Amaazen Outdoors Podcast

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In this episode of Amaazen Outdoors, we’re excited to announce a new partnership with Bob King of Santa Fe Guiding Company. Join us as we dive into what makes New Mexico a prime destination for wild quail hunting. Bob shares his expert insights on the local terrain, hunting strategies, and what hunters can expect from this season’s guided quail hunts.

This collaboration will bring you exclusive guided quail hunting trips in New Mexico this winter, specifically during December and January. Whether you’re a seasoned upland hunter or looking for a new adventure, this opportunity is one you won’t want to miss.

Tune in to learn more about the partnership, booking details, and how to prepare for an unforgettable hunt.

Connect with Bob King and Santa Fe Guiding Company:
Website: santafeguiding.com
Instagram: @santafeguiding
Facebook: Santa Fe Guiding Company

Ruffed Grouse Clothing
Ruffed Grouse Hats, Clothing and Stickers

Book A Ruffed Grouse Hunt
Join us this fall for a world class Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock hunt with Amaazen Outdoors.

Join Us This Winter In New Mexico
World Class wild quail hunting in New Mexico. Three Day Guided Hunts. Click the link for more info

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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🎙️ Amaazen Outdoors Podcast — Episode 89
"Against the Grain: GSPs, Grouse, and the Bonasa Bonanza"
Guest: Dennis of Aspen Thicket Grouse Dogs

In Episode 89, we sit down with Dennis, the dedicated breeder, guide, and conservationist behind Aspen Thicket Grouse Dogs. Known for doing things a little differently, Dennis shares his unique story and explains why he chose the German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) as his go-to breed for ruffed grouse hunting—despite it being an unconventional choice in the upland world.

🐾 We dive into Dennis's background, from how he got started in the upland scene to building a life rooted in bird dogs, guiding, and protecting the habitat that makes it all possible.

🔥 We also shine a spotlight on one of the summer’s most exciting upland events:
 The Bonasa Bonanza, happening August 1–3 in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
This celebration of bird dogs, grouse hunting, and the upland lifestyle brings together dog folks, hunters, and conservationists for a weekend packed with training sessions, camaraderie, and campfire stories.

Topics Covered:

• Why Dennis chose GSPs for grouse hunting
• Breeding and training philosophies at Aspen Thicket
• The challenges and rewards of going “against the grain”
• Conservation and the future of upland habitat
• What to expect at the Bonasa Bonanza
• Community, culture, and why the uplands matter

🐦 Whether you're a seasoned dog handler or just getting into the upland game, this episode is full of insights, inspiration, and a healthy dose of bird dog passion.

Event Highlight:
📍 Bonasa Bonanza
🗓️ August 1–3, 2025
📌 Upper Peninsula, Michigan
🎯 Dog training, networking, seminars, and more!
👉 Follow Aspen Thicket Grouse Dogs on social media for details and registration.

More information on the Bonasa Bonanza Event 

Follow Dennis & Aspen Thicket Grouse Dogs:
🐕 @aspenthicketgrousedog

https://www.aspenthicketgrousedogs.com/

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.

#AspenThicket #BonasaBonanza #GrouseDogs #GSPsForGrouse #UplandHunting #GundogTraining #BirdDogLife #AmaazenOutdoorsPodcast #PublicLandsProud #ConservationThroughHunting

Ruffed Grouse Clothing
Ruffed Grouse Hats, Clothing and Stickers

Book A Ruffed Grouse Hunt
Join us this fall for a world class Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock hunt with Amaazen Outdoors.

Join Us This Winter In New Mexico
World Class wild quail hunting in New Mexico. Three Day Guided Hunts. Click the link for more info

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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🎙️ Amaazen Outdoors Podcast — Episode 88

Guests: Jessica and David of Paddlefish Adventures & Treehouse Studios

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Jessica and David—co-founders of Paddlefish Adventures in St. Croix Falls, WI, and creative force behind Treehouse Studios in Osceola, WI.

🎨 Jessica shares her passion for art and her mission to root Treehouse Studios deeply into the local community and the natural beauty of the St. Croix River Valley. From workshops and community events to her own artwork, her studio is more than a space—it's a movement to celebrate creativity and connection.

🛶 Then we dive into the story behind Paddlefish Adventures, the couple’s canoe outfitting business that brings people onto the scenic waters of the St. Croix River. We explore how their love for wild spaces, community, and creativity come together in this new venture that’s already making waves in the region.

You’ll hear stories of inspiration, entrepreneurship, and the powerful pull of place—perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors, art, or meaningful community-driven work.

Topics Covered:

• The vision and mission behind Treehouse Studios and Paddlefish Adventures
• How Jessica uses art to connect people and place
• The origin of Paddlefish Adventures
• Canoe trips, river stories, and local partnerships
• Building a lifestyle around purpose, passion, and place

🌲 Whether you’re a paddler, a creative, or just love the spirit of the St. Croix River Valley, this episode will leave you feeling inspired.

Connect with our guests:
🔗 Paddlefish Adventures
🔗 Treehouse Studios

📍 Based in: St. Croix Falls & Osceola, WI

🔊 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you stream!
📸 Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @AmaazenOutdoors for behind-the-scenes content and upcoming episodes.

#StCroixRiver #OsceolaWI #CanoeWisconsin #PaddlefishAdventures #TreehouseStudios #OutdoorLife #SupportLocalArt #CanoeTheCroix #RiverValleyLiving #AmaazenOutdoorsPodcast

Ruffed Grouse Clothing
Ruffed Grouse Hats, Clothing and Stickers

Join Us This Winter In New Mexico
World Class wild quail hunting in New Mexico. Three Day Guided Hunts. Click the link for more info

Book A Ruffed Grouse Hunt
Join us this fall for a world class Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock hunt with Amaazen Outdoors.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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In this episode, we sit down with Ryan, the voice behind The Upland Social podcast. 

Ryan shares the story behind starting his own podcast and how his love for bird dogs, upland hunting, and faith all intersect. We dig into what fuels his passion, why he felt called to create content in the upland world, and the deeper meaning he finds in time spent behind a dog in the woods or fields.

🎧 Whether you’re here for the bird dogs, the birds, the stories, or the spiritual side of the hunt — this episode delivers on all fronts.

🔥 What You’ll Hear:

• How Ryan got into upland hunting and podcasting
• His favorite bird dog moments
• The role faith plays in his outdoor life
• Why storytelling matters in the upland community
• Behind the mic: what it’s like producing The Upland Social

🐾 If you're someone who values connection — to your dogs, the land, and a like-minded community — this conversation is for you.

🔗 Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe!

#UplandHunting #BirdDogs #HuntingPodcast #TheUplandSocial #FaithAndHunting #GrouseHunting #OutdoorLife #HuntWithDogs #Wingshooting

Ruffed Grouse Clothing
Ruffed Grouse Hats, Clothing and Stickers

Book A Ruffed Grouse Hunt
Join us this fall for a world class Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock hunt with Amaazen Outdoors.

Join Us This Winter In New Mexico
World Class wild quail hunting in New Mexico. Three Day Guided Hunts. Click the link for more info

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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In this episode, we welcome John, widely known as The Public Land Advocate, to discuss a critical and timely issue facing the outdoor community: the federal government's recent proposal to sell off up to 500,000 acres of public land.

We dig into what this means for hunters, anglers, hikers, conservationists, and anyone who values access to wild spaces. John brings his deep expertise and passionate advocacy to the table as we unpack the motivations behind the move, who stands to benefit, and most importantly—what you can do to stand up for public lands.

Topics Covered:

• Details on the proposed federal land sell-off
• How this could impact hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation
• Historical context of public land management in the U.S.
• Legal and political implications
• Action steps for citizens to get involved and make their voices heard

🔗 Resources & Links:

• Follow John on Instragram 
• Sign the petition to save our public lands from being sold off
• https://www.sltrib.com/news/politics/2023/10/22/celeste-maloy-is-ammon-bundys/

📣 Get Involved:
Public land belongs to all of us. Stay informed, stay vocal, and take action to ensure future generations have the same access to the wild spaces we love.

Ruffed Grouse Clothing
Ruffed Grouse Hats, Clothing and Stickers

Join Us This Winter In New Mexico
World Class wild quail hunting in New Mexico. Three Day Guided Hunts. Click the link for more info

Book A Ruffed Grouse Hunt
Join us this fall for a world class Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock hunt with Amaazen Outdoors.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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In this special 85th episode, we welcome back Ben Brettingen of onX Hunt, who now brings a fresh perspective as a newly appointed Board Member of the Ruffed Grouse Society (RGS). We dig into Ben’s vision for the future of RGS and where he believes he can make the biggest impact.

Topics include:

• Ben’s new role on the RGS board and what it means for upland hunters
• The state of habitat conservation for grouse and woodcock
• Exciting insight into the PATH program — a bold, nationwide initiative to unlock private lands for public hunting access
• The importance of collaborative conservation and how tech like onX is playing a role

Whether you’re a die-hard uplander or just getting into bird hunting, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical info you won’t want to miss.

Resources & Links:

• Prairie Chicken Project of Wisconsin 
• HW Launchers 
• Ruffed Grouse Society
• Learn more about the PATH (Public Access To Habitat) 
• Book a Grouse and Woodcock hunt with Amaazezn Outdoors

Connect with Us:

• Subscribe, rate, and review the show!
• Follow us on Instagram 
• Questions or guest suggestions? Email us at [email protected]

Ruffed Grouse Clothing
Ruffed Grouse Hats, Clothing and Stickers

Book A Ruffed Grouse Hunt
Join us this fall for a world class Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock hunt with Amaazen Outdoors.

Join Us This Winter In New Mexico
World Class wild quail hunting in New Mexico. Three Day Guided Hunts. Click the link for more info

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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In this episode, we sit down with the founder of the Prairie Chicken Project in Wisconsin to explore the incredible work being done to protect one of North America’s most iconic grassland birds: the greater prairie chicken. Once a common sight across the Midwest, these vibrant birds are now fighting for survival as their native habitat disappears.

We dig into how the project got started, why these birds matter, and what it takes to restore and protect their grassland homes. Whether you're a conservationist, a hunter, or just someone who loves wild places, this conversation offers a powerful look at the impact of dedicated, grassroots conservation.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• The origin story of the Prairie Chicken Project
• Why the prairie chicken is a vital part of Wisconsin’s ecosystem
• The challenges of habitat loss and how the project is fighting back
• Collaborations with landowners, volunteers, and conservation partners
• Success stories and what gives the founder hope
• How you can get involved and support the cause

Guest Bio

 Bill Koepke is the founder of the Prairie Chicken Project, a Wisconsin-based conservation initiative focused on preserving and restoring habitat for the greater prairie chicken. With a background in [Insert relevant background], they’ve dedicated their work to ensuring these birds remain a part of the Wisconsin landscape for generations to come.

Resources & Links

• 📸 Follow the project on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prairiechickenprojectwi/
• 🐦 Support habitat conservation efforts: https://www.conservationconsortium.org/prairiechickenprojectwi

Connect With Us

• 🎧 Subscribe to the podcast:  https://amaazen.com/
• 💬 Follow us on social media: https://www.instagram.com/amaazen_outdoors/#
• 📥 Send feedback or guest suggestions:[email protected]

Ruffed Grouse Clothing
Ruffed Grouse Hats, Clothing and Stickers

Book A Ruffed Grouse Hunt
Join us this fall for a world class Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock hunt with Amaazen Outdoors.

Join Us This Winter In New Mexico
World Class wild quail hunting in New Mexico. Three Day Guided Hunts. Click the link for more info

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Send us a text

Keenan Wind, owner of Windy Fishing Guide Service, discusses his passion for fishing and guiding on Mille Lacs Lake in Minnesota. He shares his experience growing up on the water and the legendary status of Mille Lacs as a walleye and smallmouth bass fishery. Keenan also talks about the challenges and changes in the fishing industry, including the impact of zebra mussels and the controversy surrounding walleye harvest regulations. He emphasizes the importance of understanding freshwater ecology and using research and knowledge to develop a game plan for successful fishing. In this conversation, Brian Maze and Keenan Wold discuss the importance of understanding the ecological system when fishing. They cover topics such as water oxygenation, water stratification, and biological productivity classifications. They emphasize the need to consider factors like substrate composition, forage base, and spawning areas when planning a fishing trip. They also discuss the value of keeping detailed notes and using resources like Lakefinder to gather information about a specific lake. Overall, they highlight the importance of taking a systems approach and using ecological knowledge to improve fishing success.

Go Fishing with Keenan and Windy Fishing Guide Service 

Book Fall Grouse & Woodcock Hunt With Brian 

Check Out Podcast Sponsor - HW Launchers 

Email Brian - [email protected]

Takeaways

Keenan Wind is the owner of Windy Fishing Guide Service on Mille Lacs Lake in Minnesota.
Mille Lacs Lake is known for its legendary walleye and smallmouth bass fishery.
The introduction of zebra mussels has had a significant impact on the lake's ecosystem.
Understanding freshwater ecology and conducting research can help develop a game plan for successful fishing. Understanding the ecological system is crucial for successful fishing
Factors like water oxygenation, stratification, and biological productivity impact fish behavior
Consider substrate composition, forage base, and spawning areas when planning a fishing trip
Keeping detailed notes and using resources like Lakefinder can enhance fishing knowledge and success

Sound Bites

"I started Windy Fishing Guide Service at age 19 to share my passion for fishing."
"The walleye harvest regulations have impacted tourism and resort communities on Mille Lacs Lake."
"Keenan is expanding his guide service to offer river trips and fly fishing experiences."
"You know, maybe that pounder looks a little bit odd in a lake where the primary forage base is, you know, panfish, yellow perch, crappie, bluegills, you know, whatever."
"Cold water holds more dissolved oxygen than warm water."
"Water stratification is just the natural So water also fluctuates in density so water will be most dense at four degrees Celsius"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
19:19 Expanding Guide Service and Fly Fishing
39:22 Understanding Freshwater Ecology
47:55 Understanding the Ecological System
59:39 Biological Productivity Classifications
01:07:31 Considering Spawning Areas
01:19:06 The Excitement of Fishing
01:27:40 The Joy of Topwater Fishing

Keywords

fishing, guiding, Mille Lacs Lake, walleye, smallmouth bass, zebra mussels, freshwater ecology, fishing, ecology, water oxygenation, water stratification, biological productivity, substrate composition, forage base, spawning areas, notes, Lakefinder

 

 

 

 

 

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Summary

Matt Russell, owner and operator of Double Aero Guides in southern Arizona, discusses bird hunting and the unique bird species found in the Southwest. He highlights the diverse landscapes and weather conditions in Arizona, from desert and cactus to mountains and grasslands. Matt talks about the different types of quail, including Gambel's quail and scaled quail, and their adaptability to various habitats. He also discusses the sensitive nature of Mearns quail and the need for conservation efforts to protect their populations. Matt emphasizes the importance of water, cover, and food sources for these bird species. Brian Maze discusses the different bird species he hunts and the unique challenges they present. He emphasizes the importance of thinking outside the box and exploring less popular areas to find better bird numbers. Maze also advocates for the conservation of the Mearns quail and the need for awareness and responsible hunting practices. He shares insights on hunting in the desert, dealing with rattlesnakes, and the importance of water for dogs. Maze also talks about the Broc du Bourbonnet, a French pointer breed, and the range of his dogs. He highlights the hazards of hunting in Arizona, including javelina and poisonous mushrooms. Maze concludes by mentioning his offerings of upland hunts for quail species and his trips to Argentina for dove, perdiz, and waterfowl hunting. In this conversation, Brian Maze discusses his experiences hunting in the Patagonia region of Argentina. He talks about the logistics of hunting in Patagonia and the abundance of quail and ducks in the area. Maze describes the beautiful scenery and diverse habitat in Patagonia, including grasslands and creeks. He also emphasizes the importance of safety and ethical hunting practices. Maze shares information about his outfit, Quail Arizona, and mentions his collaboration with Marsupial Gear for first aid kits. He concludes by discussing the etiquette and considerations for out-of-state hunters.

Book a Hunt with Matt at Double Areo Guides 

Follow Matt on Intagram 

Matt Asked for a Shout Out to AZ Quail Today - Check out thier instagram 

Book a Hunt with Brian and Amaazen Outdoors 

PODCAST SPONSOR HW Launchers 

Takeaways

Arizona offers diverse landscapes and weather conditions for bird hunting
Gambel's quail and scaled quail are adaptable to various habitats in the Southwest
Mearns quail are a sensitive species that require conservation efforts
Water, cover, and food sources are crucial for the survival of these bird species Think outside the box and explore less popular areas for better bird numbers
Advocate for the conservation of sensitive bird species like the Mearns quail
Be aware of the hazards of hunting in Arizona, such as rattlesnakes and javelina
Ensure dogs have access to water and prioritize their well-being during hunts
Consider the range and capabilities of different dog breeds for specific hunting environments
Offer upland hunts for various quail species and organize trips to Argentina for dove, perdiz, and waterfowl hunting Hunting in the Patagonia region of Argentina offers a unique and beautiful experience with abundant quail and ducks.
The logistics of hunting in Patagonia can be challenging, but the habitat and scenery make it worthwhile.
Safety and ethical hunting practices are paramount, and it is important to be considerate of other hunters in the field.
Quail Arizona is an outfit that offers guided hunting trips in Arizona and Argentina, and they collaborate with Mar

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Bruce Ross, the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association (WWA), discusses the organization's mission and initiatives. WWA focuses on wetland restoration, education, and advocacy for waterfowl hunters in Wisconsin. They work on both private and public lands to restore wetlands and create habitat for waterfowl. The organization also promotes the conservation of wild rice, an important food source for ducks. WWA has recently partnered with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to restore wetlands on public lands. They also have a wood duck box program and encourage volunteers to get involved in their conservation efforts. The Wisconsin Waterfowl Association (WWA) is dedicated to conserving and restoring wetlands and waterfowl habitat in Wisconsin. They work with various levels of government and organizations to make a difference on the landscape, regardless of ownership. The WWA's Waterfowlers Academy aims to turn newbie or wannabe waterfowlers into passionate conservationists, following the path of Aldo Leopold. They offer programs like Learn to Hunt waterfowlers and focus on bringing in women and persons of color to expand the hunting community. The WWA also organizes the Waterfowl Hunters Expo, a family-friendly event that celebrates everything about waterfowling and raises funds for conservation efforts. KeywordsWisconsin Waterfowl Association, wetland restoration, education, advocacy, waterfowl hunting, private lands, public lands, wild rice, wood duck boxes, partnership, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Wisconsin Waterfowl Association, conservation, wetlands, waterfowl habitat, Waterfowlers Academy, Aldo Leopold, Learn to Hunt, diversity, Waterfowl Hunters Expo  

Become a WWA member:  https://www.wisducks.org/shop/membership/membership/

Waterfowl Hunters EXPO:  https://waterfowlhuntersexpo.com/

Contact Bruce Ross at [email protected]

Check Out www.hwlaunchers.com  Guided Wisconsin Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock Hunts www.amaazen.com Follow up on social media https://www.instagram.com/amaazen_outdoors/ https://www.facebook.com/Amaazen.Outdoors

• The Wisconsin Waterfowl Association (WWA) focuses on wetland restoration, education, and advocacy for waterfowl hunters in Wisconsin.