’s of 1,000’s of acres of public and just outside Charleston called the Francis Marion National Forest. Some of my friends used to hunt both deer and turkey there! That’s one place to start while you are meeting landowners, etc., and looking for other places to hunt!
Remember to be willing to trade some work for hunting rights! Many landowners need help planting food plots, etc.!
Enjoy creation!
grant
Scott,
Thanks for inquiring about our next Field Event! We’ll announce the dates of our next Event during the spring on GrowingDeer.tv! I look forward to visiting with you and your father! May God bless your faithfulness to follow His call!
grant
I’m honored you would like to hunt with me! I spend most of my time hunting with Raleigh and Rae, my daughters, and my father. My father and I have always hunted together and Raleigh and Rae have joined that tradition. I also spend much of my time hunting with Adam and the other employees.
My close friend, Mr. Terry Hamby, owns The Kentucky Proving Grounds. He also enjoys hunting with his family. He spends most of his time hunting with his wife and grandkids.
We’ve considered having a hunt once a year where some members of the GrowingDeer family meet in Colorado or somewhere and hunt together for a week. Those are just thoughts now because we stay extremely busy producing a new show weekly, year round.
Thank you for watching http://www.GrowingDeer.tv! If we do plan a group hunt, we’ll announce it on an upcoming episode!
Enjoy creation!
Evan Grimm
Thanks for watching GrowingDeer!
I simply used the web to share my passion. I’ve been a wildlife biologist for 25 years. I enjoy sharing information that will help others enjoy hunting and managing deer and turkey.
You should know that I’ve never edited one minute of our footage. I rarely run the camera, etc. I do what God built me to do (communicate technical information in an easy to understand format) and let our team members do what they do best. We all trust and count on each other. Be part of a team that works hard, trust each other, and helps each other is a winning combination! I’m very thankful for each member of our team!
I hope you seek God’s will in your life and then pursue His will with all your passion!
Our team uses Final Cut Pro and several additional packages to produce GrowingDeer.tv. Like all aspects of the computer industry editing software is constantly changing. We often several add-on packages for special projects.
Enjoy creation!
If you have any other question you can email me at:
Bob Baars
On another note I work at Cabela’s here in GR also and have been able to use your web show as a door to talk about my faith with customers and co-works.
I would be honored to share my testimony on Words to Live By!! My mother read Our Daily Bread for years and I’ve read several of their devotional books!
Thanks for considering me!
