In the realm of shed hunting, bigger isn’t always better. Or, at least, if you’re anything like us, it’s not always what you’re going to find. Welcome to the paradoxical world where finding the small shed antlers from spikes or basket racks turns into a celebratory task, eclipsing the quest for their larger counterparts. This peculiar challenge has a special place in our hearts over at Okayest Hunter, where the thrill of the hunt is celebrated in all its quirky glory. So, grab your gear, and let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of unearthing these hidden gems of the deer woods.
The Art of Finding the Needle in the Haystack
First off, why is snagging a tiny shed akin to finding a four-leaf clover in a field of green? Simply put, small antlers blend in too darn well with their surroundings. If we had a shed for every “branchler” we found, we’d have a shed full of sheds. While a majestic rack from a mature buck might catch your eye from a distance, spotting a spike requires the detective skills of Sherlock Holmes on a good day. But fear not, as the Okayest Hunter ethos is all about embracing the challenge with a smirk.
Timing Is Everything, Almost
To maximize your chances of victory in this game of hide and seek, timing is critical. This is the time to get out and put in the miles for piles! Of course, some deer may still be holding on to their white gold, but with social media’s help, we can see folks finding em’. Deer typically shed their antlers from late winter to early spring, making this the prime season for shed hunters. However, for those tiny treasures, you might want to start your search just a tad earlier. Why? Because every forest critter, from squirrels to porcupines, sees antlers as a calcium-rich snack. The sooner you get out there, the less likely your prize has been turned into rodent chow.
Location, Location, Location
Knowing where to look is half the battle won. Here are some goldmines for small shed antlers that even the most Okayest Hunter can bank on. Of course, don’t put too much stake into what we have to say, this is more so what we see and hear from folks that actually find sheds:
Bedding Areas
Scouring their bedding areas, especially thick cover spots that offer warmth and security can yield surprisingly fruitful results. It’s like checking under the sofa cushions but for antlers. Of course, sometime finding buck bedding can be it’s own unique challenge.
This video from our good buddy, Derek might help you key in on some buck bedding.
Food Sources
Next up, hit the deer equivalent of fast-food joints—where they grab their winter munchies. These include agricultural leftovers, oak flats rich in acorns, and food plots. A well-fed deer is a happy deer, and happy deer drop antlers. Really, though hormones like testosterone play a big role in anters dropping. The testosterone cycle is largely controlled by the change in daylight, which triggers antlers to mineralize and shed their velvet during decreasing daylight and increasing testosterone, and to fall off when daylight increases and testosterone decreases.
Travel Corridors
Deer are creatures of habit, following the same paths like commuters in rush hour. Inspect the edges of fields, wooded trails, and creek crossings. These antler alleyways are prime real estate for shed hunters.
The Okayest Hunter’s Guide to Shed Hunting
Adopting the right tactics can make or break your shed hunting adventure. Here’s how we would approach it if we didn’t suck at it:
- Walk Slow, Then Walk Even Slower: Patience is the name of the game. Rushing through the woods will only spook wildlife and overlook those camouflaged spikes. Think of it as a leisurely stroll, where every step could reveal a hidden prize.
- Eyes on the Ground: While it might be tempting to admire the scenic views, remember, the ground is where the action is. Keep your gaze downward, scanning meticulously for any irregular shapes or colors.
- Bring a Buddy: Two sets of eyes are better than one. Plus, it’s more fun to share the “Eureka!” moment with a fellow enthusiast. Just make sure your buddy isn’t your dog who might see the antler as a chew toy.
- Gear Up: While you don’t need the latest gadgets, a good pair of binoculars can help spot potential sheds from afar. And let’s not forget a comfortable pair of boots—because there’s no joy in finding an antler if you’re also nursing a blister.
Once You’ve Found Them
Cheers, go crack a couple cold ones! You’ve found a small shed antler, now what? The Okayest Hunter community is all about getting creative and making the most out of every find, no matter the size.
Trophies for the Everyman or woman
Mount that spike or basket rack with pride. It’s a testament to your patience, skill, and slightly offbeat priorities. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter at your next barbecue.
We’ve recently partnered with Rack-Hub to keep our fond memories within our eyesight so we can easily distract ourselves from less important things like work or two-bit conversations with guests.
Rack Hub RH1
Craft It Up
Turn those sheds into anything from knife handles to jewelry. The only limit is your imagination. And if your crafting skills are as okay as your hunting skills, you might just surprise yourself with what you create. Just try to avoid a trip to the ER.
Share the Love
One of the best things about finding sheds is sharing the experience with the community. Post your finds, share your stories, and maybe even swap a few antlers with fellow hunters. It’s all about the camaraderie at the end of the day.
Shed Season is leading the charge here, and we’re excited to partner with them to celebrate finding the more diminutive, harder-to-find antlers! More details to come…
Wrapping It Up
Finding small shed whitetail antlers may be a challenge, but it’s one that the Okayest Hunter embraces with open arms and a quick wit. It’s about the journey, the stories, and the sheer unpredictability of what you’ll find—or won’t find. So, whether you return home with a backpack full of spikes or simply a good tale of the one that got away, remember, it’s all part of the great adventure of being an Okayest Hunter. After all, it’s not just about the size of the antler but the size of the experience. Happy hunting!