Hunting Fun

Brassica’s are a good choice for fall and winter hunting deer food plots. They produce large amounts of quality deer food during the time of year when perennial forages and native plants are limited in both production and quality. Seeding your brassica crops in the summer can attract deer late into the fall and early winter.

Food plots are used extensively by deer management groups as well as hunters. There are two types of food plots, the forage plot and the hunting plot.

Deer food plots used to attract deer for deer hunting are best chosen to be secluded and smaller with ample cover to give deer a sense of security. The idea here is we want the deer to use these food plots during the day. That way we can strategically hunt along the perimeter trails and travel routes leading to the plot or adjacent to the plot during legal daylight hours.

Good deer managers use brassica’s in their food plots because they realize the value of the brassica group. The specific varieties that deer management specialists commonly use are kale, rape, and turnips.

The leaves of these plants are bitter until hit by a heavy frost. Deer managers capitalize on this deer behavior to get outstanding deer attractant factor in their food plots in late fall and early winter during hunting season. Deer will be seen to eat the leaves first and then dig out the roots later in the season as the snow covers the plot.

Here are a few facts about the varieties of brassica crops used by deer hunters.

Kale (Brassica oleracea): Varieties with a high leaf to stem ratio are preferred by deer. If planted in the spring the stemless is ready August through September. The stemmed variety takes longer and is usually ready October through December.

Turnips: (Brassica rapa):All parts of this plant are eaten by the deer. It can be late fall planted and the deer will eat the leaves first and then dig out the roots later. Choose a variety with a high proportion of leaves to provide a better deer attractant.

Forage **** (Brassica napus): This variety is tolerant of adverse conditions such as cold, heat and drought. It is often planted in mid to late July. The dwarf types are best when using them as deer lure for hunting plots.

Brassica crops are often used by hunters to attract deer to their food plots, especially in the fall and early winter months. They are strong nutritionally and provide good grazing during times of the year when the native plant choices have deteriorated. So, consider brassica species when you want good fall and early winter grazing for your deer.



By: Judy McFarlen

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The 243 Winchester has been around for a long time. The .243 Winchester is a necked down 308 round and it inherits the overall good accuracy from the 308.

Bullets from 55 grains all the way up to 115 grain Match bullets are available for the 243. The most popular would be the 60 to 85 grain bullets designed for Varmints and the 95 to 105 grain bullets designed for Big Game.

The controversy over whether or not the 243 Winchester is an adequate round for Deer has been an ongoing one since the round was first introduced. Honestly, I don’t expect to settle it here, I’mh just hoping to shed some light on the round and what it is, and is not, capable of.

In the right hands, the 243 is well capable of taking Deer sized game in the the right hands.

In years past, many problems were encountered with the bullets used. Truth be known, te bullets made for the 243 have caused more problems for the round than the power of the cartridge itself.

The problem existed (and exist to a certain extent even today) with the erratic performance of early bullets. There were many stories around about bullets not expanding as they passed through game animals and many problems with the bullets blowing up on impact. Sometimes a hunter would have this problem with the same bullets from the same box of ammo!

Technology has brought the 243 Winchester a long ways. Cores are bonded to jackets better and the overall performance of the little 24 caliber bullets has risen over the years.

Still, this round is not a beginners rifle. A marginal hit from the 243 can leave wounded game in the field. The 243 Winchester really shines in the hands of a competent rifleman or riflewoman. Many beginners lack the experience to control the “shakes” and wait patiently for the right time to place the first shot where it belongs.

For beginners, there are better light recoiling calibers available that should be considered. Rounds such as the 257 Roberts, 260 Remington and 7mm-08 Remington are all great Deer rounds. Not only that, they are light recoiling and do far more damage than the 243 in case of a marginal hit.

So before you run out and buy a beginning Deer hunter a 243 Winchester, stop and think and then move on up in caliber size. Let the new hunter get some experience under their belts before handing them this little Deer round.



By: Tony Travis

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Most seasoned hunters know there are several white tail deer hunting tactics that will greatly increase your results each season. But even the most experienced hunter still makes several mistakes when hunting, mistakes that can make a dramatic difference in the quality and quantity of deer available to you each time you hunt. Everyone wants that opportunity to bag a big time white tail deer, and when you understand how to hunt the rut, you will become much more effective. Here are some key items to keep in mind when hunting during the rut:

1. Calling deer in the rut – During certain phases of the rut, some calls will actually drive deer away from your location and not towards you. Understand what calls work at the right times for best success.

2. Using scent during the rut – Much like calling deer, there are some scents that you should not use during phases of the rut. The scents are more likely to drive bucks away from a location and not into the area you are wanting.

3. Scouting the rut – The most effective way to hunt during the rut is to do your scouting beforehand. Learn the travel patterns by picking a new location each day and scout for a week at a time. Each day, be sure to actually note what you observe, and mark your GPS accordingly.

Doing basic research and understanding how calling and scents can impact your hunting success will make a major difference in your season. Prepare, and you will be rewarded.



By: Ken Ayers

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Deer, in their natural habitat, do not eat “deer feed” that can be purchased at the feed store. So, left to their own devices, what do deer eat?

Deer are herbivores, meaning they only eat plants. While there are plenty of plants in the forest, not all plants provide adequate nutrition for deer.

Much like humans, deer have preferences for certain foods and will eat them whenever and wherever they find them. When these foods are not available they will move on to acceptable foods (less nutrition and less tasty, but still acceptable.) If there is a lot of competition from other deer in the area, even these food sources may become depleted and deer will be forced to eat “foods of last resort;” these are foods that are very low in nutrients, but are better than nothing. Seasonal changes also affect the availability of foods.

Types of Foods That Deer Eat

Wild Grasses

Wild grasses are only eaten when the shoots are you and tender. They are a food of last resort, and help deer survive when deer cannot find other foods.

Woody Plants and Shrubs

Deer can feed on trees and shrubs. The eat the leaves, twigs and buds of these types of plants all year around. Examples:

honeysuckle blackberry sassafras rose dewberry grape willow sumac black gum greenbrier
Forbs

Forbs are herbaceous plants (perennial, non woody plants that die every winter but produce new growth every spring). Forbs include weeds and other flowering plants. This is a proffered food source. Examples:

wild clover mushrooms dandelion ragweed wild lettuce sunflower beans ragweed bellflower sedges
Nuts

Very nutritious for deer, but crops of nuts are often small, so this food source is not as reliable as forbs and grasses. Examples:

red acorns white acorns beechnuts hickory nuts
Cultivated Crops

These are crops that humans plant. These can be an important part of deer diet in areas where other food sources are limited. Examples:

wheat clover soybeans rye grass vegetables alfalfa oats
Fruits

Very high in energy, deer prefer these foods, but they are usually only available during summer and early fall.

persimmons grapes coralberry dogwood huckleberry blackberry dewberry sumac seed heads



By: Nick Moran

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When you are in the market for a quality knife, consider American made Entrek USA knives. You can find Entrek knives specially made for hunting and survival, as well as hand-crafted tactical knives. Entrek American made knives are handmade, of the finest craftsmanship, and designed by world renowned knife craftsman, Ray W. Ennis. Since 1973, expert Ray Ennis has made over 7000 knives during his illustrious career. Each Entrek knife is made using the rust resistant 440C stainless steel. The knives are heat treated, stabilized and then double drawn to resist corrosion, retain toughness and hold the edge. Entrek knives are manufactured using the latest technologies, as well as time tested hand-crafting methods including glass beading blade and the handle for superior grip even in the wettest conditions.

The Entrek USA 11Bravo

The most popular and best selling model of knife is the 11Bravo.This model is Entrek’s most popular fixed blade knife. This knife is also a favorite tool of the American military and is classified as a survival knife. With a solid grip made from the same stock of black canvas Micarta to ensure color uniformity, this knife withstands the elements to resist corrosion and degradation.

Entrek Hunting and Tactical Models

Entrek also specializes in both the tactical and hunting knife, as well. As hunting and tactical knives go, over 30 American made models are available from Entrek, including the 14.5 inch long Strike Eagle down to the 6.5 inch long Lynx, to name just a couple. The sheath for this type of knife is custom molded from black Kydex to fit each knife, ensuring the sheath tightly and securely fits the blade. The sheaths are equipped with belt clips to enable strapping the knife to the leg or to gear. Because of the tight-fitting sheath, the knife stays securely enclosed when climbing, crawling or moving about under other extreme conditions. For a rugged knife with extreme endurance, select one of the Entrek hunting or tactical models.

The Entrek Force Recon Series

The original Entrek Force Recon has a partially sharpened edge and measures 11 and 7/8 inches overall. The 7 inch blade’s finish is bead blasted and the blade made from 440C stainless steel. This model is a great choice as a survival tool or a camp knife. The Bowie is 12 inches overall and a fixed-blade model. The double edged MKII model, the latest incarnation of the series. This knife is a Persian Bowie, also with a length of 12 inches overall. This series offers the purchaser various options, while maintaining the quality and craftsmanship that the Entrek name stands for.

All knives made by Entrek are superior American-made knives, constructed with quality craftsmanship and attention to the smallest detail, including uniformity of grip color, blade consistency and overall style. Several models to choose from make sure that you will find the exact knife for your needs and budget. For camping, hunting, or tactical purposes, Entrek is always the best choice. Remember the Entrek name when shopping for knives for any purpose or budget. Entrek is the best brand of functional knife available on the market.



By: Mike Lurk

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In talking with hunters all over the US, I have found that even some great hunters still hold on to common myths of deer hunting. In this article I would like to expose what I consider to be the top ten myths of deer hunting.

Myth #1
Big bucks roam frequently roam.

Truth #1
Big bucks have a home territory that they usually stay in. They may roam some during the rut in search of does in estrus.

Myth#2
Bucks bed in the thickest cover.

Truth #2
Bucks will bed in thick cover but they will also bed in thin cover on hills and ridges where they can view approaching predators

Myth #3
Finding frequent scrapes close together means there is a big buck in the area.

Truth #3
This is most likely the work of a younger buck that is showing off his prowess. A mature buck will make big scrapes but not as many as a 1 to 2 year old.

Myth #4 and #5
Big bucks don’t walk in doe trails.

Bucks follow behind does to avoid danger.

Truth #4 and #5
Big bucks normally don’t walk in doe trails except during rutting season. A dominant buck will walk a doe trail and behind does when he is following a doe in estrus.

Myth #6
A full moon is bad for hunting.

Truth #6
Scientific research has found that the second full moon after the fall equinox starts the rutting season in central and northern states.

Myth #7
Spooked deer run for miles.

Truth #7
While deer can run 35 – 40 mph, they will run for only a couple of hundred yards when frightened.

Myth #8
The rut lasts only a few days.

Truth #8
Does come into estrus individually. Does that do not breed during their first estrus of the season will enter into estrus again in about a month.

Myth #9
The size of a buck’s antlers indicates his age.

Truth #9
While antler size usually increases with age, the age of a buck cannot be determined by the size of his antlers. Antler size and number of points varies with the individual based on genetics and nutrition.

Myth #10
There’s no need to stay out hunting in the middle of the day because the deer are resting.

Truth #10
Especially under the pressure of the hunting season, deer (including bucks) will be on the move all day.

I hope you enjoyed the Top 10 Myths of Deer Hunting!



By: Joe Pineland

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Are you a hunter who is expecting to go after that big trophy buck this season? If so, you may want to consider the proper deer hunting techniques such as using a tree stand for your hunt. Hunting from the tree stand can be a very effective way to deer hunting. Along with that, you need to utilize your internet resources and find out the best stand for you.

Something to keep in mind while deer hunting in a tree stand is the weather. Keeping track of the weather report while hunting out of a tree stand is important to do and will contribute to being safe while in your stand. Along with using your tree stand is having some tools around you that will aid you in your hunt.

Practicing the proper deer hunting techniques is ‘key’ to be safe in a tree stand it is also a good idea to have items like steps in the trees to help hold your equipment, so you’re not fumbling them while sitting in your stand. When making your way into the stand it would help also to have installed a pulley on a step in the tree ahead of time to send your weapon of choice to the top before you get there. This would help prevent any accidental discharge of a firearm which has been known to happen.

Another point to consider is the placement of your tree stand. One of the best spots to put a tree stand is up where you can get some good cover. At the same time you need to be sure you have no restrictions in your line of site that may affect your shot. Probably the best all around place to locate a deer stand is near thick cover. The big trophy bucks love to hide out in these areas. If you see a trail leading to this area you could set up near it, but keep an eye out in every direction that is possible. The big trophy bucks are good at changing their routes they take.

It is also a good idea to set up more than one tree stand if possible around the areas you hunt. If wind is blowing the wrong direction and can carry your scent to the deer then that’s when having another stand near by in a different location will save you. It’s good to have the wind blowing from the deer’s direction to your direction to make sure the deer aren’t spooked. This is another example of how knowing the proper deer hunting techniques is going to be sure you’re executing these techniques to your full advantage. An elevated tree stand is another way to help get your scent carried up and above the deer. It is important though to remember to practice good safety, especially when setting stands at this height.

Stand hunting has been a favorite among hunters for many years and will continue to be a favorite, especially with all the new products currently on the market as well as the future products to come. Whether you’re choosing to hunt in a deer stand for the first time, or you have been hunting in a stand for years, knowing the proper deer hunting techniques is what will help make for a more enjoyable hunt as well as well as a much safer hunt.



By: Fred Danico

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Deer hunting land and leases can be viewed from two different perspectives. For those hunters who want to hunt with a degree of privacy during a particular time of year, or are looking for long term land use, a lease makes perfect sense. For people who own land suitable for hunting, leases turn land into income generating property.

Deer hunting land and leases have become more popular as population has increased and strained public hunting areas. It is not unusual to hear a hunter talk about how there were too many hunters on the land. When hunting land is over-hunted, it not only reduces a hunter’s chances of bagging game. It also creates a dangerous situation as hunters inadvertently point guns at each other. When needing deer hunting land, and leases are available, hunters are able to enjoy private hunting grounds with less risk. The hunter chooses the time the lease will be in effect.

Unlike the past, rental of deer hunting land, and leases stipulating the terms, are available for short term periods. A hunting lease can run for periods varying from years to one week. It is important to make sure the lease clearly states the specific dates you are allowed to use the land. The lease will name the lease fees, any deposit requirements, sublease rights or restrictions, and all land hunting rules. In return, the person leasing the land gets hunting rights and agrees to hold the land owner harmless.

It is easy to find deer hunting land and leases online and sorted by state. For example, deer hunting land and leases in Kentucky are available. Online descriptions will provide aerial view pictures and a description of the property available for lease. The descriptions will also include the amount of acreage, the species of wildlife spotted on the property, and any possible least-to-own programs. Leases are also available for renting property when it is not hunting season for recreational purposes.

For those thinking about making hunting land and leases available to the public, there are many advantages. Unused land is turned into a money generator. You also reduce trespassing problems, take control of who is hunting on the property, and obtain release of liability through the lease. When you lease your land for controlled hunting, wildlife management is implemented. Hunters also often improve land by clearing areas and planting grass to attract wildlife. The land that is leased is protected from development also. Hunting leases cover short or long periods for individual hunters or hunting clubs.

When looking at hunting leases, don’t forget that land prime for hunting is often also prime land for fishing due to the location of lakes and streams. Land can be leased for other sports such as fishing or camping rights during the off hunting season.

When you want to lease hunting land, or your property is ideal as deer hunting land and leases are an option, it pays to use professional agents. Professional services can assist you with developing mutually agreeable lease arrangements. They will also make sure you do not exclude important considerations. The land is inspected and well documented to insure it is some of the best hunting land available.



By: Mark Williams

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Illinois deer hunting is one of the most sought after adventures for every hunter. Illinois offers acres upon acres of land that in 1980, the white-tailed deer has been hailed by Illinois’ very children to be the State animal. In the middle of 1800′s the demand for deer rose up that the species diminished completely from their land. Fortunately enough, years after, the State’s Department of Conservation created a method to bring back the population of deer that have grazed their land in earlier times. Today, Illinois has become one of the Mecca for deer hunters from all walks of life. In fact, so many private owners have turned their wide expanse of private lands to cater to deer enthusiasts who travel far and wide for a good game and by chance, have come knocking on their doors.

Many of these private lands are inhabited by deer herds that there is only a few options left for locals to hunt on today. Public properties that carry good games have become scarce and people who would want to avail of these public lands need to share with quite a number of hunters enjoying the season for hunting deer. Thus, the only option left for those who value the gifts of perseverance is the Shawnee National Forest which located at the southern part of Illinois. The land, unlike any other area visited in Illinois, is rugged and the environment is covered with hickory and oak. Illinois deer hunting is also an adventure in the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie which is situated in the Northeastern part. This public land features 6,409 acres of habitat for deer hunting which would be small feat compared to Shawnee National Forest. The only effort a hunter would consider is to walk before getting to the habitat itself.

The State law also encourages every resident and non-resident alike to own their own license before they take themselves hunting, this makes it easier for the government to regulate hunting activities. In 2008 deer hunting was priced to about 15 dollars for residents and 30 dollars for those who are not. Illinois’ deer population was estimated to be 800,000 and the amount of recorded deer harvest went up to 198,670 with hunters amounting to 380,000.

As a precaution to the possibility of unintended accidents in hunting trips, Illinois deer hunting community and other hunters alike are supported by the State to undergo a hunter education program lasting to a minimum of ten hours of instruction about wildlife management and conservation, their responsibilities as hunters and field safety training. This also includes the art of archery and muzzle loading and education on state regulations and how to apply first aid in cases of accidents. Every participant who would spend time to completing this course would be awarded with a graduate patch and a Certificate of Competency. This program created by the State of Illinois would not only guarantee the safety of their hunters but also the promotion of their wildlife protection programs because people are educated on their roles as citizens and hunters.



By: G Andrews

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If you’re ready to put all of your hunting skills to the test, go after a whitetail deer. These animals are a true challenge to hunt and have challenged many hunters. They can smell you, hear you and are constantly on the lookout for danger. Sneaking up on a buck is a real feat, but if you know a few tricks, it can be done.

Along with experience, you can use a good number of items and techniques on your hunts. First of all, a deer knows what you smell like. If they catch a whiff of what you’ve touched, where you’ve walked or where you are, well, game over! The entire herd will bolt with a warning flick of a white tail.

There are pros and cons to many techniques that hunters use during deer season to get close enough to the herds to bag a buck. One of the most common helper items used is the scent masking spray.

The pro side is that the spray will successfully hide your scent. The con side is that if too many hunters use one particular spray too often while hunting, the whitetail deer will quickly learn that the scent means danger.

Rattling antlers is another way to get close so you can get a good clean shot. If you have one or more sets of antlers, then once a year, oil them lightly with linseed oil. It will serve a two-fold purpose. The oil will keep the antlers from becoming brittle and it will also give them a solid and “real” sound.

The deer will hear you rattling the sets of antlers together and will assume it’s a couple of bucks sparring. This technique will enable you to get a lot closer to the herd while masking your presence.

You may get some surprised looks when you say you like to take your turkey or duck call when you’re hunting. You may even get asked if you’re deer or waterfowl hunting; however it’s a smart move. Deer are naturally soothed by the call of the turkey and ducks as the birds are absolutely silent when humans and other dangers are in the vicinity. A random turkey or duck call now and then will soothe the herd as you move in closer to take your shot for a trophy whitetail deer.

Another common mistake many hunters make is in how they proceed if they miss their shot. They move on. The herd may have been spooked by the shot and subsequently bolted from the area. However, in some instances they won’t go too far. Stay absolutely still for ten to twenty minutes and you may be able to get another chance to bag your buck.

Use these tips to get the most out of your next whitetail deer hunting outing. Whether you enjoy hunting in an open range area or you prefer a deer park, you need more than skill to hunt deer, you need technique as well. Find the ones that work best on the deer in your area and you will raise your chances of bringing home a deer instead of a story about the one that got away.



By: Mike Ramidden

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