Top 10 Deer Hunting Mistakes

The best way to learn how to hunt deer, is by paying attention to other hunter's mistakes and deer success stories. While there is an endless supply of deer hunting tips online, in print and on cable TV hunting shows, I have experienced that if you learn what NOT to do first, it will really help narrow down your hunting efforts. Are you ready to take your deer hunting efforts to the next level? Then make sure that you avoid these top 10 deer hunting mistakes...

[@hammerhead6537]

For entertainment I listen to a lot of talking heads about hunting deer, but you approach hunting deer with common sense. I am now 65, started hunting when I was 14 with my Dad. He did not over think the sport, the first bit of info he gave me was that I was not hunting deer, but a giant rabbit. I was always blessed in that I had our farm to hunt plus the Hoosier National Forest which surrounded it here in Southern Indiana. However. on opening weekend of shotgun season we headed for a section of public land where the pressure was so heavy that before daylight the amount of flashlights on the ridges surrounding us looked like a lightening bug convention. But dad and I sat in a creek bottom that was thick with briars and cedars. Never saw a hunter down there, around daylight the shooting would start, and without fail, the vast majority of opening mornings we both would have a deer by 11:00. Dad died 15 years ago, but to this day on opening morning I still head for that creek bottom. Semper Fi, USMC.

[@ColonelEmpire]

Are you a Marine?

[@L8nightride1]

James Dare are you asking me?

[@isaacpattison2174]

Semper fi

[@ColonelEmpire]

@@L8nightride1 No. I was asking “Hammerhead”... Aren’t you a Corpsman?

[@hammerhead6537]

@@isaacpattison2174 God Bless the brave men and women that never came home. Semper Fi.

[@jamesprescott1577]

Never been deer hunting before and I don't have anyone to teach me. Makes me extremely grateful to live in this internet age where I can POP all of my questions into a search bar and find useful information.

[@brucesteger2699]

Hunting in my experience has a lot to do with understanding the critters and their surroundings! I never hunted from a blind but ether seeing them moving to an area or walking to an area where they gather staying in high ground if possible. I have had an advantage growing up on a farm with wooded areas near a marsh on our land! I sat on high ground again, watching them from a distance. I hunted deer with a single shot rifled barreled 12 gauge shotgun as it is lighter to carry and you only get one shot anyway! I made my shots count that I new the deer was going down.

[@chicagokicks4606]

Just get out there. U learn more by being in the environment.

[@KoShuFW]

On my 3rd season and in my 40s. Do not miss it, make some friends hire a guide (at least once). Spend time in the woods.

[@ryanfry5609]

I’m not sure where you live but if you are close to southwest Missouri I would love to take you out on my 400 acre property. It would be completely free of charge and you would only have to pay for your tags! I love to pass along hunting knowledge and experience to those looking to get into it.

[@jamesprescott1577]

Ryan Fry Moving to Central Arkansas in the beginning of November. Would love to join you for the 2021 season if you don’t mind.

[@areus2016]

My uncle and I went hunting last year. We are both novice big game hunters, and I can give you a whole list of mistakes that we made. We set up next to a small river, upwind of deer of course, and didn't see a thing. However, that entire morning, fish were feeding right in front of us. The next day we brought some poles and had one of the best fishing days ever. Take what nature gives you, because the only use your plans serve you are to get you out there.

[@beebob1279]

I’m a much better fisherman than a hunter.

[@justynesansoucy7674]

Love the positive outlook. Gotta make the best out of a situation!

[@tinyman520]

I have to say thank you. Yesterday I was hunting a little over a mile back in the VA mountains. Raining steady and I was getting wet and highly frustrated. I just texted my brother at 3pm and told him I was going to head out. Before I did I looked on your website and read some of your advice about rain and weather and hunting the breaks. It gave me a second wind and I decided to stick it out. We are in prime rut and I was in between bedding. 330 six bucks come running a doe. I shot the biggest buck I have to date. I’m not good at aging but the taxidermy said he was an older deer and he would let me know after checking his teeth. A few minutes later a 3 1/2 year old 9 pointer came down. I couldn’t resist so I took him too. I have to thank God for the opportunity and I thank you for the information you put out there for us!!

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Man I love to hear that feedback and I am so happy for you!! The grind is worth it, isn't it? Thanks for letting me know and I hope the info helps others too...

[@Lumberzach1983]

"dont hunt in the same stand all day" "have several stands and blinds" Sir i have 9 acres of land lol

[@TennesseeBass849]

You can set up at least two stands and maybe a blind on 9

[@jerrymiller6610]

@@TennesseeBass849 but if you set up those 3, your so close to your others your being counterproductive bc your spooking the deer that are between you and your second stand on your way over.

[@rockyaev8287]

I hunt public land....usually pass a billion stands trying to find a spot🤣

[@JJ-qy8xu]

I have 11 same thing, key is access to setup for different wind. It's not easy.

[@danielpirie7818]

9 stands sound about right

[@whitetailfrenzy2557]

There is a million deer hunting channels on KZbin and I have to say this channel is one of my favorites. It’s great to see a guy who can talk a bunch of knowledge and show us results.

[@lookinvter]

Great videos and we are watching you in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont! Love how you mention VT when you’re giving examples as it’s helpful to know what’s relevant to us. I’m a new hunter and am learning so much from you. Watched tons of these videos and you’re definitely the best. I will share these with my boyfriend who has been hunting his whole life. I know he will learn a bunch. Thank you so much!

[@thomasmarchinkowski2366]

Thanks Jeff for taking all the helpful information you keep put out there. I only wished I would have found your channel a little sooner. I will however start implementing as many of your suggestion as I can when appropriate. I've had a rough couple of years health wise, so I would love to be able to spend more time hunting around my land. With all the information I've gathered from your videos, I should be able to improve my hunting success around home in southern Vermont greatly. So thanks again Jeff.

[@bjmgolf3651]

Jeff, excellent advice. Appreciate all the wisdom and insight from you past 30 plus years of deer hunting!

[@matthunter1667]

Excellent advice ??? He's literally repeating everything we learned from the first hunting vids that hit the market ! He's just repeating common knowledge. I can find an old video clip from the 90's that talks about the exact same subjects time and time again. ... Have you been living under a rock ??? Only difference is this guy spends tens of thousands of dollars and highly modifies the properties he hunts... this is fantasy land hunting from a sponsored up dude who just repeats the same stuff we learned 30 years ago ! He talkes about how you should take the long , hard way o your stand to avoid your scent, then jumps on a5 thousand dollar electric bike and rides off... He always says x,y,z product to the common guy while wearing $1,500 worth of sponsored xd clothing. I cannot make this up !

[@antoniotrivelloni9905]

It's great to hear common sense, reasonable advice that works for the average Michigan hunter. So much of what is out there is for the once-in-a-lifetime fantasy hunts. Keep it up!

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Thank you very much Antonio...that really means a lot to me! Just trying to help as much as possible - most of the info out there is really poor for the average person so I have a mission to offer information that fits more appropriately for the average hunter 👍

[@mrdheckoi]

What great information shared. I really appreciate you taking the time to share your knowledge from over 30 years with us. My knowledge base has increased just from the few minutes spent with you! Take care and happy seasons!

[@ChickensAndGardening]

I've watched this video three times and each time I learned something new. Thanks for sharing your wisdom!

[@tommcdonald53]

Thanks for all the info, I have been hunting for 40 years and shot alot of deer but I love all the tips you give us and can always learn new things and techniques, best of luck to all in the deer woods, not easy in Vermont.

[@ChickensAndGardening]

Thanks great tutorial, subscribed. I'm one of those guys - I tromp loudly into the woods, leaving all sorts of scent, spooking every creature for miles. I sit in my blind for hours, and the rare deer that comes into view busts me right away and snorts to warn the others. Hunting is an art, like playing the violin - obviously it can't be learned in a day or even in a season. But it's still fun to be out there! Season starts Monday morning here and will be re-watching your video to remind me some of these great tips.

[@jesus636]

thank you for taking the time to make this video, and sharing your knowledge! I'm prepping for my season here in IL, and have finally gotten to a point in my hunting tenure that I will choose to be very picky on what I shoot. I'm starting to rely more on skill versus luck, and helpful tips like your video will continue reinforcing my approach.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Good luck Matt!! And you are very welcome. Being patient will pay off big time!!

[@dmitriyshymko422]

Thank you for taking time to share this! Awesome.

[@Xhizorsization]

I very rarely sub anyone, I watched you for 60 seconds and subscribed love your humbleness man. Thanks for sharing the info.

[@joeybennett1491]

I’m a firm believer in getting information from more than one source but on deer hunting, I keep coming back to these videos because since taking up archery, I have seen a direct correlation between the information put out by Jeff and what I see in the field. I find that I’m probably still sitting in a stand more than I should and need to work on my discipline in that regard. So much great information here! 🏹

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Thanks a lot Joey and hey, a lot of us have to get out when we can 😊 Have a great hunt!!

[@user-co8hc6qv7b]

During the rut get in the stand all day long in a mountain saddle. This is BS

[@macshatchetman13]

Thanks for this informative video. As a new hunter, I've been trying to absorb knowledge as much as possible and this was laid out in a very user friendly and reasoned fashion.

[@mattnieschwitz4727]

This is a really good list. I started hunting when I was a kid and then as an adult I went into military and then college so I just got back into it 3 years ago. I'm 30 now and one thing I've noticed that I've learned over that past couple seasons is to not overthink it. I shower with baking soda before my hunt as well as wash my clothes with baking soda and then head out to the field. Spray some dead downwind and set my stand up according to wind. That's about it and I've seen a LOT of deer.

[@paulmoss7940]

I've been hunting whitetails for over 45 years. You make a lot of great points. One of my pet peeves is shiny guns, equipment and things like watch faces. I hunt in NC. In eastern NC. You can get away with a lot more (flat land,black soil??) than in the middle or western part. Thanks for your very informative videos.

[@noahalvarenga1]

Thank you, sir! This is my first year hunting and information like this will hopefully improve my hunting ability as time goes by. Keep up this stuff!

[@CreekWalkerOutdoors]

Did you get a deer?

[@rickityrandy4156]

We’d love to know when you get a deer

[@tombeckett4340]

I’ve never had any problems hunting deer but I don’t focus on bucks . I prefer does the meat is better eating. Especially while hunting moose cows are better eating. I’m 80 now and been hunting since I was a very young kid. Great job guys. 👍🇨🇦

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

That's awesome Tom...moose is so good! Hoping for some moose stew in Canada next week 😊

[@damlynch9295]

Yep and spikes, my girl asked one day why I shot a little buck I said wait till grandma cooks it and you will know happy hunting ol man

[@ryanreynolds3630]

I'm new to your channel, I've been hunting for quite a few years now and I have to say I genuinely enjoy your content. You have good insight on things with a good attitude about it.

[@dphoutdoors397]

The amount of knowledge I get from watching you is great

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Man that's great to hear...I really appreciate it! Good luck the rest of the season!

[@donaldmdaye2482]

Whitetail Habitat Solutions mom huikn nmh

[@ohsweatbret]

Thank you so much for these videos. I’m planning on taking up bow hunting this next year and eventually rifle/shotgun. You’ve provided me with a wealth of knowledge I couldn’t have possibly learned in the same amount of time from my in-laws that are hunters

[@garrettmahaffey8508]

Great insights buddy I can tell you been in it awhile your knowledge speaks volumes keep it up bud👍

[@jbuelman2025]

I'm going to modify my techniques based on this and other videos. Thanks for educating people on deer hunting!

[@landonglick7174]

I appreciate this Channel very much. It’s been very helpful... thank you!

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Thank you Landon! I love to hear that and it definitely helps me want to keep at it 👍

[@landonglick7174]

Whitetail Habitat Solutions this is my first year hunting whitetail and your channel has been very helpful. I was able to shoot my first deer a couple weeks ago.

[@gpax-6197]

I’m a new subscriber. Excellent work. Been binge watching your videos as my son and I are preparing our very first deer habitat. If you find yourself in Missouri, let me s know. This is really awesome information! 👍

[@IntrepidArcher]

Thanks for taking the time to create these videos!

[@jmikenorris]

Awesome video Jeff as always. Putting in a request for tips about hunting ONE specific buck on a target list on a small property.

[@CormierTC]

My ATV broke down a few years ago and I never felt like paying to get it fixed. Turns out this has been one of the best decisions I have made on my 175 acre hunting property. Walking or even riding a mountain bike to and from stands and using a cart to recover deer has greatly reduced the felt pressure on my property during hunting season.

[@dougvuillemot8670]

Yup. Neighbors push deer all around when they ride atv in.

[@joeybennett1491]

It’s amazing how much deer respond to ATVs, even when you don’t notice the impact immediately.

[@bigjsoutdoorsairguns9007]

My son is 11 and this will be his first year whitetail hunting. I shared this video with him. Thanks for making it & thanks for not trying to cram products down our throat the whole time! Great video!

[@keithlucas6260]

Our 11 year old grandson just got his first buck, and afterwards a doe a week ago here in Texas.

[@bigjsoutdoorsairguns9007]

@@keithlucas6260 That's awesome! My son finally knocked a small buck down yesterday. Today is the last day here in Nebraska and he has one more tag to fill. I am really tired 😫 LOL But he is ready to go get another one!

[@keithlucas6260]

@@bigjsoutdoorsairguns9007 ...took both with his AR.... He was just given a youth .243 and I had to scramble to find ammo for it....after a week of searching the internet and calling stores, I lucked out in going to Academy Sports before they opened and stood in line on the day they get ammo. Scored the 3 box limit on 5.56, grabbed 3 boxes of .243 and a box of .270, now everyone is happy.

[@bigjsoutdoorsairguns9007]

@@keithlucas6260 Dang! Close call! Haha Ammo is hard to get these days for sure. Glad to hear you got what you needed. My son is shooting and old sporterized M96 Swedish Mauser. When I finally found some ammo online a couple of months ago I bought a case of 200. Haha 😄 He would have shot every round by now target shooting if I would have let him. I told him it costs me a dollar every time you pull the trigger son!

[@keithlucas6260]

@@bigjsoutdoorsairguns9007 ...great, oddly enough I stopped last week at Walmart as I never shop there, and found ten boxes of the 300 WM @ $54/box and the only ones on the barren shelves...they're still there as I've already purchased 300 rounds months earlier.

[@mymaclife4288]

Great video and great advice! I'm mostly self taught when it comes to deer hunting. Made a lot of mistakes, but also learned alot from those mistakes. This is some very solid advice. Thank you sir! God bless!

[@MichaelGroomsVolsFan]

Liked, saved, subscribed, and rang the bell! This guy knows what he is talking about! I see so many hunting videos promoting gadgets and fads. This is real hunting advice garnered from years of experience. I always take my ATV hunting with me...and it stays on the trailer where it belongs unless I need it to extract a deer I have killed. My philosophy is to hunt all the way to the tree stand/ blind and all the way back to the truck.

[@Sam89365]

I never once considered waiting to track after a shot. Thank you for that.

[@perrywebb5833]

I haven't watched the whole video but yes, wait. If he's laying down bleeding out let him. They're not always dead. I put a poor shot on a 140" buck. I jumped him by walking in. He jumped and ran and I'm guessing he clotted.

[@ChickensAndGardening]

They taught us that in my hunter education class. Wait 45 minutes. Seems like an unbelievably long time, but I guess it makes sense. Problem is if you shoot them right at dusk, then you have to track them in the dark, and if you wait until morning the coyotes will get the carcass first. All part of the experience!

[@blazeice111]

We did cell cams for a couple years. Started using cuddelinks this year and OH MAN. They're so nice. Best cams we've had by a long shot. Worth a try.

[@topJimmyP1984]

Awesome advice, thanks. I first started deer hunting in the late 80s in Cass City/Deford area, mostly off Cemetery rd. Now closer to Kingston (also) in the thumb of MI.

[@Frankietomatoes6189]

This is great info, love your channel because I am new to hunting. I'm 51 and always wanted to get out and bow hunt and I finally can do it. Thanks again

[@jasonblood4556]

I’m surprised hunting from your living room wasn’t one of them. 🤣🤣 Thanks again Jeff! We value your time.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Ha, too funny Jason...in a way tho...not burning out stands 😁 Less is definitely more when hunting mature bucks. If you want to consistently kill them that is... You are very welcome and I appreciate your comments 👍

[@manlystyleunder50]

@@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751 are you sponsored by vortex?

[@joethompson3519]

Thank you. I’m a late life hunter. I started at 47 because I had no one to teach me as a boy and well, life happened. I’m 51 now and am transitioning into public land for the first time. Leases in Texas have become so expensive that only the wealthy can afford them. I used to spend 2k but now the average is well over 6k. Just finished scouting an area for bow season. I think what I have learned here will be ofhelp. Especially the knowledge about not pursuing shot deer too fast. I know I have lost at least one that way, and probably a hog or 2 as well. Thanks!

[@blakeatkins231]

Another great video. Your knowledge of whitetails never ceases to amaze me. I hope to someday be able to fork up the money to have you out to my property, so I can learn one on one...though I feel like my head might actually explode lol.

[@philbitler5240]

Jeff, i agree 100% about the atv use. I also agree wth you about the wind movement. I have also had guys tell me they had deer straight downwind with no detection. I call bs on that one. For years i have used milkweed pods. Pick them green, wrap them with a rubber band and let dry. On your stand just pull afew fiber and send them loose. You will find the wind is not doing what you think it is. All good advise! Thanks.

[@tylernelson8917]

i'm 18 I have always loved hunting but never got to do it growing up my family doesn't hunt with that said when i turned 18 I went out and bought myself a crossbow and a blind and started on my own. Videos like this are much appreciated in the learning process for me. I managed to get myself a doe right at the tail end of the season after many hours of sitting in one spot every night for over a month. This video should help me maybe get one sooner in the season or possibly get a doe and a buck. Keep making these videos they should help plenty more young hunters like me who never got the hands on experience growing up.

[@dr.vonslifeinvesting6485]

I didn’t start hunting till I was 41. My first season I got two deer one being an 8 point. I’ve been a bunch this year and have only seen deer twice. Shot at one with a crossbow but missed low. Learned you really need to have your yardage down (get a range finder). Keep at it! Never stop learning.

[@mainenorthwoodshunter3265]

Great video! I as a disabled hunter I am stuck with my ATV or hunting right out of my truck a lot. I am a paraplegic and can walk a little with crutches. The problem with walking is it takes a lot of effort and I get very hot walking a short distance, especially with a lot of clothing on hunting here in Maine. This is one reason I hunt a lot of places all day. I hope that if I made any noise in the morning I am hoping that it is forgotten about by evening. There are a lot of things I have to do differently, believe me I have hunted since I was about 10 and I was not a paraplegic till just after my 23 rd birthday, I have hunted just as you described for years. It is very frustrating but you can only do what you can do. I love to hunt and be in God's country. There is nothing better. I look forward to watching your videos. Thank you. God bless and Good Hunting! Maine North Woods Hunter (Shane)

[@raydon1488]

I live and hunt in maine and hell you're probably a better hunter than me. Kudos for getting out there and putting in the work.

[@mainenorthwoodshunter3265]

@@raydon1488 Thank you.

[@DJPrievo]

I absolutely couldn't agree more with these. Great list and solid job.

[@stevencooney9236]

Thanks for the great tips. I like Sitka gear a lot. It's on a par with my climbing/mountain clothing but they haven't got their fabric quiet enough. Traverse cold weather hoody is quieter than wool even brushed against any tree or rock. The ascent and mountain pant sound like corduroy. I get it they want them to last but I have patagonia climbing pants lasting 15 years in the mountains that are quieter for a synthetic. I'd pay for a much quieter pant that is less durable any day. I'd really like to see them do a still hunter/northeast tracker clothing run in open country with a 50/50 wool poly pant double seat and knee fabric with a 90% jacket no hood and a game pouch to hold a liter of water and primaloft vest. . That would be their best offering to date!

[@brandonhoward4694]

Thank you for providing useful information that can be applied on my small hunting area of around 200 acres. I get so tired of watching the big shows that are on these world class hunting resorts talking about how they couldn't have done it without their (insert sponsor here) when all they had to do was show up and pick the deer they wanted. I've been looking for a real hunter that isn't beholden to his/her sponsors in their videos. Once again THANK YOU

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Thank you...I really appreciate you watching and it means a lot that the info helps and is practical...without all of the sponsor hype! I hope the hunting industry changes...but man, it's almost like a NASCAR victory speech nowadays...

[@3vanguardofthephoenix335]

@@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751 You gave me a good chuckle thank you 😂

[@smantheafrican1406]

Thank you for this great information. I bagged my first deer (a nice size doe) last year right before the close of gun season. Today, I just ordered a crossbow, and look forward to experiencing early archery season. Hope to be out there next week, using the techniques you mentioned.

[@williamchristy3063]

GREAT VIDEO! Very informative. When following a blood trail at night, a "Black light" makes the blood really stand out.

[@bobcat9501]

If I don’t get a deer this season after watching your videos I want a refund!!

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Ha, need to talk to the boss (Diane) about that one, lol

[@jasonblood4556]

🤣🤣🤣

[@AbosoluteAltitudes]

I feel like I’m not getting anything again this year... 3rd season and no luck. I’m probably doing everything wrong

[@bobcat9501]

LOL

[@danbyington4574]

Your not the only one not getting deer in the last 3 years. I must be doing something wrong.

[@susiefitzsimmons1147]

As a tracker with a trained tracking dog I am SO HAPPY to hear you emphasize backing out after a questionable shot. It really is the biggest factor as to whether that deer will be recovered after a bad shot.

[@dhul-sabhatanalkurdi5079]

Well that's because you're.eatiing dog food never back out of a shot what you do is attempt to.be fair and spook the dear if they don't move you pop

[@vv-o-l-f9155]

Im new to this channel but I sure do love it !!!! Getting my first bow next weekend and i don’t have anywhere to hunt yet but hopefully soon !!!

[@robertmccartin2025]

Great info!!! Thanks so much! Already got me thinking about a few things!

[@randlerichardson5826]

The deers here are stirring from round 8-2 in the middle of the day. Great video as always brother. Be safe out there you and your wife. GOD BLESS you and your family Amen 🙏.

[@deadaccount-rip]

I legitimately laughed out loud at the 450 feet of elevation comment. Good vid.

[@roberti76]

Loved it Ron. Had a chuckle about the deer moving off after shooting

[@csemrau]

I am still learning and still making some of the same mistakes... uh. That's for the great info & reminder!

[@The-Capitalist]

Bow hunt opens in 2 days for me in the U.P. of Michigan. Can’t wait, got a nice 8 on cam. Keep u guys updated.

[@vincelocicero5796]

Good luck I got a nice 8 down in Macomb County on cam had a doe come in this morning hopefully he comes in tonight lol.

[@The-Capitalist]

Vince LoCicero I saw him at about 60 yards. He was out of my range.

[@The-Capitalist]

Vince LoCicero any luck for u?

[@Peachtripod]

Bru I have 30 acres and not a single buck I really hate this we went hunting this morning saw nothing but a panther

[@The-Capitalist]

Vince LoCicero Got a different 8 pointer tonight ! My first with the crossbow. I was winded yesterday and connected at 16 today. Good luck

[@gheft762]

Thanks for the videos, I have had a better season than ever, I have seen more mature bucks and recently passed a 3.5 year old 115" 8 point, that's a nice deer for my part of Arkansas, hopefully he will hang around for a couple more year, we have been implementing some of your tactics, and they have absolutely helped, thanks again 👍👍

[@mikewest712]

What part of Arkansas you in?

[@jmikenorris]

And thanks for all the educational content. Really learned alot from your channel !!

[@RyanP_SRT]

Thank you! I was unfortunately making a lot of these mistakes I have completely changed my game plan for my Wisconsin hunt. Hope it’s successful

[@soulesailor]

This is my first season and I'm learning a lot. Thank you for your content. I didn't realize it was okay to leave a non-dressed deer out over night and get it the following morning.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Well it definitely depends on how warm it is...and make sure that you leave a jacket or something nearby to spook the coyotes away. Thanks a lot tho, I hope the channel helps you out a lot!

[@roseco581]

This is a terrible idea unless its freezing or you want to ruin your meat.

[@alexmaierhoffer5559]

I shot a doe last night. She ran into the thick stuff before dying so I left her there & dressed her this morning. It was about 30 degrees overnight so the meat didn’t spoil

[@rickparshall]

Whitetail Habitat Solutions there's no leaving a dead deer in the woods around here... the coyotes will move in with a human standing right next to it... the deer population is so high because there is no way to get above them in morning.. the state land areas in my area are 1000ft of vertical in less than a mile.. I can shut off engine and lights on car and roll into the grassy part of parking area at well over an hour before grey light and listen... the deer are racing up the sheer face and landing on private land... one way in from backside but then you have to climb the other side of the 1000ft vertical and walk a mile and a half to get to the saddle the top ones travel to private land... even when you see one (usually a whole herd) it is an hour before sunrise and can't shoot them anyway... crazy, but I still keep trying to crack the code but it's tough... I missed a buck on opening day, my Remington ammo misfired ... spent the next afternoon with my Savage Axis and a box of new Winchester ammo re-sighting in my rifle.. yes unfortunately on the same state land. It might help if NY like other states actually allowed half hr BEFORE official sunrise and AFTER sunset but..... I LOVE NY❤️NOT...

[@joedeel6427]

@@rickparshall I'm Aa,,,30 year veterian of hunting ,I have harvested many white tail and mule deer ,,,if the temp is around 40 and less your meat will be good ,,trusting my word dont go by it ,,,,but after 3 girls and one son ,,and 12 grandkids,,,we have only eaten deer meat and elk and moose and carabo,,,but mostly white tail and black tail deer which we have had to find some times on the third day of a 40 degree ,,,the meat was fine ,,,,don't go past this period ,,,and remember,,,the temps have to be 40degress and under to be ok,,,,as soon as you deww find it ,,dont worry about the glan cutting just get the field dressing done ,,,then take it to a presser to take care of the rest ,,,,been doing this for years raised all the kids and grand kids on it and I'm teaching it to them ,,,so thay can have a knowledge of were we get our meat and the correct and uncorrected way of receiving what the lord gave to all of us to eat ,,,

[@brandont9916]

The number of curious deer I’ve seen during brush clearing a watch or hammering a ground blind together blows my mind. Make a little crack or ting and they run, pound nails and they come check it out...

[@420Taylor]

I can ride my ranger up on them on my land and they just look and go back to grazing. In my stand I blink and they blow and go. 😭😭

[@michaelgreene7385]

True.....

[@jessemacneil2723]

haha its true . they are curious

[@chrisjansen1943]

You can also ride a bicycle right up to a deer without it running away, I do it all the time. The second you put your feet on the ground though, they run.

[@The_Guy_Who_asked...]

@@chrisjansen1943 So, should I just do a drive-by?

[@chriscosby51]

This is amazing learned more from this channel than any other only better teacher is deer themselves thanks for another great video

[@JoeTheFarmer]

This is great stuff. A lot of it we already know...but for some reason have a hard time practicing. I like to hunt the food plots in the morning because I ALWAYS see deer. Not the ones that I want to shoot though. The other stands are a gamble where I could see a big buck; or nothing at all. Sounds like I need to hunt the transition zones and fields in the morning and the food sources in the evenings. Thanks Jeff

[@mojorizn72]

Meh! I’m guilty of most of these “don’t do’s” and I’m at seasonal success rate of about 65-70%. I am a serious hunter, (hell, that’s my last name) but I consider my success rate good enough. If all these tips help you, God bless. But, my issue is the guys who crap on everyone who doesn’t do all the crap they do. Get over yourself. I appreciate this video because these are good tips and the guy doesn’t come off as a condescending jerk know it all. Happy hunting and God Bless.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Just trying to offer info to help hunters up their game if they would like, with tips them to help them shoot them best bucks in the area nearly every season. Mature bucks are a much harder whitetail to, scout, prepare and hunt for, than does, fawns and young bucks. I have a friend who in the 2000s shot his 50th buck in a row in 50 seasons. Less than 10 were 2.5 years if age or older. Not that there is anything wrong with that at all. BUT, he did the same thing for 50 years and was happy with those results. What I try to offer in this channel is for hunters to make changes and reap the rewards of continually trying to be be the best hunter that they can be, every season. In a constant state of learning and honing their skills...if they have time to, and if they desire.

[@austentx9102]

I agree... some sounds a bit condescending. Plus every area is different, with respect to a deers wariness

[@cs-rj8ru]

Enjoyed your video. Deer hunting has been commercialized to the point it's almost absurd. Blinds, exotic camo, scents, ATVs, high tech firearms with top heavy optics...Trail cams....I don't know...Old Timers (not that long ago) hit the woods with a wool hunting coat, decent pair of boots and a 30-30 or 12ga they bought down at the local Sears/wherever.

[@micahfrye8885]

c s yeah all I use is an old m65 field jacket with a German wool commando jacket. I use much boots (I live in ky very wet) and some cheap thermals. I don't own a fourwheeler yet but I am looking for one to help get deer out. Sadly I have to hunt with my old man who can't walk around very well. We've hunted for 5 years and only got 2 bucks. Here soon I'll hunt on my own and can track them.

[@stevehawkins7826]

great show man ., I gave up hunting on my last buck in 1987 due to health/weight problems . I couldn't drag that last button buck 10 yards before I was exhausted from lack of breath . Now though I have lost 147 lbs but age now is the problem . 72 years old and I still would love to hunt again if I could get to and from a blind safely .Long distances are hard to walk . Still I get my thrill watching fellas like you do these vids

[@davekamalas2537]

You are a great teacher on whitetail Jeff you are a Legend!!!!

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Ha, Dave well at least a I do work hard and feel like I learn something every day. Hope that comes thru in the videos...thank YOU!

[@davidwilson3465]

Thanks for a great video with lots of good sense advice. Good hunting brothers.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Good hunting to you to man... really appreciate it! Hope it helps some folks out a lot ☺️

[@jayandrew87]

Disappointed to see so much negative feedback on this one Jeff! It should go without saying that there will always be variables where certain practices do or don’t apply. I take all the info you offer and tweak it to my circumstances. I’m tagged out! Shot a 9 and 10 pointer two days in a row during rut.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Ha, thanks Jay! Only averaging 2.5 thumbs down per 100...so it's all good! Lots of jealousy and bitterness this time of year ☺️ That's awesome too with your success...congrats!

[@mikesvatek7008]

yea where we hunt you couldnt shoot a 9 and a 10 in east texas, you are allowed one unbranched and a branched buck here

[@jondrayna6978]

I've been whitetail hunting successfully for 44 years, bow and gun. This is excellent advice.

[@MCScreenPrinting]

I learned so much off this video! Thanks!!

[@carminemonaco5712]

Thanks for the tip on the last video I got into a thicket with my bow and a ground blind and had a huge buck walk 2 yards in front of me I couldn’t draw or it would see me. Hey it was a great experience

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Man what an experience...that's awesome! You are very welcome, really happy for you!

[@adriannasanchez468]

I still woulda tried! Bet that was a rush though

[@chasewaybright8766]

The problem with leaving a deer overnight is coyotes I have seen many deer picked clean sometimes you will have a property filled with coyotes and then deer will be fine and sometimes you will never see a coyotes for years and your deer will be picked clean

[@joec1212]

If it's a stud I'd rather find my deer and buy a cape then bump them. I believe anyone who disagrees hasn't pushed, and lost enough big bucks.

[@richardupinya2858]

Sounds like like you have something else to hunt besides whitetail....coyote hunts at night are something else...

[@timhooami6949]

I really look forward to the experience you share in your videos.

[@animedrummerboy]

Great Info thank you. I’m a new hunter in fact just finished my first hunt I was fortunate and got my first deer I saw a lot too early in the week but later I saw none and some of these tips really brought light to what may have happened. I hope to learn a lot and become a great hunter bc this was the experience of a lifetime

[@andrewsims7182]

I set my stand up in thick brush where I know the deer are moving. I only hunt it when I know the time is right. I don't even go to it until I feel like it's a good day to kill a big buck in rifle season. When I hunt in bow season I mostly ground hunt looking for does. They are a pretty easy score even for a novice. I never track up my good stand. The other thing I do is get comfortable. I carry in a backpack. I have water bottles and cereal bars and most important a sleeping bag that stays in a box with cedar branches until I use it. When I get to my stand I put the backpack on the tree and spray it down with scent killer. I then get in the sleeping bag and it both keeps me comfortable making it easier to sit quietly, and it holds my scent inside the bag.

[@mr.skeptical3071]

I had a bad habit of tracking too soon and lost a couple. I made a gut shot this yr. So I waited ten and a half hours and went right to where I saw him "walk" to.....he was there!!

[@garrykowaluk1674]

This basic hunting 101. This is more for people that don’t have much experience . Good job

[@ezgo17]

Great info on your channel sir, thank you!

[@josepho2813]

Just like how he says "help you learn from my mistakes."

[@ColonelEmpire]

Definitely...

[@flushot6513]

I like walking makes me feel like iam hunting if ya will. Always have I could drive closer and still have a walk but I just would rather walk 😆

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Amen to that. I heard an ATV on WIs opener and sure, enough 20 minutes later deer camp running. Love the neighbors 😁 and their ATVs. Diane got to see some of the deer where she was hunting...spooked them roughly 600-700 yards and they probably didn't even realize there were deer there. Ha, I like walking too 👍

[@seabass22]

Whitetail Habitat Solutions every herd can be different. I’ve watched deer on one part of our lease not be affected by machinery and the other side, 4 miles away, they take off at the slightest sound.

[@rohlfing63]

Reef, I've had similar experiences. I hunt deer and turkey on a place adjacent to the Mississippi River (often under the river) where between the barges, railroad, and quarry noise the critters never get much peace. We just cannot get a tom to shock gobble and the deer aren't too nervous. Other places I hunt have remarkably different behavior.

[@brucesteger2699]

Living in Wisconsin I never hunted in a blind that I new our area on our farm tracking their movements before the hunt! I used a 28 in single shot 12 gauge shotgun with a rifled barrel as I made sure one shot will put it down! I always hunted from higher ground with the wind in my face getting closer sometimes on my belly in tall grass at times! This is hunting not waiting for the deer to walk by!!

[@asee9196]

I've learned alot just watching your thanks man....

[@livinginalbuquerquenm1763]

I’m buck hunting in 2 weeks- I’m definitely going to take all of the advice provided- thank you

[@theknifeman7097]

I sit on the ground in blue jeans and a regular shirt stay still and quite thats all u need

[@projecthunter2008]

Either the wind is right, or it isn't. I know guys who take whiz bangs off their stand, crack open daddy pops or light up smokes, kill deer.

[@joshjanes5641]

Last three 4-5 year old bucks I've shot, had a cig hanging out of my mouth taking a "break".. lol

[@kylehuberofs8052]

I fire up my woodburner early with some wet wood. Put on some jeans and sit on the back porch with my coffee and cigarette. The smoke covers the smell or at least that's what I tell myself. It works every year

[@projecthunter2008]

@@joshjanes5641 haha, exactly.

[@ChickensAndGardening]

@@kylehuberofs8052 an old Indian trick

[@MansterBear]

We have some trail cams that send the pics out to email/text message. They're pretty awesome.

[@naps3386]

MansterBear How much does that cost you per month for cell service for those? What cell company?

[@storminthewoods]

So much knowledge I gotta monster on cam last year gleaming right at it hopefully I put it up high enough this year made me think about putting my blind in a totally different area ty man

[@robertwood657]

I enjoyed your video. Very helpful and I learned a few things. But, I appreciate you trophy hunters too. That leaves me more small bucks and deer to have fun hunting. I like to have fun and my wife and I just want some deer chilli! YAY!

[@Crackhouts]

2:48 You're welcome!

[@rogerlane474]

Great advise, especially about giving that deer time to lay down and die. More deer are lost every year by folks going to look way too soon. Even on those shots that feel and look good you should give that animal time to die. A big, tough, old buck can go an awful long way with just one lung collapsed! If I didn't see the deer go down, I prefer to wait at least 3 hours. Happy hunting!

[@wildohiooutdoorsanddetecti5118]

Awesome video!! Full of great information!! I’m guilty of a couple of these!! But I only have two small parcels( less than 10 acres each) so I’m already limited to stand locations, but I still try!!

[@user-wi2cv3nz7m]

Just what I needed to hear. Thank you

[@tannerroland9052]

Also a Michigander, thankyou for the video. I'll definetly be watching more and hopefully smack a bruiser this season.

[@whitetailhabitatsolutions9751]

Good luck to you!! Hoping to go back for the rifle season opener...

[@BEONNEON]

Jeff I had one of my target bucks show up as I was hanging a stand last weekend. I was on the ladder and had to hug the tree as he went right by me. I don't think he spooked cause he didn't run pass me. He did stop but my back was to him so guess he looked but then just continued on his way.

[@nickl2852]

I cannot express my gratitude for this information. Thank you.

[@louiscooper6572]

Great channel alot of good stuff thanks for all you do jeff good luck in woods..

[@jwsteine]

Jeff, been doing a lot of hunting from the ground recently. Had success this past Saturday. I play the wind and use the knowledge of the area I hunt to know where the deer will come out. I've also found it gives me a better viewpoint than one of our box blinds where some of my view would be inhibited had I hunted from there. What are your thoughts on ground hunting in an area where I can cover myself with the environment around me?

[@WQuantrill]

How do you hide yourself on the ground? I am ground hunting now