Episodes

  • In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson and guest Michael Ward discuss the challenges of balancing family life with hunting commitments, the importance of deer population control in suburban areas, and the emotional connections that come with hunting. They delve into the dynamics of hunting big bucks, the joy of harvesting deer, and the future hunting plans that lie ahead. The conversation highlights the camaraderie among hunters and the shared experiences that make hunting a cherished activity.
    Takeaways:

    Balancing family commitments with hunting can be challenging.

    Population control is crucial in suburban hunting areas.

    Emotional connections to children can impact hunting decisions.

    The dynamics of hunting big bucks involve competition among hunters.

    Shooting a buck brings a heightened sense of accomplishment.

    Camaraderie among hunters enhances the experience of hunting.

    Hunting in suburban areas requires navigating property access issues.

    The joy of harvesting deer is a significant part of hunting culture.

    Future hunting plans can include multiple tags and opportunities.

    The health of deer populations is affected by overpopulation and nutrition.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • On this episode, we barrow an episode form the How To Hunt Deer podcast that where the guys discuss their hunting strategy and what traps to avoid as the season gets rolling.
    In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer Podcast, hosts Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss various aspects of deer hunting, including the importance of coffee and energy drinks for stamina, the challenges of hunting on small properties, the dangers of overhunting, and the effective use of trail cameras. They emphasize the significance of understanding deer behavior, the pitfalls of social media influence, and the necessity of scent control and weapon maintenance. The conversation wraps up with a strong reminder about safety in the field, particularly the importance of using harnesses while hunting.
    Takeaways:

    Coffee and energy drinks are essential for stamina during hunts.

    Small properties can be effective hunting spots if approached correctly.

    Overhunting can lead to educated deer and reduced success.

    Trail cameras provide valuable insights but can also lead to overhunting.

    Understanding deer behavior is crucial for successful hunting.

    Social media can create unrealistic expectations for hunters.

    Scent control is important, but not foolproof.

    Regular weapon maintenance is essential for accuracy.

    Safety harnesses are a must for tree stand hunting.

    Patience and strategy are key to successful hunting.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • Episodes manquant?

    Cliquez ici pour raffraichir la page manuellement.

  • In this episode of the Hunting Gear podcast, Dan Johnson speaks with Nate Sellers from Average Jack Archery about troubleshooting archery equipment. They discuss the mechanics of bows, the importance of proper measurements, and the significance of shooting through paper for accuracy. Nate shares insights on grip pressure, structural issues in bows, and the tuning of arrows and broadheads. The conversation also covers the impact of fletching and arrow weight on performance, the challenges of tuning different broadhead types, and the importance of understanding the third axis for accurate shooting. Finally, Nate offers practical tips for archers to improve their skills and confidence before the hunting season.
    Takeaways:

    A bow is a simple machine that can be easily understood.

    Shooting through paper helps ensure arrows fly straight.

    Grip pressure can significantly affect shooting accuracy.

    Mechanical broadheads can be a reliable option for hunters.

    Parachuting occurs when an arrow slows down too much in flight.

    Proper measurements are essential for bow tuning.

    Structural issues in bows can lead to persistent tuning problems.

    The third axis is important for accurate shots at different angles.

    Fletching size and type can impact arrow flight.

    Understanding arrow spine and weight is crucial for tuning. 


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson and guest Alex Gyllstrom discuss the challenges and strategies of bow hunting, particularly in relation to family responsibilities, scouting, and understanding the role of thermals in hunting success. They share personal experiences and insights on navigating the complexities of hunting in states like Kansas and Iowa, the importance of observation, and adapting plans in the field. The conversation emphasizes the need for efficiency and the joy of the hunting process.
    Takeaways:

    Preparation for hunting seasons can be influenced by family responsibilities.

    Efficiency in scouting and hunting is crucial for balancing family life.

    Thermals can significantly affect deer movement and hunting success.

    Understanding terrain features is essential for effective hunting strategies.

    Baiting can be a useful strategy, but it's not the only option.

    Adapting plans based on real-time observations is key to success.

    Scouting and understanding deer behavior are fundamental to hunting.

    Thermals can change based on weather conditions and vegetation loss.

    Observation and asking 'why' can lead to better hunting outcomes.

    Enjoying the process of hunting is as important as the outcome.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson is joined by Tom Waters to discuss Tom's recent Kentucky Velvet Buck hunt. They start by reminiscing about the music they listened to growing up, including classic rock, country, and rap. Then, they dive into the details of Tom's hunt, including how he discovered the buck and his baiting strategy. Tom explains that he had been scouting the area for years but only saw the buck for the first time this summer. He also shares his feeder schedule and how he uses it to slow down the deer movement. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the buck's movement patterns and Tom's setup distance from the feeder. Tom Waters shares his experience of harvesting a velvet buck on his property. He explains that he was hunting from a blind near a feeder when the buck showed up. Tom discusses how the deer behavior changes when they shed their velvet and become more aware. He also talks about the deer population in his area, the influence of agriculture on deer movement, and the low hunting pressure on his property. Tom shares his shot placement and tracking experience, as well as his choice of broadheads. He mentions his plans to hunt on public land and donate deer to Kentucky Hunters for the Hungry.
    Takeaways:

    Music preferences can change over time and be influenced by personal experiences and exposure to different genres.

    Baiting can be an effective strategy for attracting deer, but its effectiveness may vary depending on the availability of natural food sources.

    Feeder schedules can be adjusted based on hunting regulations and the deer's feeding patterns.

    Understanding deer movement patterns and setting up at an appropriate distance from the feeder can increase the chances of a successful hunt. Deer behavior changes when they shed their velvet and become more aware.

    Agriculture, such as beans and corn, influences deer movement more than acorns or bait.

    Low hunting pressure on Tom's property allows for successful hunting.

    Tracking deer in tall grass or CRP can be challenging.

    Tom prefers using Rage Hypodermic broadheads.

    Tom plans to hunt on public land and donate deer to Kentucky Hunters for the Hungry.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this conversation, Andy May discusses his hunting strategies and experiences, as well as his approach to balancing hunting with other responsibilities. He emphasizes the importance of analyzing the wind, thermals, and terrain when scouting for deer and setting up tree stands. Andy also shares his perspective on parenting and motivating children in sports. He recounts a story of hunting a buck that frequently crossed onto a neighboring property and how he used a decoy to try to lure the buck within range. The conversation covers various topics related to hunting and parenting. The main themes include the struggle of balancing sports and family, the importance of finding a passion, and the approach to scouting and hunting on unfamiliar properties. The conversation also touches on the significance of fresh sign and the tactics for hunting a bumped deer.
    Takeaways:

    Analyzing wind, thermals, and terrain is crucial when scouting for deer and setting up tree stands.

    Balancing hunting with other responsibilities can be challenging, but it's important to prioritize family and make time for other activities.

    Motivating children in sports requires finding a balance between pushing them to work hard and allowing them to find their own path.

    Using decoys can be an effective strategy for luring deer within range, especially when hunting on properties with limited access. Balancing sports and family can be challenging, and it's important to support children in finding their own passions.

    Having a passion or hobby can provide direction and motivation in life.

    When scouting on unfamiliar properties, look for areas that could be food sources or good bedding opportunities.

    Pay attention to fresh sign, such as tracks, droppings, and rubs, when deciding where to hunt.

    If you bump a deer, analyze the lay of the land and set up in a strategic location to potentially intercept the deer when it returns.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, Dan Johnson interviews Eric Barber from Vortex Optics. They discuss hunting strategies for September and out-of-state trips. Eric shares his approach to hunting in September, focusing on the shift in deer behavior and the importance of speed scouting and being mobile. They also discuss Eric's upcoming out-of-state trips to South Dakota and Wisconsin, and how he plans to locate deer and set up in new areas. They cover topics such as finding water sources, identifying deer concentrations, and using decoys. They also discuss the challenges of hunting public land and dealing with limited access and time constraints. Eric emphasizes the importance of being aggressive and making informed decisions based on available intel. They also touch on the mental pressure and time crunch that hunters often feel towards the end of a hunt.
    Takeaways:

    September is a critical time for deer hunting, as the shift in deer behavior occurs with the change in food sources and the end of velvet shedding.

    Speed scouting and being mobile are key strategies for hunting in September, as deer patterns change rapidly during this time.

    Identifying water sources and deer concentrations can help hunters locate deer in new areas.

    Using decoys can be effective in attracting deer, especially during cold fronts or when deer are feeling on edge.

    Hunting public land can present challenges, but being aggressive and making informed decisions based on available intel can lead to success.

    The mental pressure and time crunch towards the end of a hunt can be managed by focusing on the enjoyment of the experience and appreciating the details of the hunt.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this conversation, Mark Kenyon shares the story of his son breaking his leg while camping and fishing in Wyoming. He discusses the accident, the emergency surgery, and the recovery process. Mark also talks about his upcoming trips to Alaska to film a blacktail deer hunt and explore the state of salmon. He highlights the importance of protecting wildlife and the challenges they face. The conversation concludes with a discussion about preparing for the upcoming hunting season and the balance between family commitments and hunting. Dan and Mark discuss the challenges of balancing hunting with family and other responsibilities. They emphasize the importance of finding a balance that works for each individual and their unique circumstances. They also discuss the sacrifices that come with being a dedicated hunter and the need to prioritize family and relationships. They share their own experiences and reflect on how their perspectives on hunting have evolved over time. Mark talks about his upcoming hunting trips to Alaska, Illinois, and Kentucky, while also expressing his love for local Michigan hunting. They conclude by acknowledging the need for ongoing balance and the importance of enjoying the journey.
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson interviews hunting expert Dan Infalt about the importance of seeking advice from experienced hunters and the principles of hunting deer. They discuss the significance of looking at a person's hunting resume before taking their advice, the role of mentorship in improving hunting skills, and the importance of understanding big buck behavior. They also explore the key principles that apply to hunting whitetails in any location, such as focusing on bedding areas and understanding deer movement. Infalt shares his experiences and insights on timing, mistakes to avoid, and the importance of being mobile and adaptable in hunting strategies.
    Takeaways:

    When seeking advice on hunting, it is important to consider the experience and track record of the person giving the advice.

    Mentorship and learning from experienced hunters can greatly improve hunting skills.

    Understanding big buck behavior and focusing on bedding areas are key principles that apply to hunting whitetails in any location.

    Timing is crucial in hunting, and hitting the right time and place can greatly increase the chances of success.

    Making mistakes is a part of hunting, but learning from them and making adjustments can lead to better outcomes.

    Being mobile and adaptable in hunting strategies can help catch big bucks by surprise and increase the chances of success.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • Bill Jordan, founder of Realtree, shares his journey from being an avid hunter to starting his own camo company. He discusses his passion for hunting and how it has shifted from personal enjoyment to giving back and sharing the experience with his family. Bill also talks about his upbringing in an outdoor family and the influence of his parents had in instilling ethical values in him. He shares stories from his college football career and how he tore his hamstring, which led to a funny story about his first buck with a bow. Finally, he explains the inspiration behind creating the Realtree camo pattern and the initial feedback he received. Bill Jordan, the founder of Realtree, discusses the early years of the company and how it grew to become one of the biggest names in the hunting industry. He talks about the challenges of starting a new business and the importance of perseverance. Jordan also shares how Realtree utilized media, including television and print ads, to promote their products and showcase the outdoors. He emphasizes the role of family in his life and the importance of passing down the hunting heritage to the next generation. Jordan expresses optimism for the future of Realtree and the industry as a whole. Do not miss this episode.
    Takeaways:

    Bill Jordan's passion for hunting has shifted from personal enjoyment to giving back and sharing the experience with his family.

    His upbringing in an outdoor family and the influence of his parents played a significant role in shaping his love for hunting and instilling ethical values.

    Bill's college football career was affected by a hamstring injury, which limited his hunting opportunities.

    The inspiration behind creating the Realtree camo pattern came from a desire to have a pattern that blended with the hunting environment.

    The initial feedback for the Realtree camo pattern was positive, and it quickly gained popularity in the hunting industry. Starting a new business requires perseverance and the willingness to take risks.

    Utilizing media, such as television and print ads, is crucial for promoting products and reaching a wider audience.

    Family plays a significant role in the hunting industry, with many influential figures passing down the hunting heritage to the next generation.

    The future of the hunting industry may face challenges, such as the decreasing availability of hunting lands, but there is still optimism for its growth and success.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this therapy session, Dan and Tony discuss various topics, including wives asking questions and getting mad when they don't get answered, dealing with bees and mice in their homes, the aging process and body hair, the balance between money and time spent on hunting trips, and the challenges of balancing family time and personal interests. In this conversation, Dan and Tony discuss their excitement for the upcoming deer hunting season. They share their plans and strategies for hunting in different locations and during different seasons. They also talk about the behavior of deer during gun season and how they often return to their original spots after being bumped. The conversation highlights the importance of finding concentrated areas of deer activity and the need for hunters to adapt their strategies based on changing conditions.
    Takeaways:

    Wives asking questions and getting mad when they don't get answered can be frustrating.

    Dealing with pests like bees and mice in the home can lead to disagreements between spouses.

    The aging process and changes in body hair can be a source of insecurity for some individuals.

    Balancing money and time spent on hunting trips can be a challenge in relationships.

    Finding a balance between family time and personal interests is important for maintaining a healthy relationship. Deer often return to their original spots after being bumped during gun season

    Finding concentrated areas of deer activity is crucial for successful hunting

    Hunters need to adapt their strategies based on changing conditions

    The behavior of deer during gun season can be unpredictable


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson interviews Bill Winke about deer hunting strategies. They discuss topics such as scouting in the summer, creating sanctuaries on hunting properties, the importance of access routes, and the behavior of mature bucks. Winke emphasizes the significance of entry and exit routes and the impact they have on deer movement. He also shares his approach to hunting new properties and the importance of understanding deer behavior during different phases of the rut. Winky advises against getting fixated on one specific buck and highlights the importance of adaptability and learning from mistakes.
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this episode, host Dan Johnson gives an update on his life and discusses his upcoming hunting season. He shares how his South Dakota hunt may be compromised due to coaching his son's football team. He also reflects on his experience at the Iowa State Fair and the rising costs associated with attending. Dan provides advice on hunting strategies, emphasizing the importance of woodsmanship and being aware of deer behavior. He encourages listeners to shoot their bows and practice with their firearms to prepare for the season.
    Takeaways:

    Balancing hunting and other responsibilities can be challenging, but setting expectations with family and managing time effectively can help

    Woodsmanship and understanding deer behavior are crucial for successful hunting

    Practicing with bows and firearms is essential to improve accuracy and readiness for the season

    Avoid getting caught up in hunting content that may not be applicable to your specific situation

    Take advantage of opportunities to travel and hunt different species


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this episode, Dan and Dan Matthews discuss their favorite wild game meals and their love for sweets. They also touch on the topic of energy drinks and the challenges of managing groceries in their households. The conversation transitions to the advancements in hunting equipment and the ease of entry into hunting. In this conversation, the Dan's discuss the use of trail cameras and the impact they have on hunting. They debate whether trail cameras make hunters better or if they simply provide more convenience and information. They also explore why Wisconsin consistently produces big deer despite having a rifle season during the rut. They speculate that Wisconsin's success may be due to a combination of factors, including a large number of hunters, a tradition of hunting big bucks, and the presence of ample cover and agriculture. They express curiosity about the reasons behind Wisconsin's success and suggest further research and conversations with wildlife biologists.
    Takeaways:

    The hosts share their favorite wild game meals and discuss the importance of enjoying the last meal if they were on death row.

    They talk about their love for sweets and the challenges of managing groceries in their households.

    The conversation shifts to the topic of energy drinks and the addictive nature of consuming them.

    They discuss the advancements in hunting equipment and the ease of entry into hunting, including the availability of pre-set rifles and the simplicity of setting up compound bows. Trail cameras provide convenience and information, but they may not necessarily make hunters better.

    Wisconsin consistently produces big deer despite having a rifle season during the rut.

    Factors contributing to Wisconsin's success may include a large number of hunters, a tradition of hunting big bucks, and the presence of ample cover and agriculture.

    Further research and conversations with wildlife biologists are needed to fully understand the reasons behind Wisconsin's success.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this episode, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss hunting strategies and when to stay or move to a new spot. They talk about the importance of knowing when does come into heat and how it can increase your chances of success. They also discuss the use of trail cameras and how to interpret nocturnal activity. They share their experiences with hunting specific spots and how long to give a spot before deciding to move. They also touch on the importance of wind direction and how it can affect your hunting strategy. In this conversation, Jason and Dan discuss various aspects of hunting deer, including wind direction, access routes, hunting strategies, and out-of-state hunts. They emphasize the importance of understanding deer behavior and patterns, as well as adapting to different hunting environments. They also highlight the need to enjoy the hunting experience and not get too caught up in the details. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights and tips for deer hunters.
    Takeaways:

    Knowing when does come into heat can increase your chances of success

    Trail cameras can provide valuable information about deer movement

    Nocturnal activity can be challenging to hunt, but multiple cameras and process of elimination can help

    The length of time to stay in a specific spot depends on the property and the deer movement patterns

    Terrain features can sometimes be hunted in any wind, but access and wind direction are important factors to consider Understanding wind direction and using it to your advantage is crucial in hunting deer.

    Adapting to different hunting environments and adjusting strategies based on deer behavior is important.

    Identifying huntable deer and focusing on their movements can increase hunting success.

    Knowing when to stay and when to move to a different hunting spot is key.

    Enjoying the hunting experience and not getting too caught up in the details is essential.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson interviews Jon Teater from Whitetail Landscapes about habitat management for hunting properties. They discuss the importance of understanding the complex environment that deer live in and how it affects their behavior. Teater explains that the most common goal for clients is to shoot bigger quality deer, but this goal can be abstract and requires a deep understanding of the deer composition and the specific makeup of a high-quality deer. They also discuss the role of risk and pressure in deer behavior and how to create a habitat that reduces risk and holds deer on the property. Teater emphasizes the importance of good habitat and cover, as well as the balance between food availability and cover value. He also explains how to assess the carrying capacity of a property by measuring the amount of biomass consumed by deer. Jon and Dan discuss the importance of habitat improvement and deer management. They cover topics such as diverse diets for deer, equating the number of deer to be removed from a property, and the impact of deer behavior on habitat management. They also discuss the role of aesthetics in deer management and the need for a holistic approach to habitat improvement. Jon emphasizes the importance of pushing oneself to experience difficulty and learn from different environments. He also provides insights on how to choose a habitat consultant and the key factors to consider.
    Takeaways:

    Understanding the complex environment that deer live in is crucial for effective habitat management on hunting properties.

    The most common goal for clients is to shoot bigger quality deer, but this goal requires a deep understanding of the specific makeup of a high-quality deer.

    Creating a habitat that reduces risk and holds deer on the property is key to successful hunting.

    Balancing food availability and cover value is important for attracting and holding deer on a property.

    Assessing the carrying capacity of a property can be done by measuring the amount of biomass consumed by deer. Diverse diets for deer and understanding the volume of edible biomass are important factors in habitat improvement.

    Equating the number of deer to be removed from a property requires considering recruitment, residential and non-residential deer, and the availability of food.

    Understanding deer behavior and individual preferences can help in making management decisions.

    Aesthetics and creating a good environment for deer are important aspects of habitat management.

    Pushing oneself to experience difficulty and learn from different environments can lead to better habitat management practices.

    When choosing a habitat consultant, consider their experience in your region, their ability to provide ongoing support, and their approach to habitat management.

    Consultants should consider the specific goals and challenges of the property and provide tailored recommendations.

    August and September are good times to consult for hunting season preparation and to assess the status of the environment.

    Habitat improvement requires a holistic approach and attention to detail.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this episode, Dan Johnson and Jeremy Dinsmore discuss the challenges of balancing hunting with family and work responsibilities. They share personal stories and insights about being busy parents and how it affects their hunting pursuits. They also talk about the importance of setting up trail cameras and mock scrapes to gather information about deer movement and behavior. The conversation highlights the anticipation and excitement of the upcoming hunting season. In this conversation, Jeremy and Dan discuss their experiences with trail cameras and the challenges of predicting deer behavior. They talk about the difficulty of hunting older age whitetail bucks and the importance of understanding their patterns. They also discuss the impact of changing food sources and betting areas on deer movement. The conversation touches on the trend of being too mobile while hunting and the importance of patience and staying in one spot. They also talk about the correlation between rain and deer antler growth. Finally, they discuss the challenges of running a hunting podcast and the importance of content quality over social media following.
    Takeaways:

    Balancing hunting with family and work responsibilities can be challenging, but it's important to prioritize and make time for both.

    Setting up trail cameras and mock scrapes can provide valuable information about deer movement and behavior.

    The period between August and October is a crucial time for scouting and preparing for the upcoming hunting season.

    Deer rely on scent communication, so creating scent stations like mock scrapes can attract and hold their attention.

    The anticipation and excitement of the hunting season can make all the hard work and sacrifices worthwhile. Predicting the behavior of older age whitetail bucks is as difficult as knowing what you will do in the next minute.

    Changing food sources and betting areas can greatly impact deer movement.

    Being too mobile while hunting can be detrimental, and it's important to have patience and stay in one spot.

    There is a correlation between consistent rain throughout the summer and larger deer antlers.

    Content quality is more important than social media following in the hunting podcast industry.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this conversation, Dan Johnson and Joe Jones discuss the challenges of balancing work and family with their passion for the outdoors. They also provide an update on Joe's pursuit of a particular buck and his efforts to gain access to a 200-acre property. Joe shares his strategies for patterning the buck and his excitement about the new hunting opportunity. In this conversation, Joe and Dan discuss the behavior and patterns of a mature buck that Joe is hunting. They explore the idea that the buck is not truly nomadic but rather has multiple core areas where he feels safe. They also discuss the buck's sensitivity to human pressure and cameras, and the potential impact of cattle on his movement. Joe shares his plan to hunt the back walls of the property and use mock scrapes to attract the buck. Dan advises Joe to be cautious about sharing information and to consider hanging a tree stand while setting up trail cameras.
    Takeaways:

    Finding time for outdoor activities with family can be challenging when balancing work responsibilities.

    Children often develop a love for the outdoors when exposed to it at a young age.

    Patterning a mature buck can be difficult, especially in areas with high hunting pressure.

    Gaining access to private hunting properties requires persistence and building relationships with landowners.

    Having a clear understanding of a buck's core area and movement patterns can increase hunting success. Mature bucks may have multiple core areas where they feel safe.

    Human pressure and cameras can cause bucks to shift their bedding areas.

    Cattle can affect deer movement and behavior.

    Hunting the back walls of a property and using mock scrapes can be effective strategies.

    Be cautious about sharing information to avoid increased hunting pressure.


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • Graham from Vortex discusses hunting and shooting experiences, including the Vortex Ambassador Summit and the challenges of shooting a handgun. They also talk about the culture at Vortex and the passion for hunting and shooting among the employees. Graham shares his upcoming hunting plans in Wisconsin and South Dakota, with a focus on whitetail deer. They also discuss the differences between whitetail and mule deer behavior and hunting strategies. In this conversation, Dan and Graham discuss hunting opportunities in different states, including Wisconsin and South Dakota. They talk about the challenges of getting permission to hunt on private land and the increasing interest in hunting for organic meat. They also touch on the topic of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) and the precautions hunters take when dealing with CWD-positive deer. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the impact of urban populations on hunting opportunities and the importance of knowing where your food comes from.

    Takeaways:


    Vortex employees are passionate about hunting and shooting and participate in these activities themselves.

    Shooting a handgun is more challenging than it seems, and proper form and technique are crucial for accuracy.

    Vortex offers training courses, such as the Edge program, to help people improve their shooting skills.

    Whitetail deer in Western South Dakota are more skittish and alert compared to whitetails in the Midwest.

    Hunting plans can be opportunistic, focusing on the behavior of the animals and adjusting strategies accordingly. Getting permission to hunt on private land can be challenging, especially in areas with high urban populations.

    There is a growing interest in hunting for organic meat and knowing where your food comes from.

    Hunters take precautions when dealing with CWD-positive deer, such as getting the meat tested and disposing of it properly.

    The value placed on different species varies in different regions, with mule deer often being more highly valued than whitetail deer.

    Bow hunting can be a good way to gain access to smaller parcels of land and appeal to those who are more open to hunting for organic meat.

    The traditional hunting camp culture is changing, with more emphasis on hunting for big antler deer.

    The impact of urban populations on hunting opportunities can vary, with some areas being more protective of deer hunting land.

    Knowing where your food comes from and how it is prepared is important for many hunters.


    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction and Small Talk
    03:00 Passion for Hunting and Shooting at Vortex
    13:14 Culture and Party Plans at Vortex
    18:17 Hunting Plans in Wisconsin and South Dakota
    22:46 Differences Between Whitetail and Mule Deer Behavior
    25:23 Opportunistic Hunting Strategies
    28:16 Dealing with Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD)
    36:58 Challenges of Getting Permission to Hunt on Private Land
    45:13 The Changing Hunting Camp Culture
    50:49 The Impact of Urban Populations on Hunting Opportunities
    53:14 Knowing Where Your Food Comes From
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this solo episode, Dan Johnson discusses his plans for the upcoming hunting season. He talks about transitioning from youth baseball to football and other activities for his kids, as well as his own preparations for hunting. He mentions the products and partners he will be using, such as Tethered, Wasp Archery, Vortex Optics, Feed Hub, Code Blue Sense, Huntworth, and Reveal. Dan also shares some personal anecdotes about going through old memorabilia and his experiences at a sporting goods store.
    Takeaways:

    Transitioning from one season to another requires planning and preparation

    Choosing the right hunting gear and equipment is crucial for a successful season

    Organizing and decluttering old memorabilia can be a nostalgic but time-consuming task

    Finding humor in everyday situations can help lighten the mood and strengthen relationships


    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices