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With Trapping Season in Full Swing
By Buckmasters
With trapping season in full swing, I think it’s a good time to talk about some of the myths of trapping. I (along with many other trappers) often get criticized about this practice being “unethical”, “inhumane”, and “causing pain to the animals”, among other accusations. So, here's the truth about trapping... READ MORE
What is the Interdigital Gland in Whitetail Deer?
By Buckmasters
Whitetail deer, the graceful icons of North America's woodlands, are full of intriguing mysteries waiting to be unraveled. Among these enigmatic features is the interdigital gland, nestled between their hooves. This small but vital gland plays a crucial role in a whitetail deer's life, from communication to marking territories. In this article, we ... READ MORE
Navigating the Future of Deer Recovery: Answering The Top Questions
By Buckmasters
Navigating the Future of Deer Recovery: Answering The Top Questions
In the world of deer hunting, we're witnessing a transformative era where technology and tradition intertwine. Drone Deer Recovery is at the pinnacle of this exciting evolution, shedding new light on the recovery portion after the hunt. But naturally, we’ve gotten tons of ... READ MORE
The Kings of Mitylene
By Patrick Dunning
MONTGOMERY, Ala.
Jackie Bushman has chased deer with quite a bit of success in Canada, Mexico and close to 40 U.S. states over the last 40 years, and still believes south Alabama whitetails are in a league of its own.
Hunting leases tie up virtually every square foot of timberland in Alabama, and all 200,000-plus state-licen... READ MORE
It’s Finally Come to This
By Russell Thornberry
“When do I get to shoot a big deer?” she asked. That question was posed, as it had been every year, by my wife Sharleen. And it’s not an easy question to answer if you’re in charge of making that happen.
You see, Sharleen is a busy woman who doesn’t have time to hunt hard every day.
What’s more, she doesn&r... READ MORE
Cutting Back
By David Hart
Hunters put a lot of money into food plots. According to a 2011 report by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, we spent an estimated $702 million on food plot seed and other expenses that fell under the Plantings category. No one knows for sure how many acres hunters put into food plots each year, but it’s likely well into the hundreds of thou... READ MORE
The Corn Conundrum
By Bob Humphrey
When you mention supplemental food for deer, the first thing most folks think of is corn. Where baiting is legal it’s sold by the bushel, and sometimes the ton. If not for corn, Texas’ deer herd might be a fraction of what it is. Furthermore, regions of the country with the most and biggest deer are primarily agricultural areas where th... READ MORE
Bluegrass Bruiser
By Darron McDougal
Tennesseean Kevin Clifton III was returning from a fishing outing with his brother, Gunter, and their two friends when an oncoming truck collided with his car. They had been sightseeing along a country road when a truck rounded a bend just ahead. It was traveling in the center of the road at approximately 65 mph, towing a trailer loaded with lawn m... READ MORE
Bobwhite Quail Management
By Mark Smith, Alabama Extension
The bobwhite quail was once the most popular game bird in the south. Learn about its decline and the management practices that can increase quail populations.
Once known as the prince of game birds, the bobwhite quail was the most popular game bird in the south when most agricultural crops were grown in small patches. Quail thrived throughout Al... READ MORE
Ensuring Hunter Safety: A Guide to Properly Inspecting Your Tree Harness
By Cody Hall
Hunting is a cherished outdoor activity for many, providing a unique connection to nature and a source of sustenance. However, safety should always be a top priority for hunters. One crucial aspect of hunting safety is the proper inspection of your tree harness before heading into the woods. Neglecting this step can lead to accidents and injuries. ... READ MORE
Pre-Season Bow Prep: Eliminate Problems Before You Head To a Stand
By Cody Hall
As the leaves turn and the crisp autumn air settles in, bowhunters across the country eagerly prepare for the upcoming bowhunting season. To maximize your chances of a successful hunt, it's crucial to dedicate time to preparing your bow well before you hit the woods. This process, known as pre-season bow prep, involves meticulously inspecting and t... READ MORE
Choose the Perfect Deer Stand
By Cody Hall
Not all deer stands are created equal, and if you choose the wrong stand for your given hunting conditions, your chances of filling your tag drop dramatically. There are at least five factors to consider when selecting the perfect deer stand for your hunting needs, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next excursion.
Location, Location, ... READ MORE
Choosing the Perfect Red Dot Scope for Your Pistol
By Cody Hall
The world of firearms optics has witnessed a significant transformation in recent years, with red dot scopes becoming increasingly popular among pistol owners. These compact and efficient sights offer rapid target acquisition and improved accuracy, making them an attractive choice for both professional shooters and firearms enthusiasts. However, wi... READ MORE
Perfect Pairings: Crispy Catfish with Homemade Tartar Sauce and Irresistible Beer Batter
By Cody Hall
When it comes to satisfying your fried fish cravings, catfish offers a delightful canvas for culinary exploration. Known for its firm texture and mild flavor, catfish can be transformed into a gourmet masterpiece with the right techniques and complementary flavors. In this article, we're diving into the world of catfish cuisine, showcasing a delect... READ MORE
Bow Fishing: A Comprehensive Guide to Gear, Tips and Practice for Beginners
By Cody Hall
Welcome to this week’s edition of “Outdoor Xtras!” In this article, we’re diving into the thrilling world of bow fishing, an exhilarating activity that combines the precision of archery with the excitement of fishing.
Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a novice, bow fishing offers a unique and rewarding experience.... READ MORE
After the Hunt
By Bence Carter, Alabama Cooperative Extension System
When deer and turkey seasons end, it is an ideal time to look at wildlife and forestry management techniques that can be completed in the summer months. Land used for hunting is often ignored from April until August, or until hunters begin planting cool season food plots. The summer is an ideal time to enhance a property to benefit wildlife through... READ MORE
Deer Hunting Hacks for Locating a Big Buck
By Buckmasters
When it comes to scouting for whitetails, good places to start include obvious trails, pinch points and heavy cover, but if you find these things around food and water sources, you’re golden. Food and water sources are the keys for locating whitetails. Just like humans, deer always need food and water. The hard part is determining which ... READ MORE
Southern Pine Beetle Assistance Available for Alabama Forest Landowners
By Alabama Cooperative Extension System
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. – Southern pine beetles (SBPs) have the potential to ravage pine forests and decimate the investments of timber owners. What seems to start with one infested tree can quickly multiply into a big problem. Education about this species and new relief funding are key to protecting vulnerable natural resources.
Biolo... READ MORE
Scraping the Surface
By David Hart
Forget everything you thought you knew about scrapes.
The bare spot on the old logging road wasn’t there yesterday. A closer look revealed a healthy track in the fresh dirt and a few shiny, dull-green pellets. The low-hanging branches above the clearing had been stripped bare, and the tips of the limbs had been whittled down to frayed nubs. ... READ MORE
Patterns for Success
By Tracy Breen
If you want to be like the best, act like the best.
We all know that hunter who always seems to fill his tag. It doesn’t matter if the rut is early, late or slow, some guys always manage to fill the freezer. Many such hunters seem to take bigger than average bucks, too. I’ve had the pleasure to interview many guys and gals who fall int... READ MORE