Finding Shed Antlers | Why Do We Shed Hunt?

The desire to find shed antlers from deer and elk have created a die-hard passion within the tight-knit community of hunting. Reasons to work hard in the late winter, spring and summer to find white gold vary from person to person. There is the intrinsic value of finding antlers and building history with particular animals year after year. Shed antlers are a large part of working to unlock the secrets of a mature deer or elk’s movements. In part two of a five part shed hunting series, David and Easton Holder and their taxidermist, Wayland, express why they love finding deer sheds. This is where the anticipation begins to build for the upcoming fall. Making clear notes of where shed antlers are found can help build your scouting and hunting strategies for the entire year.

In case you missed it, find “How to Train Yourself To Find More Shed Antlers | Part 1” below!

Part 2 | Why Do We Hunt For Shed Antlers?

“Shed Hunting Tips, Part 2, why do you shed hunt? What is it about deer sheds that force us out into the bitter cold of February and early March? Have you asked yourself that question and thought or came up with a solid answer? Some may answer to scout my property, other may answer to simple find a shed, or to get a picture of a shed in my hand. Whatever it is that drives us to the cold woods every winter, it’s a good thing. Raised hunting discusses the reason for why we shed hunt. On the discussion, we reveal some eye-opening opinions. First is satisfaction without anything spent, it does not require a license, does not require a set in season. It is going out to the woods for one goal, to find deer sheds and the rewards of finding a shed go much farther than just holding a deer antler. Finding a deer shed provides more history, more information, the locations, and habits of that buck. It confirms that he has survived the season, and knowing that he will be bigger than what you are currently holding. Reversely, finding a dead head is the end of a long story, it can be frustrating, but knowing where your hunt stops is key. Early or late, we still get out there, enjoy the outdoors, share the memories and frustrations, and share the passion of hunting. Why do we shed hunt? Why do we go out looking for deer sheds? What is your answer?” – Shed Hunting Tips Part 2 – Why Do We Shed Hunt

Taking the time to look for shed antlers is not just about preparing for the coming fall. David says in the video that the best part of looking for antlers is, “You don’t need a license.” Unlike sitting in a tree during the fall, looking for shed antlers does not require a license. Finding shed antlers is one of the best ways to get someone new interested in hunting as it opens the door to a new world of adventure opportunity. Because antlers are a part of the mystery of the wild which peaks the curiosity, it is easy to introduce new people and kids to the hunting community through shed antler hunting. Now, some states in the West may have restrictions forcing people to wait until much later in the year to begin looking for antlers, which has more to do with not putting extra pressure on animals trying to recover from a harsh winter. Other states may have rules in regard to finding dead animals, or deadheads as David refers to them in the video. Quickly checking your state regulations is always a good way to stay proactive in order to have a full understanding of the laws.

What To Bring

Chances are, regardless of where you are going to look for antlers you are going to be out for a while and walking a few miles. David says in the video he recommends people carry a small backpack to pack snacks and water in. Even in the cooler temperatures of the late winter and early spring, you can still become dehydrated and lose focus in the field possibly walking by antlers. A good backpack is also needed for when you need a place to put your coat or sweatshirt after walking for a while, not mention a place to carry antlers when you do find them.

Binoculars are also a necessity for shed hunting. Having a great pair saves you a lot of walking to decipher whether or not that “thing” in the field is another corn stalk or an actual antler!

Did these basic shed hunting tips help? Don’t miss the other shed hunting videos in this five part series!