The Southern Outdoorsmen Hunting Podcast

Andrew Maxwell & Jacob Myers

The Southern Outdoorsmen is a weekly deer hunting podcast for serious DIY whitetail hunters, hosted by Andrew Maxwell and Jacob Myers. Since 2017 - across 800+ episodes - we've sat down with the best hometown deer hunters in the country: the guys quietly killing mature bucks year after year on the same public land, leases, hunting clubs, and family farms as everyone else, and broken down exactly how they do it.

Every Monday we drop a new episode on the woodsmanship that actually fills tags - scouting and reading terrain, deer behavior and the rut, trail camera strategy, bowhunting, public land tactics, and habitat management - with a heavy focus on the Southeast and hard-hunted ground across the country. No fluff, no big-name filler. Just proven whitetail tactics you can put to work this fall.

Want to be a woodsman? Start here.

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21 episodes
Updated Yesterday

Episodes21

Newest first

Yesterday · 58 min
815 - Which Kind of Public Land Produces the Biggest Bucks?
Is a National Forest really the best place to find a mature public-land buck? In this Q&A episode, Andrew and Jacob debate whether National Forests or Wildlife Management Areas consistently produce the biggest deer, discuss how hunting pressure shapes age structure, and tackle several listener hot takes covering roadbed hunting, scent control, hunting shows, antler growth, and more. Topics discussed: - National Forest vs. WMA for mature bucks - What creates big-buck public land - Roadbed & right-of-way hunting debate - Hunting club vs. public land pressure - Timing vs. scent control - Can hunting shows teach new hunters? - Summer antler growth update - Rubs vs. scrapes - Mobile Hunters Expo & Circle updates Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://linkly.link/2o0Sn Grab some Southern Outdoorsmen merch here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aK Join Woodsman Wire - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aR Use code “SOUTHERN” for a discount on Whitetail Hill food plot seed & trees - https://linkly.link/2myBP Use the promo code “southern” for a discount on your OnX Hunt membership here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1tyfm Check out Latitude Outdoors for your mobile hunting gear - https://2ly.link/1zVDI Use code TSOP15 for a discount on Mossy Oak - https://linkly.link/2ERb8 Use code SOUTHERN20 for a discount on all Vortex apparel, including eyewear Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Monday · 1 hr 36 min
814 - This Old-Timer Kills Bucks on His Feet, Not From a Stand | Chuck Bailey
Chuck Bailey (Old Timer Outdoors) has killed dang near every deer on his wall while standing on his own two feet — not from a box stand, not over a corn pile. In this episode, the Louisiana woodsman breaks down the on-the-ground hunting skills most of us have forgotten, why the easy way is quietly making us worse hunters, and a few old-timer scent tricks you've probably never heard of. In this episode: - Why Chuck refuses to hunt from a box stand — and how "devolving" back to hunting on foot teaches you more about deer than any feeder ever will - The forgotten woodsmanship of reading the woods: squirrels, blue jays, dropping acorns, and the little signs that tell you where deer actually are - Slip hunting a square mile until you know it cold — Chuck's approach to learning ground and killing bucks on the move - The contrarian scent trick: using human hair from the barbershop (and mothballs) to steer deer with the wind and push them right where you want them - Team drives and working the draws — how Chuck and his crew run deer from one green head to the next - How the timber cutter-head machine and the loss of woods burning reshaped the habitat — and what it did to deer and turkey - The bent-sight bow story — three arrows, one very confused deer - Chuck's single best piece of advice: for every day you hunt the corn pile, force yourself to spend one day walking and looking instead Chuck Bailey — Old Timer Outdoors: https://www.tiktok.com/@oldtimeroutdoors Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://linkly.link/2o0Sn Grab some Southern Outdoorsmen merch here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aK Join Woodsman Wire - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aR Use code “SOUTHERN” for a discount on Whitetail Hill food plot seed & trees - https://linkly.link/2myBP Use the promo code “southern” for a discount on your OnX Hunt membership here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1tyfm Check out Latitude Outdoors for your mobile hunting gear - https://2ly.link/1zVDI Use code TSOP15 for a discount on Mossy Oak - https://linkly.link/2ERb8 Use code SOUTHERN20 for a discount on all Vortex apparel, including eyewear Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
July 30 · 58 min
813 - Can You REALLY Kill Mature Bucks from Permanent Stands? (Outside the Rut)
This week we’re diving into another round of listener-submitted Hot Takes and Q&A! We debate whether it’s really possible to consistently kill mature bucks from permanent stands outside the rut, discuss the biggest factor separating consistently successful hunters from everyone else, answer questions about saddle hunting, sanctuaries, and dream hunts, and share a few stories. In this episode: Is it virtually impossible to kill mature bucks from a permanent stand? The biggest factor behind consistent deer hunting success Saddle vs. lock-on stands after several seasons of experience Why “sanctuaries” don’t always work the way hunters think Our thoughts on summer scrapes Favorite dream hunts if money wasn’t a factor Africa, elk, bighorn sheep, and other bucket-list adventures Plus another round of listener hot takes and deer hunting questions Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://linkly.link/2o0Sn Grab some Southern Outdoorsmen merch here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aK Join Woodsman Wire - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aR Use code “SOUTHERN” for a discount on Whitetail Hill food plot seed & trees - https://linkly.link/2myBP Use the promo code “southern” for a discount on your OnX Hunt membership here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1tyfm Check out Latitude Outdoors for your mobile hunting gear - https://2ly.link/1zVDI Use code TSOP15 for a discount on Mossy Oak - https://linkly.link/2ERb8 Use code SOUTHERN20 for a discount on all Vortex apparel, including eyewear Have you tagged a deer using something you heard on the show? Submit your listener success story here - Share Your Story Here NOTE: Not all advertisements run on this show are endorsed by The Southern Outdoorsmen Podcast unless an ad is read by one of the hosts. Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
July 27 · 2 hr 6 min
812 - Everyone Hides Their Scent. He Uses His to Kill Bucks | Wes Moye
Wes Moye is back in the studio, and this time we're breaking down the "Wolf Pack" - the group hunting system he's spent 40 years refining to kill mature, pressured bucks that get bumped by all the other hunters in the woods. Instead of hiding his scent like everyone's taught, Wes weaponizes it. Here's the full breakdown, plus a whole lot of hard-earned wisdom (and a few stories that'll make you laugh). In this episode: The Wolf Pack method explained — how a group uses human scent (not leg power) to move pressured bucks toward waiting hunters Where the idea came from — the African painted wolves documentary that made it all click Why it's NOT a "man drive" — and how Wes answers the critics Reading pressured deer — why you should treat every deer like it's already been hunted Finding the exits — low spots, drainages, and cover that funnel bucks out of thick cover Deer pattern hunters — Wes's camera experiment proving it, and how he flips it to kill target bucks The Art of War in the deer woods — deception, feints, and beating a buck at his own game Hunting thick cover — why the nastiest bedding areas hold the biggest bucks Knowledge vs. wisdom — why applied experience beats anything you'll read or watch Timing the rut in Alabama and adapting your setup through every phase of the season Running Wolf Pack fundamentals solo when you don't have a group Plus camp stories, hard lessons, and why the bad days teach you the most Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://linkly.link/2o0Sn Grab some Southern Outdoorsmen merch here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aK Join Woodsman Wire - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aR Use code “SOUTHERN” for a discount on Whitetail Hill food plot seed & trees - https://linkly.link/2myBP Use the promo code “southern” for a discount on your OnX Hunt membership here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1tyfm Check out Latitude Outdoors for your mobile hunting gear - https://2ly.link/1zVDI Use code TSOP15 for a discount on Mossy Oak - https://linkly.link/2ERb8 Use code SOUTHERN20 for a discount on all Vortex apparel, including eyewear Have you tagged a deer using something you heard on the show? Submit your listener success story here - Share Your Story Here NOTE: Not all advertisements run on this show are endorsed by The Southern Outdoorsmen Podcast unless an ad is read by one of the hosts. Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
July 23 · 1 hr 14 min
811 - Why You Can Find More Deer CLOSER to Roads
GPS-collar research has revealed some surprising truths about mature bucks—and much of it flies in the face of conventional hunting wisdom. In this episode, we break down what the data actually says, how it has changed the way we hunt, and why some of the best deer in the woods may be much closer than you think. In this episode: Why mature bucks are often found surprisingly close to roads and parking areas What years of GPS collar research has taught us about deer movement The biggest misconceptions hunters have about bedding areas Why focusing on individual buck beds may not be the best strategy How terrain and habitat work together to influence deer behavior Why hunting success involves more luck than many hunters want to admit Practical ways to use deer behavior research to become a better hunter How to think differently about pressure, access, and overlooked areas Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://the-southern-outdoorsmen.circle.so/checkout/join-the-community⁠ Got a question for the show? Submit a listener Q&A form - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1uMXP Grab some Southern Outdoorsmen merch here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aK Join Woodsman Wire - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aR Use code “SOUTHERN” for a discount on Whitetail Hill food plot seed & trees - https://linkly.link/2myBP Use the promo code “southern” for a discount on your OnX Hunt membership here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1tyfm Check out Latitude Outdoors for your mobile hunting gear - https://2ly.link/1zVDI Use code TSOP15 for a discount on Mossy Oak - https://linkly.link/2ERb8 Use code SOUTHERN20 for a discount on all Vortex apparel, including eyewear Have you tagged a deer using something you heard on the show? Submit your listener success story here - Share Your Story Here NOTE: Not all advertisements run on this show are endorsed by The Southern Outdoorsmen Podcast unless an ad is read by one of the hosts. Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
July 20 · 1 hr 56 min
810 - How He Finds Bigger Bucks on Public Than Private | Chris Jones
Today, Chris Jones of South Carolina joins us to discuss what it really takes to consistently find mature whitetails on public land. From breaking common hunting myths to reading overlooked terrain features, Chris shares the mindset and woodsmanship that have helped him tag big bucks where most hunters assume the odds are stacked against them. In this episode: Why Chris believes he’s found bigger bucks on public land than he ever did on private The biggest misconceptions hunters have about public land pressure How to identify overlooked areas where mature bucks actually live Why miles walked often matter more than hours spent in a tree The scouting strategy that changed the way Chris hunts Using topography, access, and human behavior to your advantage Why “hard-to-reach” isn’t always as far as people think The importance of woodsmanship over relying solely on technology How Chris approaches postseason scouting and e-scouting together Common mistakes hunters make when searching for mature buck bedding Developing confidence to hunt your own plan instead of following the crowd Practical advice for becoming a more consistent deer hunter, regardless of where you hunt Check out Chris' YouTube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/@Simpleman667 Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://the-southern-outdoorsmen.circle.so/checkout/join-the-community⁠ Got a question for the show? Submit a listener Q&A form - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1uMXP Grab some Southern Outdoorsmen merch here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aK Join Woodsman Wire - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aR Use code “SOUTHERN” for a discount on Whitetail Hill food plot seed & trees - https://linkly.link/2myBP Use the promo code “southern” for a discount on your OnX Hunt membership here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1tyfm Check out Latitude Outdoors for your mobile hunting gear - https://2ly.link/1zVDI Use code TSOP15 for a discount on Mossy Oak - https://linkly.link/2ERb8 Use code SOUTHERN20 for a discount on all Vortex apparel, including eyewear Have you tagged a deer using something you heard on the show? Submit your listener success story here - Share Your Story Here NOTE: Not all advertisements run on this show are endorsed by The Southern Outdoorsmen Podcast unless an ad is read by one of the hosts. Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
July 16 · 58 min
809 - What Everyone Gets WRONG About Bait, Minerals & Food Plots
This week on the Thursday Q&A, we’re tackling some of the biggest debates in deer hunting—from bait, minerals, and food plots to summer scouting, scent, and mature buck behavior. We also answer a listener question about hunting rocky, mountainous terrain in Arkansas and share how we’d approach finding and killing an older buck in big-woods country. In this episode: Do minerals, Deer Cane, and attractants actually work? The biggest mistake hunters make when baiting deer Why mature bucks prioritize security over food Are food plots overrated compared to bedding cover? Common deer club management mistakes that keep older bucks from surviving Does artificial deer scent help or hurt your odds? How to properly use scent if you choose to hunt with it Summer scouting vs. in-season scouting—which is more effective? Camouflage vs. solid colors: does it really matter? How we’d hunt rocky mountainous terrain in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas Finding habitat diversity, terrain funnels, and mature bucks travel in big woods Plus upcoming events, World Deer Expo, and Mobile Hunters Expo updates. Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://the-southern-outdoorsmen.circle.so/checkout/join-the-community⁠ Got a question for the show? Submit a listener Q&A form - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1uMXP Grab some Southern Outdoorsmen merch here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aK Join Woodsman Wire - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aR Use code “SOUTHERN” for a discount on Whitetail Hill food plot seed & trees - https://linkly.link/2myBP Use the promo code “southern” for a discount on your OnX Hunt membership here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1tyfm Check out Latitude Outdoors for your mobile hunting gear - https://2ly.link/1zVDI Use code TSOP15 for a discount on Mossy Oak - https://linkly.link/2ERb8 Use code SOUTHERN20 for a discount on all Vortex apparel, including eyewear Have you tagged a deer using something you heard on the show? Submit your listener success story here - Share Your Story Here NOTE: Not all advertisements run on this show are endorsed by The Southern Outdoorsmen Podcast unless an ad is read by one of the hosts. Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
July 13 · 1 hr 36 min
808 - The Hunting Skill Money Can't Buy | Larry Weishuhn
Larry Weishuhn is back on the show, and in this conversation he dives into the timeless hunting skills that can’t be bought, downloaded, or replaced by technology. From the story of his very first buck to decades of lessons chasing mature whitetails across North America, Larry shares the woodsmanship principles that have shaped his hunting career. In this episode, we discuss: Larry’s unforgettable first buck and how it shaped his lifelong passion for whitetails How the pioneers of modern mature buck hunting changed the way hunters think Why woodsmanship is a skill that has to be earned—not purchased The psychology of confidence, lucky charms, scents, and why paying attention matters most Reading tracks, rubs, scrapes, and other overlooked sign Lessons learned from decades as a wildlife biologist Deer vocalizations, grunting, rattling, and what deer are really communicating Why mature bucks often move when other hunters aren’t in the woods Larry’s approach to all-day sits and midday deer movement How to choose high-odds stand locations beyond obvious food sources The importance of observation, perception, and trusting your instincts in the woods Practical tips for becoming a better woodsman and more complete deer hunter Whether you’re new to deer hunting or have decades of experience, this episode is packed with practical wisdom from one of the most respected voices in the whitetail world. Check out Larry's newest book, Deer Addictions. Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://the-southern-outdoorsmen.circle.so/checkout/join-the-community⁠ Got a question for the show? Submit a listener Q&A form - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1uMXP Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
July 9 · 1 hr 43 min
807 - The Deer Hunting Debates Nobody Can Agree On
This week we’re diving into your hottest deer hunting takes and answering some of the biggest questions from The Southern Outdoorsmen community. From crossbows and dog hunting to cell cameras, persimmons, and deer behavior, we tackle some of the most controversial topics we’ve discussed in a while. In this episode, we discuss: Should crossbows have their own season? Are Southern gun seasons too long? Should dog hunting be allowed on public land? Are mature bucks more wary of cell cameras than standard trail cameras? Do ozone products and scent control actually work? Are persimmon trees overrated as a hunting food source? Can terrain ever be too steep for deer? What do deer eat in hardwood bottoms besides acorns? Should public land have statewide antler restrictions? The biggest lessons we’ve learned that changed the way we hunt over the last five years. Is modern deer hunting losing the traditions that made it special? We’d love to hear your thoughts on these topics. Join the discussion in our Circle community and let us know where you agree—and where you think we’re completely wrong. Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://the-southern-outdoorsmen.circle.so/checkout/join-the-community⁠ Got a question for the show? Submit a listener Q&A form - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1uMXP Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
July 6 · 1 hr 46 min
806 - Why Your Food Plots Never Produce Mature Bucks | Caleb Huckaba
Most hunters focus on what to plant, but the bigger question is where, why, and how. In this episode, Caleb Huckaba of Whitetail Hill breaks down the biggest food plot mistakes he sees, how to design food plots that actually produce daylight mature buck encounters, and why strategy often matters more than the seed itself. Whether you’re planting a quarter-acre kill plot on a permission property or managing a large hunting tract, this episode is packed with practical habitat and hunting advice you can apply this season. In this episode, we discuss: - The biggest food plot mistakes hunters make - Why mature bucks only visit some food plots after dark - Kill plots vs. destination food plots - Where food plots should be located in relation to bedding - Food plot layout and hunting strategy - Soil testing, pH, lime, and improving poor soils - Choosing the right food plot blend for your goals - Small property and permission-land food plot strategies - How to plant successful food plots with or without equipment - Food plot diversity and seasonal attraction - Using chestnuts, persimmons, and other mast trees to improve hunting - Creating year-round food sources and property hotspots - Stand placement, access routes, and reducing hunting pressure Use code “SOUTHERN” for a discount on Whitetail Hill food plot seed & trees - https://linkly.link/2myBP Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://the-southern-outdoorsmen.circle.so/checkout/join-the-community⁠ Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
July 2 · 1 hr 6 min
805 - Can a Property Become an "Immature Buck Factory", Hunting Storm Damaged Areas | LISTENER Q&A
In this Q&A edition of the show, we cover a wide array of questions and hot takes from listeners! How should you hunt areas with tornado/storm damage? Can a property become an immature buck factory? Is flat land harder to hunt than hill country? Are more trail camera bans coming? Are sliding bow sights overkill? and a lot more! Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://the-southern-outdoorsmen.circle.so/checkout/join-the-community⁠ Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
June 29 · 2 hr 12 min
804 - The Truth About Big Bucks, Genetics & Deer Management | Lindsay Thomas Jr.
What actually creates bigger bucks? Is it genetics, nutrition, habitat, or something else entirely? In this episode, National Deer Association’s Lindsay Thomas Jr. separates decades of deer research from hunting folklore. We dive into the biggest myths surrounding deer management, aging bucks on the hoof, habitat improvement, feral hogs, and the science that has fundamentally changed how we understand whitetails. If you’re serious about becoming a better deer hunter or land manager, this episode is packed with practical, research-backed information you can apply immediately. Topics discussed: Why genetics matter far less than most hunters think The Mississippi State study that changed how we view big bucks How to accurately age bucks on the hoof Common mistakes hunters make when managing deer Why cull buck programs don’t improve genetics The truth about nutrition, habitat, and antler growth How to improve a property—even if it’s small Food plots vs. timber management: where to invest your effort How hunting pressure influences mature buck movement The four biggest factors that actually affect deer movement Why feral hogs are so damaging to deer and turkey populations Why trapping is far more effective than simply shooting hogs How to work with neighbors to improve deer quality across a landscape Lessons from over two decades of deer research and management Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://the-southern-outdoorsmen.circle.so/checkout/join-the-community⁠ Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
June 25 · 3 hr 13 min
803 - Closing the Deal with Bobby Worthington [THROWBACK]
Today we are throwing it back to one of our favorite episodes of all time with whitetail legend Bobby Worthington! In this episode, Bobby talks about perfecting archery setups to get mature bucks in bow range and make the shot count. Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://the-southern-outdoorsmen.circle.so/checkout/join-the-community⁠ Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
June 22 · 1 hr 27 min
802 - The Hidden Mountain Feature That Pulls Deer Together | Dillon Harper
Dillon Harper has spent over a decade hunting North Georgia’s mountains, breaking down the terrain features that consistently produce deer, bears, and hogs. In this conversation, he explains why hidden springheads have become the most important feature he hunts—and how they can concentrate animal movement in vast mountain terrain. In this episode: Why Dillon believes some hidden springheads are more valuable than saddles How “community springs” pull multiple game trails into a single location Using LiDAR and slope shading to identify overlooked mountain features The connection between water, terrain funnels, and rutting buck movement Summer scouting strategies for deer, bears, and hogs How bear activity helps predict productive deer hunting locations Monitoring mast crops and adjusting for changing food sources Finding isolated water sources that don’t appear on topo maps Trail camera tactics for dealing with curious black bears Bear hunting strategies, bedding habits, and locating mature boars Wild encounters with bears deep in the mountains Why learning to read topography can dramatically improve mountain hunting success Whether you hunt deer, bears, or simply enjoy learning how animals use mountain terrain, this episode is packed with practical scouting and hunting insights from one of the most dedicated mountain hunters you’ll meet. Want to learn even more? Join our Circle here - https://the-southern-outdoorsmen.circle.so/checkout/join-the-community Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
June 18 · 46 min
801 - How To Deer Hunt Areas with Food EVERYWHERE | LISTENER Q&A
In this episode we hit some listener Q&A submissions, along with some questions that our circle members have been posting over the last week! Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://the-southern-outdoorsmen.circle.so/checkout/join-the-community⁠ Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
June 15 · 2 hr 19 min
800 - He Has 60 Record Book Bucks. Here's What He Learned | Mike Rex
For nearly five decades, Mike Rex has pursued mature whitetails across Ohio and helped score some of the biggest bucks ever harvested in the state. In this conversation, he shares the lessons, mistakes, and observations that changed the way he hunts mature deer. In this episode: Why some of the biggest bucks get killed by beginner hunters The surprising places mature bucks feel safest How mature bucks learn and adapt to hunting pressure What 48 years of deer hunting taught Mike about deer behavior Why age is the biggest factor in growing giant bucks The difference between hunting big deer and hunting specific deer How trail cameras changed what we know about mature bucks Wind direction, terrain, and how bucks use both to their advantage Why many hunters unknowingly educate the deer they’re hunting The story behind Mike’s biggest bucks and the lessons they taught him Common mistakes hunters make when targeting mature whitetails Why some deer seem impossible to kill—and how they eventually get killed The role of hunter access, public land pressure, and predictable human behavior How wildlife management and hunting regulations impact deer hunting today Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://the-southern-outdoorsmen.circle.so/checkout/join-the-community⁠ Got a question for the show? Submit a listener Q&A form - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1uMXP Grab some Southern Outdoorsmen merch here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aK Join Woodsman Wire - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aR Use the promo code “southern” for a discount on your OnX Hunt membership here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1tyfm Check out Latitude Outdoors for your mobile hunting gear - https://2ly.link/1zVDI Use code TSOP15 for a discount on Mossy Oak - https://linkly.link/2ERb8 Save 10% on your next Vortex Optics order at eurooptic.com using the Promo Code “southern10” - https://2ly.link/1wyYO Use code SOUTHERN20 for a discount on all Vortex apparel, including eyewear Have you tagged a deer using something you heard on the show? Submit your listener success story here - Share Your Story Here NOTE: Not all advertisements run on this show are endorsed by The Southern Outdoorsmen Podcast unless an ad is read by one of the hosts. Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
June 11 · 1 hr 34 min
799 - Mistakes That Cost You Bucks | LISTENER Q&A and HOT TAKES!
Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://the-southern-outdoorsmen.circle.so/checkout/join-the-community⁠ Got a question for the show? Submit a listener Q&A form - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1uMXP Grab some Southern Outdoorsmen merch here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aK Join Woodsman Wire - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aR Use the promo code “southern” for a discount on your OnX Hunt membership here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1tyfm Check out Latitude Outdoors for your mobile hunting gear - https://2ly.link/1zVDI Use code TSOP15 for a discount on Mossy Oak - https://linkly.link/2ERb8 Save 10% on your next Vortex Optics order at eurooptic.com using the Promo Code “southern10” - https://2ly.link/1wyYO Use code SOUTHERN20 for a discount on all Vortex apparel, including eyewear Have you tagged a deer using something you heard on the show? Submit your listener success story here - Share Your Story Here NOTE: Not all advertisements run on this show are endorsed by The Southern Outdoorsmen Podcast unless an ad is read by one of the hosts. Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
June 8 · 1 hr 31 min
798 - The Truth About “Nocturnal” Bucks | Larry Weishuhn, Mr. Whitetail
Larry Weishuhn has spent over 50 years studying, managing, and hunting whitetail deer across North America. In this episode, Larry shares lessons learned from decades as a wildlife biologist, including why mature bucks seem to disappear, what hunters misunderstand about deer movement, and how habitat, nutrition, and age shape deer populations. In this episode: • Why hunters think mature bucks are gone when they’re still on the property • The truth about “nocturnal” bucks and midday deer movement • Larry’s experience managing whitetail populations across Texas and the Southeast • What helicopter surveys taught him about deer behavior and habitat • Surviving 13 helicopter crashes • How nutrition impacts antler growth, body size, and herd health • The role of age, genetics, and habitat in producing mature bucks • Whether hunters can actually influence deer genetics through harvest strategies • Why some bucks move miles from where they’ve spent most of the year • Common mistakes hunters make when evaluating deer herds • The biggest changes Larry has seen in whitetail hunting over the last 50+ years Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://the-southern-outdoorsmen.circle.so/checkout/join-the-community⁠ Got a question for the show? Submit a listener Q&A form - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1uMXP Get a discount on your Poncho Outdoors shirts here - https://linkly.link/2bfPZ Grab some Southern Outdoorsmen merch here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aK Join Woodsman Wire - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aR Use the promo code “southern” for a discount on your OnX Hunt membership here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1tyfm Check out Latitude Outdoors for your mobile hunting gear - https://2ly.link/1zVDI Use code TSOP15 for a discount on Mossy Oak - https://linkly.link/2ERb8 Save 10% on your next Vortex Optics order at eurooptic.com using the Promo Code “southern10” - https://2ly.link/1wyYO Use code SOUTHERN20 for a discount on all Vortex apparel, including eyewear Have you tagged a deer using something you heard on the show? Submit your listener success story here - Share Your Story Here NOTE: Not all advertisements run on this show are endorsed by The Southern Outdoorsmen Podcast unless an ad is read by one of the hosts. Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
June 4 · 1 hr 6 min
797 - How Trail Cams Can Make You a WORSE Hunter | LISTENER Q&A and HOT TAKES!
Join our Circle Community here - ⁠https://the-southern-outdoorsmen.circle.so/checkout/join-the-community⁠ Got a question for the show? Submit a listener Q&A form - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1uMXP Get a discount on your Poncho Outdoors shirts here - https://linkly.link/2bfPZ Grab some Southern Outdoorsmen merch here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aK Join Woodsman Wire - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1u4aR Use the promo code “southern” for a discount on your OnX Hunt membership here - https://l.linklyhq.com/l/1tyfm Check out Latitude Outdoors for your mobile hunting gear - https://2ly.link/1zVDI Use code TSOP15 for a discount on Mossy Oak - https://linkly.link/2ERb8 Save 10% on your next Vortex Optics order at eurooptic.com using the Promo Code “southern10” - https://2ly.link/1wyYO Use code SOUTHERN20 for a discount on all Vortex apparel, including eyewear Have you tagged a deer using something you heard on the show? Submit your listener success story here - Share Your Story Here NOTE: Not all advertisements run on this show are endorsed by The Southern Outdoorsmen Podcast unless an ad is read by one of the hosts. Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
June 1 · 1 hr 49 min
796 - The Kind of Hunter They Don’t Make Anymore | Dale Bordelon
This episode discusses legal hunting, outdoor heritage, and historical hunting practices. Always follow current game laws, seasons, limits, licensing requirements, firearm safety rules, and youth-supervision laws. We do not encourage illegal harvest or unsafe firearm handling. Dale Bordelon has spent more than 50 years hunting the Louisiana swamps the old way. In this episode, Dale shares incredible stories of giant swamp bucks, handmade dugout boats, cane duck calls, market hunting history, and the hunting lessons passed down from generations of Louisiana woodsmen. From outsmarting a 235-pound swamp buck to preserving traditions that are quickly disappearing, this conversation is packed with hard-earned wisdom, hunting history, and unforgettable stories from a lifetime in the woods. Join the Southern Outdoorsmen Circle—our private community where you can connect directly with us, join live Hunter Hangouts, and learn alongside serious hunters from across the country - https://the-southern-outdoorsmen.circle.so/checkout/join-the-community Our Sponsors: * Check out Omaha Steaks and use my code BEEF for a great deal: https://www.omahasteaks.com * Check out Outdoorsy and use my code OUTDOORSMEN for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy