January Issue | Est. 2019

Category: Hunting

Vintage watercolor illustration of post‑rut whitetail bucks bedded near evergreen thermal cover with a trail camera on a tree and a food edge in fall frost

Post-Rut Deer Behavior

After the rut bucks drop testosterone, lose condition, and tighten their movements toward reliable food, water, and sheltered bedding, often becoming more crepuscular or nocturnal. The article outlines how to read post-rut cues (reduced rubs/scrapes, concentrated sign, bachelor groups) and offers practical scouting methods—trail cameras, glassing, and inventorying resources—plus field-tested hunting tactics like stands, spot-and-stalks, and winter tracking. It also covers essential cold‑weather gear and ethical considerations for sustainable hunting and safe recovery.

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Muted watercolor of ducks and geese concentrated in a narrow open-water seam on a frozen Midwestern river at dawn, framed by frosted cattails and a low-profile layout blind

Reading Bird Behavior in Winter

Winter bird behavior funnels ducks and geese into narrow open-water seams and sheltered spots, so reading the cues lets you hunt faster and more safely. The piece covers habitat signals, distant scouting, species-specific tactics, and translating observations into practical, low-profile setups with safety reminders.

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Vintage watercolor-style scene of decoys on ice and mallards, teal and geese near open water

Waterfowl Calling Strategies for Cold Days

Cold weather changes duck and goose behavior, pushing birds toward open water and conserving energy. The article lays out tighter, more precise calling and close-range decoys, with species-specific tweaks for mallards, teal, divers, and geese. It also covers call maintenance in freezing conditions, ice-safe decoy setups, and essential safety and fieldcraft practices for Midwest ice hunts.

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Late November forest scene with a camouflaged compound bow resting near a feeding area in muted pastel style

Bowhunting the End of November

Late November bowhunting requires adapting to post-rut deer behavior, focusing on predictable feeding patterns near food sources. Hunters should dress in layered, scent-controlled gear and scout overlooked areas to find less pressured deer. Timing hunts around cold fronts can further improve success chances during this quieter part of the season.

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A captivating outdoor scene featuring a dense forest of tall pine trees, a tranquil lake reflecting the orange hues of an evening sky, and a majestic deer standing

10 Essential Tips for Your Beginner’s Guide to Deer Hunting: What You Need to Know to Succeed

Deer hunting is a popular outdoor activity that offers a chance to connect with nature and contribute to wildlife management. This beginner’s guide provides essential tips, gear recommendations, and insights for a successful hunt. It covers the basics of deer hunting, the importance of sustainable hunting, and the benefits of the outdoor experience. The guide also discusses essential gear, safety precautions, hunting strategies, and the process of field dressing and cooking venison. Overall, it aims to equip beginners with the knowledge and skills needed for a fulfilling deer hunting experience.

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