Podcast · Learning

Chasing Giants with Don Higgins

Chronicling the constant pursuit of World Class Whitetails. Follow an experienced land manager, consultant, writer, and hunting industry expert throughout the year as he finds, targets, and hunts world class whitetail bucks. Hunting tips and tricks that can be used no matter your skill set, prop

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 1 hr 9 min
Latest: 11 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

11 Oct 2026 · 1 hr 5 min

Can You Shoot Too Far? Don Higgins on Bowhunting Ethics | Chasing Giants #346

Is there a difference between being a great archer and being a great bowhunter? How far is too far when taking a shot at a whitetail deer? In Chasing Giants Podcast Episode #346, Don Higgins and Terry Peer tackle one of the most debated topics in bowhunting today: long-distance archery shots and the responsibility hunters have to the animals they pursue. After a listener questions hunters taking 70-yard shots at live deer, Don shares his perspective from nearly 50 seasons of bowhunting. He explains why he prefers to get mature bucks within 15–20 yards, why knowing your limitations matters,…

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

E351 · 5 Oct 2026 · 1 hr 16 min
Why Are Bucks Scraping THIS MUCH Already? | Chasing Giants Podcast #345
Something strange is happening in the deer woods this fall. Don says that in nearly 50 years of deer hunting, he has never seen this much scrape activity during September. Terry is seeing the same thing across properties in Kentucky, Ohio, central Illinois and southern Illinois — and it isn't just bucks. Does are hammering scrapes too. So what's causing it? In this episode of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Don Higgins and Terry Peer dig into the incredible early-season scrape activity they're seeing and discuss what it could mean as we move deeper into October. Don also shares his recent fall…
E349 · 27 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 18 min
5 YEARS Chasing One Buck! Joe Miles' Incredible Swamp Buck Story | Chasing Giants #344
Five years. One old South Carolina swamp buck. And an ending Joe Miles will never forget. On Chasing Giants Podcast #344, Terry Peer and Don Higgins are joined by special guest Joe Miles from ASIO Gear for an episode packed with whitetail strategy, hunting stories, and one incredible mature-buck success story. Joe takes us through his long history with a South Carolina swamp buck that somehow survived year after year in an area where hunting pressure makes it extremely difficult for bucks to reach old age. After years of pictures, missed opportunities, travel conflicts, and never actually…
E348 · 20 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 18 min
Our Trail Cameras Went DEAD… Where Did All the Deer Go? | Chasing Giants #343
Something strange happened in mid-September — our trail cameras practically went DEAD. Don went from getting hundreds of deer pictures a day to virtually nothing. Terry started seeing the same thing on multiple properties spread across a huge geographic area. Is it weather? A seasonal transition? Bucks shedding velvet? EHD? Or something else entirely? In Episode 343 of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Don Higgins and Terry Peer compare what they're seeing and ask listeners across the Midwest to check their own trail-camera data. We especially want to hear from YOU: Go back to roughly September…
E347 · 13 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 5 min
One Minute Too Late… The Giant Buck That Got Away | EP 341
Deer season is officially here, and Chasing Giants is back with plenty to talk about. Terry kicks off Episode 341 with an update from his first hunts of the 2026 Kentucky season, including a fascinating Western Kentucky property where years of habitat improvement, food plots, bedding cover and disciplined buck management are beginning to show major results. Don and Terry discuss why buck management can have such a dramatic impact on a property—not because hunters are “changing genetics,” but because they can influence which bucks are allowed to reach older age classes. They also talk about…
E346 · 6 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 14 min
Don Higgins’ 2026 Big Buck Forecast: The Worst He’s Ever Seen
Don Higgins’ annual Big Buck Forecast is here—and his outlook for the 2026 whitetail season may surprise a lot of hunters. After decades of running trail cameras across multiple properties, counties, and states, Don says this has been the worst summer he can remember for finding mature bucks. So what is happening to our mature whitetails? In Episode #341 of Chasing Giants, Don and Terry break down what Don is seeing across his trail-camera network, how mature buck numbers have changed, what role increased hunting pressure and technology may be playing, and why Don believes hunters who want…
E345 · 30 Aug 2026 · 1 hr 9 min
The #1 Factor for Deer Movement — It’s NOT the Rut | Chasing Giants #340
What is the #1 factor controlling whitetail deer movement? According to Don Higgins, it isn't the rut. It isn't the moon. It's TEMPERATURE. In Episode 340 of the Chasing Giants Podcast, Don shares a recent real-world example from his trail cameras. After averaging roughly 100–400 photos per day across eight cameras, a temperature change caused activity to explode to more than 1,500 photos per day — and the movement wasn't limited to nighttime. Don and Terry break down why weather can trump nearly everything else when it comes to mature buck movement and how hunters can use cold fronts…
E344 · 23 Aug 2026 · 1 hr 8 min
Someone Sends You a Tip on a 200” Buck… What Do You Do? | Chasing Giants 339
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…
E342 · 16 Aug 2026 · 1 hr 9 min
Legal Doesn’t Mean Ethical: Where Do YOU Draw the Line? | Chasing Giants 338
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…
E341 · 9 Aug 2026 · 1 hr 2 min
You Spent WHAT on a Deer Crossing?! | Chasing Giants #337
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…
E340 · 2 Aug 2026 · 1 hr 7 min
Thermal Drones, Food Plot Mistakes & Buck Dispersal | Chasing Giants Podcast #336
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. •…
E339 · 26 Jul 2026 · 1 hr 8 min
You're Planting Fall Food Plots TOO EARLY! (Most Hunters Get This Wrong)
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…
E338 · 19 Jul 2026 · 1 hr 12 min
The Biggest Food Plot Mistakes We're Seeing Right Now | Chasing Giants #334
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…
E337 · 12 Jul 2026 · 1 hr 15 min
Can Politics Save Illinois Deer Hunting? Darren Bailey on Illinois Deer Hunting
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…
E336 · 5 Jul 2026 · 57 min
Summer Scouting Secrets + A Life Lesson Every Hunter Needs | Chasing Giants #332
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: •…
E335 · 28 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 4 min
Making Good Tree Stands GREAT | Don Higgins' Best Habitat Tricks + Doubting Thomas Premiere
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…
E334 · 21 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 16 min
#330 - Can Supplemental Feeding Add 15"+ to a Buck? Don Higgins Answers
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…
E333 · 14 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 4 min
#329 | Why Don Higgins Gets More Excited About July Than Opening Day
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.…
E332 · 7 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 23 min
The Biggest Mistake Food Plotters Make in June | Chasing Giants #328
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…
E331 · 5 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 12 min
Why BIG BUCK Areas Often FAIL Deer Hunters | Chasing Giants 327
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…
E330 · 31 May 2026 · 1 hr 12 min
Why BIG BUCK Areas Often FAIL Deer Hunters | Chasing Giants 327
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…
E329 · 24 May 2026 · 1 hr 9 min
Why Mature Bucks Go Nocturnal | Chasing Giants Podcast 326
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…
E328 · 17 May 2026 · 1 hr 4 min
Why Most Hunters NEVER Kill Big Bucks (Bryhn Craft Tells the Truth) | Chasing Giants #325
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…
E327 · 10 May 2026 · 1 hr 2 min
Grow Bigger Food Plots, Gardens & Fruit Trees – Mike Mitchell Breaks It Down | Chasing Giants #324
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,…
E326 · 3 May 2026 · 59 min
Prayers, Peace & Planting Strategy | Spring Food Plot Advice | Chasing Giants 323
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,…
E325 · 29 Apr 2026 · 54 min
Parenting a Prodigal (Part 2) | The Turning Point Every Parent Prays For | Chasing Assurance #45
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…
E324 · 26 Apr 2026 · 57 min
Don Shares Personal News + The #1 Mistake Hunters Make | Chasing Giants Podcast 322
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 best…
E323 · 19 Apr 2026 · 1 hr 11 min
Stop Freezing in the Stand: Joe Miles Breaks Down Cold Weather Mistakes | CG #321
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, Robin, and their family in…
E322 · 12 Apr 2026 · 1 hr 8 min
Don Higgins Breaks Down His Favorite Properties of 2026 - Chasing Giants #320
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…
E321 · 5 Apr 2026 · 1 hr 12 min
Why Some Hunting Properties Work Instantly… And Others Fail - Chasing Giants Podcast #319
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,…

About Chasing Giants with Don Higgins

Chasing Giants with Don Higgins is a English learning podcast from Terry Peer. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Terry Peer
Language: English
Category: Learning
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 1 hr 9 min
Latest episode: 11 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1480792783

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