Recent Tips and Tactics
The Key To Growing Bigger Bucks
By Mark Melotik
Many deer hunters who manage their own land dream of taking a "personal-best" buck they may have had a hand in developing. A worthy goal, for sure. But as in most all things, simply working hard toward that end may not be as helpful as working smarter — especially when... READ MORE
The Moon vs. Deer
By Mark Melotik
One of the legacies left by longtime outdoor writer Jeff Murray is that he's credited with being among the first to connect deer movements to moon phases. It's a topic that has always been somewhat controversial, and yet continues to spark the interest of today's deer hunter... READ MORE
Hinge-Cutting: Even Better Than Believed?
By Mark Melotik
For many years now, hunters managing land specifically for deer hunting have known about a habitat-improving technique called hinge-cutting, but a recent study suggests the practice may be even more beneficial to the deer on your property than once thought.
Hinge-cutting ... READ MORE
Better Food Plotting Starts Now
By Mark Melotik
Some deer hunters in search of quality hunting land decide to take the plunge and purchase a plot specifically for hunting. And one of the first things they want to do upon stepping foot onto their new property is establish a food plot or two. While most food plotting begins... READ MORE
Ratchet Straps: a Deer Hunter’s Best Friend
By Mark Melotik
Safety should be every treestander’s biggest concern, and now is a good time to think about on how safely you hunted last fall and how you can improve in 2025. A good start? Always keep a ratchet strap in your pack and/or a few in your vehicle in case you need to quick... READ MORE
Hog Hunting Can Improve Your Success with Deer
By Mark Melotik
For many avid deer hunters a new year means new challenges and adventures. One I highly recommend, especially for those who hunt primarily from treestands and blinds, is making the commitment to take a buck by still-hunting. And maybe the best part is you can begin practicin... READ MORE
Try a Thumb-Trigger Release
By Mark Melotik
Were you happy with your bowhunting accuracy last fall using a standard index-finger release aid? If not, I have a suggestion: Try a thumb-trigger release. This has been my hunting release of choice for the past 15 years or so, and right after the switch from my previous fav... READ MORE