Growing bucks in MN

[auke0011]

It's been years since we harvested a big buck on our property, which is an 80 acre plot of fields and wetlands smack in the middle of huge farms. Last year we got a huge 10 but he for some reason just wondered onto our property. Normally if we see anything bigger than a 4 that's a big deal. We don't want to let them go because up there someone else will shoot them anyways, so we might as well. All we want is a way to get the bucks to grow bigger racks. I read the best way is through food plots, but what exactly? There are so many different things to plant. What is the best for growing big bucks?

[TheWhitetailnut]

The best way to grow bigger bucks is to LET THEM GROW. That stupid saying "someone else is going to shoot them anyway" is being echoed by your neighbors.

[btnovotny]

Very true. Let them grow. If you are friendly with your neighbors talk to them about it too. Most people I know are more than willing to let the small bucks go especially if they are hunting for meat and not antlers.

[Xtec Shooter]

Originally Posted by auke0011

It's been years since we harvested a big buck on our property, which is an 80 acre plot of fields and wetlands smack in the middle of huge farms. Last year we got a huge 10 but he for some reason just wondered onto our property. Normally if we see anything bigger than a 4 that's a big deal. We don't want to let them go because up there someone else will shoot them anyways, so we might as well. All we want is a way to get the bucks to grow bigger racks. I read the best way is through food plots, but what exactly? There are so many different things to plant. What is the best for growing big bucks?

You didn't mention how much overall ground you have. In any event, if you're in an area that receives a ton of pressure....the best thing you can do is control what you can control. Give the deer a reason to never want to leave your property. Bedding areas, sanctuaries, water, food, minimal pressure, etc.... The less pressure the deer receive on your ground and if they have the cover/food they need.....the more deer will stay put. When you have that, "let them grow" does work.