When scouting for deer, particularly in challenging terrain, understanding the land’s topography is essential. Deer are creatures of habit, consistently using certain features for movement, bedding, and feeding. Knowing which features to look for in your hunting area can give you a significant advantage, whether you’re scouting in the field or using topographic maps and aerial photos. Here's a breakdown...

1. Northern Minnesota: The Grouse Capital Northern Minnesota is often referred to as the grouse capital of the world, and for good reason. The state has expansive public lands, and the thick aspen and alder forests provide the perfect habitat for ruffed grouse. Minnesota's dense forested regions, such as the Chippewa and Superior National Forests, offer excellent cover and ample...

Chasing turkeys around is a great way to spend some time in the woods, but depending on the season, the approach and strategy can vary significantly. The two primary seasons—fall and spring—offer different experiences due to the behavior and habits of turkeys, regulations, and hunting techniques. Here’s a breakdown of how fall turkey hunting differs from spring turkey hunting, and...

Woodcock hunting is a popular pursuit for upland bird hunters, known for the challenge it presents and the beauty of the areas where these birds are found. The woodcock, also known as the "timberdoodle," is a small, elusive bird with a long, slender bill that is perfectly adapted for extracting earthworms, its primary food source. Successful hunting of woodcock requires...

Ruffed grouse, known for their elusive behavior and distinctive drumming, are a popular game bird in North America. For hunters and wildlife enthusiasts, understanding the food sources of ruffed grouse is essential, not only to track them more effectively but also to contribute to their conservation. This blog post delves into the diverse diet of ruffed grouse and the habitats...

When hunting black bears, accurately judging their weight is crucial for several reasons. Whether you're assessing trophy quality, ensuring ethical hunting practices, or simply want to estimate the amount of meat you'll be packing out, knowing how to gauge a bear's weight in the field is a valuable skill. However, black bears are notoriously difficult to size up due to...