Joe Sottolano

  Hunting has been part of human life for thousands of years, providing food, tradition, and a connection to nature. Today, responsible hunters play an important role in protecting wildlife and preserving ecosystems. Sustainable hunting means making choices that support animal populations and their habitats while respecting the environment.  For anyone interested in hunting responsibly , understanding ethical and sustainable practices is key. This guide will walk you through how to hunt in a way that protects the land and ensures hunting remains a respected tradition for generations to come. What Does Sustainable Hunting Mean? Sustainable hunting means taking only what nature can replace. It is about striking a balance between our needs and the health of wildlife populations. This kind of hunting is not about taking as many animals as possible, but about carefully selecting game in a way that does not harm species or their habitats. Hunters who adopt sustainable practices help...

Weekends are the perfect chance for families to connect, relax, and have fun together. The best moments don’t always come from big trips or expensive outings; often, it’s the simple, everyday activities that create the most cherished memories. Here are some fresh and exciting ideas for family activities that will help you make the most of every weekend and create memories that will last a lifetime. Enjoy Nature's Beauty Together Spending time outside is a great way to bond as a family. Nature offers countless opportunities for fun and exploration. Start your weekend with a trip to a nearby park or nature reserve. You can go for a walk, have a picnic, or enjoy the scenery together. Nature gives everyone a chance to unwind and reconnect with each other away from distractions. For families who enjoy a bit of adventure, consider going on a hike or trying birdwatching. Even kids who are not fond of walking can enjoy the experience of spotting wildlife and discovering new plants. If you...

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...