The Brackett Show - Whitetails, Land & Life

Chris Brackett
  • 4.8 (21)
  • Wilderness
  • Semiweekly

Master Whitetail Strategist and Hunter Chris Brackett explores viewers questions that call into the Land Line to get advice. The World is looking for answers and we decided to help. So many people looking for truthful expertise these days that Chris Brackett's Whitetail Land Consulting business was just booked with questions daily about whitetails and land strategy that we knew people needed a place to interact. So here we are, we put Chris Brackett in the Hot seat to answer questions as they come, about anything and everything. Ain't Nothing Safe as Brackett used to say on Arrow Affliction.

  1. Nov 5

    Deer Hunting has Changed 130 is the new 150 and 150 is the new 170 The Brackett Show Podcast EP 6

    Chris Brackett, Luke, and Gavin discuss the search for Chunk, a large buck shot but not recovered, and what the experience revealed about modern whitetail hunting. Brackett argues that food plots, trail cameras, blinds, and hunting pressure are creating a “three-year-old trap” that can make mature bucks harder to find, while the group also reflects on friendship, restraint, and the trade-offs between managing for older deer and sharing memorable hunts. Chris Brackett and his co-hosts debate whether modern hunting technology has pushed whitetail hunting too far, from highly managed deer and genetic intervention to the value of letting young hunters enjoy the process. The conversation also follows Brackett’s pursuit of Chonk, a mature buck that he shot but could not recover, with the investigation left for the next installment. Keywords whitetail hunting, deer hunting, mature bucks, food plots, trail cameras, hunting pressure, deer management, hunting property, bowhunting, Illinois deer hunting whitetail deer hunting, deer management, hunting technology, trail cameras, land management, bowhunting, mature bucks, Chonk buck, hunting with kids Key Topics The episode opens with Chunk: a large buck shot after Brackett closed on a 125-acre property, followed by an extensive search that still has no conclusion.Brackett describes how scouting neighboring properties exposed repeated small food plots, blinds, cameras, and scrapes that he calls “three-year-old traps.”He argues that increasingly accessible gear and habitat improvements help hunters consistently kill three- and four-year-old bucks, while making older deer less predictable.Brackett contrasts intensive hunting setups with giving deer room: leaving much of a property undisturbed and concentrating hunting pressure in a smaller area.The new 125-acre property includes a large green plot, CRP, and seven acres of standing corn intended to provide food, cover, and structure.The group considers how to balance age-class goals with family memories, including a hunt where Gavin’s sister Avery could take a notable buck.Brackett reflects on learning to walk away from confrontation, linking his former instinct to respond sharply with childhood bullying and personal growth.The conversation frames friendship as showing up during difficult seasons, with Brackett sharing Luke’s words: “you haven’t let me feel alone.” Brackett argues that modern hunting technology, trail cameras, crossbows, and property management have changed the limits of hunting, raising questions about whether the sport has “jumped the shark.”The speakers consider how technology can help hunters target younger deer while human judgment and ethics lag behind what is technically possible.Brackett discusses the promise and controversy of captive deer, genetic selection, CWD-resistance markers, and disease management, while acknowledging challenges including EHD, CWD, and neighbor cooperation.Land stewardship is framed at both scales: coordinating neighboring properties across roughly 1,000 acres and carefully shaping smaller parcels with food plots, scrapes, and cameras.The conversation contrasts pursuing trophy bucks with teaching children to enjoy scouting, time outdoors, and even harvesting does, rather than measuring every hunt by antler size.Brackett reflects on how adolescents may experience hunting differently from adults, including the emotional intensity of a first big-buck shot and the need to let young people set their own pace.Brackett recounts buying a 125-acre farm, setting it up before closing, and naming a mature buck Chonk after a child’s playful award for her cat.Chonk appeared on cameras mostly after dark; after a westward wind shift, Brackett took a 48-yard bow shot, waited 15 hours, and later jumped the wounded-looking deer. The precise wound path and outcome remain unresolved for the promised follow-up.The final segment includes mentions of Beast broadheads, Diamond Blinds, trail cameras,

  2. Nov 4

    THE BRACKETT SHOW PODCAST EP 7 The Buck i shot, the Good, Bad, and Ugly CHONK THE BUCK

    Chris Brackett, Luke, and Gavin discuss the search for Chunk, a large buck shot but not recovered, and what the experience revealed about modern whitetail hunting. Brackett argues that food plots, trail cameras, blinds, and hunting pressure are creating a “three-year-old trap” that can make mature bucks harder to find, while the group also reflects on friendship, restraint, and the trade-offs between managing for older deer and sharing memorable hunts. Chris Brackett and his co-hosts debate whether modern hunting technology has pushed whitetail hunting too far, from highly managed deer and genetic intervention to the value of letting young hunters enjoy the process. The conversation also follows Brackett’s pursuit of Chonk, a mature buck that he shot but could not recover, with the investigation left for the next installment. Keywords whitetail hunting, deer hunting, mature bucks, food plots, trail cameras, hunting pressure, deer management, hunting property, bowhunting, Illinois deer hunting whitetail deer hunting, deer management, hunting technology, trail cameras, land management, bowhunting, mature bucks, Chonk buck, hunting with kids Key Topics The episode opens with Chunk: a large buck shot after Brackett closed on a 125-acre property, followed by an extensive search that still has no conclusion.Brackett describes how scouting neighboring properties exposed repeated small food plots, blinds, cameras, and scrapes that he calls “three-year-old traps.”He argues that increasingly accessible gear and habitat improvements help hunters consistently kill three- and four-year-old bucks, while making older deer less predictable.Brackett contrasts intensive hunting setups with giving deer room: leaving much of a property undisturbed and concentrating hunting pressure in a smaller area.The new 125-acre property includes a large green plot, CRP, and seven acres of standing corn intended to provide food, cover, and structure.The group considers how to balance age-class goals with family memories, including a hunt where Gavin’s sister Avery could take a notable buck.Brackett reflects on learning to walk away from confrontation, linking his former instinct to respond sharply with childhood bullying and personal growth.The conversation frames friendship as showing up during difficult seasons, with Brackett sharing Luke’s words: “you haven’t let me feel alone.” Brackett argues that modern hunting technology, trail cameras, crossbows, and property management have changed the limits of hunting, raising questions about whether the sport has “jumped the shark.”The speakers consider how technology can help hunters target younger deer while human judgment and ethics lag behind what is technically possible.Brackett discusses the promise and controversy of captive deer, genetic selection, CWD-resistance markers, and disease management, while acknowledging challenges including EHD, CWD, and neighbor cooperation.Land stewardship is framed at both scales: coordinating neighboring properties across roughly 1,000 acres and carefully shaping smaller parcels with food plots, scrapes, and cameras.The conversation contrasts pursuing trophy bucks with teaching children to enjoy scouting, time outdoors, and even harvesting does, rather than measuring every hunt by antler size.Brackett reflects on how adolescents may experience hunting differently from adults, including the emotional intensity of a first big-buck shot and the need to let young people set their own pace.Brackett recounts buying a 125-acre farm, setting it up before closing, and naming a mature buck Chonk after a child’s playful award for her cat.

  3. Oct 29

    "THE GREATEST DEER HUNTING OF 2026 IS YET TO COME" THE BRACKETT SHOW PODCAST EP5 FULL METAL BRACKETT

    Chris Brackett and Drake review a difficult, unusually hot October and lay out how they’re thinking about the last days of October and the opening of November whitetail hunting. Brackett explains how he weighs full-moon timing against weather, wind, deer movement, and patience, then shares practical lessons on food plots and negotiating standing corn. Chris Brackett explains how he designs whitetail setups around deer behavior, concealment, wind, and access, then lays out his forecast for the November rut. He also discusses land-management consulting and shares practical advice for preparing stands and choosing when to hunt. Brackett frames the year’s deer season as multiple mini-seasons, with the transition from October into November bringing changing movement patterns.He favors evening hunts around a full moon, especially near the moon date, but stresses that weather and wind can outweigh lunar timing.The prolonged heat, 80-90 degree days, light winds, and stale southern air were blamed for limiting daylight movement despite the full moon.Brackett focuses on mature bucks, roughly five years old and older, and cautions that a lack of sightings does not necessarily mean they have left the area.He advises matching stands to wind direction, protecting core areas, and hunting selectively rather than entering a spot under poor conditions.For October 29-31, Brackett recommends continuing evening hunts when the wind is suitable, including field edges where bucks may cross between cover and destinations.He describes mature bucks as homebodies when food and cover are abundant, and argues that their bedding range can be broader than a single prepared bed.Brackett shares a dispute over standing corn that ended with a $7,200 payment for seven acres, then recommends arranging crop agreements with farmers in advance.His rough food planning rule is three acres of standing corn or beans per 60 acres of cover and timber, separate from greens, clover, or alfalfa. Brackett’s blind-placement philosophy: use fewer windows and favor a corner position that offers concealment and a cleaner exit over seeing the whole field.He describes tailoring a blind to a bean field, switchgrass, and a subtle 2- to 3-foot terrain drop, then relocating it about 15 yards to improve the setup.Brackett says thoughtful access and low-impact hunting can preserve repeat opportunities, even if a hunter has fewer stands or a narrower shooting range.He expects November 1-5 to be challenging, advising hunters to be selective and avoid calling too much when deer can circle downwind.His forecast centers on November 6-26 as a prime stretch, particularly if a weather front brings colder temperatures and favorable, consistent winds.Brackett outlines consulting and possible small-group farm tours, including practical property walks and advice on hunting access, habitat, and land value.He recommends getting stands, blinds, chairs, and trimming finished ahead of the anticipated rut window.He discusses deer sightings, local herd realities, and the importance of hunting carefully rather than assuming winter concentrations reflect the summer herd.Takeaways The season is not one season. I believe that the season is five or six many seasons.The rut trumps weather.I don't hunt in the mornings on those full moons. And I will still stay in my October kind of mentality. Evening hunting.The weather definitely trumped it.I truly believe that a big deer can just be a homebody.If you have the wind and you have the dedication, you just sit that stand.Make two spots that you can hunt every wind.The deer isn't doing that every night. He's just doing it because he was tired.Make that deal with the farmer ahead of time.Three standing acres of hard crops. That's not including your greens or your clovers or your alfalfa. I try to enjoy the Deer Woods. The deer, the woodsmanship, the conservation.

  4. Oct 21

    October Full MOON / Best and Toughest HUNTS of 2026 FULL METAL BRACKETT EP4 "The Brackett Show"

    The Full Moon's Influence With the full moon on October 26th, Brackett highlights the critical days leading up to it. He stresses,   "Forty-eight hours before that full moon... is your go-to game." This lunar event plays a significant role in deer movement, making those days prime for hunting. He suggests that hunters prepare and be ready to take advantage of this key time. Weather Patterns and Strategy The conversation also touches upon the importance of weather patterns. Brackett notes that upcoming cold fronts could significantly affect deer behavior, suggesting,   "It's going to be weather-driven; it's gonna be a big deal." Hunters must stay vigilant and adjust their strategies accordingly, especially in the days following the full moon. The Challenge of Deer Age A notable part of the discussion revolves around understanding deer age. Brackett reflects on how age affects deer characteristics and behavior, sharing his experiences with aging whitetails. He asserts that determining a deer’s age is not always straightforward and can require multiple observations. As hunters gear up for the October season, these insights from Brackett serve as a reminder to remain adaptable and informed. With the right strategies and a keen awareness of both the environment and personal practices, the chances of success in the field can greatly increase. Reflect on your own hunting practices as you prepare for this exciting time. For more detailed strategies and insights, listen to the full episode. Navigating the October Whitetail Challenge Insights on timing, moon phases, and deer behavior for hunters. As the October hunting season approaches, the anticipation is palpable, especially for those chasing after mature whitetails. Brackett dives deep into the nuances of hunting strategy, urging hunters to be mindful of their habits and the natural rhythms that govern deer behavior. Awareness in Hunting Brackett emphasizes the importance of self-evaluation in hunting practices. He states,   "If you're not making yourself aware of your track in life of eating, sleeping... how are you even conscious to what you're doing, good or bad?" This call for awareness transcends hunting and resonates with life in general. Recognizing one’s habits can lead to greater success both in the field and beyond. Summary In this episode, Brackett discusses the intricacies of deer hunting during the full moon phase, the importance of self-awareness in hunting, and strategies for maximizing success in the upcoming season. Keywords deer hunting, full moon, deer age, hunting strategies, wildlife management, October hunting, deer behavior, hunting tips, wildlife biology, deer season Key Topics Full moon deer movement and behaviorTiming of the rut and breeding seasonDeer age estimation and antler developmentWeather and wind considerations for huntingPreparation and strategy for peak deer activityImpact of lunar cycles on deer movementHunting tactics for October and NovemberWildlife management and land setup tipsGuest Name Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Deer Behavior and Self-awareness 01:53 Upcoming Full Moon and Its Impact on Deer Movement 03:51 Key Dates for October Deer Hunting 06:49 Understanding Lunar Cycles and Deer Activity 09:09 Weather, Wind, and Hunting Conditions 13:10 Deer Age, Antler Growth, and Body Characteristics 19:52 Deer Movement Patterns and Behavior Insights 29:55 Hunting Strategies for Peak Days 40:00 Land Management and Deer Population Strategies 49:48 Personal Experiences and Deer Encounters 59:53 Preparation Tips for November Deer Season 01:09:47 Final Advice and Encouragement for Hunters

  5. Oct 14

    COLD FRONT IS COMING BUT YOU CANT HUNT OCTOBER MORNINGS "The Brackett Show" EP3 FULL METAL BRACKETT

    Brackett shares his insights on why October mornings are not ideal for big deer hunting, emphasizing strategy, timing, and understanding deer behavior. He discusses moon phases, weather patterns, and practical tips for effective hunting during the peak season. Key Topics Why October mornings are less effective for big deer huntingImpact of moon phases and weather on deer movementStrategic hunting during the October seasonImportance of scent control and stand placementTiming of deer activity around moon cyclesPractical tips for hunting in OctoberEP3  Why October Mornings Should Be Avoided for Hunting Exploring the mental and practical aspects of October hunting strategy. As we dive into the heart of October, many hunters feel the excitement of the season. However, Chris Brackett shares a perspective that challenges the common enthusiasm for early October mornings in the woods. The October Dilemma Chris opens up about his mental state at this time of year, stating, "You can't hunt October mornings. Nope." He expresses the frustration felt when the weather fluctuates from cool, promising days to unexpected heat, leaving hunters feeling a sense of despair and impatience.  In the Midwest, where Chris primarily hunts, early mornings in October present unique challenges. The excitement built from the first cool days is often dashed when temperatures rise again, leading to a feeling of being stuck in a rut. He emphasizes, "For a person that loves the Midwest hunting... early morning October hunting for giant five-year-old or older whitetails. That's a card I wouldn't play." The Case Against October Mornings Chris shares his reasoning for avoiding October mornings: Risk of Spooking Deer: Early mornings can lead to disturbing the deer, potentially pushing them off your property and into neighboring areas.  Infrequent Human Activity: The woods are relatively quiet before hunting season, and once hunters start entering the woods, it disrupts the normal patterns of deer.Hunting Strategy: Chris advises using the early part of the month to observe from the edges of fields rather than diving deep into the woods. This strategy allows for better control over the hunting environment and minimizes the risk of spooking deer.The Importance of Timing With the upcoming full moon and cold front, Chris notes that timing is everything. He explains how the deer behavior changes with the moon cycle, and hunters need to adapt their strategies accordingly.  In his words, "It’s so easy to spook these deer in the mornings. If you spook them, they’re off your property for the rest of the season, potentially." This emphasizes the need for strategic planning rather than impulsive hunting decisions. A Deeper Reflection Chris’ insights highlight the emotional connection many have to hunting and the mental challenges that come with it. The anticipation of the season brings joy, but understanding the nuances of deer behavior and hunting strategy can lead to a more successful experience. Ultimately, Chris encourages hunters to think critically about their approach to hunting in October, suggesting that sometimes, the best move is to wait for the right moment.  For those interested in more of Chris’s thoughts and anecdotes, the full episode provides a deeper dive into this topic.   Join the conversation and share your thoughts on October hunting strategies. What has your experience been?

  6. Oct 7

    FULL METAL BRACKETT- EP 2 How to hunt them whitetail Bucks Early Oct 'The Brackett Show

    The Art of Storytelling in Hunting Adventures Exploring elk hunting tales and the journey behind them. What's better than a great hunt? A great story about that hunt. In this episode, Chris Brackett shares captivating tales from his elk hunting adventures, revealing not just the thrill of the chase but the art of storytelling that brings those experiences to life. The Slow Year and Big Dreams Chris opens with a candid reflection on his year, noting it’s been the slowest deer hunting season yet. Instead, he has focused on real estate while keeping tabs on hunting regulations in Illinois. He highlights how the landscape and rules have evolved, making it easier for hunters to engage with nature and enjoy the thrill of the hunt.  "...the guys that are doing that right now and they got green somewhere close and water somewhere close. They're killing big bucks." A Milestone in Storytelling In a moment of celebration, Chris acknowledges a significant milestone: reaching over 10,000 subscribers on YouTube. This growth wasn't a primary goal; rather, it was a byproduct of sharing genuine stories about hunting and life.  "We can actually say millions of people have consumed, downloaded, and watched the content." Chris’s storytelling prowess shines through as he recounts a memorable elk hunt at the Vermejo Ranch, where he faced challenges and triumphs.  The Hunt for the Perfect Bull Chris narrates his pursuit of a massive 390-inch bull, detailing the excitement and tension of the hunt. He paints a vivid picture of the elk's majestic presence and the strategies employed to get close without spooking them. The experience illustrates not just the hunt but the connection formed between the hunter and nature.  "...here comes this screaming 280-inch bull up the hill, and I'm like, this is gonna be fun." Lessons Learned Along the Way Chris’s tales are rich with insights, like the importance of patience and the unexpected lessons that arise in the wild. He emphasizes the value of storytelling as a way to process experiences and share wisdom.  "What is your kid doing the whole time? What's Blaze doing? He's laughing. He's just eating it up." A Reflection on Storytelling As the conversation unfolds, it’s clear that storytelling is at the heart of what Chris does. He reflects on the elements that make a good story: the host’s charisma, the production quality, and the engagement of the audience. It’s not just about hunting; it’s about connecting through shared experiences and emotions. As Chris wraps up his tales, it’s apparent that the true essence of hunting lies not just in the kill but in the stories we tell and the memories we create along the way. Join us for more adventures and insights in the full episode.

  7. Sep 30

    Oct 1st 2026 Opening day Podcast FULL METAL BRACKETT

    In this episode, Chris Brackett shares insights on land management, deer hunting strategies, food plots, and the latest in hunting technology, providing valuable tips for hunters and landowners alike. In this episode, Brackett shares his insights on deer hunting strategies, the importance of understanding animal behavior, and how to optimize your hunting success through weather, wind, and food sources.Keywordsdeer hunting, land management, food plots, waterfowl, hunting technology, Illinois farms, deer behavior, food plot strategies, water sources, hunting gear deer hunting, wildlife management, hunting strategies, weather, wind, food plots, deer behaviorKey Topics Deer management strategies and expectations for the seasonImportance of water sources and lake building in land managementFood plot strategies including soybeans, clover, and brassicasLatest in hunting technology including trail cameras and blindsInsights into deer behavior and seasonal food preferencesLand acquisition and management tips from a seasoned landownerThe role of water features in attracting wildlifeStrategies for hunting mature deer and managing young bucksThe impact of weather and moon phases on deer movementBuilding legacy and family memories through land and hunting Deer movement and behavior patternsImpact of weather and moon phases on deer activityImportance of food sources and food plotsWind management and scent control techniquesStrategic hunting based on animal intelligence and environmentBuilding a 13-acre lake can significantly increase land value and wildlife attractionPlanting soybeans and sunflowers in leftover fields can attract deer and waterfowlDeer switch their feeding preferences based on season and food availabilityUsing high-quality blinds and trail cameras enhances hunting successUnderstanding deer behavior and seasonal food preferences is key to effective management Deer are most active during specific weather conditions and moon phases.Proper food plot management can significantly increase deer sightings.Wind direction and pressure are critical factors in successful hunts.Patience and understanding animal behavior lead to better hunting outcomes.Hunting strategies should adapt to environmental conditions and animal patterns."This property is a unicorn with 350 acres of water.""Deer will switch to clover and alfalfa in October.""Deer are eating acorns and fresh greens now."TakeawaysSound BitesChapters00:00Introduction to land management and deer season expectations00:28Introduction to Deer Hunting Strategies01:52Overview of the Illinois farms and land features02:49Understanding Deer Movement and Behavior Patterns03:46The importance of water sources and lake building06:01Strategies for food plots and attracting wildlife06:55The Role of Weather and Moon Phases07:50Latest in hunting technology and trail cameras10:13Deer behavior and seasonal food preferences12:04Land acquisition, management, and legacy building12:34Food Sources and Food Plot Management13:57Seasonal changes in deer feeding habits and food preferences15:51Using technology and strategic planning for successful hunts16:45Wind Management and Scent Control18:14Personal stories and hunting experiences20:06Final tips for hunters and landowners22:03Strategic Hunting and Patience26:48Deer IQ and Animal Intelligence32:08Adapting Strategies to Environmental Conditions36:50Lessons from Successful Hunts42:05Final Tips and Takeaways

    Oct 1st 2026 Opening day Podcast FULL METAL BRACKETT

  8. 12/31/2024

    Episode 25 | "Happy New Year!"

    It’s the final episode of The Brackett Show for 2024. Chris Brackett and Chris Zobac reflect on the year and a long deer hunting season. The guys share stories, take calls, and share end of season tactics. If you’re still hunting, the last two weeks are the best. What makes for a good outfitter? Thanks to all the sponsors and fans for a great year!

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4.8
out of 5
21 Ratings

About

Master Whitetail Strategist and Hunter Chris Brackett explores viewers questions that call into the Land Line to get advice. The World is looking for answers and we decided to help. So many people looking for truthful expertise these days that Chris Brackett's Whitetail Land Consulting business was just booked with questions daily about whitetails and land strategy that we knew people needed a place to interact. So here we are, we put Chris Brackett in the Hot seat to answer questions as they come, about anything and everything. Ain't Nothing Safe as Brackett used to say on Arrow Affliction.

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