EP.458: What Drone Research Teaches Us About Mature Buck Behavior

In this episode of the Truth From The Stand podcast, I sit down with Derrick Dixon to dig into some next-level whitetail insights. Derrick has been blending old-school woodsmanship with cutting-edge drone research, and what he’s uncovering about deer behavior—especially around wind shifts, thermals, and how individual bucks move—is flat-out fascinating. We talk about the legacy of land management, the balance between hunting and photography, and those “aha” moments you only get from being in the field day after day. From pre-rut patterns to the chaos of peak rut, Derrick lays out strategies that prove the value of scouting, adaptability, and keeping things hands-on, no matter how much technology you use. WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PODCAST 458 The move from hunting to wildlife photography opened the door to deeper research opportunities. Using drones has revealed new details about deer movement, wind shifts, and unique individual behaviors. Bucks often show personality-driven patterns—home range size, trail use, and scent-checking habits all vary. Thermals and wind shifts play a massive role in how and when deer move. Scouting looks very different in ag country compared to hill country, and both require adaptability. Technology is useful, but nothing replaces boots-on-the-ground experience and field time. SHOW NOTES AND LINKS: — Truth From The Stand Merch —Check out Tactacam Reveal cell cameras — Save 15% on Hawke Optics code TFTS15 — Save 20% on ASIO GEAR code TRUTH20 —Check out Spartan Forge to map your hunt —Save on Lathrop And Sons non-typical insoles code TRUTH10 —Check out Faceoff E-Bikes — Waypoint TV Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices