Hunting Terminology: How to Speak to Hunters

A whitetail buck stands in a grassy field, searching for female deer during fall rut.

You’re not a hunter. At least, not yet. You may have listened to a hunting story or two if you’ve sat around a campfire at night or beside your grandfather on holidays. You may have nodded along, not knowing what every word meant. Hunting comes with its own terminology. If you’re new to it, hunting […]

5 Best Places to Fish in the Midwest

Young woman holds a fish up for a photo with a pond and trees behind her.

Grab your tackle box. Stock up on lures or bait. Let’s go fishing in the Midwest. The Midwest has many great fishing spots to cast a line and enjoy being on the water. With large lakes and rivers, the region’s landscape offers plenty of prime fishing opportunities.  We picked some of our favorite spots to […]

Furbearer Trapping: What Equipment Do You Need?

A coyote walks through the snow with its head down.

Furbearer trapping is a part of human history and many cultures. Early hunter-gatherers made pit traps, snares and deadfall traps to capture prey. Furs made clothing and shelter while the meat fed families.  If you’re ready to participate in this age-old activity, you need to know about wildlife trapping equipment. Before trapping, check the area’s […]

Grab Your Gear: Turkey Hunting Checklist

Flock of wild Wisconsin turkeys on a harvested corn field in March.

Early perennials are popping up. Buds will be blooming soon. Spring is around the corner. The upcoming change in season brings something more exciting than flowers and rain showers for the avid hunter. It brings spring turkey hunting season.  Last season may have left your hunting gear in disarray. How’s that turkey vest or pack […]

Cluck Like A Hen: All About Mouth Turkey Calls

Fanned turkeys strut in a grassy field in the winter.

A loud gobble sounds in the distance. You call lightly. You get a response, but you don’t see the tom. You keep calling him in. In a blink, the gobbler appears, and you shuffle to grab your gun. By the time you’re ready, he’s noticed you and taken off.  Don’t miss another opportunity. You’ll need […]

How Hunting Supports Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Two male turkeys strut with fanned and puffed up feathers across green grass.

Some people don’t see the purpose of hunting. They believe it is a cruel pastime or that nature will reduce overabundant wildlife populations. Hunters know that their lifestyles significantly affect wildlife. The government did not regulate hunting before the late 19th century. At the time, over-hunting was hurting species. Concerned hunters and sportsmen realized that […]

Private vs. Public Hunting Land: How Each Affects Your Hunt

Two hunters in camo stand looking over a grassy ridge on public hunting land. Mountains grace the background.

Public hunting land or private hunting land? Which is better?  Great hunts aren’t solely dependent on private land. And hunting on public land doesn’t mean you won’t see any deer or elk. Thorough planning and preparation combined with patience, skill and a dash of luck make for a rewarding hunting trip.  You can end a […]

How to Find a Hunting Lease

A herd of mule deer stand in the distance framed by mountains in the background.

The hunting season you’ve been waiting for is here. You have the gear. You have the enthusiasm. You imagine walking through the woods, sitting in the stand or setting up camp.  There’s only one problem.  You need to find a place to hunt.  Searching for hunting leases can be like searching for a needle in […]

The Best Way to Layer for Cold Weather Hunting

While cold weather hunting, a hunter snaps a photo of a white-tailed deer in a bare field.

A bitter breeze ruffles your hair and slips through your jacket. You shiver on your way to the stand as the wind chills your body.  During late-season hunts, you may face cool temperatures and sharp winds, making it imperative to choose suitable clothing. For cool weather, layering is the key. You want to select the […]

Glassing for Elk: How to Glass on Your Elk Hunting Trip

Long-distance view of elk crossing a Colorado ridge.

Spotting an animal is often the hardest part of elk hunting. Elk are experts at blending into their surroundings. Brush and shadowy timber make for excellent cover. Glassing helps you find animals not visible to the naked eye.  Spot and stalk elk hunting relies on a good pair of binoculars to help you find an […]