MARINETTE COUNTY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – As the start of Deer Hunt 2024 approaches, many are gearing up for the nine-day campaign.
But some say a strategy to attract deer while managing the land is growing.
One hunter says installing food plots may provide an edge he’s looking for.
On a small parcel of land at the Walleyes & Whitetails store, owner Phillip Warrichaiet has been putting part of the upcoming hunting season to the test.
“A food plot, for one, is to attract deer to your property. Not only does it attract deer to your property, but it will help hold deer to your property. Not only that but a food plot is also beneficial nutrition-wise, so you have a good healthy herd,” he said.
Warrichaiet sells seeds to grow food plots at his shop just south of Coleman.
“This is something that you’re going to plant typically end of July, early August time frame. It creates a ton of forage. These right here, is a purple top turnip. A barkant turnip. So basically in the fall, when this green forage is growing, the deer will eat off the green forage. And then through the winter, the deer will start eating the turnips and give them forage and food all winter long,” he said.
“More and more hunters are being more proactive in managing their land,” said Steve Burns, Department of Natural Resources wildlife biologist.
Burns says installing food plots can be a year-round effort.
“I think hunters and landowners appreciate being out there, doing the work. Building maybe more connection with the property they’re managing,” he said.
And with most of the state currently under a baiting and feeding ban, Burns says food plots may be a natural alternative.
“In counties where baiting is not allowed, due to the (chronic wasting disease) status of that county, it’s a great opportunity to bring deer close to the stand, while hunting legally,” he said.
Warrichaiet says food plot popularity goes beyond any bans on baiting and feeding deer.
“I love doing it. My kids love doing it. Every year we spend a large amount of time on our property, trying to improve it better for deer habitat. And not just deer. Other wildlife as well. And it’s just satisfaction and enjoyment doing it yourself,” he said.
Deer Hunt 2024 kicks off early Saturday morning and runs until Dec. 1.
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