Busting Two Myths about Antler Growth. The bigger the rack the bigger the bragging rights. The size of antlers on a buck is judged by how many points they have. Deciphering the antler points adds a layer of excitement when deciding whether to shoot a deer or not. This beginner’s guide aims to provide an…
Hunting with Patience in Michigan: Ever tried tracking deer with teenagers? Step into the Michigan woods with me, where every step is a lesson. Every decision builds on teaching the next generation of hunters. Walk with me through a food plot, where a successful shot leads to a tracking adventure. Travel back to a memorable…
A Beginner’s Guide to Hunting Essentials. Wondering what to bring on your first deer hunt? Worried about forgetting something important? I teach my boys that preparation is the key to having fun. The last thing you want is to be out in the field ready to gut a deer and not have the right tools….
My Advice for Good Hunting Etiquette. Are you new to deer hunting and researching Michigan’s vast options and public land in search of the perfect spot? If you’ve ever wondered about hunting etiquette on public land, you’re not alone. Finding the right place and respecting fellow hunters can be tricky. Keep reading to learn how…
A Guide to Hunter Certification for Kids. Introduction: A Weekend of Learning Have you ever wanted one of your kids to follow in your footsteps and ask how to be a hunter? Does your heart pump when you talk about hunting? Does your face smile when the other person finds it just as exciting as…
A Tough Lesson on a Michigan Deer Youth Hunt Autumn is my favorite season and each year I look forward to new hunting adventures with my sons. My wife jokes that I have two seasons: Hunting and thinking about hunting. In Michigan, the Youth Hunt takes place in September and children can participate until the…
Best Bear Lodge: Hunting Haven. From deer scouting to cozy cabins – the unexpected joy of Best Bear Lodge in Irons, Michigan. Their sign along 10-1/2 mile road changed my camping game forever. Let me take you on a journey where nature meets the heart and soul of Matt and Carrie Bearup. Writing about my…
An Introduction to Guns. Are you interested in rifles for hunting but not sure where to start? Or maybe you are just interested in what other hunters use and why. I have successfully hunted for over four decades in Michigan and Canada for whitetail deer, elk, bear and moose. My hunting rifles tell a story…
Youth Hunt Introduction and Reflections Youth hunting provides an excellent opportunity to introduce young people to the world of hunting at an early age. The journey can start with small game and progress to big game, such as whitetail deer, with the overall goal of building interest in the sport. Engaging the Youth My experience…
A How-To Guide to Field Dressing for Beginners. Beyond bullets and bows, there’s a moment every hunter faces – gutting a deer. It’s messy, it’s raw, and it’s the unspoken chapter of the hunt. Hunters typically field dress a deer by removing its internal organs, reducing weight for easier transportation and preserving the meat. For…