I learned the concept of two types of plots, some for bulk nutrition and other smaller plots to attract and funnel deer for hunting opportunities. We planted a variety of No-Plow, Whitetail Clover, Alfa-Rack and Extreme. We built a shooting box which allows the kids to move because they have to move, but also shields sounds and scent. Plenty of snacks, hand and feet warmers, grunt tubes, binoculars, bleat cans, rattling antlers and hand held video games have all been a part of the hunt. My motto is, “Keep them warm, dry, fed and busy.” On the rare occasion that we don’t see deer and the kids get bored, we quit. We never force a kid to sit miserably in a stand for a sport that is supposed to be fun. Forcing them to sit is the best way to get a kid to grow up hating hunting. When it stops being fun, we stop doing it. This past Ohio youth hunt is one of our many success stories. Not only did all 5 kids get deer, the one 8 pointer was Bradley Endicott’s first deer ever and what a trophy. I heard yahoos and screams of jubilation from Brad and his dad from a ½ mile away. Thanks to Whitetail Institute and quality deer management we have seen an increase in buck numbers, rack size and hunting opportunities for our youngsters. Thanks for allowing me to share our story.
