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Mule deer are Ethan Eskew’s obsession—but the real story is how he turns a full-time corporate job into a nearly year-round Western hunting routine. In this episode, Ethan and Dan talk about hunting bigger bucks, scouting with purpose, and making the hard choices that can bring a dream within reach. Ethan shares his journey from hunting whitetails in West Virginia to building a life in the West. He and Dan discuss the sacrifices of moving away from family, the risks involved in pursuing what matters to you, and how Ethan balances a regular job with an intense hunting schedule. They also get into the details of Ethan’s approach in the field: how he scouts before the season, why he’s become more selective, and how he keeps track of deer while planning a stalk. The conversation leads to the story of a challenging five-mile hike, a close encounter with a wide buck he chose to pass, and a tense wait before Ethan finally took his shot at an old, character-rich mule deer. Whether you hunt mule deer or simply want to hear how someone makes room for a passion alongside everyday responsibilities, this episode brings together practical hunting insight, a memorable hunt, and an honest conversation about what it takes to follow your own path. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you care about Western hunting, public-land strategy, or want to understand what makes mule deer so different from whitetails, this conversation is packed with insights. Dan J. talks with Trevor Hubbs, editor-in-chief of Mule Deer magazine for the Mule Deer and Blacktail Deer Foundation. They discuss deer genetics and hybrid zones, and the challenges of hunting animals that can migrate hundreds of miles and rely on suitable habitat to survive.  Trevor explains why mule deer are sensitive to environmental change, why they can’t simply be managed like whitetails, and why their numbers are lower today than decades ago. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Where mule deer and whitetails overlap—and how to spot hybrids in the fieldHow antlers, gait, and behavior can help identify different deerHow fire, drought, agriculture, and human expansion affect mule deer countryWhy mule deer need native vegetationHunting seasons, migration, draw strategy, and the realities of pursuing mature bucks in the WestTrevor also shares stories from his work as an editor and his experiences hunting in Montana and Wyoming, including a hunt affected by wildfire. Along the way, he and Dan discuss public-land access, muzzleloader opportunities, decoy tactics, and why longer hunts can help when you’re looking for a mature buck. The conversation also explores the bigger conservation picture: why some wildlife adapts to human-shaped landscapes while other species struggle, and how habitat changes can reshape mule deer populations and hunting opportunities. If you love Western hunting, want to learn more about mule deer, or are interested in the challenges facing this iconic species, add this episode to your queue. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dan and Ken sit down to tackle the nuances of Alberta antelope hunting, from pre-hunt prep to field execution. After tagging out early this season, Ken shifts his focus to helping his niece harvest a buck. He shares insights from his trip—including setting up his SUV as a mobile base camp, using the iHunter app to scout and secure land permissions, and adjusting his size expectations on the ground. The pair also explore critical hunting tactics, including navigating the rut, understanding antelope vision, practicing long-range shooting, and building meaningful relationships with private landowners. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Elk hunting is not about luck—it is about putting yourself in the right 200-yard bubble at the right time, with enough days left to make the moment count. Tim Kent breaks down nearly two decades of hard-earned lessons chasing elk from the East, including the mistakes that cost him bulls, the calling mistake that instantly blew up a setup, and why his biggest breakthrough came from learning where elk actually live instead of where he hoped they would. Dan Johnson and Tim dig into the obsession that keeps eastern hunters driving west every year: the mountains, the pressure, the gear, the archery challenge, and the brutal reality that elk hunting is often more bowhiking than bowhunting. Tim shares how his approach evolved from flying out with a one-man tent and too much optimism to building hunts around mobility, terrain, thermals, and the kind of pre-hunt scouting that narrows a giant unit down to a few high-percentage pockets. You’ll discover: Why Tim now avoids bugling directly below a bullHow one wrong call can shut down an entire herd in secondsWhy two weeks is the sweet spot for serious DIY elk huntsThe biggest difference between early elk hunting and learning through modern online educationHow to use your own past encounters to identify elevation bands and likely elk zonesTim also opens up about the emotional side of elk hunting—the frustration of close calls, the adrenaline spike when a bull is coming, and the strange addiction of coming home empty-handed but fired up for next year. If you are an eastern hunter chasing western elk, or you are planning your first serious DIY hunt, this episode is packed with practical insight and a realistic look at what actually moves the needle. Perfect for anyone preparing for elk season who wants fewer theory-based tips and more field-tested truth from a hunter who has lived the grind, learned the hard way, and is still out there doing it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Colorado just changed the elk hunting game—and the next round of regulations could reshape how residents and non-residents chase tags, points, and opportunity. If you hunt the West, this is the kind of episode that can save you years of confusion and help you make smarter decisions before the 2028 changes take effect. Dan Johnson sits down with Colorado hunter Adam Parr to break down what is really happening with the state’s draw system, why archery tags went from over-the-counter to draw for non-residents, and how point creep has exploded in some units. Adam explains the new system’s biggest shifts, including the move toward a 50/50 split between preference-point tags and weighted lottery tags, plus the simplified point-buying process that could make Colorado easier to navigate and more fair. You’ll discover: What Colorado’s current over-the-counter options actually are for non-residentsWhy some archery units jumped from a few points to double-digit point totalsHow the new draw rules may change your odds and planning strategyWhy the state’s regulation updates could reduce complexity instead of adding to itHow residents and non-residents should think differently about long-term tag planningAdam also shares how he approaches his own season as a resident hunter—from deciding when to burn points versus hunt over the counter, to scouting, glassing, trail cameras, and why he targets unpressured elk early in the season. He talks through the realities of hunting at 9,000 to 10,000 feet, how dry years push elk higher into timber, and the small details that separate a filled freezer from a long, exhausting grind.Then the conversation turns tactical.  Adam explains the strategies he uses to find elk, including location bugles in the dark, reading fresh sign, hunting natural pinch points, and using terrain and wind to his advantage. He also makes a strong case for hybrid broadheads on elk, especially when blood trailing and recovery matter most.If you are applying in Colorado, planning a Western hunt, or trying to stretch your points without wasting years, this episode gives you a real-world look at what is changing and how to adapt. It’s essential listening for Western hunters who want more than hype and fewer expensive mistakes. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mule deer are still the vanishing icon of the West, and if you care about public land hunting, this conversation explains exactly why. Greg Sheehan, CEO of the Mule Deer Foundation, lays out the hard truth behind the decline, what changed after the mule deer heyday, and what hunters and conservation groups are doing right now to turn it around. Greg brings a rare perspective to the problem. He’s spent decades on both sides of wildlife management, from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Bureau of Land Management, and now he’s focused on one species and one mission - restoring mule deer and their habitat. We break down the forces reshaping mule deer numbers across the West, including habitat loss, winter severity, drought, wildfire, migration barriers, invasive grasses, disease, and competition from other deer species. Greg also explains why modern mule deer management is so different from the 1960s boom years, why the old “good old days” are gone, and why today’s hunters are seeing fewer mature bucks on the landscape. You’ll discover: Why mule deer populations surged in the early 1900s and peaked mid-century How severe winters in the early 1990s reshaped deer herds across the West The “menacing seven” threats hurting mule deer today Why fence removal, sagebrush planting, guzzlers, and habitat work matter so much How access on National Wildlife Refuges expanded and why that was a major win for hunters We also get into the bigger conservation picture - how state agencies, federal land managers, and groups like the Mule Deer Foundation fund real on-the-ground projects, why membership matters, and what it takes to keep mule deer from becoming a rare opportunity instead of a mainstream hunt.Essential listening if you hunt mule deer, care about western habitat, or want to understand what’s really happening behind the numbers. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Western Kansas can make you a better hunter - or break your ego fast. Travis Glassman reveals how he consistently patterns mature whitetails and mule deer in one of the toughest, flattest, most overlooked deer countries in the West. Dan Johnson and Travis catch up after years apart, and the conversation quickly turns into a sharp, practical breakdown of what it really takes to hunt a landscape where deer numbers are down, cover is limited, and every move matters. From chronic wasting disease and drought to shifting deer behavior, Travis explains why success out here depends less on luck and more on reading water, terrain, and pressure with precision. You'll discover: How CWD and drought have changed mule deer and whitetail numbers in western Kansas Why Travis now starts with trail cameras, then narrows in with glassing and ambush planning The difference between how mule deer and whitetails behave, especially during the rut Why he often chooses a doe decoy over a buck decoy for mule deer How he uses terrain, crop edges, drainages, and even observation setups to create shot opportunities in flat country Travis also shares how fatherhood has changed his hunting priorities, from chasing antler inches to valuing time, experience, and passing the obsession on to his kids. If you've ever hunted open-country deer, struggled to locate mature bucks, or wondered how to adapt when numbers drop and the conditions get harder, this episode is packed with hard-earned lessons you can use right away. Perfect for deer hunters who love tactics, western ground, and real-world strategy over theory - especially if you're trying to outthink mature bucks in country that gives you very few second chances. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Antelope and mule deer don’t just test your shooting. They expose every mistake in your glassing, rangefinding, wind reading, patience, and ability to disappear into terrain without blowing the whole stalk. Dan Johnson and Kurt Belding trade hard-earned stories from the field and break down what actually works when you’re chasing pronghorn and mule deer with a bow. From 80-yard antelope shot windows to the brutal reality of crawling across open country only to watch deer melt into the next drainage, this conversation is packed with the kind of details western hunters usually learn the hard way. You’ll discover: Why antelope hunting can be more mentally frustrating than elk hunting How Kurt decides whether a stalk is even worth starting Why mule deer success often comes down to patience, glassing, and staying with an animal long enough to make a smart move The importance of OnX waypoints, accurate rangefinding, and knowing exactly how terrain changes your approach Why bucks bed the way they do, how other deer ruin stalks, and when freezing in place beats trying to sneak away Dan and Kurt also compare prairie hunts to mountain hunts, talk water, shade, bedding behavior, and explain why mule deer can seem impossible until everything finally lines up. Kurt shares the mindset that keeps him effective in the bubble, including the value of backing out, relocating, and waiting for the right moment instead of forcing a shot. If you hunt the West, want to hunt the West, or just love the chess match behind a successful stalk, this one is essential listening. It’s a real-world masterclass in reading animals, reading country, and staying disciplined when the whole hunt is trying to make you panic. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Most elk hunters make one costly mistake: they move too much, call too much, and blow out the very bulls they’re trying to hunt. Kurt from Western Obsession breaks down the smarter, harder way to hunt elk, and why staying put, reading wind, and letting the glass do the work can change everything. Returning guest Kurt joins Dan Johnson to unpack the exact mindset and field strategy behind successful western elk hunting, from archery season in the rut to late-season rifle hunts. He explains why the best hunters aren’t the loudest ones, why bugle tubes can do more harm than good, and how to turn elk behavior into a plan instead of a gamble. You’ll discover: How Kurt scouts elk country by focusing on non-motorized access, north-facing bedding slopes, south-facing feed zones, and water Why mornings and evenings matter most, and when midday "trolling" through timber can actually help locate bulls The difference between trying to call elk in and simply getting ahead of them for a spot-and-stalk setup Why late-season elk hunting is a glassing game, not a calling game The gear that actually keeps you on the mountain longer, including rain gear, boots, merino layers, a zero-degree bag, electrolytes, chapstick, and even a bow hitch Kurt also shares the mental side of elk hunting that too many people underestimate: frozen boots, soaked gear, brutal elevation, and the pressure of being in the kill bubble when one wrong move can end everything. If you’ve ever wondered why elk hunting feels so humbling, or how to finally stop getting your butt kicked in the mountains, this conversation gives you the framework. They also get into the evolving debate over bow vs rifle for western species, why archery elk remains the ultimate challenge, and what it really takes to go from "just some idiot walking around the woods with a bow" to feeling truly dangerous in elk country.Perfect for western hunters, DIY elk hunters, and anyone who wants a real-world strategy for hunting elk smarter, staying tougher, and making better decisions when it matters most. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are you tired of unproductive hunts and wondering where the elk are hiding? Discover the game-changing strategies that seasoned elk hunter and expert scout Josh Sears uses to find elk year-round—no matter where you hunt, east or west. Whether you’re new to hunting or a seasoned pro, this episode reveals how to interpret maps, identify key terrain features, and use satellite imagery to pinpoint the best spots before you even leave home. Josh Sears, founder of Boots on the Ground Services, shares his insider tips on e-scouting, including how to interpret topo lines, identify potential elk bedding areas, and navigate tricky terrain from thousands of miles away. He explains why north-facing slopes and benches are often elk magnets, how weather and seasonality impact elk movement, and why water sources are critical—even in dry months. Plus, learn how to adapt your scouting approach based on the time of year, weather conditions, and your hunting style. We break down specific tactics: dropping pins on remote high-elevation spots, understanding the significance of clear trails and sign, and factoring in pressure from other hunters. Josh reveals how to find alternative spots when your first plan gets overrun or cattle has grazed out your prime location. His advice on how to efficiently scout during a short trip or even during the season itself will make your next hunt more productive and less stressful. Whether you're planning a quick weekend trip or hunting a remote backcountry area, knowing these detailed scouting methods can mean the difference between filling your tag and coming home empty-handed. This episode is perfect for hunters eager to learn how to think like an elk and read the land like a pro—so you show up confident, prepared, and one step ahead of the herd.Interested in turning your e-scouting efforts into real-world results? Josh’s “Boots on the Ground” service offers tailored scouting trips, helping hunters verify their locations and gather crucial intel on public land elk hotspots. Visit BootsOnTheGroundServices.com for more info and custom packages. Gear up with real-world insights from a true elk hunting expert—hit play and transform your approach from guesswork to certainty. Your next big elk encounter could be just a map pin away.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Most mule deer hunters overlook one of the most critical aspects of success: understanding the prairie ecosystem like a local. In this episode, Dan Johnson shares raw, real-world insights from years of hunting mule deer across South Dakota, Nebraska, Montana, and beyond—all on public lands and walk-in spots. Discover how cattle, water, terrain, and deer movement patterns influence every move you make in the field, without relying on fancy gadgets or guesswork. Dan’s experience reveals the unspoken rules of prairie hunting that can make or break your hunt—like why cattle are more enemies than allies, how to interpret subtle water sources, and why patience in tight drainages pays off. You'll break down concrete tactics such as cattle checks, glassing from the right angles, and reading terrain cracks that hide beds and bucks. He shares stories of dramatic bed switchings, deceptive water locations, and the importance of staying mobile and adaptable—because assumptions often lead to failure. You’ll discover the art of "checking and moving"—how to interpret cattle activity, water signs, and terrain features to locate prime deer bedding and feeding zones. Plus, Dan discusses why the simplest, most overlooked tactics—like glassing in the right light, understanding deer behavior, and choosing the best access points—can unlock your most successful hunts. If you're looking to go beyond theory and learn practical, field-tested strategies, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Whether you're new to western hunting or hunting prairie mule deer is your next challenge, you'll come away with a clearer understanding of how to navigate the landscape, interpret deer signs, and hunt smarter—not harder. Dan's candid storytelling, seasoned advice, and honest mistakes make this episode essential listening for anyone eager to unlock the secrets of the open country. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Most nurses spend their careers avoiding the emotional toll of death — but Aaron Hepler has a different perspective. After 17 years in intensive care, he’s witnessed the unfiltered reality of tragedy, miracles, and faith, revealing stories that will challenge your understanding of life and death.In this gripping episode of the Hunting Gear Podcast, Aaron shares raw, behind-the-scenes insights from the hospital that will change how you view resilience, faith, and the human spirit. From the chaos of family conflicts in ICU to the quiet moments that feel like miracles, his stories expose the true cost — and beauty — of caring for others on their final journey. You’ll discover why some moments feel like miracles and how faith is often what keeps caregivers grounded in the darkest times.We break down: The emotional chaos families face in critical moments and the delicate art of handling conflict in the ICU What it’s really like to be present at the end of life, and the stories that stay with Aaron — including his close calls and profound reflections on faith and coincidence Practical lessons from the hospital that apply directly to outdoor adventures, like assessing risks and preparing for the unexpected How the trauma and heartbreak of nursing reveal powerful lessons about acceptance, gratitude, and the fleeting beauty of life The surprising ways in which faith resurfaces in moments of crisis, even for those who’ve long questioned it This isn’t just a conversation about medicine — it’s a profound exploration of what it means to face mortality and find hope amidst chaos. If you hunt, you know the importance of respecting nature’s power — this episode is a similar lesson about respecting life’s fragile balance.Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and anyone interested in the human condition, Aaron’s stories will deepen your appreciation for the moments that matter most — and how faith can provide strength where science cannot. Aaron Hepler is a registered nurse in intensive care, with nearly two decades of experience, known for his candid stories of survival, loss, and moments of grace that make every day meaningful. His unique perspective offers a rare window into the unseen battles of caregivers and the miracles they witness.This episode challenges you to look beyond the hunt and consider the true meaning of resilience, faith, and acceptance in life’s fiercest moments. Get ready to be inspired, moved, and reminded of the extraordinary stories hidden in everyday tragedy.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Most Western hunters get their priorities wrong — they chase small windows of opportunity with limited time and underestimating how pressure has reshaped elk behavior. Bryan Broderick of Day Six Arrows lays bare why one week is no longer enough to hunt true success in the West, revealing the real secrets behind elk movement, pressure, and the relentless grind it takes to get close. If you're hunting public land and dreaming of a big bull, this episode is your must-listen for the reality check you didn't know you needed. Bryan shares decades of firsthand experience living and hunting where the pressure’s transformed elk from predictable daytime grazers to almost nocturnal ghosts. He discusses why hunting pressure — not just seasons or tags — has made elk smarter, more cautious, and much harder to hunt than ever before. You’ll discover why a single week isn't enough: seasoned hunters now need two full weeks of dedication, with the most effective tactics shifting from calling to stealth, patience, and understanding the animals’ altered routines.We break down practical strategies for success in high-pressure areas, including Bryan’s tips on spotting elk in the dark, moving undetected, and setting up for success without relying on calls or decoys. You’ll learn the importance of terrain, water sources, and pressure points that can make or break your hunt. Bryan explains how the best hunters have adapted their approach — covering ground, staying mobile, and hunting smart rather than loud. The stakes are high, but so is the opportunity: mastering these methods could dramatically increase your chances of that once-in-a-lifetime bull. This episode is perfect for serious western hunters, especially those who put in the effort but struggle with elusive elk and intense pressure. If you’re ready to upgrade your game, avoid the rookie mistakes, and truly understand what it takes to succeed in today’s pressured public land environments, don’t miss this conversation. Bryan’s insights will shift your perspective from frustration to strategic mastery, giving you the edge in the challenging pursuit of big game. Bryan Broderick is a seasoned elk hunter and the owner of Day Six Arrows, known for his deep understanding of elk behavior and craftsmanship in archery and broadheads. With over 35 years in the industry, Bryan’s real-world experience on public lands across the West makes his advice invaluable for hunters who want to turn pressure — and long shots — into trophies.Whether you’re planning your next hunt or seeking to refine your tactics, this episode delivers proven techniques and honest truths that could be the difference between coming home empty-handed and filling the freezer with the bull you want. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Most of us overlook how wildfire and post-fire landscapes are prime hunting real estate—Jaden Bales reveals the surprising science behind how fires can actually boost your odds. If you’re a hunter wanting to outsmart the herd, understanding fire’s role in wildlife movement, browse regrowth, and habitat recovery can be your secret weapon. In this episode, Jaden shares how recent wildfires in the West reset ecosystems in just days—bringing game back with impressive speed. You'll discover how species like mule deer, elk, and pronghorn quickly return to burn scars, often within two weeks, hunting opportunities that can make or break your season. We break down fire timing: when to hunt the edges, why green sprouts attract animals, and how to use fire as a scouting tool in your strategic game plan.We also delve into the latest legislation threats to hunting and farming in the West—what it means for your access and how to stay prepared. Jaden insights include navigating wildfire permits, understanding burn severity, and leveraging post-fire growth to find trophy prospects. Plus, he discusses new policy trends, the rising costs of tags, and how hunters can adapt to shrinking access and increasing competition—essential info for the serious non-resident and resident alike.If you want to be a smarter hunter, one step ahead of the game—and understand how wildfires can be your best friend in the field—this episode is your playbook. Perfect for those chasing deer, elk, antelope, or just curious about the wild landscape's silent comeback. Whether you’re planning an upcoming trip or just passionate about western habitat dynamics, tuning in will give you the edge you need. Jaden Bales is a land management expert and hunt strategist with extensive experience in wildfire science, habitat restoration, and practical hunting tactics in the West. His insights help hunters turn chaos into opportunity and understand the unseen forces shaping their success.For more on leveraging fire ecology for hunting—plus updates on tag draws, legislation, and opportunities—visit huntwestplanning.com and subscribe to the Hunt West Digest. Gear up for smarter, more strategic seasons ahead! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode of The Western Rookie podcast focuses heavily on tactical e-scouting and mastering digital mapping techniques to maximize success in the field, specifically using the onX Hunt app. The conversation breaks down into a few core areas: Terrain and Topography: The hosts dive into how to properly read topography maps, understand complex terrain features, and use that layout to predict how big game moves through an area. Spotting Game Indicators: They discuss what specific visual markers and land features to look for while e-scouting from home to increase the odds of finding animals before ever stepping foot on the mountain. Navigating Boundaries & Collaboration: A breakdown of the practical, day-to-day functions of onX—including how to seamlessly navigate confusing public vs. private land boundaries and how to use the app's collaborative tools to share pins, waypoints, and scout effectively with your hunting partners. Handling Real-World Hurdles: The episode wraps up with advice on how to remain adaptable when things don't go according to plan, offering strategies for dealing with heavy hunting pressure, unexpected road closures, or a frustrating lack of wildlife in your primary spot. It is essentially a masterclass for newer western hunters on how to turn digital map data into a concrete, adaptable game plan. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.