Chasing Giants with Don Higgins

What would you do if somebody sent you a photo — and the exact location — of a 200-inch whitetail? On Episode 339 of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Don Higgins and Terry Peer dive back into one of the most debated subjects in hunting: the difference between what is legal and what is ethical. After last week's discussion generated more than 100 comments, Don explains why hunting ethics have to go beyond simply asking whether something is legal. That conversation leads directly back into thermal drones — including the story of a hunter who spent $10,000 on a thermal drone, used it for only a few months...

Can people tell that you have been with Jesus? Study Guide Link: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/szh5hyszp4m56rzyrft25/Study-Guide-Chasing-Assurance-61.pdf?rlkey=qlyxuknfu5pgt9a8jmbqkjkux&dl=0 In Acts 4:13, Peter and John stood before the religious leaders as ordinary, unschooled men. Yet there was something unmistakable about them. Their courage, their conviction and the way they lived caused those watching to recognize one thing: **These men had been with Jesus.** In Episode 61 of the Chasing Assurance Podcast, Terry and Dr. Terry Peer record in front of a live audience as they conclude their four-part series on worship. ...

Are drones becoming one of the biggest threats to ethical deer hunting? In Episode 338 of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Don Higgins and Terry Peer revisit the growing controversy surrounding drones and deer hunting—and Don doesn't hold back. After seeing firsthand just how quickly thermal drone technology can locate mature whitetails, Don explains why his opinion has changed and why he believes the hunting community needs to seriously consider where the ethical line should be drawn. But this episode goes much deeper than drones. Don explains why he gets so passionate—and sometimes fired up—when discussing hunting and deer manage...

What would you spend to make one of your best hunting setups even better? On Episode 337 of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Don Higgins breaks down one of the most elaborate habitat projects he's tackled on his farm—a creek crossing built specifically to influence deer movement. After a previous crossing was destroyed by flooding, Don isn't taking any chances this time. He's rebuilding it with a massive repurposed steel tank, crushed limestone, rebar and approximately eight inches of concrete. The investment? Don estimates he'll have around $3,000 in a creek crossing that isn't intended for tractors, equipment or vehicles. It's strictly fo...

As deer season gets closer, Don Higgins and Terry Peer cover some of the biggest topics facing deer hunters right now. This week they discuss: • Thermal drones and why Don installed drone detection technology on his farm. • Herbicide updates after a challenging growing season. • Why residual herbicides performed differently this year. • Johnson grass and waterhemp management. • Scrape Magnet tips and the biggest mistakes hunters are making with mock scrapes. • Summer buck dispersal and what happens before hunting season. • Improving mature persimmon trees. • Rotating fall food plots. • Kentucky's supplemental feeding regulations. • Upcoming Chasing Giants events and Lester's Feet fundraiser updates. As always, the episode...

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 • Listener submitted questions • Fruit trees, doe management, habitat design and more Whether you're planting Real World Wildlife Products, clover, cereal grains or brassicas, this episode will help you av...

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 starts with harvesting does Hunting ethics and choosing integrity over trophies Listener questions covering stand locations, minerals, trail cameras, bedding areas...

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 • Feeding hungry children through Boone Brothers • Faith, leadership, and serving others • Why conservation matters to everyone—not just hunters Whether you're an Illinois resident or simply care about the future of whitetail hun...

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 chasing giant whitetails should never come before the people who matter most. Topics include: • Robin's health update • Family vs. work • Summer trail camera strategy • Water holes an...

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 world premiere of Doubting Thomas • Grubb Implement's new Kubota tractor • Darren Bailey joining Chasing Giants • Boone Brothers and feeding hungry children through donated veniso...

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 • Real World's upcoming soybean research project • Listener letters that remind us why this community matters • Lester's Feet Foundation updates and the Texas Hunt Giveaway • Coyote control myths and predator management •...

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, Don announces the official release date for the highly anticipated Doubting Thomas film. #WhitetailDeer #DeerHunting #DonHiggins #ChasingGiants #TrailCameras #FoodPlots #habitatmanagement Podcast Sponsors Asio Gear Real World Wildlife Products Hawke Optics Nov...

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 conditions • Special feature on the new West Wind outdoor retail store Whether you're managing a small hunting property or a large farm, this episode is packed with practical i...

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 Liberty herbicide during same-day planting miscanthus and switchgrass weed control food plot myths spreading online why overcomplicated blends hurt food production listener ques...

How should Christians use their time? In Episode 50 of the Chasing Assurance Podcast, Terry and Dr. Terry Peer finish their three-part series on the challenges of time, purpose, and spiritual priorities. This episode dives into: Time wasting Anxiety and overcommitment Purpose-driven living God’s will for our lives Planning ahead as believers The danger of neglecting the right thing How to prioritize what truly matters The conversation explores how followers of Christ can stop compartmentalizing faith and instead live every part of life with eternal purpose. This episode also includes a powerful Lester’s Feet segment about helping a young boy...

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 Liberty herbicide during same-day planting miscanthus and switchgrass weed control food plot myths spreading online why overcomplicated blends hurt food production listener ques...

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 Giants TV episodes. The guys also dive into: Spring food plot challenges and excessive rain Soybean planting strategies and browse pressure The upcoming “Doubting Thom...

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 building a business and a life centered around purpose Bryhn shares powerful insight on trigger discipline, access strategy, and long-term thinking—both in the wood...

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, resilience, and overall performance. Topics covered include: When and how to spray micronutrients on clover, alfalfa, and food plots Best timi...

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 whitetail strategy. Don and Terry break down current spring food plot conditions, discuss planting timing, and explain how weather...

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? Through real-life application and biblical truth, this conversation offers hope and clarity for anyone dealing wi...

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 landowners make—putting too much pressure on their property—and how that can ruin even the be...

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 faith, perspective, and what actually matters. We ask that you keep Don, R...

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 food sources work together The importance of soil health and regenerative practices Lessons learned from extreme weather and crop performance Why diversity and lo...

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, and property design This is one of those episodes where years of experience come together into simple, actionable truth. If you're serious about growing, holdin...

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 landowners fall short. We also cover: Why food is the #1 limiting factor in northern properties A unique c...

In this week’s episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Terry and Don cover a lot of ground as spring habitat season starts taking off. Don shares updates from the road after wrapping up another stretch of consulting visits, including weather extremes, dealer stops, and picking up a new truck from Victory. Terry also talks about an upcoming bear hunt in Manitoba and gives listeners an update on the Texas hunt raffle tied to Lester’s Feet. The guys spend time breaking down the launch of the new Real World Land Management Handbook, including what’s inside, why it took so lon...

In this episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Don Higgins and Terry Peer dive deep into one of the most misunderstood habitat topics in deer hunting — Timber Stand Improvement (TSI). Many landowners hear the term TSI, but few truly understand how aggressive timber cutting can dramatically improve deer habitat. Don explains why opening the canopy is critical for creating understory, browse, and bedding cover for mature bucks. The conversation also covers the differences between forestry practices, turkey habitat management, and deer-focused habitat management. The guys also discuss: • Why most landowners don’t cut their timber aggressively enough • How sunlight drives understo...

In this episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Don Higgins and Terry Peer dive into several important topics for whitetail hunters and land managers. First, they explain the strategy behind permission properties and why now is the perfect time of year to start knocking on doors. Don shares how persistence and building relationships with landowners can unlock incredible hunting opportunities—even in states where you don’t live. Next, Don and Terry explain the story behind Scrape Magnet, the new synthetic scent product developed under the Chasing Giants brand. They discuss the two-year process of testing the product across 9 states and...

After an exhausting — but incredibly special — two weeks, Don and Terry recap: • The emotional release of the Doubting Thomas video at Shipshewana • A record-breaking Midwest Sportsman’s Classic crowd • The 2026 Real World Dealer Event with 450+ attendees • The overwhelming response to the launch of CHASING GIANTS Scrape Magnet (which SOLD OUT!) • Faith conversations that went far beyond deer hunting • Spring habitat prep, shed hunting, and trail camera strategy This episode isn’t just about deer hunting — it’s about legacy, gratitude, growth, and purpose. As Don says in this episode: “Deer hunting is our passion. Deer hunting is our platform. But deer hunting is not our pu...

The Chasing Giants Podcast invaded Shipshewana, Indiana for the Midwest Sportsmen’s Classic presented by FAE — and what a night it was. Packed house. Major announcements. Live Q&A. Thousands raised for Lester’s Feet. 🔥 In this LIVE episode: - Official launch of Scrape Magnet - Announcement of our new optics partner Hawk Optics - LIVE audience Q&A on habitat, food plots, soybeans, winter food, wind strategy, buck management & more - Woodsmanship vs modern technology - Drone use in hunting - Persimmon tree grafting - Grain vs greens debate - Turning Point buck update - LIVE auction raising $3,100+ for Lester’s...

Welcome back to Chasing Giants Podcast Episode 312. This week we dive into: • A 400-acre Western Kentucky property that might produce GIANTS • A 1,400-acre farm with 200 acres of food plots • Why Western Kentucky could be a sleeper big-buck state • The real impact of a one-buck limit • CWD management and state agency decisions • The National Deer Association controversy • Downwind bedding tactics explained • Coons vs deer crop damage debate • Burn permits… and common sense We also discuss: Why mature bucks travel the downwind edge How hunting pressure changes buck movement Public land entry tactics Why some states are declining in age structure And what serious land ma...

In this episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Don Higgins and Terry Peer dive deep into late-season deer behavior, winter stress, antler shedding, and critical food sources when snow and cold tighten the screws on whitetails. With snow on the ground across much of the Midwest, deer are piling into food sources, hammering grain, and shifting bedding patterns. Don and Terry break down real-world observations from their own farms and consulting properties — including why grain sorghum disappears late, how woody browse saves deer, and when TSI and clear-cut areas need reset. They also discuss: - Why shed timing varies by re...

Culling bucks might be the most misunderstood topic in whitetail management. In Chasing Giants Podcast Episode #310, Don Higgins and Terry Peer break down why selective buck harvest works, why shooting certain 3½-year-old 8-points is about probability — not ego — and how long-term results tell a story most critics refuse to hear. This episode also covers: - Winter stress, snow cover, and food scarcity - Shed timing and what it really means for antler growth - Why saving every buck often hurts your top-end deer - The difference between genetics vs. probability - Real-world results after 20+ years of consistent management - If you’v...

In Episode 309 of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Terry Peer and Don Higgins break down how extreme winter weather impacts whitetail deer, and what serious land managers should be doing right now to reduce stress and protect next year’s herd. With brutal cold, deep snow, and howling wind across much of the Midwest, Don explains how thermal cover, food availability, and terrain can mean the difference between deer merely surviving — or thriving. This episode covers: • Winter habitat decisions that hold deer on your property • Why January is one of the most critical months for deer nutrition • Late-season buck behavior, fighting, and breedi...

This episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast was recorded LIVE at the 360 Hunting Blinds Dealer Conference — and it’s unlike anything we’ve done before. No script. No pre-planned topics. Just real, unfiltered questions from a room full of experienced hunters, dealers, and business owners. From: • Whitetail habitat strategy • Hunting property mistakes & wins • Faith, family, and business leadership • The real story behind 360 Blinds • Consulting, land management & deer behavior • Youth hunting & passing on values • Feeding hungry kids through ethical deer management This entire episode is the Higgins Hot Seat — live, unscripted, and honest. If you’ve ever wondered what separates great hunters, great businesse...

In this episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast, we dive into the real reasons most hunters struggle to consistently kill mature whitetail bucks — and what actually separates successful hunters from the rest. This isn’t theory. This is boots-on-the-ground experience, proven habitat strategy, disciplined decision-making, and lessons learned the hard way. If you’re serious about hunting mature deer, improving your property, and hunting with purpose, this episode is for you. 🎯 Topics Covered in Episode #307: - The biggest mistakes holding hunters back - Why good habitat alone isn’t enough - Pressure, discipline, and decision-making - What mature bucks actually respond to ...

In this powerful episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Don Higgins and Terry Peer welcome one of the rare guests ever to appear on the show — Jon Weece, founder of Boone Brothers. This episode connects big-picture purpose with practical deer management. Jon shares the God-ordained story behind Boone Brothers — a ministry focused on feeding hunters spiritually while feeding children physically by turning donated venison into shelf-stable, high-protein food for kids in need. This partnership directly solves one of the biggest challenges land managers face: how to responsibly harvest does while honoring the animal and helping others. Don and Terry also brea...

In Episode 305 of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Terry Peer and Don Higgins sit down for a wide-ranging, honest conversation recorded during the Christmas season—one that goes far beyond deer hunting. This episode dives into: Why deer hunting is the platform, not the purpose Using hunting, land, and business to impact families and future generations The long-term realities of deer management and adding age structure Why access and intrusion matter more than stand locations How extreme winter weather affects deer movement and late-season strategy Bowhunting vs rifle hunting philosophies Late-season food sources, warm fronts, cold snaps, and deer metabolism Faith-based le...

Management Bucks, Passing Giants, Early Shed Antlers & Hard Winter Decisions In this episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Don Higgins and Terry Peer tackle one of the most misunderstood and controversial topics in modern whitetail management — passing a mature target buck and choosing instead to harvest a management buck. Don recently filled his second Illinois buck tag, but not in the way most hunters expected. After years of habitat work, nutrition planning, selective harvest, and disciplined decision-making, Don explains why he passed his #1 target buck after gun season, a decision that left many people scratching their heads — and voicing their opin...