All Posts by Brian Mark

How Often Do Bucks Check Scrapes?

As late October approaches and the rut begins in earnest, scrape lines become increasingly significant as signposts where bucks communicate with potential mates. Knight suggested setting up security cover downwind of the site to ward off scent-checkers before working a scrape line, as well as using a trail camera to monitor usage by bucks. Daylight […]

How to Make a Fleshing Beam

Trappers rely on fleshing beams as a key tool in their arsenal when preparing fur pelts. Constructed of wood or PVC and specially designed to hold hides securely while you “flesh” (remove fat and meat from) them using a knife, fleshing beams provide trappers with essential assistance in processing fur pelts for sale. Wood A […]

How to Call Coyotes in February

Calling success among predators often declines during February and March in areas with intense hunting pressure, where coyotes become less responsive to calls. To combat this, Embry suggests employing various vocalizations including male and female lone howls, estrous chirps and pup distress calls. He prefers his FoxPro electronic caller in addition to hand call howlers […]

How to Attract Quail to Your Yard

Quail are not only excellent game birds to hunt; they are also wonderful additions to any backyard environment. To draw these beautiful birds in, provide suitable habitat. Quail birds thrive in environments that provide them with shelter from predators and the elements, such as dense shrubs, coniferous trees and brush piles. Planting dense shrubs, coniferous […]

How to Find Big Bucks Using Topo Maps

Mature bucks have learned how to adapt quickly once hunting pressure ramps up. They occupy pockets of public land bordering private properties where they can seek refuge from predatory hunters. These core areas can be identified using thick vegetation cover, concentrations of rubs and scrape lines and scrape lines – but first you must arrive […]

How to Make a Slate Turkey Call

Slate turkey calls are one of the easiest calls for beginners to learn and are highly versatile. A slate turkey call consists of a pot (made of wood or plastic that holds a slate, crystal or glass surface) and striker. Clucking a slate call requires striking its striker along a straight path across its surface […]

How to Call a Bear

Coyotes and foxes may respond to traditional predator calls, but bears require more powerful lungs. To prepare yourself, scouting for bear signs in your area is key. Search for bears that shuffle their feet and circle, as these animals tend to be curious yet wary of humans. Additionally, identify areas where bears might visit and […]

What is a Deer Drive?

Deer drives can be effective ways of seeing whitetail deer in certain parts of whitetail country, but they require careful planning and consideration of safety issues. A successful drive can allow hunters to spot more deer while possibly getting their chance at an impressive buck. Deer drives typically involve one group of hunters acting as […]

How to Load a Deer by Yourself

Most hunters devote significant effort and time in preparation for hunting season. Unfortunately, not enough attention is paid to the labor-intensive task of transporting downed kills from the field to their vehicle or SUV. Learn the skills you need to load a deer yourself, saving both time and effort. In this article, we’ll look at […]

How Long Do Torches Last?

Torches add an eye-catching and inviting element to any outdoor space, while helping fend off insects. An affordable way of adding some spark and color, these torches make great additions for patio or backyard parties. However, how long do torches last before needing to be re-lit? Keep reading and you may be amazed! Bamboo torches […]