Chasing Giants with Don Higgins

Terry Peer

Chronicling the constant pursuit of World Class Whitetails. Follow an experienced land manager, consultant, writer, and hunting industry expert throughout the year as he finds, targets, and hunts world class whitetail bucks. Hunting tips and tricks that can be used no matter your skill set, property, or goals this hunting season.

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20 episodes
Updated July 26

Episodes20

Newest first

July 26 · 1 hr 7 min
You're Planting Fall Food Plots TOO EARLY! (Most Hunters Get This Wrong)
Many hunters make the same mistake every summer—they plant their fall food plots too early. This week, Don Higgins and Terry Peer discuss what they discovered while checking food plots in southern Illinois after weeks of heavy rain and mature Johnsongrass infestations. Topics include: • When to actually plant fall food plots • How weather changes your planting strategy • Mature Johnsongrass control in soybeans • Why bigger food plots aren't always better • Business advice from Don Higgins • L
July 19 · 1 hr 12 min
The Biggest Food Plot Mistakes We're Seeing Right Now | Chasing Giants #334
Many food plotters are struggling after one of the wettest growing seasons in years. In Episode 334 of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Don Higgins and Terry Peer explain why spring food plots have struggled, when it's time to terminate a plot and start over, and how to prepare for a successful fall planting. They also discuss: Why excessive rainfall has created major weed problems Robin Higgins' latest cancer treatment update Lessons learned from the Darren Bailey episode Why herd management start
July 12 · 1 hr 14 min
Can Politics Save Illinois Deer Hunting? Darren Bailey on Illinois Deer Hunting
Illinois was once considered the greatest whitetail state in America. So what happened? This week on Chasing Giants Podcast, Don Higgins and Terry Peer sit down with Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey for an in-depth discussion about the future of deer hunting, conservation, farming, and wildlife management. Topics include: • The decline of Illinois' legendary deer herd • Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) • DNR leadership and wildlife management • Bringing hunters and farmers together
July 5 · 56 min
Summer Scouting Secrets + A Life Lesson Every Hunter Needs | Chasing Giants #332
This week on Chasing Giants... Don shares a heartfelt update on Robin's cancer treatments and explains how life's hardest moments have reshaped his priorities. Then the conversation shifts into summer scouting as Don discusses trail camera deployment, early buck observations, food plots, water sources, and what he's seeing after the recent heat wave. The guys also talk about the incredible response to the Doubting Thomas film, discuss legacy, answer listener questions, and remind everyone why
June 28 · 1 hr 4 min
Making Good Tree Stands GREAT | Don Higgins' Best Habitat Tricks + Doubting Thomas Premiere
Most hunters hang a tree stand and hope for the best. Don Higgins explains why that's not enough. In this episode of Chasing Giants, Don shares several habitat improvements that can transform an average stand location into a consistent mature buck hotspot. Learn how simple changes—including sprayed travel corridors, habitat manipulation, and stand setup—can dramatically increase your odds this fall. We also discuss: • Why July 1st is Don's favorite time to deploy trail cameras • The upcoming
June 21 · 1 hr 16 min
#330 - Can Supplemental Feeding Add 15"+ to a Buck? Don Higgins Answers
Can supplemental feeding actually add 10-15 inches to a mature buck's antlers? In this episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Don Higgins tackles one of the most controversial topics in deer management. Don explains the long-term impact of supplemental feeding, fetal programming, mineral nutrition, genetics, and why hunters often misunderstand what feed can and cannot accomplish. We also discuss: • Storm damage across Kentucky and Illinois • Soybean browse pressure and utilization cages • Rea
June 14 · 1 hr 3 min
#329 | Why Don Higgins Gets More Excited About July Than Opening Day
Episode 329 of the Chasing Giants Podcast is all about preparation for velvet season. Don Higgins and Terry Peer discuss: • Why July 1st is the most important date of the summer • When mature bucks start revealing themselves • Trail camera deployment strategy • Food plot updates and spraying schedules • Rope scrapes and Scrape Magnet tips • Managing cedar thickets for better habitat • Hairy vetch questions answered • Don's thoughts on woodsmanship, technology, and reconnecting with nature Plus
June 7 · 1 hr 22 min
The Biggest Mistake Food Plotters Make in June | Chasing Giants #328
On this episode of Chasing Giants, Don Higgins and Terry Peer discuss one of the most critical times of the year for food plot success. Topics include: • When to spray soybeans and why timing matters • Weed control strategies for Gen 2 soybeans • Nutrient-dense crops and how deer select food sources • Deer repellents and upcoming product testing • Summer food plot management questions from listeners • Habitat improvements and switchgrass discussions • Updates from the farm and current growing
June 5 · 1 hr 11 min
Why BIG BUCK Areas Often FAIL Deer Hunters | Chasing Giants 327
In this episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Don Higgins and Terry Peer discuss one of the most misunderstood topics in deer hunting: Why some of the “best” big buck neighborhoods actually become the hardest places to consistently kill mature deer. Don explains: how hunting pressure changes deer movement why mature bucks adapt how his Illinois farm transformed over decades why property layout matters more than reputation The guys also discuss: planting soybeans during a wet spring using L
May 31 · 1 hr 11 min
Why BIG BUCK Areas Often FAIL Deer Hunters | Chasing Giants 327
In this episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Don Higgins and Terry Peer discuss one of the most misunderstood topics in deer hunting: Why some of the “best” big buck neighborhoods actually become the hardest places to consistently kill mature deer. Don explains: how hunting pressure changes deer movement why mature bucks adapt how his Illinois farm transformed over decades why property layout matters more than reputation The guys also discuss: planting soybeans during a wet spring using L
May 24 · 1 hr 8 min
Why Mature Bucks Go Nocturnal | Chasing Giants Podcast 326
In this episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Don Higgins returns after spending time helping Robin recover from major surgery at Mayo Clinic. Don shares an emotional update on Robin’s condition, the road ahead with chemo treatments, and thanks the Chasing Giants family for the overwhelming prayers and support. Terry also recaps an unforgettable Manitoba black bear hunt filled with giant bears, unbelievable footage, close encounters, and stories that will eventually become two full Chasing Gia
May 17 · 1 hr 4 min
Why Most Hunters NEVER Kill Big Bucks (Bryhn Craft Tells the Truth) | Chasing Giants #325
In this special episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast, we sit down with Bryhn Craft of Midwest Land Group—a successful entrepreneur, land expert, and serious big buck hunter. This episode dives deep into: The biggest mistakes hunters make when chasing mature whitetails How habitat management transformed farms from holding 1 booner to 7 Why human intrusion ruins more properties than anything else The truth about buying hunting land (and what most people get wrong) Real-world lessons from buildi
May 10 · 1 hr 1 min
Grow Bigger Food Plots, Gardens & Fruit Trees – Mike Mitchell Breaks It Down | Chasing Giants #324
In this episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Terry Peer sits down with special guest Mike Mitchell of Mike’s Mighty Micros to break down one of the most overlooked factors in plant health—micronutrients. With Don Higgins away caring for family, this episode focuses on delivering real, practical education to help you become more successful in the field. From food plots and fruit trees to gardens and flower beds, Mike shares proven strategies that can immediately improve plant growth, resilienc
May 3 · 59 min
Prayers, Peace & Planting Strategy | Spring Food Plot Advice | Chasing Giants 323
In this episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Terry and Don kick things off with an emotional and heartfelt update on Robin’s health journey following their visit to the Mayo Clinic. Don shares the overwhelming support, prayers, and messages they’ve received—and the peace that has come with it as they prepare for surgery. This episode is a powerful reminder of faith, community, and the impact of prayer. From there, the conversation shifts into what Chasing Giants does best—real-world whitetai
April 29 · 54 min
Parenting a Prodigal (Part 2) | The Turning Point Every Parent Prays For | Chasing Assurance #45
In Episode 45 of the Chasing Assurance Podcast, Terry and Terry Peer continue their powerful series on Parenting a Prodigal—diving deeper into what happens when someone walks away from their values… and what it really takes to come back. This episode focuses on the turning point—the moment Jesus described in Luke 15 as “when he came to his senses.” What leads someone to that place? Why do some prodigals have to hit rock bottom? And what role do humility and repentance play in true life change?
April 26 · 56 min
Don Shares Personal News + The #1 Mistake Hunters Make | Chasing Giants Podcast 322
In this episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Terry and Don cover a wide range of topics—from real-life challenges to practical hunting strategies that can make or break your season. Don opens up about a deeply personal situation involving his wife Robin and the road ahead. The overwhelming support from the Chasing Giants community has been incredible, and we ask that you continue to keep their family in your prayers. On the hunting side, the guys dive into one of the most common mistakes lan
April 19 · 1 hr 10 min
Stop Freezing in the Stand: Joe Miles Breaks Down Cold Weather Mistakes | CG #321
Most hunters think cold weather gear is the problem… It’s not. In this episode, Joe Miles breaks down the biggest mistakes that cause hunters to get cold—and how to fix them. From layering incorrectly to sweating on the walk in, these are the details that separate guys who stay all day from those who climb down early. But this episode also carries a heavier message. With Don stepping away to focus on his family during a serious health situation, Joe joins Terry for a real conversation about
April 12 · 1 hr 7 min
Don Higgins Breaks Down His Favorite Properties of 2026 - Chasing Giants #320
In this episode of Chasing Giants, Don Higgins and Terry Peer break down their favorite properties from the 2026 consulting season—and what makes them capable of producing mature whitetail bucks year after year. From small acreage setups next to massive sanctuaries… to large, diverse tracts with elite access… this episode dives into the real-world strategies that separate average properties from elite ones. We also cover: Why location beats size when it comes to big bucks How sanctuaries and
April 5 · 1 hr 11 min
Why Some Hunting Properties Work Instantly… And Others Fail - Chasing Giants Podcast #319
After evaluating hundreds of hunting properties across the country, some patterns become crystal clear… In this episode of Chasing Giants, Don Higgins and Terry Peer break down: Why some habitat plans work almost instantly What separates a “no-brainer” property from a struggle Real-world consulting stories from the road The truth about CWD management and landowner pushback A surprising story about Real World soybeans producing AND holding food into spring Listener Q&A on food plots, access, an
March 29 · 48 min
INSANE Bedding Cover + 22 Bears on Camera?! | Chasing Giants #318
EXPECT BAD AUDIO DUE TO POOR INTERNET - WE ARE SORRY AND WILL BE BACK TO NORMAL NEXT WEEK. In this episode of Chasing Giants Podcast #318, Terry Peer and Don Higgins break down real-world habitat consulting insights from a northern swing through Wisconsin—and what they’re seeing might surprise you. From a property holding 22 different bears on camera to tornado-created bedding cover that’s as good as it gets, this episode dives deep into what actually makes a property produce—and where most la

Chasing Giants with Don Higgins

You're Planting Fall Food Plots TOO EARLY! (Most Hunters Get This Wrong)

The Biggest Food Plot Mistakes We're Seeing Right Now | Chasing Giants #334

Can Politics Save Illinois Deer Hunting? Darren Bailey on Illinois Deer Hunting

Summer Scouting Secrets + A Life Lesson Every Hunter Needs | Chasing Giants #332

Making Good Tree Stands GREAT | Don Higgins' Best Habitat Tricks + Doubting Thomas Premiere

#330 - Can Supplemental Feeding Add 15"+ to a Buck? Don Higgins Answers

#329 | Why Don Higgins Gets More Excited About July Than Opening Day

The Biggest Mistake Food Plotters Make in June | Chasing Giants #328

Why BIG BUCK Areas Often FAIL Deer Hunters | Chasing Giants 327

Why BIG BUCK Areas Often FAIL Deer Hunters | Chasing Giants 327

Why Mature Bucks Go Nocturnal | Chasing Giants Podcast 326

Why Most Hunters NEVER Kill Big Bucks (Bryhn Craft Tells the Truth) | Chasing Giants #325

Grow Bigger Food Plots, Gardens & Fruit Trees – Mike Mitchell Breaks It Down | Chasing Giants #324

Prayers, Peace & Planting Strategy | Spring Food Plot Advice | Chasing Giants 323

Parenting a Prodigal (Part 2) | The Turning Point Every Parent Prays For | Chasing Assurance #45

Don Shares Personal News + The #1 Mistake Hunters Make | Chasing Giants Podcast 322

Stop Freezing in the Stand: Joe Miles Breaks Down Cold Weather Mistakes | CG #321

Don Higgins Breaks Down His Favorite Properties of 2026 - Chasing Giants #320

Why Some Hunting Properties Work Instantly… And Others Fail - Chasing Giants Podcast #319

INSANE Bedding Cover + 22 Bears on Camera?! | Chasing Giants #318