Joe Sottolano

Understanding Your Quarry The key to consistently harvesting larger deer lies in deeply understanding their behavior and adapting your techniques accordingly. Mature bucks are creatures of habit , but they are also incredibly cautious and attuned to their surroundings. Learning how they move through different terrains, what triggers their responses to pressure, and how their patterns change with the seasons can provide an edge. Early-season bucks often stick close to bedding areas and food sources, while rut-season behavior can turn predictable patterns into chaos. This is when patience and timing become paramount. Studying deer sign—like rubs, scrapes, droppings, and tracks—is one of the most reliable ways to determine where deer are moving. However, the size of a track or rub doesn’t always equate to a trophy buck. It's the consistency of the sign, coupled with intel from trail cameras and visual scouting, that confirms a mature buck’s presence. Use maps to identify pinch points,...

As modern hunters, we are more than just outdoorspeople—we are caretakers of the wild. Hunting today isn’t just about tradition or sport. It’s about making thoughtful, informed choices that support healthy ecosystems and future generations. Ethical hunting requires a balanced mindset, one that values both the thrill of the chase and the long-term well-being of wildlife. This article will guide you through the fundamentals of sustainable hunting practices, providing you with the tools and knowledge to hunt with integrity and respect for the environment. What It Means to Hunt Sustainably Sustainable hunting is the practice of harvesting wildlife in a way that ensures animal populations remain stable and ecosystems stay healthy. This approach supports biodiversity, prevents overhunting, and maintains healthy wildlife populations, ultimately benefiting the environment as a whole. It’s not about hunting less—it’s about hunting smarter. Responsible hunters consider the impact of their actio...