Advertise on podcast: How To Hunt Deer

A mid-October cold front is rolling in—but should you use a day of PTO to hunt it? Dan shares a practical way to weigh the forecast against your trail-camera data, deer patterns, property, and schedule. Drawing on years of hunting experience, Dan explains why a cold front doesn’t automatically mean deer will move in daylight or make the breeding season arrive sooner. He discusses when rain may create a better opportunity, what daylight activity can tell you, and why he often prefers saving time for late October and early November. If you’re deciding whether to hunt now or wait for a better window, this episode offers a grounded perspective on making the call for your own farm—and balancing hunting with work and family. As always, check your tree stand and safety gear before heading out. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The October Lull Is a Myth: Make Every Hunt Count Is the October lull keeping you out of the woods? Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau challenge the idea that deer stop moving in October and share how hunters can adapt as crops change, bucks begin to separate, and the rut approaches. In this episode, they discuss: How shifting food sources affect deer movementHunting bedding-to-food patterns and staging areasUsing wind, access routes, and in-season scouting to choose a setupHunting does to fill the freezer without putting too much pressure on an areaMaking the most of limited hunting time around work and family schedulesDan also shares a youth-season lesson from hunting with his son, while Jason walks through his early-October plan for a creek-bottom setup. Their advice is straightforward: pay attention to conditions, stay adaptable, and get in the woods when you can.Hunt safely: wear a safety harness when hunting off the ground, and wear blaze orange during firearm season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The season is shifting fast. Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss how relentless rain, delayed crop harvest, and changing deer movement are affecting Midwest hunting—and what hunters may need to adjust as the season unfolds. They share updates from their properties, including trail-camera intel, mock-scrape activity, standing crops, and concerns about fewer mature bucks. Dan also recounts a youth-season hunt with his son, the discovery of a giant dead buck, and the value of patience and responsible decisions in the field. In this episode: How wet conditions and standing crops can change access and deer movementUsing trail cameras to take inventory and guide hunting decisionsWhat mock scrapes and current buck activity may revealHow habitat changes and hunting pressure affect deer numbers and patternsWhy youth hunts are about more than filling a tagA candid conversation about adapting to a changing season, making the most of time outdoors, and sharing the experience of hunting with the next generation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

October deer hunting is changing fast, and the hunters who win it are the ones who know when to trust trail cameras, when to trust sign, and when to keep their feet moving. Dan and Jason break down the real early-season shifts happening right now, from buck movement and scrape activity to the exact kind of terrain, food, and access points that can turn a guess into a shot. Dan shares how reduced scouting and fewer trail cameras are forcing him back to a more instinctive, sign-driven style of hunting, while Jason adds the pressure-cooker reality of juggling kids, sports, work, and still trying to find time in the woods. Together they get honest about what most hunters are actually facing this time of year: limited time, changing food sources, and the need to make every sit count. You'll discover: Why the late-October window can be more valuable than the opening week most hunters rush intoHow to read trail camera intel for early movement, buck shifts, and changing patternsWhen to hunt doe bedding, when to stay off it, and when aggression can cost you a buckHow to use observation sets, terrain funnels, scrapes, and crop changes to narrow down where deer will beWhy the next sit after a combine, weather change, or food source shift can be the best oneDan and Jason also dig into how family life changes the way you hunt, why kids can force you to become a better woodsman, and how to keep hunting fun without chasing the perfect setup every time. If you are trying to make smarter decisions with less time, this episode gives you a practical plan for the weeks that matter most. Perfect for deer hunters who want a sharper early-season strategy, a better read on October movement, and a reminder that sometimes the best hunt is the one you actually make time for. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The advice most deer hunters get about access routes is backwards. If you want more daylight deer sightings this season, start thinking like the deer do, not like the guy walking straight to a stand. Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau break down the route-planning mistakes that cost hunters their best chances, and the simple shifts that can make a small property huntable again. If you’re juggling family schedules, limited days in the woods, or a piece of ground that only offers one way in, this conversation gets practical fast. Dan shares the moment that changed how he hunts forever: when he stopped marching directly to tree stands and started reverse-engineering his approach from the deer’s point of view. Jason adds the realities of hunting smaller parcels, big properties with only a few access options, and what happens when wind, terrain, and pressure all collide. You’ll discover: Why the best access route often starts with the destination, not the truckHow to use fence lines, waterways, terraces, and terrain breaks to stay hiddenWhy the “rule of ninety” can help you slip into a stand without blowing everything outHow thermals and water can move scent farther than most hunters realizeWhen to hunt aggressively, when to back off, and when to move your stand altogetherDan also shares a real-world example of tearing down a setup mid-hunt and relocating just 15 to 20 yards to get within range, then killing the buck that evening. Jason explains how he thinks through exits as carefully as entrances, especially when hunting staging areas and bedding areas where one bad walk-out can burn a spot for good. If you’ve ever wondered whether access routes matter more than stand locations, or how to balance wind, terrain, and limited time in the woods, this episode gives you the kind of field-tested guidance you can use right away. Essential listening for bowhunters, public-land hunters, and anyone trying to turn a good piece of ground into a better one. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

September deer hunting is changing fast, and the hunters who keep using August tactics are about to get left behind. Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau break down the second half of September, when drying beans, dropping acorns, shifting deer movement, and early crop harvests start rewriting the map right under your feet. If you need to figure out where deer are moving now - and how to stay ahead of them before the October opener - this conversation gives you the playbook. Dan and Jason get into what the landscape is telling you, why trail cameras are already revealing key clues, and how to adjust when bucks go from patternable to unpredictable. You’ll discover: Why green food sources, water edges, and fresh acorns matter more as crops dry downHow to read trail camera photos differently when a buck only shows up at nightWhen an observation sit is more valuable than a “normal” huntHow harvested fields can suddenly make deer feel exposedWhat small-property hunters should do with the early season vs. the rutWhy access, wind, and scent control matter even more as cover thins outDan also shares a real-world strategy for hunting his best spots earlier than usual this year, while Jason pushes the conversation toward practical judgment - when to pressure a property, when to let it cool off, and how to keep from burning out your best ground. They also touch on a critical mistake many hunters make: obsessing over strategy while neglecting shooting practice, effective range, and gear prep before season hits. This is essential listening if you hunt whitetails in the Midwest, manage small parcels, or want to tighten up your September-to-October strategy before the woods change again. If you want to be ready when the deer shift, this episode will help you make smarter decisions the next time you step into the timber. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

September deer hunting is all about reading the landscape before the deer read you. If your season opens now, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau break down exactly how they’d attack the first week of September - from scouting from the road to picking apart food, cover, water, and the subtle pressure points that actually reveal deer movement. The big question is simple: if opener was tomorrow, where would you start? Dan and Jason answer that with a practical, boots-on-the-ground plan for early season whitetails, whether you’re hunting private ground, public land, or a short out-of-state trip. They dig into why the first move is often glassing field edges at last light, how to use maps and OnX layers to identify bed-to-food transitions, and when it makes sense to stay aggressive with in-season scouting instead of burning a stand too early. You'll discover: How to scout a September opener without overhunting your best spots Why drought, crop production, and water sources can completely change deer behavior How acorns, mast years, and shaded bean fields can create or kill a setup Why one buck may go hard-horn fast and shift movement earlier than you expect When to hunt from the road, when to go inside-out, and when to stay out entirely   Dan also shares a real-world look at what’s happening on his properties right now - from changing crop color to early hard-horned bucks and the possibility that deer movement is already shifting. Jason adds a state-by-state perspective, comparing dry western ground to moisture-rich eastern states and showing how the same September tactics need to change based on terrain, crop conditions, and deer density. If you hunt a September opener, have limited time in the woods, or are trying to avoid blowing up a good property before the season even starts, this episode gives you a clear framework for where to look first and what sign matters most. Essential listening if you want to make your first hunt of the season your best one. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Early-season deer hunting is changing fast - and if you miss the shift, the woods can feel empty before the real action even starts. Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau break down what they’re seeing right now: a possible EHD threat, disappearing mature bucks, dropping acorns, shifting food sources, and the subtle changes in wind, thermals, and deer movement that can make or break your first sit. This episode starts with real life, not theory. Jason opens up about the chaos of family life, stress, injuries, and trying to hold everything together as a dad while still staying ready for the season. Dan jumps in with the kind of hard-earned perspective that only comes from living the same pressure and still finding a way to lead, stay accountable, and keep moving forward. You’ll discover: Why EHD rumors have both hosts paying close attention to low spots, muddy water, and deer movement How acorn drops are already reshaping early-season patterns in both big woods and ag country Why deer may disappear from bean fields as the landscape transitions into September How leaf drop changes wind behavior, thermals, and stand setup in ways most hunters underestimate What to look for if you’re scouting for a new hunter, especially on a budget and without a lot of gear Jason also shares practical, boots-on-the-ground tactics for beginners, including how to hunt from the ground with a handsaw, deadfall, and a little creativity. Dan adds a simple but powerful reminder: observation, documentation, and adaptation beat overcomplication every time. If you’re trying to get ahead of early-season deer movement, put a kid on deer, or just understand what the woods are telling you right now, this one is packed with useful, timely insight. Essential listening for whitetail hunters who want to make smart moves before the season gets hot. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The best deer hunting season prep is happening right now, and if you wait until opening week, you're already behind. Dan Johnson breaks down the late-summer decisions that can make or break your fall, from access routes and wind shifts to scouting acorns, reading tracks, and avoiding the mistakes that blow deer out of small properties. With season approaching fast, Dan shares what he's doing on his own farms to get ready, including shooting his bow, dialing in lighter arrows, checking gear, and planning around changing crop fields and new access opportunities. He also digs into why smaller properties demand more precision, how thermals and scent can betray you farther than you think, and why a smart J-hook or water-based entry can be the difference between a clean hunt and a busted setup. You'll discover: Why early-season scouting matters more than ever when deer are keyed in on acorns and browse How access routes, wind direction, and thermals work together on small and big properties Why bringing your bow on camera checks or scouting trips can create unexpected opportunities The gear and body-prep details that keep you sharp in the stand, from bow tuning to diet and caffeine How to avoid overthinking your setups and stay confident when it's time to hunt Dan also shares a practical mindset for balancing family, work, and hunting season, plus why he's aiming to make the most of every limited day in the woods without losing the fun in it. If you're trying to turn a short season into real results, this episode gives you the kind of field-tested planning that helps you hunt smarter, stay safer, and enjoy the grind. Essential listening for bowhunters, public-land hunters, and anyone trying to make the most of an early season opener. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Early season deer success starts long before opening day - and if you wait until the week before season, you are already behind. Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau get brutally honest about what actually matters right now: arrow prep, tree stand checks, food plot work, trail camera settings, and the biggest mistake hunters make when they expect results without putting in the work. They also get into something more important than gear - how to build the right mindset for hunting, parenting, competition, and life. Dan shares the lessons he is teaching his kids about earned opportunity, confidence, and preparation, while Jason opens up about balancing family, work, faith, and the pressure of getting the most out of a short window before the season kicks off.You will discover: Why "shooting one week before season" is a recipe for frustration The stair-step approach to helping new hunters build real confidence How trail camera placement and settings can make or break your battery life Why filling tags early can be more valuable than chasing only giant bucks The difference between casual interest and true preparation when it comes to deer hunting Dan also shares a major trail camera user-error mistake that burned through thousands of photos, plus the story of a giant velvet buck his son wants to hunt. Jason breaks down his own preseason checklist, from re-fletching arrows to getting stands and food plots ready, while both guys talk candidly about the mental side of passing knowledge to the next generation.If you are counting down to deer season, trying to get your kids ready, or just want a real-world conversation about what successful hunters do differently, this episode will get you focused fast.  Perfect for bowhunters, whitetail hunters, and anyone who wants to turn preseason chaos into a real plan. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The gear you trust in the woods matters more than the latest hype, and Dan Johnson lays out the exact products he actually hunts with, why they earned a permanent spot in his setup, and which upgrades are worth your money before the season opens. If you want a no-fluff breakdown from someone who beats up his equipment and still expects it to work in mud, cold, heat, and last-minute chaos, this episode gives you the shortlist. Dan explains why he stays loyal to certain brands, how he evaluates gear by durability and real-world performance, and why some products are worth paying more for while others are not.You’ll discover: Why a limb-driven Vapor Trail arrow rest earned five years of brutal field use What makes Reveal cellular trail cameras so easy to set up that they feel automatic Why Wasp broadheads stay in his quiver year after year How Day Six arrows, Bowtech bows, and Ozonics scent control fit into a serious hunting system The boots, socks, optics, and mock scrape products he trusts when the season is on the line Dan also breaks down the thinking behind his gear choices, from total arrow weight and bow setup to rangefinding optics, scent elimination laundry, and the stand and saddle systems he uses now that his hunting style has evolved. If you’ve been wondering what actually survives hard use, what’s marketing noise, and what deserves a real look before opening day, this one is packed with practical answers. Perfect for bowhunters, whitetail hunters, and anyone trying to build a dependable kit without wasting money on gear that won’t hold up. Dan keeps it blunt, specific, and grounded in what he’s actually carrying into the woods this season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sometimes, a simple walk in the woods reveals lessons more profound than any textbook — a reminder of life's fragile blessings and the relentless pursuit of what truly matters. In this powerful episode, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau share personal stories from hospital visits to family moments that reshape our perspectives on hunting, parenthood, and perseverance. Dan takes us through his recent weekend at a children's hospital, where witnessing young patients battling serious illnesses starkly shifted his view on life's hardships. That experience fuels a deeper conversation on gratitude, resilience, and recognizing the health and family blessings we often take for granted — all while planning the upcoming deer season with renewed purpose and mindfulness. Meanwhile, Jason reflects on the delicate art of parenting, managing expectations, and balancing discipline with love, reminding us that every challenge, whether in the stand or at home, teaches patience and resolve. You'll discover: How a child's emergency surgery inspired a renewed appreciation for life's blessings Tactical tips on using mock scrapes and trail cameras to improve your deer hunting strategy Parenting lessons learned through funny and heartfelt stories about lying, discipline, and honesty The importance of staying flexible amidst fluctuating permission and land access issues Practical advice for gear setup, food plotting, and scouting to maximize your hunting season Why does this matter? Because ignoring life's small blessings risks losing sight of the bigger picture — family, health, and the simplicity of being present. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the woods, this episode offers a reminder that patience, perspective, and preparation go hand in hand. The stories and insights shared will motivate you to enjoy the journey, not just the harvest. Perfect for hunters juggling family life, gear geeks looking for the latest in trail camera tech, or anyone seeking a meaningful perspective shift — tune in to reconnect with what truly matters and get inspired for the season ahead. This episode is your reminder to hunt smarter, parent better, and appreciate every moment. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Most hunters are their own worst enemy—overthinking, pressure, and unrealistic expectations can turn a fun hobby into stress. What if you could have your best season yet by simply shifting your mindset and approach? In this episode, Dan Johnson shares practical, no-nonsense strategies to make hunting more enjoyable and successful. From redefining your goals for better focus to recognizing and adjusting your mistakes, you'll discover how small mindset shifts can have a massive impact on your results. Dan breaks down how early and calm entrance times, setting realistic expectations, and finding a hunting buddy can transform your experience. Instead of chasing perfection, he emphasizes embracing the moment, having fun, and respecting the process. You'll explore: Why fun should be your top priority and how to keep hunting enjoyable regardless of outcomes Concrete tactics for setting achievable goals—like filling the freezer early or targeting specific deer behaviors The importance of acknowledging mistakes and making proactive adjustments, such as moving stands or refining scent control Why hunting early and patiently waiting for the right moment can boost success The value of camaraderie—finding a hunting buddy to keep motivation high and share the ups and downs Hunting isn't just about killing game—it's a journey of patience, learning, and connection with nature. Missing out on this perspective risks turning your passion into frustration. Perfect for hunters of all experience levels, especially those seeking to rediscover the fun and fulfillment in the sport. If you want to hunt smarter, be more relaxed, and enjoy every moment afield, this episode is your blueprint. Tune in, rethink your approach, and get ready for your best season yet. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Most hunters focus on the gear or tactics, but Jason Thibodeau and Dan Johnson reveal the overlooked mistakes that could be costing you big time in the woods. Ready to stop making rookie errors and start consistently tagging mature bucks?  This episode dives into their hardest lessons learned—like calling too much, poor stand placement, and underestimating thermals—and how these slip-ups can sabotage your success. Discover why blind calling might be your biggest mistake and learn the secret to calling deer naturally without spooking them. Jason shares insightful lessons from years of small property hunts, emphasizing patience, observation, and the critical importance of stand location that matches terrain and wind conditions.  Meanwhile, Dan unpacks the importance of mastering thermals, scent control, and having a plan for in-and-out routes that keep your chances high and deer undisturbed.You’ll also hear why comfort and safety in your gear setup are non-negotiables—and how rushing into setup or ignoring that perfect tree can ruin your hunt before it begins. Plus, get the insights on how to properly evaluate and practice your shot to avoid the all-too-common mistake of simply “blacking out” under pressure. This isn’t just about hunting more—it’s about hunting smarter, with a focus on the little details that separate the good from the great. Perfect if you’re tired of second-guessing your decisions and want proven strategies to elevate your season. Success in the woods isn’t coincidence; it’s preparation, observation, and avoiding costly mistakes.Tune in to transform your approach and finally start tagging those elusive mature bucks. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just getting started, these lessons could be the game-changer you need—don’t miss out. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Most hunters chase multiple bucks each season—but what if dedicating an entire season to just one deer could transform your understanding of deer behavior and significantly boost your odds? Jason Thibodeau reveals the unfiltered truth behind long-term buck hunting, exposing both the incredible rewards and the gritty challenges—like public pressure, shifting property dynamics, and the mental toll of waiting years for that one shot.In this episode, we break down the mental and tactical game of hunting a single high-caliber buck across multiple seasons.  Jason shares stories of iconic bucks he's chased for five, six, and even ten years—how he patterned their movements, used trail cameras to triangulate their routes, and adjusted his strategies to stay in the game. You'll discover: the pros of laser-focused pursuit—like learning real deer patterns and developing patience—and the surprising cons, such as increased pressure from other hunters and the risk of chasing shadows.We dive into specific tactics: from selecting properties based on terrain and sign, to the importance of wind, season timing, and trail camera data. Jason emphasizes how hunting one buck sharpens your woodsmanship, forces you to observe subtle details, and teaches patience in a way that general hunting can't.  You'll explore the critical importance of documenting every sighting and pattern, and how to leverage that intel to put yourself in position when the moment finally arrives.Why does it matter? Because chasing a single buck over years—and doing it smartly—can turn the chase into a rewarding journey, not just another missed opportunity.  Whether you're hunting on public or private land, this approach refines your skills, builds knowledge, and ultimately increases your odds of success at the highest level. Plus, we discuss how shifting techniques—like focusing on doe groups or using the right wind—can make all the difference.If you've ever wondered how to develop a focused, patient, and strategic approach to hunting your dream buck—this episode is packed with insights to elevate your game. Perfect for hunters aiming to step beyond the quick kill and embrace the long-term chase that makes deer hunting unforgettable. Tune in, learn, and get ready to think bigger about your next season. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.