hosted by eva shockey

THE OUTDOOR CHALLENGE

THE OUTDOOR CHALLENGE

09.12 - 09.29

My family is a Stealth Cam fam. They’re all my Dad ever used, and now they’re all the Brent family uses too! The quality and ease of use are top-notch, and their wireless/cellular option?! GAME. CHANGER. I’m talking about looking at big bucks LIVE from the comfort of your couch. 

Okay. Okay. Maybe that is being lazy (or is it?), but there are a lot of benefits to utilizing this option. The Stealth Wireless Cellular Trail Cameras are truly changing the modern scouting game forever, and here’s why:





Getting high-quality photos and videos uploaded straight to your phone is amazing! Yes, this miiiiight sound lazy, but I promise there are actual benefits! For example, the more you hike to your cameras and check them in the field, the more you disrupt the grounds. And tracking in your own scent each time you check your cameras could decrease the wild game traffic. With the Stealth Cam Wireless Camera option, you can eliminate the chances of that happening, and for me, that's a win! And here’s another bonus for ya - With the Stealth Cam app, you can view ALL of your camera's photos from ONE place! So nice!




With the Stealth Cam app, you instantly receive pictures on your phone! Having multiple cameras during your hunt lets you see if a deer is heading your way. Modern luxury? Yes, maybe. Do I love it? Also, yes. Those extra eyes in the woods could be just what you need to harvest that deer!



This one can really be a pain. Have you ever checked your cameras to find that you have 1 MILLION pictures of tall grass or shadows? Well, as frustrating as that could be, it's even more frustrating to find that your SD card is FULL and can’t take any more photos! Womp, womppp! Buuuuuuuut, by using the Stealth Cam app, you’re able to manage your storage and delete images right from your phone so that you never max out on storage.



In the off-season, I like to use our Stealth Cams for security around our property. Setting these up in our driveway or places we wouldn’t typically get any traffic is a great way to keep tabs on the home. 

Eeeek! It’s FINALLY time for Challenge #1! First thing’s first, I want to THANK YOU all from the bottom of my heart for participating in the challenge. This is something I’ve wanted to put together for a looooong time, and I am so excited that we are finally here. Sooooo, let's get into it!

The first challenge is all about trail cams and patterning wild game! Checking my trail cameras gets me excited for my first sit of the season, AND it gets the kids and me OUTDOORS! What could be better?! 

Before we get to the challenge part, I’m going to give you the details on my personal favorite trail cams, followed by some tips & tricks on where to place your cams. 

Challenge 1:

Patterning Wildlife with Trail Cameras

Step one:

watch eva's video walking you through the challenge

My family is a Stealth Cam fam. They’re all my Dad ever used, and now they’re all the Brent family uses too! The quality and ease of use are top-notch, and their wireless/cellular option?! GAME. CHANGER. I’m talking about looking at big bucks LIVE from the comfort of your couch. 

Okay. Okay. Maybe that is being lazy (or is it?), but there are a lot of benefits to utilizing this option. The Stealth Wireless Cellular Trail Cameras are truly changing the modern scouting game forever, and here’s why:



Getting high-quality photos and videos uploaded straight to your phone is amazing! Yes, this miiiiight sound lazy, but I promise there are actual benefits! For example, the more you hike to your cameras and check them in the field, the more you disrupt the grounds. And tracking in your own scent each time you check your cameras could decrease the wild game traffic. With the Stealth Cam Wireless Camera option, you can eliminate the chances of that happening, and for me, that's a win! And here’s another bonus for ya - With the Stealth Cam app, you can view ALL of your camera's photos from ONE place! So nice!



With the Stealth Cam app, you instantly receive pictures on your phone! Having multiple cameras during your hunt lets you see if a deer is heading your way. Modern luxury? Yes, maybe. Do I love it? Also, yes. Those extra eyes in the woods could be just what you need to harvest that deer!



This one can really be a pain. Have you ever checked your cameras to find that you have 1 MILLION pictures of tall grass or shadows? Well, as frustrating as that could be, it's even more frustrating to find that your SD card is FULL and can’t take any more photos! Womp, womppp! Buuuuuuuut, by using the Stealth Cam app, you’re able to manage your storage and delete images right from your phone so that you never max out on storage.



In the off-season, I like to use our Stealth Cams for security around our property. Setting these up in our driveway or places we wouldn’t typically get any traffic is a great way to keep tabs on the home. 

You can check your cam from the couch (or anywhere)!

You can monitor the hunting grounds DURING your hunt!

storage

security

Now, in order to get a shot (pun intended) of those big bucks on cam, placement is KEY! 


Consider the time of year: If you plan to monitor your cam all year round, it’s important to remember that a deer's pattern will change throughout the year. In the spring and early summer, deer are more social and might follow the same pattern over and over. In this case, placing the cams near a water source or food sources like corn fields, food plots, or minerals would be most beneficial. This is an excellent time to get a feel for what's coming this fall! 

Once fall approaches, you can swap locations! This is when the weather cools, and the rut is about to start. Now is a good time to find those heavily used trails between bedding and food/water. Remember, as the seasons change, so do their food source. During this time of the year, deer love acorns, so that’s also a good thing to keep in mind when placing your cams. You can also place your cams near scrapes or rubs! 

Consider your tree placement: When you have your cam location picked, it's time to find a tree! Be sure to place the camera about 10 feet away from where you think the deer will cross; this gives you a better chance of catching the whole deer on cam. If you place your camera right along a path, there’s a preeeeetty good chance that you will get a nice close-up of the deer's side or back (not exactly what we want)! You also want to place the camera level with a deer's height!

Make sure everything is in working order: Before leaving your camera out in the wild, ensure it's working properly and has new batteries/SD card. If you are using the wireless Stealth Cams, you should get notified as you’re setting up with a nice close-up of yourself, ensuring everything is working correctly. SAY CHEESE!

Clear the area around your camera: Remember the tall grass we talked about? Be sure to clear the area around the camera by cutting down any hanging branches or clearing tall grass. This will reduce the chances of those pesky pictures of weeds. In this case, wireless cams come in handy. In the summer, when everything is overgrown, having images sent to your phone daily lets you know when it's time to manage your trail cam area before it's too late!

Where To Place Trail Cameras:

Now while the wireless feature is great, using cameras that are NOT wireless is still better than nothing! To be honest, I really enjoy taking a hike with the kids to check my cameras. It’s the perfect reason to get OUTDOORS, with or without the kiddos. 

SO, are you y’all ready to get some fresh air?! HERE’S YOUR CHALLENGE

I know I am because this one is my FAVORITE! Today’s challenge is all about ARCHERY! To start off, let’s do a little Archery 101 for those starting out (and a little refresher for those seasoned vets).

Ya’ll know that archery has my HEART so let’s talk bows. If you don’t have a bow yet, you can head to your local Bass Pro, Cabela’s, or archery shop, and they can help you get started! Not all bows are created equal, and you want one that fits YOU. What does that mean? Each person will have their own draw length and draw weight. The bow shops will help you with both, but in a nutshell…

Challenge 2:

Archery 101

First thing's first...

watch eva's video walking you through the challenge

The draw length is the distance from your bow to the end of the string when it's pulled back. This is important because each bow has a certain stopping point at which the bow will “stop” when pulled back. This length will need to fit YOU and YOUR body. Your draw length will also determine the length of your arrows - your local bow shop can help with this!

draw length

Here's my bow set up with all the attachments I use!
Save this photo for easy future reference.

Now it’s time to practice, practice, practice! I cannot say it enough, focus on being CONSISTENT with every single step. One thing that might be difficult is learning when to stop and REST for the night. Once you notice you might be sacrificing your form, it's time to take a break.

If you haven’t practiced throughout the year, it would be a good idea to practice a few times a week. Not only to get dialed in for your first hunt but also to get those muscles workin’! You might be surprised at how much you can feel it after shooting for the first time in a while!
 

Who is ready for Challenge #2?

The draw length is the distance from your bow to the end of the string when it's pulled back. This is important because each bow has a certain stopping point at which the bow will “stop” when pulled back. This length will need to fit YOU and YOUR body. Your draw length will also determine the length of your arrows - your local bow shop can help with this!

draw length

The draw weight is basically the poundage needed to pull the bow back. This is also super important because not all bows have the same weight capabilities. For example, if YOU are only capable of pulling back 40 pounds, you probably won’t be able to draw back a bow that can only pull back 60 pounds or heavier. This is also an important number to consider depending on the wild game you’re hunting!

draw Weight

Another helpful tip is to simply practice drawing your bow back and slowly letting the bow down. You will actually gain a lot of muscle by doing this, so it's a great exercise to get ya ready! P.S. there miiiight be more on how you can get in shape for your hunt coming later on in the challenge! More on that to come…

KAY! It’s time to get this challenge started! 

Bow Maintenance

Before you start practicing, you need to do a little bow maintenance! So here’s a quick list of things to cover before you get started.

  • Ensure that your bow was stored properly (in a case, away from high heat and water).
  • Do a mini inspection of your bow for any damages.
  • Check your bow’s strings & regularly wax the strings.
  • Check that the nuts, bolts & screws are tight.
  • Ensure arrows are all set up (fletching, broadheads, etc.).

Archery 101: Tips & Tricks

 Tip #1: Master Your Stance!

  • For a proper stance, you want your feet shoulder-width apart and perpendicular to the target. For added stability, point your toes slightly outward and place your right foot (if you’re shooting right-handed) a tad bit in front of your left to open up your stance to the target. This will also help decrease the chances of the string hitting your arm when you shoot!
  • Find the stance that’s most comfortable for you and once you have it down, ALWAYS find that same stance when you’re about to shoot. Consistency, consistency, consistency!

Tip #2: Anchor Up

  • Now that you’re in the proper stance, it’s time to draw your bow!
  • First thing’s first, let’s knock an arrow. Place the knock straight back onto the D loop until you hear/feel it click. Each arrow will have an odd vein or wing, and the odd one will always face UP! 
  • Next up is your grip! When you place your hand on your grip, you will use your palm only to push the bow out, versus wrapping your fingers around your bow. You can place your fingers straight out (out of the way of the arrow of course!) or bend your fingers at your knuckles.
  • Now let’s draw back! Raise your bow so it's right in front of you, and hook your release. Keeping your bow straight in front of you (vs up or down) use your opposite hand to draw straight back so your stance is now T-shaped; try not to bend your body at your hips while drawing back! 
  • Find your anchor point! Your anchor point will be wherever you place your string on your face. There is no exact point for you to place it, but the key is to be consistent! Find a place that is comfortable for YOU. For example, you can place the string on the corner of your mouth and/or rest the string on the tip of your nose. Like I said, the KEY is to be consistent with where you place both the string and your hand/release. 

Tip #3: Let 'Em Flyyyyy!

  • Remember to relax your hand on the grip, using only your palm to push the bow out. Avoid hyperextending your elbow, and leave a slight bend in your arm to ensure the string doesn’t hit your arm when you shoot. Truuuuust me, that doesn’t feel great!
  • Aim steady, and aim small! Then, gently pull the trigger on the release and let that arrow flyyyyy!
  • Focus on follow-through! After you pull the trigger, you will want to focus on holding still until that arrow smacks the target; this ensures you don’t jerk before or while you’re pulling the trigger and keeps you niiiiice and steady!
  • This is one that some people forget, buuuut it's also crucial to practice shooting the same way you will be shooting during a hunt. If you’ll be high up in a stand, practice shooting from a stand, a deck, or somewhere higher than your target. If you’re hunting from the ground, you might even need to practice from your knees. I know, I know, this kind of throws a wrench in your form, but just place your knees like you would place your feet! Whatever way you will be positioned in your hunt is how you’ll want to practice as well!

People ask me aaaall the time if I prefer a bow or a rifle. The truth is, I literally cannot choose. I LOVE LOVE LOVE shooting my bow. Howeverrr, I grew up shooting a gun and that’s how I learned to hunt, so I guess they both have my heart! Both are amazing for different reasons, but with a rifle, you have sooo much more flexibility, you can cover more distance, and it often comes with a higher success rate.  

Before I challenge y’all to go shoot your firearm, I put together a quick checklist of what you should know, as well as some tips and tricks on becoming a straight-shooter! Let’s do this!

If you’re looking for rifle recommendations, I highly suggest Daniel Defense. The last few years I’ve used Daniel Defense and Christensen Arms and they each have great options!

BONUS!

Let's talk Rifles!

I won’t get into all of the nitty gritty details here, but there are TONS of good YouTube videos on how to properly clean your rifle. Once your firearm is clean and ready, it’s time to head to the range. It’s also good to note that a gun will actually shoot differently when it’s freshly cleaned, vs fouled, and you shouldn’t head into a hunt with a clean bore. (Fouled just means that it has been shot a few times, so it is no longer clean.) You will actually notice increased accuracy after shooting a few rounds through it!

It’s time for a little BONUS challenge for all you rifle hunters!

Before you head into the season, you will need to do a bit of prep work to get your rifle ready:

Time to Get Cleaning 

No matter what firearm you choose, you’re gonna wanna snag these! Whether you’re sitting, kneeling, or standing, the Primos Trigger Stick Gen 3 Tripod Shooting Stick is perfect for your next hunt. This lightweight, height-adjustable tripod will get you nice and comfy and ready to make that shot! To go along with the tripod, I have my go-to scope, the Leupold VX-3HD Rifle Scope! From spotting that big buck in the scope to pulling the trigger, this Leupold scope has you covered from dusk to dawn. 

My Favorite Accessories  

This is SUPER important to do before every season. When your rifle gets bumped around in a hunt or in the truck, the sights can get out of line. You might luck out and end up right where you want to be, but ALWAYS head to the range to make sure. Plus, who doesn’t LOVE a good range day!?

Sighting in Your Firearm

When we highlighted archery, we talked about putting yourself IN the hunt while practicing, and the same goes for practicing with your rifle. In the woods, you’ll most likely be sitting, standing, kneeling, or leaning on anything from trees, rocks, or a backpack, so THAT is how you want to prep for your hunt. Now before you pull that trigger, you want to get yourself as comfortable as possible and focus on your breathing. Find a position that doesn’t make your body strain; you’ll want to use as few muscles as possible. You might find yourself in position for a few minutes before you get your shot, so you don’t want to be shaking by that time (this is where that Primos Trigger Stick becomes super helpful). Once you get your shot, it's time to pull the trigger! Focus on relaxing your breathing. I know that's hard to do when your heart is beating a MILLION times a minute, but I like to take a breath in, slowly exhale about half of that breath, pause, and fire!

Let’s Talk Technique 

Now that you and your gun are ready to go, it’s time to let those bullets fly! If you’re new to hunting, you might need to shoot more rounds until you become comfortable. If you’ve been shooting for years, you might just need a few shots to get ready for the season!

Practice Makes Perfect

Ahhh, this has been SO fun for me, and I am SOOO happy you are here too. Ready to get back outdoors??? Say hello to Challenge #3!

For this challenge, we are prepping our blinds/stands! So whether you plan to hunt from a tree stand, a ground blind, or on the ground, we have aaaaall the deets on how to make the best of your spot this hunting season. There also may be an activity freebie that the whole family can do together outside!

Let’s first think about where you’re hunting this year. If you’re hunting in a field, you probably want a ground blind. If you’re hunting in the woods, a tree stand might be best for you! I’ll start by saying that all of these options are great, and they all have pros and cons. Every area is different, and what's best for you in your area might not be best for someone else! So here are some pros and cons of blinds/stands!

Challenge 3:

Prepping your blinds & stands

hunting blind pros & cons

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Are you having FUN yet?

Including the Youth 

One of my FAVORITE reasons for hunting in a blind is being able to take your kiddos along. I’m always stressing the importance of passing this lifestyle on to the next generation, and that’s definitely my priority now that Leni and Boone are in my life. Hunting in a blind makes it SO easy for youth to tag along on hunts. Being tucked in that blind allows them to get more comfortable and stay warmer, which helps them have more fun! Pssst, have I told you lately how much my kids LOVE our Hawk Blind?? I think they would live in there if I let them.

Weather Coverage 

Now I know I mentioned this helps the kiddos stay warmer, but let’s be real, this is a HUGE benefit for us adult hunters too. Nothing is worse than freezing your butt (and toes) off during a hunt or being stuck in the rain! The great part about hunting in a blind is that it gives you the coverage you need to get through a hunt. Added bonus - set up a portable heater in your blind for extra warmth! 

Movement Unseen 

We all know how easy it is to be spotted by deer or other game. However, the protection that a blind brings to the table often lets us move into position without being seen. This is especially important when bow hunting. Being able to draw back and not worry as much about being seen is SO nice, and it could be just what it takes to bring that big buck home!

Scent Coverage 

As good as deer can see, they can smell even better! So while it's always important to use scent blockers, having those four walls around you, preventing the wind from blowing your scent right at that deer, is a HUGE bonus when it comes to blinds.

Safety and Comfort 

There’s no doubt that sitting in a blind is MUCH safer than in a stand. While you should ALWAYS practice appropriate safety in a stand, blinds are just plain safer. You might also feel a lot more comfortable in a blind, or maybe you have limitations that don’t allow you to climb up in a stand... It’s extremely important to feel safe and comfortable when you are about to pull the trigger or let that arrow fly, so if a blind is where you feel the safest, then that’s what's best for you!

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD OUR FREE PRINTABLE - FALL FOREST SCAVENGER HUNT FOR KIDS!

Pros

Cons

Decreased Visibility 

While “movement unseen” is a pro as far as the deer not being able to see YOU, those four walls can also make it hard for you, as the hunter, to see the deer. This means you really gotta be on your toes and keep an eye out in all directions! 

Spooking the Game

If the deer aren’t used to your setup, they might shy away! Most times, blinds don’t exactly blend in with nature, but that doesn’t mean they can’t work! This just makes it VERY important to set up ahead of time- but we will get to that soon! 

Sooo the pros clearly outweigh the cons when it comes to blinds, but remember there is strategy in EVERY part of the hunting game. Here’s what you should think about when setting up your blind.

hunting blind strategies

Set Up Early

To avoid spooking the deer, you DEFINITELY want to ensure that your blind is set up before season opening. You want the deer to have as much time as possible to become comfortable being around the blind. Big bucks get big for a reason - they’re smart! If you get the blind set up early enough, seeing the blind will become part of their routine. If your blind won’t be permanent, I suggest getting it out there at least a month before the season. If your blind is permanent, like our Hawk Blind, then you’re set! Just make sure to get that initial setup done a month (or more) in advance as well.

Blend It In

This comes in handy more for blinds that are not permanent and need a little more help blending in last minute. Cut down some brush and place it around your blind to help it camouflage into the woods. If you’re hunting in a field, adding it into the corn fields will help it blend in and go unseen. 

Add a Decoy

Pairing your blind with a decoy or two gives the deer an added push to come around!

Placement 

Remember when we talked about placement for trail cams? More than likely you will be hunting close to where you placed your cams. To give you a recap, you’ll want to sit where you expect the most traffic. Placing yourself near a food or water source will give you a great shot at getting a shot! 

Kay! Now it’s time to chat about tree stands! While blinds have their benefits, so do tree stands!

tree stand pros & cons

Added Prep Time 

Being up in a stand allows you to get a visual of a broad area. Not only does that help if you’re in rifle season and can shoot at a further distance, but it also gives you more time to prep for your shot as the deer moves in. 

Off the Ground, Out of Sight 

Being up in a tree, versus at eye level with the deer decreases the chances of being spotted. This also gives you a little more room to move around without being seen.

Scent Range 

Once again, being high up in the air comes in handy. While a deer can still catch your scent, being higher and on a different level than them will hopefully keep your scent from hitting their nose. 


Pros

Cons

Safety

The biggest con to some is safety. It’s obvious that you should always practice safety and wear the proper harness while in a stand, but the bottom line is that tree stands can still be potentially dangerous. 

Difficult to Transport

Unless you’re using a ladder stand that will be set up all year round, some climbing stands can be difficult to carry into the woods (on top of the rest of your gear AND your weapon).

Tight Quarters

While being up high allows you to move more with a lower chance of being seen, there is little area to ACTUALLY move. Being in a stand confines you to one spot, which might not allow you the space you need to get the shot safely and/or comfortably. 

Now time for that strategy…

TREE STAND strategies

Choosing the Right Tree

Once again, you will most likely be hunting in the same area as your trail cameras, and a similar placement strategy applies to finding the right tree for your stand. Try not to pick a tree right along a trail. In reality, we have no idea where a deer will choose to walk on that particular day, but there’s a good chance it will choose the trail. Give yourself some space so you aren’t (almost literally) right on top of the deer. If you are, there’s a good chance they could smell you, and you might not have the best shot. Remember to also think about food and water sources when picking a tree. Where will the deer be heading?? Lastly, try to find a tree with a decent amount of coverage!

Stand Height

When choosing the height of your tree stand, you don’t want to be too high OR too low. Being too low allows you to be seen by deer, while being too high means you have a lot further to shoot, decreasing your chances of hitting the target (when shooting a bow). So about 20 feet off the ground should be a good height to go with!

Trim Your Surroundings

There’s a pretty good chance you will need to tidy up your surroundings. Limbs will likely be in the way of your shots, so checking your visibility before the season is a good idea. If your stand is permanent, this will need to be done routinely before every season. I suggest taking a buddy along with you. Sometimes it's nice to have someone in the stand and someone on the ground to get a more accurate visual of what limbs to trim because you don’t want to trim too much! A nice little hand saw like this is always great to have in your pack!

Camouflage Your Stand

While trimming surrounding trees, saving some of those limbs wouldn’t be a bad idea! You can use these to place and wrap around your stand to cover your stand up a bit. A little added camouflage is always great.

When to Set Up 

Just like setting up a blind, you want to set up your stand ahead of time (about a monthnor more prior). Especially if you are setting up a ladder stand, it’s good to get it out there asap! (Psst! This Ladder stand from Hawk is great!)

Bow Hangers 

Remember that limited space? If you’re using a bow, a bow hanger is probably something you want to set up with your tree stand. You want something to take the load off while you sit, but that will still allow you to grab and shoot FAST. 

Tree Stand Safety

Always, always make sure you are safe while sitting in that tree. Be sure to do routine maintenance, especially on permanent stands (check screws, bolds, straps etc.), and ALWAYS wear a harness. If you’re in need of good harness recommendations, I have you covered! These Muddy Harnesses are GREAT and I highly recommend either:

Muddy The Crossover Combo Safety Harness
Muddy The Diamondback Safety Harness

Now no matter what you plan to hunt in this year, it’s always a good idea to get out there and check everything out before the first hunt. Take your binos and range finder out and get used to your surroundings. Get used to how far certain trees or landmarks are so you’re familiar with distances when a deer approaches in season. Check your feeders! Lastly, it’s never a bad call to use scent control.

Welcome to a NEW week and NEW challenge! This challenge is one I try to keep up with aaaaall year round, but it really comes in handy during hunting season! 

Challenge #4 is to get outside and MOVE YOUR BODY! Do a workout, go for a run or walk, whatever gets you up and active!

Today we will be chatting about all the ways to stay in shape throughout the year and ways you can ensure you’re physically ready for hunting season (or for whatever outdoor adventure you find yourself on)!

First, let’s talk about tips to stay active all year round. 

Challenge 4:

Prepping your body

staying active

Ready to fuel up?!

CLICK the image below for your free printable green smoothie recipe!

It’s a Lifestyle

My biggest tip for staying in shape is treating your workouts and health like a LIFESTYLE. Don’t get me wrong, I one MILLION percent understand how difficult it is to find the time to work out and cook a healthy meal. We are constantly on the go with a bajillion things on our to do list, but I try to be as consistent as I can. Embracing the lifestyle will help you make better choices over time. 

Finding Balance and Routine

As I mentioned, life gets busy for everyone. It’s important to give yourself grace on days where you just couldn’t get to that workout. You can make it up another day! It takes a few weeks of consistent work to get a routine to stick, so being CONSISTENT over PERFECT, will keep that routine going strong. 

Whatever It Takes

Sometimes, keeping up with your routine means going for a casual walk with the family. You don’t need to break a sweat, but getting UP, and staying active in any way, for any amount of time, keeps that routine alive. Remember, it’s all about consistency!

Hunting Season Prep

Being outdoors can make a workout SO much more enjoyable. The hardest part is starting, and sometimes the idea of going for a hike sounds so much more fun than heading to the gym. I created this challenge because you and I are “happiest outdoors,” but I’m also a firm believer that we are happiest when we are healthy. Soooo combining the two is just… chef’s kiss! Now, I don’t mean that you need to go out and do 100 hill sprints, getting outdoors in the fresh air and staying active is what it’s all about. 

Like I said, staying active should be more of a lifestyle than last-minute pre-season prep, but let’s talk about specific workouts to get you physically ready for the season. 

Okay, here’s the fun part and what this challenge is aaaaalll about. 

Hit the Trails

If you’ll be hiking a lot this season, what better way to prepare than to get in those mountains ahead of time? But don’t forget, during a hunt, you’ll be carrying all your gear AND your weapon. So try carrying a full backpack or weighted vest during your hikes to get you in tip-top shape.

Biking or Rowing

Biking is another excellent form of cardio to prepare for the season. This low-impact cardio builds endurance and strength in your legs that you’ll need come that first hunt. Rowing is another form of cardio that is perfect for hunting season prep since it targets your shoulder and back muscles which you’ll need in the field!

Step-Ups

Step-ups are a really great exercise that you can do almost anywhere. Adding your weighted pack will add some resistance and build strength. Find a high ledge or rock and start steppin’! You can also hit the stair climber at your local gym!

Strength

Strength training is often forgotten but it is soo important. Lower body strength is needed to build leg muscles for hiking. Core strength is needed for carrying your gear. And upper body strength is needed to hold your weapon or pull back your bow. If you don’t have access to a gym, add weight to your pack or find some resistance bands! 

Aside from workouts, eating healthy to fuel your body is JUST as important.

fueling your body

When I’m in workout mode, I make sure I fuel my body to give me the strength and energy I need! Cooking healthy meals for my family is kiiiind of my thing. I love grilling wild game or organic meat, mixing in greens, and of course, throwing in a “healthy” treat or two sometimes. It’s all about balance, right?! You can find my go-to healthy recipes on my blog – don’t worry, I’ll dive deeper into wild game recipes later in the challenge!

For today’s challenge, let’s focus on SMOOTHIES! Smoothies and juices are how I fuel up my mornings before a hunt, workout, or just a busy day ahead! The protein and super nutrients give me the boost I need to conquer anything. I ALWAYS add MTN OPS as their protein and supplements products are designed to help you energize AND recover from any adventure you go on. I collaborated with them to develop a series you can use in your everyday life. From boosting your metabolism to nourishing your body, the three products in the series will help you feel your best.

Nooooow let’s get to the good stuff! Here is a printable recipe for my favorite healthy smoothie to help prep your body.  

It’s no secret that the past five years have been a liiittle different for Tim and me. My life used to consist of LOTS of hunting and adventures, but now that Leni and Boone are here, my adventures have slowed up a bit. But, don’t get me wrong, my kiddos are by FAR my greatest adventure, and now I get to share my passion for the outdoors with THEM!

I see so much of my younger self in Leni already; from her girly girl style to her love for the outdoors, it makes my heart SO full and happy! I want to be the BEST role model for her and show her that she can still be that girly girl while also getting dirty and slinging arrows. Speaking of slinging arrows, did you see that Leni officially has herself a big girl BOW!? It’s been so cool to see her practicing with an actuuuual bow, and it gets Tim and me so excited to see what the future holds for her. Will she be a hunter? I think/hope so!! Until then, I’ll be doing my best to teach her and Boone the importance of hunting and knowing where your food comes from! 

Challenge 5:

Get the kids outside!

This one's for the kiddos!

CLICK the image below for your free printable coloring sheet - your kids will love it!

Obviously, my kiddos are years away from being able to hunt, so while they are still in their early years, we work on the importance of getting them OUTDOORS. Luckily both of my kiddos have ALWAYS loved being outdoors and getting their hands dirty. And getting your kids outside doesn’t have to entail anything extravagant. So many day-to-day activities done indoors can easily be done outside too. 

Reading/Coloring

Grab a blanket and some books, and head outside! Set up a nice area on the lawn and read to your kiddos, OR, if they’re old enough, have them read to you! Take out some coloring books and have yourself a little art class too! We have included SUCH a cute and FUN coloring printable that your kids are going to looove. (Bonus, this one will teach them aaalllll the different animal tracks! How fun!)

Dinner Outside

There’s no better way to unwind from a long day than firing up the Traeger and enjoying a nice dinner outdoors with the family. Adding little things like this into the kids’ routine could be just enough to keep them appreciating that fresh air. 

Checking Trail Cams

Throwing it back to challenge number 1! I told you how amazing those wireless cams were, but I also mentioned how much I love getting into the woods with the kids to check those cams. The kids love throwing on some boots and taking little adventures like this, and it makes my hunting heart so proud!

Shed Hunting

Yet another adventure my kids love. This one is always like a big treasure hunt, and what kid doesn’t love that?! While we might not come home with any sheds, the kids usually come home with their own little treasures. (Psssst! Take that free printable along with you- your kids will love hunting for tracks while looking for sheds too!)

Camping in the Backyard

Your kids will go NUTS over this one! Sleeping under the stars can be such a thrill for their little minds. Grab your s’more ingredients, pitch a tent, and spend quality time with the family under the night sky.

Here are a few of my favorite ways to get them out!



1. Bass Pro Mini Quad: Boone looooves riding his jeep, however it’s currently unavailable. Womp, womppp. Here’s an option your kiddos will love just as much! Sometimes we sit outside forever while he drives in circles. 

2. Diamond by Bowtech Atomic Youth Compound Bow: This is Leni's new big girl bow!! Eeeek! It is engineered like an adult bow and comes in a wide range of weights so kids of all different ages can use it! It makes my heart so happy seeing her shoot her OWN Bowtech, just like mama. 

3. Inflatable 3D Deer Target: We just got this for my babies, and HOW. STINKIN’. CUTE! This realistic target is SO fun for the kids, and mine LOVE it. 

4. Toy Rifle: This battery-operated toy gun makes realistic sounds when pulling the trigger. Pair this one with the inflatable target and get the kids practicing outside.

5. Camping Toy Set: Taking the kiddos camping? The best way to make it through a camping trip with your kids (aside from snacks...lots of snacks) is to keep them BUSY. This cute little toy camping set will keep your kiddos entertained!

6. Animal Caller: This little animal call comes with NINE different animal calls that your kids will go crazy over. For your sanity, it's prooobably best that they play outside (and that’s okay because that’s what the challenge is all about)!

7. Bug Catching Set: There’s just something about kids and bugs, am I right? This little bug-catching set will get your little ones exploring in the dirt and inspecting new creatures all day long.

8. Kids Fishing Rod: Grab this kids' fishing pole for some family fun on the water! Fishing is a great first step for your littles to get involved in the hunting/fishing world!

To give you some more ideas for getting your kids outdoors, here is a list of Leni and Boones' FAVE outdoor toys from BPS! Click the links below to shop!

BONUS!

Tim Brent Q&A

Exclusive video showing Tim answering all of YOUR questions!


I can’t believe it, but today marks our SIXTH challenge! Today, we’re talking about dressing the part during the season. I put together aaall my favorite gear for different seasons and regions, so you’ll be warm, comfortable, and blended RIGHT in with the elements! 


Before we jump into the apparel for different seasons, here are a few of my favorite items you’ll need for any hunt and some of my non-hunting faves!

But first...

watch eva's outdoor clothing try-on!

  1. Qalo Stackable Collection for Ladies - These are some of my favorite stackable rings from the Eva Shockey Collection of QALO silicone bands! You can mix and match the bands for your OWN unique look. These are great to wear while hunting, traveling, or working out.
  2. Qalo Men’s Polished Step Edge Silicone Ring - Here's an option for the guys too! These are a great option for so many occasions, and Tim always wears his.
  3. Eva & Co Ivory Tossed Antler Bandana - Obviously biased on this one, but it is the most versatile accessory! There are so many ways to include a bandana in your everyday outfits! My dad and I take them along on hunts to cover our noses and mouths or catch our sweat! Psst! Be on the lookout for more bandana options hitting the Eva & Co site SOON! 
  4. Scent Slammer Throw-N-Go- The Scent Slammer is AWESOME. Toss it in a duffle bag or plastic tote with your hunting clothes to help eliminate odor.
  5. Cabela's Midcalf Polypropylene Liner Socks - Like I mentioned in the video, I ALWAYS wear a pair of these liner socks underneath my wool socks in my boots because it helps prevent painful blisters. 

Apparel For Fair Weather/Early Season

Challenge 6:

Dress the Part

  1. SHE Outdoor Lightweight Performance Crew-Neck - This lightweight yet durable long-sleeve is perfect for the early season out in the field! It holds a snug fit yet allows for a wide range of motion. 
  2. SHE Outdoor C2 Pants - These pants will be your go-to when you’re hunting early to mid-season! They’re durable yet stretchy to allow you to easily sit, stand, climb, and crouch in the woods. 
  3. SHE Outdoor Puffy Camo Vest - Layers are a must, and vests are a perfect addition! I LOVE my vests, and I love this one even more because it is REVERSIBLE! This vest will be perfect for your sit this year for a little added core warmth.
  4. SHE Outdoor Puffy Jacket for Ladies - This down jacket is warm, lightweight, and easily packs so you can have it on hand in case of an unexpected cold front.
  5. SHE Outdoor GameDay Mesh-Back Cap - Grab some orange and top off your gear with this perfect SHE lightweight cap.
  6. SHE Outdoor Liner Gloves - Similar to my socks, I layer my gloves! These liner gloves are great on their own for warmer hunts and as a base layer for colder days. 
  7. Cabela's Rimrock Mid GORE-TEX Hiking Boots - These leather Gortex hikers are my go-to for any outdoor adventure.
  1. Cabela's Lightweight Performance Long-Sleeve Shirt - With scent-reducing technology and a soft yet durable fit, this lightweight long-sleeve is a great base layer to include in your lineup.  
  2. Cabela's Insulated Puffy Camo Vest - Throw this on top of your Cabela's long-sleeve for some added core warmth! No matter the temps, it’s always nice to have layers. Keeping your core warm while allowing your arms to move freely is essential in anyyy condition! 
  3. RedHead Tec-Lite Pants - Stay cool in warm weather hunts with these lightweight hunting pants fo rall day comfort! 
  4. Cabela's Treadfast GORE-TEX Hunting Boots - These durable yet lightweight boots keep your feet cozy throughout your hike and sit with memory foam insoles.  

Apparel For Snow & Cold Weather/Late Season

  1. SHE Outdoor Insulated Bibs - If you are looking for all-day warmth, THESE are exactly what you’re looking for. With an easy on/off full-length zipper, hand warmer pockets, and industry-leading durability, these bibs will keep you nice and cozy throughout a successful day of hunting. 
  2. SHE Outdoor Insulated Jacket - Heading into harsh climates? With 100 gram Thermolite Insulation, this jacket will keep you warm throughout your hunt.
  3. Natural Reflections Sherpa Full-Zip Jacket - If you need to be extra quiet on a bow hunt, but it’s cold outside, this camo fleece passes the scratch test.
  4. SHE Outdoor Neck Gaiter- Keeping your neck warm is KEY. The windproof and water-resistant material is soft, quiet, and WARM, allowing you to sit comfortably for a more extended period of time. 
  5. Heat Holders LITE Merino Wool Socks - Keeping your feet warm is also key, ha! And these heat holders will do just that! Nothing is worse than cold feet on a long day, but these wool socks will lock the heat in and give you all-day warmth and comfort. 
  6. HotHands Warmers Fleece Watch Cap - The hat you NEED for cold weather! This fleece cap comes with built-in pockets specifically made for HotHands Warmers! Whaaat! This one is a must for everyone. 
  7. SHE Outdoor Insulated Waterproof Gloves - Don’t forget about the hands, ladies! Layer these insulated waterproof gloves over top of the liner gloves I mentioned above for extra cold or wet days outside.
  8. SHE Outdoor Inferno II Insulated Waterproof Hunting Boots - These insulated boots are a great option when snow is on the ground, and you want your feet to stay dry from the elements!
  1. Heat Holders LITE Merino Wool Socks - This one isn't just for the ladies! Guys, keep your toes warm throughout your outdoor adventures with these wool socks that provide 4x the warmth that other basic socks! 
  2. Cabela's Instinct Backcountry Merino Wool Long-Sleeve - Merino wool is the way to go when it comes to base layers! So when you’re out on a week-long hunt, this is the material you’ll want to keep you warm & dry.
  3. Cabela's Instinct Backcountry Merino Wool Bottoms - You can’t forget about the bottoms!
  4. Cabela's Axis GORE-TEX Insulated Hunting Boots - Your feet will be warm and comfortable throughout your hike with these insulated hunting boots! Their waterproof yet breathable technology allows your feet to stay warm, dry, and focused on your hunt.
  5. Silent Stalker Elite Parka - This parka will keep you warm for even the coolest hunts!
  6. Cabela's MT050 Whitetail Extreme GORE-TEX Pants- These are the perfect hunting pants for cold and wet conditions. With advanced insulation, flexibility, and waterproof capabilities, these pants will keep you dry and warm throughout the day.
  7. Wooltimate Gloves - These Wooltimate Gloves provide warmth and comfort for those cold hunts. With a combination of wool and Berber fleece, these gloves will keep your fingers warm and ready for action!
  8. Cabela's Wooltimate Beanie - This heavyweight fleece hat is a must-have for your cold hunts. This wool and Berber fleece beanie will provide warmth, weather resistance, and keep you comfortable and focused in that chilly weather!

We’re BACK for challenge #7! For this one, we are prepping our packs and gearing up. I made up a list of gear you’ll need in your pack, as well as some things that are always good to have just in case. 

Sooo, let’s get packin’!

  1. Cabelas Multi-Day Hunting Pack | To start, (obviously) you need a good backpack! This one is a great option that comes with plenty of storage space, pockets, and straps - it even has an expandable meat compartment! 
  2. Extra Pair of Socks (Women’s) | Men’s   | It’s SO important to keep your feet cozy. Whether your feet get wet/sweaty and you need to swap your old socks out, or your feet just need a little extra warmth, it’s always a good call to carry an extra pair in your pack.
  3. Leupold BinosMy family's go-to binos for yeeeears have been Leupold. They’re top-notch quality, and the clarity is amazing. Staying aware during a sit is important, so whether you’re hunting long or close range, binos should definitely be on your must-have list!
  4. Walker’s Ear Buds | If you’re looking to pack some ear protection, I highly recommend including these little babies in your pack. The Walkers Silencer Ear Plugs are perfectly designed for shooting, and there’s nothing else I trust more to protect my ears!
  5. Calls/HornsWhatever wild game you’re hunting, get ready to call em’ in! Cabela’s has you covered with aaaaall the calls!
  6. Strikers / Fire Starters | This one falls under “just in case” -unless you’re hunting overnight! You never know what could happen out in the woods, so you always want to be prepared. 
  7. Tree Limb Saw Whether you need to clear a trail or get a better view during your sit, a tree limb saw is handy to have in your pack!
  8. HeadlampWithout a headlamp, it’s tough to navigate while walking in or out of the woods in the dark. And when you finally take a shot at that deer, you might need a little help tracking and finding it! Headlamps are also super useful back at camp!
  9. Bug Repellant |  Bugs are the worst! It’s hard to stay focused when you’re being swarmed by mosquitos or other pesky bugs. This bug repellent works wonders and keeps me concentrated on the hunt.
  10. Winter Hat/Ball CapI always like to have my head covered. In the early season, I like to cover up with a good ole ball cap. My faves are from Cabela’s, MNT OPS, and Leupold! And if you’re hunting late season, you gotta stay warm. This Hothands Beanie is amazing, and I highly suggest it!
  11. Hand WarmersSpeaking of hot hands… I also suggest packing 1 MILLION of these to make sure you’re nice and warm throughout your adventure. 

Challenge 7:

Pack your backpack - gear

Alert, Alert! Huge Giveaway!

the cherry on top of the outdoor challenge:

a series of 40 different giveaways valued
 At over $11,000! more details coming soon.

our partners

our partners

this challenge couldn't happen without these incredible outdoor brands!

Remember The Why | Why this is so personal to me!


Challenge #1: “Patterning” Wildlife w/Trail Cameras
Challenge #2: Archery 101 - Practice Makes Perfect
Challenge #3: Prepping Your Stands & Blinds


Challenge #4: Prep Your Body
Challenge #5: Get your Kids Involved Outdoors
Challenge #6: Dress The Part


Challenge #7: Prep Your Pack - Gear Up
Challenge #8: Prep Your Pack - Fuel Your Frame
Challenge #9: Prepping for The Harvest - Cooking Your Food

hosted by eva shockey

THE OUTDOOR CHALLENGE

Remember The Why | Why this is so personal to me!


Challenge #1: “Patterning” Wildlife w/Trail Cameras
Challenge #2: Archery 101 - Practice Makes Perfect
Challenge #3: Prepping Your Stands & Blinds


Challenge #4: Prep Your Body
Challenge #5: Get your Kids Involved Outdoors
Challenge #6: Dress The Part


Challenge #7: Prep Your Pack - Gear Up
Challenge #8: Prep Your Pack - Fuel Your Frame
Challenge #9: Prepping for The Harvest - Cooking Your Food

THE OUTDOOR CHALLENGE

09.12 - 09.29

Here's what we will cover:

prepping in the field

prepping your heart, body & soul

prepping for the hunt

guest appearances by...

Jim Shockey

Tim Brent

The Ultimate Outdoorsman (Also known as, “Baba”)

Professional Hockey Player Turned Avid Outdoor Lover (Also known as Eva’s hubby!)

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