In this milestone episode of Becoming a Bowhunter, we’re flipping the script. Instead of the usual one-on-one chat, this episode features a powerful collection of real rut stories straight from the bowhunting community.

Host @MattyAfter put the call out for listeners to share their most memorable moments from the 2025 rut—and after some cat-herding and chasing down voice memos, eight legends stepped up to the plate. From misty mornings and busted gear to blood-trailing heartbreaks and first-stag triumphs, this episode is packed with raw, real, and sometimes hilarious tales from the bush.

You’ll hear:

• Matty’s soggy and fogged-up gear lessons from the Brisbane Valley
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• Hard-earned wins from hunters battling tough weather and tougher stags
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• Creative meat-saving tricks for rut-tainted venison
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• The highs, lows, and chaos of calling in reds and fellow in the thick stuff
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• Gear tips, meat care hacks, and calls that actually worked
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Whether you’re reminiscing on your own rut or looking for inspiration to keep grinding, this episode is a celebration of persistence, community, and the wild ride that is bowhunting in the rut.

🦌 Shoutout to all the contributors: Luke Samuels, Jason Wells, PJ Lindley, Jack O'Neil, Jed Davidson, Colin Gair, Kritstian Gerathy and Kenny Riddle.

🎧 Listen in for laughs, lessons, and that sweet sound of the rut echoing through the hills.

Story Contributors: 

@_lukesamuels

@mindfulbowhunter

@pjlindley94

@jacklewisoneill

@jeddavidson

@outlawcustombows

@followingabrokencompass

@keeny_riddle

Find Becoming a Bowhunter:

Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast

Hosted by: @mattyafter

Episode Sponsors:

• Dog and Gun Coffee: @dogandguncoffee - Fuel your hunt with premium coffee. Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off. Dog and Gun Coffee
• Kayuga Broadheads: @kayuga_broadheads - Precision and reliability for every shot. Use code BAB10 for 10% off. Kayuga Broadheads
• Venture Hunting & Outdoors: @venturehunting - Gear up for your next hunt. Venture Hunting
•  Jab Stick Outdoors: @jabstickoutdoors - Precision-engineered carbon shafts. Use code BAB10 for $10 off Jab Stick Outdoors