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Is your bow truly tuned, or are you just getting away with it? In this episode of the Days in the Wild Podcast, I sit down with Chris Dunlap of Elk River Archery to take a deep dive into one of the most overlooked—and most important—aspects of bowhunting success:  Whether you're chasing elk in the mountains, whitetails from a treestand, or preparing for 3D competitions, proper bow tune can mean the difference between a perfect shot and a wounded animal. Chris breaks down the science behind  tuning in a way that's easy to understand, explaining why and how to make the adjustments that lead to tighter groups and greater forgiveness.

Brandon and i talk about the big game hunting opportunity in California and the draw system. We also talk about the upcoming 1st inaugural Howl for Wildlife banquet

Scouting Mule Deer with Henry Furguson | Finding Bucks, Reading Terrain, and Lessons That Transfer Show Notes Welcome back to the Days in the Wild Big Game Hunting Podcast, brought to you by Phoenix Shooting Bags. In this episode, I sit down once again with P.J. Reilly — one of the first guests I ever had on the podcast — to talk about mule deer, scouting, patterning bucks, and the lessons hunting teaches that carry over into every part of the game. We get into why scouting can be just as rewarding as the hunt itself, how to shorten the learning curve in brand-new country, and what it really takes to find and stay on mature bucks. P.J. breaks down how he approaches unfamiliar units, what terrain features consistently hold deer, and why looking at a buck from more than one angle can be the difference between killing him and losing him. We also talk about Arizona desert mule deer, OTC pressure, closures, hunting competition, and how increased pressure changes hunter behavior in the field. This episode is loaded with practical takeaways for anyone who wants to become a better scout, a better hunter, and a more disciplined thinker in the outdoors. In This Episode We Cover Why I stepped back from the podcast for a while Why not every passion needs to become a business The difference between going through the motions and creating meaningful content Why scouting is one of the most rewarding parts of hunting The satisfaction that comes from finding the animal before the hunt ever begins Hunting velvet bucks and why they are often more patternable The difference between scouting bucks in velvet, hard horn, and during the rut Why rut hunting mature mule deer can feel like finding a needle in a haystack How Arizona OTC closures are changing hunter pressure and competition Why quota-style closures may be creating more crowding and conflict How P.J. approaches scouting brand-new country Why elevation and glassing are still the foundation of his system Adjusting strategy when every high point is crowded with hunters Using alternative glassing angles to uncover what other hunters are missing Why it is important to understand not just where a buck is, but why he is there How to identify terrain features that consistently attract and hold deer How lessons learned in one unit or state can transfer to another The similarities between archery, rifle shooting, and hunting discipline Key Takeaways Scouting is more than finding animals — it’s solving a puzzle. The real reward comes from learning how an animal uses the terrain, what brings it there, and how to use that knowledge later. If you want to consistently find deer, learn what makes a place attractive to deer. Escape routes, feed, security, and terrain that limits pressure all matter. One vantage point only tells part of the story. If you lose a buck, it may be because you only understood him from one angle. Multiple glassing angles reveal the bigger picture. Pressure changes everything. When hunters flood the obvious spots, success often comes from finding overlooked country that is just off the beaten path. The lessons transfer. Whether it’s scouting deer, shooting a bow, or settling behind a rifle, success comes from learning a repeatable process and executing it consistently.

Here are polished, on-brand show notes for your episode — written in your Days in the Wild voice and optimized for your audience. Mile High Conversations: Colorado Changes, Tag Strategy & Why It’s Not Always About Bigger After a bit of a break, we’re back — recording live from the Mile High Hunt Expo in Denver. In this episode, I sit down with my good friend Kyle Lopez to talk about what’s happening right now in the hunting world — from major changes to Colorado’s draw system to the reality of chasing points, expectations, and what actually matters as a hunter. We dive into strategy, mindset, and something that doesn’t get talked about enough… when is enough, enough? And of course, we get into the stuff that really matters — hunting with your kids, passing it on, and why those moments mean more than anything hanging on the wall. If you’ve been playing the points game, planning your next hunt, or just trying to figure out what your goals are as a hunter… this one hits. 🏹 What We Cover Live from the Mile High Hunt Expo Conservation efforts and donated hunts Major changes coming to Colorado’s draw system (2028) Hybrid draw system breakdown (points vs random draw) Why hunters are dumping points right now Arizona vs Colorado draw strategies Late season vs early season opportunities The reality of “top tier” hunts vs second tier hunts When to burn your points (and when not to) Elk vs deer — how your priorities change over time The trap of chasing bigger and bigger animals Why some hunters stop pulling the trigger Hunting with your kids and passing it on 🔥 Key Takeaways The new Colorado system is moving toward a 50/50 split between point holders and random draw, giving everyone a chance. Point creep is real — but the system may actually normalize over time. You don’t need a “top tier tag” to have a great hunt experience. At some point, hunting becomes less about size and more about experience and meaning. Hunting with your kids will change your perspective completely. 🧠 Memorable Moments “I’ve probably got five elk hunts left in me… after that, I’m good.” The reality of sitting on points for years and never “catching” the tag you want A powerful story of a father hunting with his daughters — and his daughter finding his buck The shift from chasing trophies to chasing experiences 🎯 Why This Episode Matters There’s a point in every hunter’s journey where things change. You start asking different questions: Why am I doing this? What am I really chasing? And who do I want to share this with? This episode is about that shift. 📍 From the Field Recorded live at the Mile High Hunt Expo in Denver — one of the premier hunting expos bringing together conservation groups, outfitters, and hunters from across the country. 👊 Stay Connected If this podcast has ever brought you value — whether it’s knowledge, perspective, or just something to think about — make sure you’re subscribed. Episodes won’t always be weekly… but when they drop, they’ll be worth your time.   Colorado draw changes, hunting points system, elk hunting strategy, mule deer hunting, Arizona elk tags, hunting with kids, hunting podcast, Days in the Wild, Mile High Hunt Expo, hunting conservation

Welcome back to Days in the Wild Big Game Hunting Podcast, brought to you by Phoenix Shooting Bags. In this episode, recorded live from the Mile High Expo, I sit down with Jason Phelps to talk all things turkey hunting. We dive into late-season turkey behavior, why older toms can actually become more killable in mid-May, and how subtle calling can make all the difference when birds start hanging up. If you’ve ever struggled with late-season gobblers, wondered when to call and when to shut up, or tried to figure out Merriam’s birds in the West, this episode is full of practical insight you can take straight into the field. Jason breaks down how he approaches a brand-new area, how he likes to roost birds, where he sets up in relation to the tree, and why turkey hunting in the mountains often feels a whole lot like elk hunting. We also get into subspecies differences, decoy use for archery, late-season patterns, and why some birds seem easy while others humble you quick. In This Episode We Cover Why late-season turkey hunting can be deadly on older toms How the breeding cycle changes gobbler behavior Why mid-May can be a prime time to target mature birds The mistake of overcalling once a bird answers on the roost Why subtle calling — or silence — often works better How to think about a gobbler’s visual expectations when he pitches down Merriam’s vs Rio’s vs Easterns and how their behavior differs Why archery turkey hunting often benefits from a decoy setup How Jason scouts and roosts birds in unfamiliar country Why turkey hunting in the West feels a lot like elk hunting The challenge and reward of aggressive run-and-gun turkey tactics Stories from Arizona, Florida, Long Island, Nebraska, California, and Mexico Key Takeaways Late season can be the best time to kill older birds. Once hens begin laying and spending more time on the nest, gobblers often become easier to work because they suddenly find themselves alone and looking. Once a bird answers from the roost, less is often more. One of the biggest mistakes hunters make is continuing to call too much. Once he knows where you are, silence can be your best move. Setups matter as much as calling. A gobbler expects to see the hen where he heard her. If your setup doesn’t account for that, you can get hung up birds no matter how well you call. Merriam’s birds are different. They roam more, change roost trees more often, and can require a more aggressive, mobile style of hunting. Turkey hunting in the mountains has a lot in common with elk hunting. Covering country, using terrain, cutting distance, locating vocal birds, and making smart moves all carry over. Memorable Topics from the Conversation Why Jason likes to hunt that May 5 to May 15 window for mature gobblers The importance of knowing when a hen should be visible to a bird How bobcats and predators can affect when birds come off the roost in certain areas Why decoys may matter more in late-season archery setups The difference between hunting a bird’s routine and hunting a bird that has become more erratic Why running ridges for gobbles in Merriam’s country feels just like chasing elk Quote Worth Remembering “As soon as I know that my tree yelp got that gobble, do not call again until that bird pitches out of the roost. All you can do is screw it up from there.” Why This Episode Matters Turkey hunting can seem simple until you start trying to consistently kill mature birds. Then you realize it’s a game of timing, setup, patience, and reading behavior. This episode is a great reminder that success often comes from doing less, paying attention, and understanding where the bird is in the season — not just how good you are on a call. Stay Connected If you’ve been getting value from the show, make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss upcoming episodes. turkey hunting tactics, late season turkey hunting, Jason Phelps turkey hunting, Merriams turkey hunting, archery turkey hunting, turkey calling tips, roosted gobbler tactics, western turkey hunting, Days in the Wild podcast, Phoenix Shooting Bags

Guest: Scott Leysath — The Sporting Chef Episode: Field-to-Table Made Simple What’s inside (quick hits): The three biggest mistakes that make wild game “gamey”—and how to fix them Field care that actually matters (cooling, cleanliness, trim) Cut-to-method pairings for deer, elk, upland, and waterfowl Weeknight formulas: fast marinades, hot-and-fast sears, smart sides Gateway dishes that win over non-hunters (and why they work) Takeaway: Respect the animal, manage heat and fat, add acid and texture—great wild game is technique, not luck. Follow Scott: @thesportingchef Follow John: @johnstallone

Guest: Marlon Holden  Episode: Fall 2025 – Mule deer hunting, Camo, Boots, gear What we cover (quick hits): Hunting mule deer in South Dakota recap Layering systems, camo to wear Boots, socks AZ mule deer quota system Connect with Marlon: @graylighthunter Connect with the show: @johnstallone

Rifle vs. Archery — strengths, limits, and how to choose What we cover (quick hits): Why Matt hunts with both weapons—and what each teaches the other Ethical effective range: defining it for your skills, terrain, and conditions Fieldcraft vs. ballistics: closing inside 40 yards vs. building a rock-solid rifle position Calling, wind, and movement discipline—what changes with bow vs. rifle Practice plans: 4-week tune-ups for bowhunters and rifle hunters Gear that matters (and what’s overrated) for real-world hunts Links: IG: https://www.instagram.com/mattrege/ If you enjoyed this one, share it with a hunting buddy and leave a quick rating—it helps a ton.

Whitetail Rut Tactics + Buying Land John sits down with Jordan Blissett to break down practical rut strategies—how to read phases (seeking, chasing, lockdown), pick high-odds terrain, manage wind the smart way, and decide when to call or stay silent. Then they pivot to buying land for whitetails: access and neighborhood first, must-have habitat features, quick-win improvements, and rookie pitfalls to avoid. Highlights Rut stand selection: leeward edges, hub scrapes, ditch/creek crossings Calling & decoys: when they help—and when they burn a spot Pressure management on small tracts Land buying: access, cover diversity, neighbors, red flags First-year improvements that move the needle Follow Jordan IG: https://www.instagram.com/jordanblissett/ Team page: https://openseasonproperties.com/our-team/jordan-blissett/

Legacy, Stewardship, and Straight Talk: A Conversation with Dan Cabela Summary John sits down with Dan Cabela—conservation advocate and scion of the Cabela family—to share a wild-game meal and talk honestly about why hunting matters, how funding and policy actually move the needle for wildlife conservation, and what it takes to bridge the gap between hunters and non-hunters. No dunking, no shouting—just good food and better questions. What you’ll hear Origin story: The moment Dan’s love for the outdoors turned into a commitment to stewardship. Conservation, not slogans: How regulated hunting, tags, and excise taxes fund habitat, research, and management. Ethics in practice: Fair chase, technology creep, and what “doing it right” looks like before, during, and after the shot. Bridging divides: How to talk to non-hunters with humility, data, and real stories. Global perspective: Wins and lessons from projects around the world—and what actually scales. Legacy & responsibility: Carrying a famous name without being trapped by it. Wild game on the table: Cooking notes, transparency, and why sharing a meal changes the conversation. Quick takeaways Stewardship > rhetoric: Policy + funding + local buy-in beat internet arguments. Many pathways to help: You don’t have to hunt to support wildlife—join, donate, volunteer, vote smart. Food is a bridge: A plate of honest wild game opens doors that debate can’t. Measure impact: If it doesn’t move habitat, populations, or community support, it’s just noise. Suggested chapter guide (drop in timestamps after publish) Cold open & wild-game dish Dan’s early field memories → stewardship pivot How conservation gets funded (and where it fails) Ethics & tech in modern hunting International lessons that apply at home Sharing wild food with skeptics Rapid-fire: favorite hunts, mentors, books Calls to action & ways to get involved About our guest Dan Cabela is a lifelong outdoorsman and conservation advocate whose work spans habitat projects, policy support, and community engagement. He focuses on pragmatic solutions that sustain wildlife and local economies. Links & resources Howl for Wildlife — Take action, learn more, and support science-based management: [howlforwildlife.org] Connect Guest: Dan Cabela — IG @dancabela Host: John Stallone — IG: @johnstallone

We sit down with Robert Cowan and   Michael Cardinal   Episode Summary John sits down with Michael Cardinal to unpack the hunt behind his latest bull—how he scouted, read sign, and made decisions when the plan fell apart.

Elk Hunter Missing in Colorado Episode title “Missing in the High Country: An Elk Hunter’s Story in Colorado” Summary Guest Dac Collins  In this episode, John unpacks the developing story of an elk hunter who went missing in Colorado—what’s known so far, how search-and-rescue operations unfold in the Rockies, and the practical steps backcountry hunters can take to reduce risk and help responders if something goes wrong. The conversation balances empathy for the family with actionable fieldcraft and preparedness. Note: Facts are evolving. We stick to verified information and avoid speculation. What you’ll hear Timeline & terrain: What’s known about the incident and the landscape factors at play (elevation, weather, access). SAR reality check: How mountain Search and Rescue is mobilized, what slows missions, and what information helps the most. Preparation that matters: Comms plans, weather/nowcasting, navigation backups, and “don’t split the party” rules. If you get turned around: Immediate steps that improve survival and make you easier to find. For hunting partners at home: How to structure check-in windows, map shares, and who to call if a teammate is overdue. Respect & responsibility: Keeping the focus on the missing hunter and supporting family and responders. Quick takeaways Tell two people your plan (route, camp, bail-out options, check-in times). Carry redundant comms: phone + battery, offline maps, PLB or satellite messenger (preset check-ins & SOS). Weather drives risk—nowcast every 30–60 minutes in the mountains. If lost: STOP (Stop, Think, Observe, Plan), make yourself findable (bright panel, whistle, signal mirror), and stay put when it’s safer than wandering.   Safety checklist (copy/paste) Trip plan shared (route, alt routes, check-in times, who to call) Phone with offline maps + spare battery PLB or sat messenger with preset messages to a contact Paper map + compass (know a bearing to camp/trailhead) Weather layers (puffy, rain shell, hat/gloves) + headlamp Signal gear: whistle, bright panel, small mirror Fire kit, basic med kit, calories & water treatment Call to action

“Solo vs. Social: The Psychology of the Hunt with Beau Martonik” ✍️ Episode Description: In this compelling episode of Days in the Wild, I sit down with hunter, writer, and East Meets West podcast host Beau Martonik to dig into the mental side of hunting—specifically the contrast between solo and social hunting experiences. Beau opens up about how hunting alone in remote terrain builds resilience, sharpens instincts, and forces you to confront your inner world. We also explore the camaraderie of camp, the challenges of balancing solo ambition with shared experiences, and how both play a vital role in shaping today’s hunter. If you've ever questioned whether you're more effective—or more fulfilled—hunting alone or with others, this episode will speak directly to you. 📌 Topics We Cover: The mindset differences between solo and group hunts Why solo hunting builds personal growth and mental toughness How social hunting cultivates community and tradition Making space for solitude while still honoring shared camp culture Gear choices that support both independence and team hunting Learning to embrace discomfort and silence in the backcountry Lessons Beau’s learned through years of chasing whitetails and mountain bucks 💬 Notable Quotes: “Solo hunts strip away the noise and reveal what kind of hunter—and person—you really are.” “There’s power in both solitude and community; the key is knowing what you need in each season.” 🧠 Key Takeaways: Solo hunting demands higher levels of self-reliance, decision-making, and mental stamina Group hunting offers emotional support, shared knowledge, and deeper traditions The choice between the two is often less about success and more about personal evolution Understanding your psychological needs in the field can elevate your overall hunting experience 🔗 Connect with Beau Martonik: 🎧 Listen to his podcast: East Meets West 📸 Instagram: @beau.martonik 🌐 Website: www.eastmeetswesthunt.com 📣 Call to Action: Enjoyed the episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate the show, and share with fellow hunters—whether they ride solo or run with a crew. Stay tuned for more deep dives into hunting, mindset, and the wild places we chase.

n this episode of Days in the Wild, I sit down with backcountry hunter and elite outdoor photographer Steven Drake to unpack his approach to gear, preparation, and the mental edge needed to thrive deep in the wilderness. We dive into his minimalist yet functional backcountry pack system, how he balances photography and hunting in extreme terrain, and the hard-earned lessons that shape his mountain mindset. Whether you’re dialing in your gear list or just looking for inspiration from someone who truly lives the wild, this episode is loaded with insight, authenticity, and practical takeaways. 📌 Topics We Cover: Steven’s exact backcountry gear loadout—what makes the cut and why The philosophy behind “gear with purpose” How to prioritize weight vs. comfort for extended hunts Balancing camera gear with hunting efficiency Mindset shifts that separate successful backcountry hunters Why Steven believes in failing forward as a way to grow Lessons learned from grueling hunts in Alaska, the Rockies, and beyond 💬 Notable Quotes: “If everything in your pack doesn’t serve a purpose, it doesn’t belong there.” “The most valuable skill in the backcountry isn’t shooting—it’s adapting.” 🧠 Key Takeaways: Intentional gear selection makes you more efficient, not just lighter. Simplicity in systems leads to mental clarity in high-stress situations. Physical preparation is essential, but mental resilience is the real game-changer. Photography and hunting don’t have to compete—they can fuel each other. 🔗 Connect with Steven Drake: 📸 Instagram: @stevendrakephoto 🌐 Website: www.stevendrakephoto.com 📣 Call to Action: Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with your hunting crew. And don’t forget to check out previous episodes of Days in the Wild for more insight from the field.

I'm proud of Braxton he has been carrying the torch for public lands and has helped it to enter in to the mainstream conversation. I heard him recently on Tucker Carlson Made me think back to our podcast back in 2018    In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Days in the Wild, John Stallone sits down with combat veteran, author, and elk hunting guide Braxton McCoy. Braxton shares the harrowing story of surviving a suicide bombing in Iraq, enduring dozens of surgeries, and ultimately forging a new path in the wilderness as a guide and advocate for healing through the outdoors. From the battlefield to the backcountry, Braxton opens up about trauma, resilience, and the role hunting played in reclaiming his identity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the restorative power of nature and the strength of the human spirit. 📌 What We Cover: Braxton’s story of survival and recovery after his near-fatal injury in Iraq The physical and emotional toll of trauma—and how the outdoors became his refuge Why elk hunting helped him reconnect with his purpose and identity The value of mentorship, grit, and persistence in both life and the hunt His philosophy on what it means to truly live a wild and meaningful life 💬 Notable Quotes: “I wasn’t looking for healing when I started hunting again—I was looking for purpose. The healing came anyway.” “The backcountry doesn’t care about your excuses. It’s honest—and that’s why it saves people.” 🔗 Connect with Braxton McCoy: 📘 Author of The Glass Factory 📸 Instagram: @braxtonmccoy 🌐 Website: www.braxtonmccoy.com If this episode moved you, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear Braxton’s story. Stay wild—and stay strong.