H.A.R.T® HUNTS CHALLENGE

North American Whitetail 50

The North American Whitetail 50 Challenge is the ultimate test of dedication, exploration, and respect for one of North America’s most revered game species – the whitetail deer. This challenge invites H.A.R.Ters to verify a successful H.A.R.T shot on a whitetail buck in every U.S. state where whitetail deer are huntable, as well as select provinces in Canada.

With 50 locations on the list, this is a challenge that rewards endurance, planning, and a deep appreciation for regional variations in habitat, terrain, and deer behavior. It’s not just about checking boxes, it’s about deepening your relationship with the land, the species, and the heart of the hunt.

What You’ll Need to Complete This Challenge

To successfully complete the Whitetail 50, you’ll need to verify a H.A.R.T shot on a whitetail buck, meeting the criteria below, in each of the qualifying states and provinces.

Qualification Criteria

Animal Type

Male whitetail deer (bucks)

Antler Requirements

One antler, velvet, or spike all qualify. No slick heads (antlerless) allowed.

Location

  • U.S. States (44 total): All states except Alaska, Arizona, Hawaii, New Mexico, California, and Utah.
  • Canadian Provinces (6 total): Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan.

H.A.R.T Shot Verification

  • Must be completed using the H.A.R.T Shot App
  • Each H.A.R.T shot can only be applied to one challenge
  • The Challenge is selected after verification

Weapons Divisions

You can pursue this challenge using any one of the three official H.A.R.T divisions:

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Firearms Division:
Any firearm or replica that activates the H.A.R.T Shot app

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H.A.R.Tchery Division:
Any bow system or faux bow compatible with the app

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H.A.R.T Stick Division:
Camera-based shots designed to capture the moment without harm, in the spirit of the Native American Coup Stick tradition

Gravelly Range

Gravelly Range

Chismaina Lake

Chismaina Lake

Florida Mountains

Florida Mountains

Laguna Atascosa NWR

Laguna Atascosa NWR

Big Snowy Mountains

Big Snowy Mountains

Crazy Mountains

Crazy Mountains

Where to H.A.R.T

Land Access & Ethical Guidelines

You may complete this challenge on:

  • Public Land with H.A.R.T stick only
  • Private Land (with permission)
  • Preserves or Hunting Ranches

All are acceptable and qualify for verification – what matters most is your respect for the animal and adherence to local laws.

Do Not:

  • Hunt without proper licenses or tags
  • Trespass on private property
  • Disturb wildlife beyond necessary presence

The H.A.R.T system is designed to work at a safe distance of 30–50 yards. Anything closer is discouraged unless unavoidable. Your goal should always be minimal disturbance and maximum respect.

Strategic Tips for Completion

1

Plan Your Route

With 44 U.S. states and 6 Canadian provinces on the list, planning is essential. Consider mapping out a multi-state road trip or leveraging vacation time to check off regions in clusters.

2

Time It Right

Deer seasons vary by state, so consult local regulations before scheduling your hunts. Many H.A.R.Ters opt to combine trips with peak rut season for better photo or shot opportunities.

3

Choose Your Division Wisely

If you’re traveling in national parks or areas with no hunting allowed, the H.A.R.T Stick division is going to be your only option.

Recognition & Record-Keeping

Every verified H.A.R.T shot earns you the right to commemorate your hunt with a Skullie (you can purchase in the app).

The first person to complete the North American Whitetail 50 will be invited to help design the official trophy, which will be named in their honor. For example:
🦌 The “Jack Smith Whitetail 50 Challenge Award”

Subsequent completers will receive the award and have the option to purchase a replica trophy, with their names added to the legacy record.

Why Take on the Whitetail 50?

This challenge is more than just a milestone—it’s a lifetime achievement and a personal odyssey through the forests, fields, swamps, and highlands of North America. Along the way, you’ll:

  • Deepen your knowledge of regional deer behavior
  • Build skills across weapon systems or photographic tracking
  • Contribute to conservation through education, licensing, and ethical practices
  • Inspire others in the H.A.R.T community with your journey

Start the Challenge

Ready to begin your journey? Next steps:

  • Download the H.A.R.T Shot App
  • Purchase your ammo (bullets, arrows, or Strikes)
  • Plan your first location
  • Make your first H.A.R.T shot
  • Verify, upload, and track your progress in the app
  • Apply your verified H.A.R.T shot to the Whitetail 50 Challenge
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Final Notes

  • The challenge is selected after verification
  • No single H.A.R.T shot can count toward multiple challenges
  • If you're hunting with family, challenges may be passed down but not stacked