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  • How did you end up with Hoyt as a sponsor for your show rather than one of the other bow companies?
    Hunter from MN asks:
    I was just wondering what led to you and the pro staff shooting for Hoyt rather than Mathews or Bowtech or any other brand of bow??
    Winke Responds:
    Hunter, I was shooting Hoyt mostly since 1995 or so. Most companies don't make a 32 inch draw bow and so I was limited. I grew to really like the Hoyt bows and the people there are great so it was a natural move. Not surprisingly, it came down to relationships. I have been friends with Mike Luper at Hoyt for a long time, and now several of the others at Hoyt. That doesn't take anything away from the bow itself. There is too much at stake to shoot someone's bow just because you like them. The bow still has to be very good. Hoyt makes great bows and they are dedicated to being the best. I think that is important. Their President is a mechanical engineer and a big bowhunter. You never have to wonder if they really know what they are doing - they know. Happy New Year. (12-31-11)
  • What safety system do you use when climbing in and out of your stands?
    Jake from KS asks:
    Hi Bill. Love the website and the shows. It's nice to have the daily updates and all the great info you share. I was curious what type of safety device, if any, you use while climbing into your stands. I typically use screw in steps and don't strap myself to the tree until I'm in the stand. What type of safety setup do you recommend while climbing? Thanks - Jake.
    Winke Responds:
    Jake, While hanging the stand I use the Muddy Lineman's rope on my harness to keep be attached to the tree. It works well and is comfortable. When climbing in to hunt I use the Muddy Safeline (attaches at stand height when you set up the stand). It works really well. Very safe system. I recommend it for every deer hunter regardless of age of physical strength. I have fallen four times while hunting and I was a very athletic young man, so it can happen to anyone. Fortunately, none of the falls were very serious. Most within 10 feet of the ground. I never worry about falling now. A lot of peace of mind. Good luck. Happy New Year. (12-30-11)
  • How do you carry your Muddy tree stands when going in to hunt?
    Tom from MD asks:
    I see in your videos that some of the guy's are carring thier Muddy stands on thier backs. The stand I bought from Muddy did not have straps. Does the Muddy harness adapt to carry the stand? Or do i have to buy straps from Cabela's? THANKS
    Winke Responds:
    Tom, I tie they tree straps together and hang it over my shoulder. Otherwise you will need to buy actual shoulder straps for these stands. Muddy may sell them through their website too, so it is worth taking a look at gomuddy.com first to see if they have something. Good luck. Happy New Year. (12-28-11)
  • Which affordable Nikon Optics should I buy with my Christmas gift cards?
    Aaron from WI asks:
    Hi Bill. I know you're sponsored by Nikon and was wondering what binoculars and rangefinder you use. Also, do you know of the best value binoculars and rangefinder Nikon has? I'm just a college student so I don't have a lot of money too spend, but received some gift cards and money for Christmas that I want to buy some optics with. I love the site and appreciate all the information and advise you give everyday! Thanks!
    Winke Responds:
    Aaron, I actually used Nikon's Pro Staff 7 binos this year. They are very economical and very good. I have a set of the EDG binos here (high end) and my contact at Nikon never told me I had to use the Pro Staff 7, but I decided to use them anyway because they are very good and I felt like I was setting a good example for the viewers to follow - promoting a good value that I could feel good about. I believe in them. I guess the Archer's Choice Max is the rangefinder to own. I have not tried all the Nikon models, but that is the one I am currently using and it does a nice job. You can't go wrong with the Pro Staff 7. Good luck. Happy New Year. (12-28-11)
  • Can you tell us more about the Muddy arrows?
    Kenny from IL asks:
    I love the Midwest Whitetail website. The videos's are great but I especially like the ask Winke section. I get a lot of good info.my question is, can you give us some more info. on the new arrows by Muddy
    Winke Responds:
    Kenny, That deal is still in the works. Muddy will make an official statement on the arrows once they get everything finalized. Should be within days. Good luck. Happy New Year. (12-28-11)
  • Do you take into consideration whether your sponsors products are made in the US or China when signing them up?
    Bill from PA asks:
    Hi Bill, Not to get political but do you take into consideration whether your sponsors products are made in the USA as opposed to China for example?Thanks and may your family have a blessed Christmas!
    Winke Responds:
    Bill, I think it is some of both. In some cases a company may have some of their line made overseas and some of it made in America. If I boycotted all companies who make their products overseas (or some of their products overseas) I would not have a show, period. Here is what I expect to happen. As the standard of living in China increases/improves the people there are going to want to live more like westerners and will demand different types of products and food. They will eventually become a huge importing country and as they demand more pay someday, the cost of building products there will go up and will not be worth the trouble. It is already starting to happen. Little by little, the manufacturing will move back (or at least out of China) and China will still be a big importer because of their new standard of living. Raising their standard of living is very expensive in the short term, but in the long term it will prove valuable to America's future (how do you think the farmers feel about $5 corn and $14 beans? Ten years ago the world would have laughed at those numbers - now they just pay it and move on.) We just have to be careful not to let foreign governments own too much of our debt and assets or they can exert too much influence here for the economics to work out in our favor long term. Best regards. Happy New Year. (1-1-12)
  • Is it worth upgrading from the CRX to a bow with Hoyt's RKT cam on it?
    Michael from MO asks:
    Hi Bill, Congrats on Daggers and the G5 Buck, what a hunt!! About three months ago, I purchased a new Hoyt CRX 35. I really struggled with the extremely short valley, almost to the point of giving up and buying another brand of bow. Now with the introduction of the RKT, I really feel like I need to make a change. I am much better with the CRX now than when I first got it, but am scared I will creep while aiming at a deer. Is the RKT that much better to warrant a change after such a short time with the CRX? Thanks!!!!
    Winke Responds:
    Michael, Thanks. If you can keep the CRX against the back wall at full draw all the time (which you should do anyway) then no, but if you feel like it is going to jerk your arm forward all the time then yes, you probably need to change. I liked the CRX just fine. It is fast and accurate, but this one is just smoother. I wouldn't upgrade unless it is a big problem for you. The RKT is noticably smoother back at the letoff valley. I noticed it right away. It is also easier to let down. Good luck. (11-22-11)
  • I have started using the Knight & Hale Pack Rack; what is the best method for using one of these to rattle in a buck?
    Kevin from TN asks:
    Hi Bill. I noticed you using the Pack Rack this season. I too made it one of my must haves for this season. I wonder if you could add a little spot to a future episode on your favorite technique for rattling with the Pack Rack? Perhaps it would even be more efficient if a member of the MWW pro staff would include a short segment at the end of their daily blog on the subject. Just a thought. I think it would be very useful. Well, as always, thanks!
    Winke Responds:
    Kevin, I think they are awesome. Very portable and realistic enough to work well. I just pound and clang and twist and grind for about a 30 seconds or so and then hang them up. I am not sure there is a best way. If you have ever seen deer fighting, no two fights are the same, so there is no such thing as the perfect way to rattle. I just wouln't go past 30 seconds because there could be a deer nearby that is coming in and you need to be ready. Good luck. (11-20-11)
  • What do you think of the new Carbon Element with the RKT cam?
    John from IL asks:
    Bill- Wanted to see if you had set up your 2012 Carbon Element RKT yet and what you think of it?
    Winke Responds:
    John, I actually have the Carbon Matrix RKT. I really like the new smoother cam. I have shot the CRX with the Fuel Cam and liked that too, but it is hard to beat smooth. It is plenty fast enough for anything I need. Main difference: it is very smooth. Good luck. (11-29-11)
  • Are you still working on a trail camera? Seems like you were going to come out with one?
    Brian from NC asks:
    Bill, I enjoy the weekly show and the daily blogs. Congrats on 2 nice bucks this season. Are there any plans for a future trail cam that you would endorse/market? I know you had mentioned possibly doing something with the Muddy guys, is that still a possibility? Thanks! Keep up the good work!
    Winke Responds:
    Brian, Larry and I kicked it around pretty hard for awhile and then just decided to focus on what we do well and leave the camera development to others. I think the market is still ripe for another good camera, but everything is kind of in turmoil with the cameras coming from China and the technology not really being well protected. You could come up with a great camera and the factory will be selling it to someone else the next year. Tough market. Instead, I decided to work with Rich at TrailCamPro.com. Rich does an awesome job of helping people buy good cameras. Check out his site. I think you will agree. Maybe some time in the future we will have a camera, but it is not in the current plans. Good luck. (11-19-11)
  • Where can I buy the Muddy harness that you use?
    Jim from NY asks:
    Huge fan of your on-line shows. Just was wondering were to p/u the muddy outdoor safety harness you use in your show...I have been to my local Gander Mountain, Dick's, and Bass pro. No place seems to have any. Thanks Jim.
    Winke Responds:
    Jim, You can order them right off the Muddy website. www.gomuddy.com. Good luck. (11-17-11)
  • What harness do you usse? Does it restrict you from drawing and shooting?
    Sam from WI asks:
    Hi Bill, I don't want to bother you with anything you've already answered but I've checked the whole ask winke section and dont think this question has been asked. Since I started bow hunting, I've been having problems with my stand harness impeding me when turning in my stand, drawing my bow, etc.. My question is what harness do you use? Do you have the same problems? The harness i use is the Hunter Safety System Treestalker and its ok except for the aforementioned ergonomics. P.S. I learn lots everytime I watch your blogs and main show. Thanks!
    Winke Responds:
    Sam, I use the Muddy harness and use a short extender for the strap. You can also use the tree strap to help you get a bit longer tether by sliding the loop through the other loop and letting it hang and then connecting to that. I have not had a problem with being restricted by this system. I hope that helps. Good luck. (11-16-11)
  • Do you think the reed on the Knight & Hale Death Chamber will freeze in cold conditions?
    Andrew from MI asks:
    Bill, I apologize since I asked a question earlier and never said how much I enjoy your show! So, keep up the good work. And Congrats on the buck! I noticed you are trying out the New Knight and Hale Death Chamber game call. What do you think of it? Do you think it will freeze in cold conditions? Thanks for your knowledge.
    Winke Responds:
    Andrew, I don't think it will freeze. It is a slightly higher pitched grunt call than some others I have tried. I think the sound will carry well in the woods as a result. Plus, you can blow it hard and it doesn't blow down. Good luck (11-14-11)
  • Where can I purchase Knight and Hale calls?
    Kirk from MI asks:
    Is Knight and Hale online orders only or can you purchase their products at Bass Pro or Cabelas also?
    Winke Responds:
    You can purchase them from Cabela's and Bass Pro. Good luck. (11-3-11)
  • Regarding Nikon's Pro Staff 7 binos, do you prefer the 8x or the 10x?
    Irvin from AR asks:
    Bill, I love the show and appreciate the hard work that you put in the daily video blog. I find it very informative. With regard to the Nikon Pro Staff 7 binoculars, do you prefer the 8 or 10 power magnification? I do not have a quality pair of binoculars of my own, but I am borrowing a friend's Leica 8 x 30. They are amazing in low light but very expensive. I do like the 8 power but have not tried any 10 power while bowhunting. What would be your suggestion?
    Winke Responds:
    Irvin, Thanks for the support. I do like the 10x better because it helps me to separate branches from antlers a bit better. Also, you can almost always lean on the tree to hold it steady. I have tried 8X but always come back to the 10X binos. Good luck, they are great binos for the money. (11-8-11)
  • What is the most important thing to look for in a grunt call?
    Andrew from MI asks:
    Bill, I have been looking at getting a new deer call. My biggest request is for it to not lock up when it is cold. What would you suggest for a good quality call? I have been looking at the new Flextone BuckCrusher since it is hands free (another request since it is easier to use with a bow.) What do you find necessary in a call and what should I look into??
    Winke Responds:
    Andrew, We have been using the Knight & Hale Death Chamber this year, but I am not sure how it will perform in cold weather yet since it has not been that cold here yet. I like volume. I like a grunt call that I can blow hard that doesn't blow down and turn into a duck call when I try to hit a buck that is 100 yards away or farther on a windy day. That is my number one criteria, actually. The Death Chamber does a good job there too, but there are also a few others you can blow loud. Good luck. (11-8-11)
  • What do you think of the Muddy Safeguard harness?
    Aaron from WI asks:
    I just wanted to start off by saying I love your show. It is by far the most interesting and informative one I have seen. Question: what do you think of the Muddy Outdoors Safeguard Harness? I am looking at buying a new harness and was just wondering how you like it and if there is anything in particular I should be looking for when buying a harness. Thanks!
    Winke Responds:
    Aaron, It is the first harness I have owned so I can't compare it to a lot of them on the marke from a hunting standpoint. I didn't think I would like harnesses, but once I got used to it, I like it a lot. It works great. I actually wear it under my outer layer so isn't as restrictive as it might be over a heavy jacket. It is definitely a good product. Good luck. (11-5-11)
  • Why don't you use the bino straps on the Muddy harness? Is the Monarch a good binocular?
    Kevin from TN asks:
    Hi Bill. Love the show! I am excited about your daily video blog. Keep em coming. My first question is in regards to the Muddy harness. I recently purchased my first Muddy harness and I really like the built-in bino straps; curious though as to why you don't use them. Do you find the Nikon straps just work better for you? Also, I know that you use the Prostaff 7 binos but what do you think about the Monarch 8x42? I just bought a pair on sale, (haven't gotten them yet though). Just wondering if I made a good purchase. Thanks for sharing so much of your time in the field with us.
    Winke Responds:
    Kevin, I use the Nikon straps because I often grab my binos and go with them on other missions and I don't want to have to clip the neck strap on all the time. Also, the bino straps say Nikon and our sponsor likes it when the word appears on the show for the benefit of their branding. Monarchs are OK. I have used them in the past. They are solid binoculars, definitely worth the price. The Pro Staff 7 is just a bit better built overall. Good luck (11-6-11)
  • How do you like the new Hoyt cam?
    Angelo from TN asks:
    Hello Bill have you shot the new hoyt bows if so which one is better in your eyes smooth draw accuracy and speed the 2012 , 2011 CRX 32,35 or the new 2012 Vector series or Carbon Series RKT cams. I have shot hoyts and will not ever shot anything but just for hunting what would you prefer I am looking to buy a new bow my last one shots like a dream not fast but in 4 years 8 deer i have never missed. I probably just jyxned myself i am a lefty but do everything right handed diddnt know my eye dominance until my father in law dad was watching me shoot. He is on the pro staff for hoyt and my father in law was going to the olympics for hoyt i have always shot a gun right handed but a bow right handed and was haveing trouble shooting until he helped me out. Its hard to find left handed bows so i was wondering if i could ever go back i like lefty and comfortable. I was wondering if you would ever do a Mid West Whitetail Southeast? I know Tennessee has average deer some big ones not like mid-we
    Winke Responds:
    Angelo, I like the 2012 bows with the smooth RTK cam. It is plenty fast enough. Give them a few shots and I am sure you will agree. It is a great cam system. Good luck. (11-5-11)
  • Noticed you were using the Pack Rack; why do you use it? Does it sound realistic enough?
    James from MN asks:
    Bill -- I think I recall seeing you use the "Pack-Rack" rattling antlers on one of the shows. If that is true, why did you choose that as opposed to shed antlers? I currently use shed antlers for the realistic sound, but they are an inconvenience to carry in. Just wondering what your thoughts are on deer reactions to both options. Thanks and love the show/website!!!
    Winke Responds:
    James, I think the Pack Rack sounds enough like real to fool bucks and it is super easy to carry by comparison. They have a bit of a plastic sound to them, but not too bad if you use them right (I cover the back of each handle to make them sound deeper). Good luck. (11-3-11)
  • What do you think of the new Hoyt bows?
    Dan from MN asks:
    What do you think about Hoyt's new lineup of bows for 2012? Since you are soponsored by Hoyt have you gotten a chance to shoot the new bows before they were released to the public?
    Winke Responds:
    Dan, I am supposed to be getting one this week. I have not shot them yet. I understand they are quite a bit like the CRX and the Carbon bows from last year, but with smoother cams. I will test the bow and report on it on the show when I get it. Have a great season. (11-1-11)
  • Does Muddy make a youth sized safety harness?
    Tim from MI asks:
    Bill, does Muddy make a safety harness for youth hunters? 50 - 100 lbs? My 8 year old will be hunting with me next year but likes to come along on hunts with me this season. I usually try and keep him in the enclosed "Buddy" style stands but would like to take him to some of my better rut stands. Love the show! It's about to cut lose here in Michigan this weekend, finally getting rid of the heat and high winds.
    Winke Responds:
    Tim, Yes, our kids use them all the time. They work great. This will be a good week - toward the end of the week. Good luck.
  • I am looking at buying a Muddy Harness so I can carry the sticks in the stick holders. Will the sticks be in the way of the linesman's belt? How about my fanny pack?
    Kent from IA asks:
    Bill, I am thinking about buying the muddy harness so that I can use the stick holders for the Muddy sticks. Have you tried the holders? I am concerned that the sticks will get in the way of my fanny pack, legs, and my lineman's rope when it is wrapped around the tree when climbing?
    Winke Responds:
    Kent, The sticks will be clear of the linesman's rope but depending on which fanny pack you use, they sticks might interfere with the pack. If you wear the pack backwards so it snaps in the front when climbing (that is the way I do it) you should fine with most packs. Only way to know for sure is to go to a Muddy dealer and see if it all fits. Good luck.
  • Are all the bucks out of velvet here in IL? What calls are you going to use this year?
    drew from IL asks:
    Are all of the bucks here in il completely out of velvet? when do pre rut activities start picking up? what calls do you prefer during what periods of the rut? Thank you.
    Winke Responds:
    Drew, Yes, they are usually out of velvet by about September 10 or 12 at the latest each year (most are out by September 6 or 7). I like the grunt calls. I am trying the new Death Chamber from Knight & Hale this year because it holds it tone when you blow it loud and I like a grunt call I can blow loud so deer in the distancde or on windy days can hear me. Good luck.
  • What safety system do you use when climbing up to place a tree stand?
    jordan from IN asks:
    Im sure you've said it somewhere but since i dont know im just going to ask. In your last show on tv i noticed you using some kind of harness and a rope or something to keep you on the tree while you were hanging your stand and i was just wondering what those were.
    Winke Responds:
    Jordan, It is a Muddy harness with the Lineman's rope. I use it every time I place a tree stand now and I use the Safeline when I climb up and down while hunting. Good luck.
  • Have you tried the Pack Rack? How does it compare to real antlers?
    Luke from MN asks:
    Hey Bill. It's Luke again. I was just wondering, have you ever used the Knight and Hale Pack Rack? If so how does it perform compared to just a rattling bag or antlers? Keep up the good work with the show.
    Winke Responds:
    Luke, I love that thing. I don't like carrying antlers, but that Pack Rack has a good sound and is very portable. I think it is louder than a rattle bag and nearly as loud as real antlers. Maybe it is just as loud as antlers. The Magnum model is very loud. Thanks for your support. Good luck.
  • What do you think about the Frigid Forage Wallhanger blend?
    Jeff from IL asks:
    Bill, just wondering what your experiences have been with Wallhanger from Frigid Forage. Wanting to turn this plot of mine into a clover plot in the spring but also have good forage for this fall. I'm assuming PH and fertilizer is key with this blend just like all clovers, correct? I'd just like to know what you think about it. Thanks
    Winke Responds:
    Jeff, If you plant it now, you will get benefit from the brassicas this fall and then the clover will take over in the second and third years. You may even get a fourth season out of it, but for sure you will get three. I have not tried this blend, but I have used Big N Beasty (FF's brassica blend) and their clover blend and both have produced well for me. So I see no reason why this blend (which is essentially a mix of the two) would be any different. You will need to fertilize per the bag (requires some nitrogen to get the brassicas going well) with PH from 6.5 to 7. I think if you want to get good fall forage and a couple of years of good clover from the same site, this is a good mix to get that started. Good luck.
  • How is Frigid Forage different from Biologic?
    Jeff Butler from IL asks:
    Why Frigid Forage vs other companies like Biologic? I've used Biologic products in the past and had great luck with them but you caught my attention on the Frigid Forage products. Can you explain why they are better or different? Thanks
    Winke Responds:
    Jeff, I am not sure if there is a huge difference. I have planted biologic in the past but the thing I like about Frigid Forage (beyond the fact that they pay me for the show sponsorship) is that their blend has a wide variety of seeds types so that in almost any conditons, you should get something to grow. I have had total crop failures with some food plot seeds and blends that were too narrow in their variety. Both Biologic and Frigid Forage Big N Beasty will produce good tonnage for late season hunting.
  • Which Nikon spotting scope do you use?
    Aaron from GA asks:
    I am looking at purchasing a nikon spotting scope. Just curious what model you use and what power you have? Love the shows. Keep up the great work!!!! P.s. you don't have one laying around you would like to sell do you?
    Winke Responds:
    Aaron, I have a couple different ones. They recently sent me an EDG model to play with. Very impressive. However, prior to that I carried the Spotter XL II on a few hunts. It is a step down from the Pro Staff scopes, I believe, but it did a nice job in average conditions. If you will spend a lot of time behind the scope (I have been on some hunts out west and up into parts of Canada where I literally spent hours each day looking through the scope) I would go for a higher end product. You will be glad you did. The difference is small but noticeable in aspects like clarity and brightness. 48X is enough for most situations, but if you have a way to keep it very steady (sandbags or heavy weights hung fron your tripod) the 60X is great for long range field judging. I once used a 60X scope to field judge woodland caribou at 2 miles when hunting up in Newfoundland. It was amazing to see the clarity of high end optics at this distance. Saved a ton of walking. I had better hold onto the ones I have. Good luck.
  • Will Frigid Forage products work just as well in South Africa as they do in the United States?
    Benjamin from OT asks:
    I am from South Africa and do you think that fridgid forage products would work outside of the states? I watch every episode and never miss one, keep up the the good work and thanks for all th advice on shooting form and technical problems.
    Winke Responds:
    Benjamin, I am happy that you found us. I spoke with Pete Shepley recently and he said that bowhunting and archery are really taking off in South Africa. He had just gotten back from a trip over there. I was surprised (and happy) to find that it was doing so well. I am guessing that given the correct rainfall, the Frigid Forage will do just as well there as here. I believe your climate is not much different from parts of the Midwest. As with here, you have to be sure the soil conditions are correct, so some kind of soil test is a great starting point. If you follow the bag's instructions you should do fine. I would be curious to hear how it works for you. Good luck and thanks for your support.
  • How do you carry your Nikon Rangefinder to keep them away from the bowstring?
    Aaron from NJ asks:
    Bill, Absolutely love the show & website! Keep up the great work. Quick, dumb question for you. How do you keep your rangefinder close at hand yet out of the way of your bowstring? Do you simply hang it around your neck on a lanyard or do you clip it on the bino straps on your Muddy harness or do you do something completely different? Just trying to figure out how to carry mine and keep it close at hand yet out of the way of the bow string. Thanks!
    Winke Responds:
    Aaron, I just hang it by the lanyard. If you try it, you will see that it easily clears the bowstring. The only time you might get in trouble is if you bend way over to shoot, but even then I think it will be well below the string. I have carried it that way for many years without incident while hunting all species all over the country. However, I have not tried to be overly creative in my approach. You may come up with a much better idea than my simple approach. Good luck and thanks for the support.
  • Is Muddy going to offer a special price for Midwest Whitetail viewers? Which fluid head do you think is the best?
    scott from MI asks:
    Hey Bill I thought at one time Muddy was giving some kind of a deal through midwest whitetail. I could be wrong, but I thought I remember you saying something about it. I was just thinking about buying a camera arm from them and was wondering if there was a way of getting a percentage off? Also what is the best head that you would recommend? Thanks bill love the show!
    Winke Responds:
    Scott, The pro staff, of course, gets a nice discount on Muddy gear, but I don't think there was ever any talk of a wider discount. Larry may have some inventory at some point he wants to clear and I am guessing he would give us first crack to move the gear, but that is not the case right now. We like the 701HDV from Manfrotto for a basic head for small to mid-sized cameras. It is not the smoothest out there, but it is affordable and does a good job. We use the bigger heads for the bigger cameras, but they are not necessary unless you are looking to do professional work where smoothness really matters. Good luck.
  • Where can I get Fuse strings here in Maine?
    Jeff from ME asks:
    Hey Bill, I wrote to you awile ago about the deer in Maine, and thank you for your imput. I have another question about my bow. I have an alphamax 32 and I love it. I was wondering were i can order new Fuse strings for it. Ive looked around and cant seem to find a place to order them. Do you have a place around you that you get them or do you order them? Any info would be appreciated Thanks.
    Winke Responds:
    Jeff, That is a great bow. I believe that all Hoyt dealers are also Fuse dealers. Fuse is made by Hoyt. Hoyt dealers should be able to order the Fuse string for you. They are very good strings. I have tried many custom strings and these will hang with any of them. If they didn't, I wouldn't put them on my bow. The string is such an important accessory - possibly the most important accessory on your bow. Good luck.
  • Which grunt call do you prefer?
    Raymond from NC asks:
    Hey Bill Im a big fan of the show. I was wondering which grunt call you preferred? I also think it would be a good idea to do a show segment on grunt calls and calling to help the viewers out. SHow techniques such as agressive grunting and ratteling during the rut.
    Winke Responds:
    Raymond, Thanks for the support. We have a TV show already scheduled for this fall on grunt calling. I like grunt calls you can blow loud without distorting the tone. Typically, I have a hard time getting passing deer to hear my grunts on windy days. I think is the low pitch. They often respond to the snort wheeze because it is shrill and high pitched, but it can be hard to project a grunt loud enough to get their attention. That is my number one criteria. We have added Knight & Hale to our sponsor list and I am excited to see that they have a grunt call you can blow loud and soft. So that is the one I will be using this year.
  • Are the Muddy hang-on stands quiet in cold weather?
    MIke from ON asks:
    Hey Bill. I was just curious about Some of the Muddy stands. Are all of the "hang on stands" aluminum and if so do they make alot of noise at very low temperatures. I was also wondering how cold they would be on my feet and whatever other parts I may touch while in a hunting situation.
    Winke Responds:
    Mike, Some are aluminum and some are steel. I think both will be equally cold when it cold out. However, good boots (and sitting part of the time) will help to keep your feet warm regardless of what you are standing on. The stands don't squeak in my experience. You just have make sure you sweep the snow off the platform and the bottoms of your boots when you get in to be sure there is no crunching noise. If they squeak it is because they are mounted on the tree wrong with the upright bar making contact with the bark rather than just the prongs. That will cause squeaking in any stand.
  • What is the make/model of the pack that appears behind you during the interviews on your show?
    Bob from IA asks:
    What make/model is the pack that you have hanging behind you during your show? Do you use this pack? It seems, especially as the season gets later, that I always need a larger pack. That one looks interesting. Thanks.
    Winke Responds:
    Bob, That is a Bone Collector from Black's Creek. I am not sure if they still use the same name for the pack, but that is what the one I have there is called. Good luck.
  • Is a four-pack of Muddy sticks enough to reach 20 feet?
    Jeff from IN asks:
    Bill- I'm looking at getting some of the Muddy climbing sticks. Does the 4-pack allow you to get high enough? I think AMA standard is 20" between steps which would only give you 14 feet or so, right? I like this concept and will likely get some, I just need to know if 4 is enough. I usually hunt 20-25 feet high.
    Winke Responds:
    Jeff, They are sold out of sticks for the fall. A four pack is probably not enough. I carry five when I am putting them out. Better luck next year on the Muddy sticks.
  • How can I find your sponsor's products in my area?
    joe from IL asks:
    I noticed that with the exception of Nikon and Realtree most of the sponsors (Hoyt, Frigid, Muddy, Fuse etc...) of the show are not availible from Bass Pro, Cabela's, or Gander Mountain and kind of tought to find in my area. What gives?
    Winke Responds:
    Joe, I sure didn't do that on purpose. Hoyt sells only through independent dealers, so check their dealer locator on their website for the nearest Hoyt dealer. You can order from Frigid Forage directly off their website. www.frigidforage.com. They have some great products that we have had very good success with this year. Muddy is also sold direct (www.gomuddy.com), but will increasingly be sold through the same dealers that handle Hoyt bows. Fuse is sold through Hoyt dealers - it is actually an accessory line made by Hoyt. I hope that helps. Thanks for supporting these guys. Without them, Midwest Whitetail would not exist.
  • Would the Nikon Riflehunter 1000 rangefinder work for bowhunting?
    Trevor from IL asks:
    Hey Bill i am a great fan of the show...I was just wonderin what u thought about the Nikon RifleHunter 1000 rangefinder for shooting long distances and also for bow hunting, Thanks
    Winke Responds:
    Trevor, I have never tried that rangefinder, but looking at the specs, it appears that this rangefinder and the bowhunting models have the same magnification and field of view. Both are accurate to .1 yards, so I see no reason not to buy the Riflehunter.
  • How can I order Muddy products if they are sold out all the time?
    Bailey from AL asks:
    Dear Bill, how can i receive muddy products if have been sold out on the online store for 4 or 5 months?
    Winke Responds:
    Bailey, You just have to wait. I think they are getting the new products in over the course of the next few weeks. I just talked to Larry about an hour ago and he was at the warehouse preparing for the first shipments.
  • How do you go about getting sponsors?
    Brian from MO asks:
    Hey Bill, love the show. How much does a major sponser contribute to a show? Is it money and gear? How does someone get in front of these companies? I understand its not an easy feat for someone to just do, I am just curious about the way it works. Any insight would be greatly appreciated. Thanks
    Winke Responds:
    Brian, Every situation is different. Getting sponsors is not easy, as you mentioned. There are many people out there looking for sponsors who don't have a proven product. Sponsors get burned out on this. The first step is to prove you can produce viewers and value for the sponsors then you have a much better sales pitch when you try to entice them to support your project. Good luck.
  • What camo pattern do you reccommend?
    Ian from OH asks:
    Hey Bill, I am from southern Ohio, and I was wondering what como pattern best suits you. We have all of the same surroundings that you have, that I have seen from your videos. So, what would you recommend?
    Winke Responds:
    Ian, I am partial to a mid-tone pattern such as Realtree AP for most hardwood hunting conditions. It is the most popular pattern they have ever created and it works well.
  • Is there a connection between Muddy Outdoors and Loggy Bayou? The products are similar.
    Kurt from PA asks:
    Looking at the Muddy Outdoors treestands and safety harness, they look very similar to the Loggy Bayou Predator treestand and the Loggy Bayou harness. Did the owner of Muddy outdoors have a history with Loggy Bayou Treestands?
    Winke Responds:
    Kurt, There is some history there. I won't go into it as it is water under the bridge. They are two totally separate companies with totally different people, but with a resemblance in product lines.
  • Is four Muddy sticks enough to get 20 feet up a tree?
    Chad from MN asks:
    Bill, I have been reviewing the Muddy climbing sticks, but I am curious if a 4-pack is enough to get a person 20 feet in the air. What are your thoughts?
    Winke Responds:
    Chad, No you would probably need five for that. I think with proper spacing and maybe a single tree step, you should be able to make 20 feet wtih five of them.
  • Will an electric UTV (like a Bad Boy Buggy) work for pushing snow during the winter?
    Luke from WI asks:
    I am thinking about buying a UTV to use for hunting and plowing my driveway, how do you think a bad boy buggie would hold up to heavy use in the winter? Do you know if I would have to keep the batteries warm, or in a heated garage? Thanks for your help. PS I love the show!
    Winke Responds:
    Luke, For sure any electric vehicle will do better if the batteries are warm. Any appliance, even a flashlight, will have better battery life when the batteries are warm. I don't think I would buy a UTV to use as a snow plow excessively. They just aren't built for that kind of use. Occassionally (a couple of times per winter) is fine, but not every week. You would be better off getting a blade for your truck. They work great for hunting. I would be reluctant to use them for pushing snow very much.
  • Do you get new gear each season?
    Justin Shirar from IN asks:
    Bill, Was wondering if each season you and the prostaff get new gear, such as bows,arrows,guns, etc. What happens to the older gear? Do you return it? Auction it off? I was just wondering it seams the hunting industry comes out with something new each year. I enjoy it, and would definatly love to get something newer, but finances. We love your shows kids can't wait to see new episodes each week! They love the youth hunts! Any tips on getting something newer in the hunting catagory? How far back should we stay away from? Say, bows that are 2-4 yrs. old? Mine is 6 now, and been pulling my hair out to up-grade. Thanks Justin
    Winke Responds:
    Justin, That is a good question. I guess we'll find out more next year. I am guessing that we will keep using the stuff we have now (at least for a few more years) as it is a big job getting upgraded stuff each year. The pro staff has to buy them like everyone else, so it is tough to justify upgrading when the current product is so new. I got one of my favorite bows (a Hoyt UltraTec) back in October of 2002 and have shot it every year since then until this season when I'll be using the AlphaMax 35. So, the bow doesn't have to be brand new to perform well. If you are looking for an upgrade that is budget friendly, I think you would like the UltraTec. I'm guessing they are pretty reasonable on ebay. Good luck.
  • Can you recommend a good basic, affordable rangefinder?
    Keith from IL asks:
    Hi Bill, I was wondering what would be a good type of rangefinder to get. I don't want to spend very much money... I just want a basic rangefinder that gives me approximate distances (it can be + or - a few yards as long as it is close). I know you guys are supported by nikon, so it will be hard for you to recommend something else, but what do you honestly think would be the best rangefinder for me? Thanks, and God Bless!
    Winke Responds:
    Keith, I have used only two rangefinders in my entire life, a Bushnell Yardage Pro 600 that came out about 1997, and the Nikon series. Nikon makes the Pro Staff 550 that is under $200 and I see Bushnell has a couple that are also under $200. Not having used either of them, I would have a hard time telling you what I like or don't like about them. It would probably be best if you went to a big store like Cabela's or Bass Pro and tried them both. Look for things like field of view (I like a big field of view for finding the animal quickly) and ease of operation. I want rangefinders that I can handle quickly and easily.
  • Looking for a job working for Muddy Outdoors.
    Dustin from IA asks:
    Hi I just noticed from reading one of the other questions that you said one of the kids works for Muddy Outdoors. Muddy outdoors is not located in Iowa though so if he lives around your area what does he do? The reason I ask is because I am around his age and was wondering if there were jobs in my area also. Thanks.
    Winke Responds:
    Dustin, Actually, Larry moved the headquarters of Muddy to Iowa. He still maintains the shipping warehouse in southern MO. Chad works the telephone for Larry, calling on dealers. He also takes the Muddy booth to all the designated consumer shows, such as the Deer Classics all over the Midwest. I can't speak for Muddy on the job front. It is worth sending Larry an e-mail use the address on the website. Good luck. Thanks for your support.
  • What about the Bad Boy Buggy?
    Shane from WI asks:
    Hey Bill I've been following the show all season and I want to say great job and keep it up. My question is about bad boy buggies. My father and I are considering buy one but I have some concerns. We have a small property in SW wisconsin and as you know the terrain is very hilly. We have good trails throughout that our current 4-wheeler works great for. My question is in your opionion do bad boy buggies handle this type of terrain as well as a gas powered 4-wheeler.We also put in food plots using our 4-wheeler ( nothing big about 4 1/2 plots) and a summit disc. Our 4-wheeler works great for this also, but I just wanted your optionon using a bad boy for this.
    Winke Responds:
    Shane, The Buggy has a great deal of power and will handle that terrain with ease. It is a big bigger than a 4 wheeler, as I'm sure you noticed. I am sure it has the power to handle the field work. It will need to be charged occassionaly and likely won't work the ground for an entire day without a charge. So if you are used to going all day, you likely wouldn't be able to do that. I love them because of the silence and also use the canopy so my scent is better contained. I just can't think of a better way to slip in and out of my hunting area. Good luck. Bill
  • Bad Boy Buggy in the Snow
    Matt from NY asks:
    First off I watch your show religiously and am waiting for you to have a contest to invite some of us fans out for one of your monster hunts... My question is about your Bad Boy Buggy. I currently hunt in Ellicotville, NY which is our big ski country. If you look at a map you will notice it is all mountains and as of right now we have received 89&amp;quot; of snow so far with about 2.5' still there. I want to know how well your buggy holds up in the deep snow. I was planning on getting a wheeler but don't think it could handle the deep snow or incline. Right now I am walking about a mile uphill with my climber and gear. Most days I walk in with just my thermals on since it is such a tough trek. I figured a true review from a pro on the buggy would help me make up my mind. Thanks!!!
    Winke Responds:
    Matt, The Buggy is heavy so it would sink down into the snow. It is powerful with full time four wheel drive and two electric motors. The thing will go almost anywhere. However, I am not sure it would plow through 2 1/2 feet of snow uphills for a mile. That is a tall task for any kind of vehicle short of a snowmobile. You might have to make some kind of trail first. Now you just need to manufacture an all-electric snow mobile. That would be a project. To answer your question, that is a lot of dang snow. It might work and it might not. My guess is that it would, but I have never put it to that kind of test. I would be cautious. They are awesome under other conditions. We use this one for everything. I love it. Bill