Chasing Giants with Don Higgins

Latest Episodes:

Episode #275 - Mid-Summer Food Plot Update - Truth About Fire Blight and Apple Trees Jun 08, 2025

Show notes

In Episode 276 of Chasing Giants, Don Higgins and Terry Peer unpack a powerful mix of practical land management tips, personal experiences, and faith-based insights. From dealing with devastating fire blight in wildlife orchards to last-minute soybean planting strategies, this episode is packed with essential advice for serious deer hunters and land managers. Learn how to protect your orchard investment, when and how to plant soybeans for maximum yield, and why human intrusion may be the #1 thing ruining your hunting property. Plus, Don and Terry share listener questions, faith-driven perspectives, and behind-the-scenes stories from their recent Ohio seminar. 🦌 Key Topics: • Managing Fire Blight & Choosing the Right Trees • Late-Season Soybean Planting Strategies • Doe Management & Buck Recruitment • Trail Camera Timing Tips • Listener Q&A & Positive Community Feedback • Faith in the Outdoors: Real Talk About Purpose 👍 Like, Comment, and Subscribe for weekly insights from two of the most trusted voices in whitetail hunting and habitat management! #HuntingPodcast #ChasingGiants #DeerHunting #WildlifeOrchard #FoodPlots #FireBlight #DonHiggins #TerryPeer #FaithAndHunting #HabitatManagementOur sponsors for Chasing Giants TV include: - Asio Camo Gear - www.asiogear.com - Midwest Land Group - www.midwestlandgroup.com - Mike's Mighty Micros - www.mikesmightymicros.com - Victory Auto Group - www.victorykc.com - 360 Hunting Blinds - www.360huntingblinds.com - Real World Wildlife Products - www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com - Mathews Archery - www.mathewsinc.com - Gingerich Tree Farms - www.gingerichtreefarm.com - Brenton USA - www.brentonusa.com - Vortex Optics - www.vortexoptics.com Any reproduction of this content without the written permission of Chasing Giants TV LLC is strictly prohibited.

Episode 275 - Dead Fruit Trees and Top Properties of 2025 Jun 01, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Don Higgins and Terry Peer tackle the realities of spring planting—from replanting food plots to common herbicide mistakes. They dive deep into orchard care, discussing how to prevent deer damage and why disease-resistant trees are a must. The duo also reflects on their top properties of the year, highlighting how isolation, access, and even urban surroundings can create unique hunting opportunities. Learn how detailed property management, soil care, and client education are the keys to long-term success in wildlife and land management. Whether you're planting your first food plot or managing a multi-acre hunting property, this episode delivers honest consulting insights, practical strategies, and proven hunting systems that work. 🔑 Topics Covered: Food plot planting mistakes & fixes Herbicide use tips Deer-proofing orchards Evaluating hunting property potential Consulting integrity & client relationships Wildlife management through education 🔥 Memorable Quotes: 🗣️ "I'll never make that mistake again." 🗣️ "You could kill an absolute giant." 🗣️ "My integrity is not for sale." 👇 Drop your questions in the comments for next week’s Q&A! #Hunting #FoodPlots #DeerManagement #LandManagement #WildlifeManagement #OrchardCare #SpringPlanting #PropertyConsulting #DonHiggins #TerryPeer #ChasingGiants

#274 - Soil Health: The Foundation of Successful Food Plotting May 25, 2025

Show notes

🎙 Chasing Giants Podcast | Episode Recap In this episode, hosts Terry Peer and Don dive into a variety of topics surrounding hunting, agriculture, and wildlife management — kicking things off by saying, "Honoring those who served is a priority." They explore how cold weather impacts both plant and antler growth, emphasizing that "patience is key when planting perennial grasses." The conversation also touches on fawn survival: "Fawns are resilient but face dangers from mowing," and "Mothers separate fawns to ensure survival." They issue a strong reminder: "Waiting is not going to prevent you from hitting fawns." 🌱 Topics include: Soil health as the foundation: "Soil health is foundational for plant and herd health." Natural amendments: "Humic acid boosts soil organic matter" and "Biochar retains nutrients and moisture." Productivity strategies: "Combining soil amendments enhances productivity" Sustainable goals: "I want to get totally away from synthetic fertilizers." Encouragement to dig deeper: "Just do a search and you'll learn a whole lot more." 📢 Plus, don't miss some exciting announcements and upcoming events — "Join us for exciting announcements!" From deer nutrition and hunting on small properties to planting in flood-prone areas, this episode is packed with expert insights and practical advice. 🔔 Subscribe for more discussions on land stewardship, conservation, and ethical hunting. #ChasingGiants #DeerHunting #SoilHealth #OrganicFarming #WildlifeManagement #Conservation Our sponsors for Chasing Giants TV include: - Asio Camo Gear - www.asiogear.com - Midwest Land Group - www.midwestlandgroup.com - Mike's Mighty Micros - www.mikesmightymicros.com - Victory Auto Group - www.victorykc.com - 360 Hunting Blinds - www.360huntingblinds.com - Real World Wildlife Products - www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com - Mathews Archery - www.mathewsinc.com - Gingerich Tree Farms - www.gingerichtreefarm.com - Brenton USA - www.brentonusa.com - Vortex Optics - www.vortexoptics.com Any reproduction of this content without the written permission of Chasing Giants TV LLC is strictly prohibited.

Episode #273 - Clover Maintenance and Spring Planting May 18, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Chasing Giants, hosts Terry Peer and Don Higgins dive into their spring strategies for food plots and deer habitat management. They cover the challenges of balancing agriculture with wildlife, including crop damage and evolving deer patterns. The conversation also tackles Illinois’ political landscape surrounding deer regulations—and why reform is needed for farmers, hunters, and conservationists alike. Additional topics include: Managing clover plots and habitat shrubs Innovations in hunting blind setups Ethical land stewardship Faith, integrity, and their role in outdoor life Industry-wide issues in modern hunting Whether you're a seasoned hunter, land manager, or conservation enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights rooted in experience and passion. Our sponsors for Chasing Giants TV include: - Asio Camo Gear - www.asiogear.com - Midwest Land Group - www.midwestlandgroup.com - Victory Auto Group - www.victorykc.com - 360 Hunting Blinds - www.360huntingblinds.com - Real World Wildlife Products - www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com - Mathews Archery - www.mathewsinc.com - Gingerich Tree Farms - www.gingerichtreefarm.com - Brenton USA - www.brentonusa.com - Vortex Optics - www.vortexoptics.com Any reproduction of this content without the written permission of Chasing Giants TV LLC is strictly prohibited.

Episode #272 - Farming for Nutrients - Better Food Plots May 11, 2025

Show notes

Takeaways

Nutrient farming is essential for wildlife and human health.

Soil health directly impacts plant health and nutrient availability.

Mike's Mighty Microbes is based on real scientific research.

Healthy plants are more resistant to disease and pests.

The balance of micronutrients is crucial for optimal growth.

Historical studies have shown the link between soil nutrients and animal health.

Living soil is vital for sustainable agriculture.

Cover crops and no-till practices enhance soil health.

Personal health is connected to the health of the food we grow.

Sustainability in farming can lead to better ecosystems. The Buckmasters Classic was a memorable event for Don.

Winning the event was a highlight for Don's team.

Interacting with hunting celebrities was a dream come true for Don.

Mike's Mighty Micro's products are beneficial for soil health.

Biochar acts as a sponge, retaining nutrients in the soil.

Nutrient-dense food leads to better flavor and health benefits.

The application of products can enhance flower growth and bee activity.

Timing and method of application are crucial for food plots.

Family involvement in business brings joy and fulfillment.

Success in business is about helping good people thrive.

Episode #271 - Cool Wet Spring Concerns for Antler Growth and Nutrition May 04, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Chasing Giants podcast, hosts Terry Peer and Don discuss the effects of unusual weather patterns on agriculture, particularly focusing on the cold and wet spring. They share insights on planting dates, crop management, and innovations in farming practices, including cover crops and food plots. The conversation also touches on the consulting season, sharing experiences and future plans for improving land management and deer nutrition. In this conversation, Don and Terry explore the intricate relationships between genetics, nutrition, and age in deer management, emphasizing the importance of human intrusion management, especially on smaller properties. They discuss strategies for maximizing hunting success while maintaining healthy deer populations and the role of diversity in bedding cover, particularly the use of switchgrass versus timber. You can purchase Chasing Giants and Lester's Feet merchandise at: https://morancreekoutdoors.com Our sponsors for Chasing Giants TV include: - Asio Camo Gear - www.asiogear.com - Midwest Land Group - www.midwestlandgroup.com - Victory Auto Group - www.victorykc.com - 360 Hunting Blinds - www.360huntingblinds.com - Real World Wildlife Products - www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com - Mathews Archery - www.mathewsinc.com - Gingerich Tree Farms - www.gingerichtreefarm.com - Brenton USA - www.brentonusa.com - Vortex Optics - www.vortexoptics.com Any reproduction of this content without the written permission of Chasing Giants TV LLC is strictly prohibited.

Episode #270 - Deer Nutrition with Dr. Aaron Gaines Apr 27, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Chasing Giants podcast, hosts Don Higgins and Terry Peer welcome Dr. Aaron Gaines, an animal nutrition expert, particularly concerning deer and livestock. The conversation covers Aaron's background, his work on Expect Healthy Deer Technology, and the importance of nutrition in deer health, particularly during critical life stages. They also discuss habitat management, the role of minerals in deer diets, and the complexities of managing Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) through nutrition and genetics. In this conversation, Aaron Gaines and Don Higgins discuss various aspects of deer management, including the importance of doe management for improving deer herd quality, the challenges posed by Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), and the impact of weather on deer health. They also share personal hunting experiences, emphasizing the significance of family priorities in hunting and the integrity of relationships within the hunting community. You can purchase Chasing Giants and Lester's Feet merchandise at: https://morancreekoutdoors.com Our sponsors for Chasing Giants TV include: - Asio Camo Gear - www.asiogear.com - Midwest Land Group - www.midwestlandgroup.com - Victory Auto Group - www.victorykc.com - 360 Hunting Blinds - www.360huntingblinds.com - Real World Wildlife Products - www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com - Mathews Archery - www.mathewsinc.com - Gingerich Tree Farms - www.gingerichtreefarm.com - Brenton USA - www.brentonusa.com - Vortex Optics - www.vortexoptics.com Any reproduction of this content without the written permission of Chasing Giants TV LLC is strictly prohibited.

Episode #269 - Genetics, Nutrition, or Age (which is more important) Apr 20, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Chasing Giants podcast, hosts Terry and Don discuss the significance of Easter and reflect on personal loss, particularly the passing of Don's mother-in-law. They emphasize the importance of family, faith, and the impact of upbringing on future generations. The conversation then shifts to a detailed exploration of the debate surrounding genetics, nutrition, and age structure in deer management. Don argues that genetics is the most crucial factor in determining the potential size of deer, supported by personal anecdotes and examples from his experiences with captive deer. In this episode, Don Higgins and Terry Peer delve into the intricacies of deer hunting, the importance of family and faith, and the science behind deer nutrition. They reflect on personal experiences, the impact of their grandfathers, and the lessons learned throughout their hunting journeys. The conversation also covers practical advice on mineral supplements and the significance of water sources in deer management, providing listeners with valuable insights for their own hunting practices. Chasing Giants and Lester's Feet Merchandise can be purchased at: https://morancreekoutdoors.com Our Sponsors of Chasing Giants TV: Asio Camo Gear - www.asiogear.com Midwest Land Group - www.midwestlandgroup.com Victory Auto Group - www.victorykc.com 360 Hunting Blinds - www.360huntingblinds.com Real World Wildlife Products - www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com Mathews Archery - www.mathewsinc.com Gingerich Tree Farms - www.gingerichtreefarm.com Brenton USA - www.brentonusa.com Vortex Optics - www.vortexoptics.com Any use of reproduction without the written permission of Chasing Giants In this episode of the Chasing Giants podcast, hosts Terry and Don discuss the significance of Easter and reflect on personal loss, particularly the passing of Don's mother-in-law. They emphasize the importance of family, faith, and how upbringing influences future generations. The conversation then transitions to a detailed exploration of the debate surrounding genetics, nutrition, and age structure in deer management. Don contends that genetics is the most crucial factor in determining a deer's potential size, a point he supports with personal anecdotes and examples from his experiences with captive deer. Throughout the episode, Don Higgins and Terry Peer delve into the intricacies of deer hunting, the importance of family and faith, and the science behind deer nutrition. They share personal stories, discuss the impact their grandfathers had on their lives, and reflect on the lessons learned throughout their hunting journeys. Additionally, they offer practical advice on mineral supplements and highlight the significance of water sources in deer management, providing listeners with valuable insights for their own hunting practices. You can purchase Chasing Giants and Lester's Feet merchandise at: https://morancreekoutdoors.com Our sponsors for Chasing Giants TV include: - Asio Camo Gear - www.asiogear.com - Midwest Land Group - www.midwestlandgroup.com - Victory Auto Group - www.victorykc.com - 360 Hunting Blinds - www.360huntingblinds.com - Real World Wildlife Products - www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com - Mathews Archery - www.mathewsinc.com - Gingerich Tree Farms - www.gingerichtreefarm.com - Brenton USA - www.brentonusa.com - Vortex Optics - www.vortexoptics.com Any reproduction of this content without the written permission of Chasing Giants TV LLC is strictly prohibited.In this episode of the Chasing Giants podcast, hosts Terry and Don discuss the significance of Easter and reflect on personal loss, particularly the passing of Don's mother-in-law. They emphasize the importance of family, faith, and how upbringing influences future generations. The conversation then transitions to a detailed exploration of the debate surrounding genetics, nutrition, and age structure in deer management. Don contends that genetics is the most crucial factor in determining a deer's potential size, a point he supports with personal anecdotes and examples from his experiences with captive deer. Throughout the episode, Don Higgins and Terry Peer delve into the intricacies of deer hunting, the importance of family and faith, and the science behind deer nutrition. They share personal stories, discuss the impact their grandfathers had on their lives, and reflect on the lessons learned throughout their hunting journeys. Additionally, they offer practical advice on mineral supplements and highlight the significance of water sources in deer management, providing listeners with valuable insights for their own hunting practices. You can purchase Chasing Giants and Lester's Feet merchandise at: https://morancreekoutdoors.com Our sponsors for Chasing Giants TV include: - Asio Camo Gear - www.asiogear.com - Midwest Land Group - www.midwestlandgroup.com - Victory Auto Group - www.victorykc.com - 360 Hunting Blinds - www.360huntingblinds.com - Real World Wildlife Products - www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com - Mathews Archery - www.mathewsinc.com - Gingerich Tree Farms - www.gingerichtreefarm.com - Brenton USA - www.brentonusa.com - Vortex Optics - www.vortexoptics.com Any reproduction of this content without the written permission of Chasing Giants TV LLC is strictly prohibited.

Episode #268 - Thermal Drone Tells the Truth on Don's Farm Apr 13, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Chasing Giants podcast, hosts Don and Terry discuss their recent activities in habitat management, including consulting visits and the implementation of new strategies for deer management. They share personal stories about their experiences with clients and the importance of community connections. The conversation also delves into the significance of switchgrass in deer habitat, supported by thermal surveys that reveal deer activity patterns. The episode concludes with reflections on personal growth, role models, and the impact of faith in their journeys. In this episode, Don and Terry discuss various aspects of deer management, including the importance of maintaining a sanctuary for deer, using minerals for livestock, and the realities of switchgrass as a habitat. They answer listener questions about farming practices, fertilization strategies, and the challenges of targeting specific bucks. The conversation emphasizes simplicity in deer management and the benefits of regenerative agriculture for soil health. Chasing Giants and Lester's Feet Merchandise can be purchased at: https://morancreekoutdoors.com Our Sponsors of Chasing Giants TV: Asio Camo Gear - www.asiogear.com Midwest Land Group - www.midwestlandgroup.com Victory Auto Group - www.victorykc.com 360 Hunting Blinds - www.360huntingblinds.com Real World Wildlife Products - www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com Mathews Archery - www.mathewsinc.com Gingerich Tree Farms - www.gingerichtreefarm.com Brenton USA - www.brentonusa.com Vortex Optics - www.vortexoptics.com Any use of reproduction without the expressed written permission of Chasing Giants TV LLC is strictly prohibited.

Episode #267 - Spring Whitetail Habitat Projects - Is it Go Time? Apr 06, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Chasing Giants podcast, hosts Terry Peer and Don discuss a variety of topics related to deer hunting, including the unveiling of a new hunting blind, the supply and demand of Miscanthus and switchgrass, the impact of recent storms on their plans, insights from a mineral nutrition video, and the importance of supportive spouses in the hunting community. They also address listener questions about deer feeding and nutrition, emphasizing the need for balanced diets and the benefits of planting fruit trees to attract deer. In this conversation, Terry Peer and Don discuss various aspects of deer habitat management, including the best tree species for planting, strategies for setting up hunting blinds, and the implications of timber harvesting. They also address concerns about ticks and their impact on deer health, as well as the role of government subsidies in land management. The discussion touches on the importance of education and community involvement in these topics, emphasizing a desire for more localized control over land use and educational systems. Chasing Giants and Lester's Feet Merchandise can be purchased at: https://morancreekoutdoors.com Our Sponsors of Chasing Giants TV: Asio Camo Gear - www.asiogear.com Midwest Land Group - www.midwestlandgroup.com Victory Auto Group - www.victorykc.com 360 Hunting Blinds - www.360huntingblinds.com Real World Wildlife Products - www.realworldwildlifeproducts.com Mathews Archery - www.mathewsinc.com Gingerich Tree Farms - www.gingerichtreefarm.com Brenton USA - www.brentonusa.com Vortex Optics - www.vortexoptics.com Any use of reproduction without the expressed written permission of Chasing Giants TV LLC is strictly prohibited.

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