Becoming a Bowhunter

In this episode of Becoming a Bowhunter, we welcome back Harry Watson (@ihuntnfish) to unpack his detailed strategies for hunting red deer during the rut. Known for his incredible ability to get close to animals, Harry shares decades of knowledge and practical insights to help you make the most of this exciting hunting season.

We dive deep into:

• Red Deer Behaviour & Rut Timing: Understanding the full cycle of red deer from antler growth, velvet shedding, to rutting behavior.
• Early Season Tactics: Harry’s approach to hunting in mid-to-late March, including finding and stalking stags before they become vocal.
• Close Encounters: Closing the gap not only increases your chances of a successful hunt but also enhances your overall bowhunting experience.
• Advanced Calling Techniques: The importance of starting with hind calls, when to switch to roars, and specific calling scenarios to attract wary stags.
• Setting Up for Success: Proven tactics for positioning yourself to maximize shot opportunities, including Harry’s unique approach to using landscape and vegetation.
• Gear Essentials & Field Processing: Efficient methods for handling your deer after the harvest, including Harry’s preference for boning out in the field.
• Hunting Stories & Lessons Learned: Insightful anecdotes, successes, and lessons from Harry's personal hunts, including close calls and memorable stalks.

Whether you're preparing for your first red deer rut or seeking advanced techniques to refine your hunting style, this episode is loaded with practical tips and detailed strategies to help you become more successful this season.

Find Harry Watson:

Instagram: @ihuntnfish

Website: https://www.jackall.com.au/

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. Jab Stick Outddos

In this episode of Become a Bowhunter, we sit down with Kristian Gerathy—an adventurer, gold prospector, and passionate bowhunter—to discuss his journey from searching for gold in Australian rivers to chasing deer in the bush.

Kristian shares his evolution from a casual shooter to a dedicated bowhunter, offering valuable insights into persistence, access challenges, and the mental game needed to succeed. From finding gold nuggets to landing his first hard-earned stag, his stories highlight the relentless determination that defines true hunting.

Topics Covered:

• From Prospecting to Bowhunting: Kristian’s transition from gold-digging rivers to chasing deer in dense bushland.
• The Struggle for Access: Hard-earned lessons on how to secure hunting spots and build relationships with landowners.
• Persistence Pays Off: The challenges and triumphs of solo hunting trips, including finding success in remote, unforgiving environments.
• The Mental Game: How setbacks, failed hunts, and personal grit contribute to hunting success.
• Gold Prospecting 101: A surprising crossover of hunting and prospecting—tips for finding gold in Australian rivers.
• Rutting Tales: Kristian’s most challenging and rewarding hunts during the rut season.

And loads more

Find Kristian Gerathy:

Instagram: @followingabrokencompass

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FollowingABrokenCompass

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. Jab Stick Outddos

In this episode of Become A Bowhunter, we sit down with Jim McWilliam. We discuss his transition from hunting with dogs to bowhunting in the rugged Northern Territory.

Jim shares insights into hunting the massive boars of Darwin and its surroundings, the challenges of bows and living rurally, hunting in the heat, and much more. With a down-to-earth and humble perspective and a passion for continuous learning, Jim gives us a raw and unfiltered look at what it takes to become a better hunter.

Topics Covered:

• From Dogging to Bowhunting: The mindset shift and what drew Jim to archery.
• Pigs in the NT: Characteristics and habits Jim’s picked up on while hunting boars in the NT.
• Tuning & Equipment: Why Jim took bow tuning into his own hands and the importance of understanding your gear.
• Shot Placement on Bedded Boars: The nuances of finding the right angles for a clean kill.
• Shot Placement for Better and Faster Dispatch: Jim share how he changed his thinking on shot placement and the better outcomes the perspective has brought. 
• Buffalo & Banteng Encounters: The intensity of hunting these massive, powerful animals.
• Community & Clubs: The value of archery clubs and the benefits of competing in ABA shoots.

This episode is packed with knowledge for bowhunters of all experience levels, from those just starting out to seasoned hunters looking to refine their skills. Whether you're interested in tuning your own bow, understanding Northern Territory hunting dynamics, or just hearing some incredible hunting stories — this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Find Jim McWilliam:

Instagram: @topendoutdoors

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

In this episode we welcome back Graham Cahill, one of 2024’s fan favorites, for an insightful and entertaining conversation about his bowhunting journey and overcoming target panic. 

Known for his down-to-earth and highly positive personality, Graham shares the ups and downs of mastering the mental game of archery to overcome a multi-year battle with target panic.

We dive into topics such as:

• The Reality of Target Panic: Graham explains how it feels like "a weight pulling your arm down" and how he battled this challenge through methodical practice.
• Building Better Habits: From daily routines to tools like release trainers, Graham details his transformative six-week training regimen that made all the difference.
• Gear Insights: Graham discusses his transition to a Bowtech SR bow, the advantages of single-pin sights, and the game-changing impact of rangefinder binoculars.
• The Importance of Doing the Work: Practical advice from seasoned bowhunters, including daily exercises that helped Graham rebuild his form and confidence.
• Hilarious Anecdotes: From whistling at strippers to chewing wires in the bush, Graham doesn’t hold back on stories that make this episode as entertaining as it is informative.

Whether you're a seasoned bowhunter or just starting out, this episode offers invaluable advice for overcoming mental hurdles, refining your technique, and rediscovering the joy of hunting.

Find Graham Cahill:

Instagram: @ecomuseimages

Watch Graham on 4WD 24/7: https://www.youtube.com/user/4wdaction

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

In this unique episode of Become A Bowhunter, we explore the fascinating and often overlooked world of camel hunting in Australia with Pete Griffiths. 

Known for their resilience and intelligence, Australia’s wild camel population poses distinct challenges for bowhunters.

Pete brings his wealth of experience to the table, sharing in-depth knowledge about these animals, their behavior, and how to successfully hunt them. 

From understanding their grazing habits to navigating the expansive Australian outback, this episode is packed with actionable insights and intriguing stories on camels.

And then the adventure begins when Pete starts to unleash some jaw-dropping stories of the most pain he’s ever suffered whilst bowhunting, multiple near misses with crocodiles, and much more.

Topics Covered:

- The history of Australia's wild camels and their unique purity as a species.

- Key behaviors of camels and how to use them to your advantage when hunting.

- Strategies for tracking camels, even in the vastness of the outback.

- The challenges of bowhunting camels include their sharp eyesight and tendency to roam.

- Fun and surprising facts about camels, like their rutting calls and the use of their fat in cooking.

- Stuff the Crocs — Donkeys are what you have to look out for

- Horses don’t attack, do they? Think again.

- Do you know those stingray barbs? Well, they’re sharp as hell and leave you in a lot of pain

- Look, hear me out — Crocodiles aren’t too bad

And much, much more

Find Pete Griffiths:

@ihunt_downunder

Find Becoming a Bowhunter:

Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast

Hosted by: @mattyafter

Episode Sponsors:

Dog and Gun Coffee: Fuel your hunt with the best coffee for bowhunters. Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit Dog and Gun Coffee

Kayuga Broadheads: For precision, power, and reliability in every shot. Use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Visit Kayuga Broadheads

Venture Hunting & Outdoors: Your one-stop-shop for hunting gear. Get ready for your next adventure with the best products. Visit Venture Hunting

In this episode of Become Your Bowhunter, we're joined by Ayden Doumtsis for a deep dive into Chital deer hunting strategies both in and out of the rut. 

Ayden shares his extensive experience in North Queensland, covering topics from rut behavior to the best hunting approaches in varying conditions. 

We discuss key signs of Chital activity during the rut to look for — such as rub trees and the significance they play in scouting and area. 

Some of the highlights from this episode include:

• Chital Rut Insights: Ayden explains how the rut can vary based on rainfall and the condition of the hinds.
• Patience Pays Off: Learn why taking your time is crucial when hunting Chital deer, especially when working with multiple stags and hinds.
• Hunting Tactics: Do you call them? Can you rattle them in? We discuss all possible methods to use when chasing these skittish animals, the importance of wind direction, and how to handle both lone stags and rutting mobs.
• Deer Behavior: Discover how Chital deer’s interaction with their environment and each other influences hunting tactics, including strategies for calling and stalking.
• Practical Tips: Ayden shares his process for assessing properties, understanding deer patterns, and maximizing the hunting experience.

Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to Chital deer hunting, this episode offers valuable knowledge to help you make the most of your next hunt. 

Tune in and get ready for some incredible insights from one of the best in the game for Chital/Axis Deer.

Find Ayden Doumtsis:

@aydendoumtsisoutdoors

@twinelements

@spottedsafaris

Find Becoming a Bowhunter:

Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast

Hosted by: @mattyafter

Episode Sponsors:

Dog and Gun Coffee: Fuel your hunt with the best coffee for bowhunters. Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit Dog and Gun Coffee

Kayuga Broadheads: For precision, power, and reliability in every shot. Use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Visit Kayuga Broadheads

Venture Hunting & Outdoors: Your one-stop-shop for hunting gear. Get ready for your next adventure with the best products. Visit Venture Hunting

This episode is packed with experiences and lessons learned from a first-time bowhunter, Grant Muir, as he takes on his first-ever hunt. 

Joined by host Matty, Grant navigates through equipment setbacks, unexpected challenges, and the intense emotions of the hunt. 

From a cracked bow to the powerful moments of stalking animals, they discuss the trials and triumphs that come with the journey.

Topics Covered:

• The journey of a first-time bowhunter
• Equipment woes: From bow failure to upgrading setups
• The science behind bow setup, tuning, and arrows
• The adrenaline dump and the emotional rollercoaster of bowhunting
• Stalking techniques: Lessons learned in the field
• Ethics in bowhunting and respecting the animal
• The importance of preparation and gear: What worked and what didn’t
• Overcoming mistakes and the value of patience in the hunt
• The lessons learned about bow hunting after the first shot and the first animal
• Overcoming a bow malfunction on the eve of a big hunt
• Lessons on stalking and shot placement
• The emotional highs and lows of bowhunting for the first time
• Practical tips for first-time hunters on setting up their gear and expectations

Find Grant Muir:

@grantjmuir369

Find Becoming a Bowhunter:

Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast

Hosted by: @mattyafter

Sponsors:

Dog and Gun Coffee: Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off. Visit Dog and Gun Coffee

Kayuga Broadheads: For precision and reliability in your hunting gear. Use code BAB10 for 10% off. Visit Kayuga Broadheads

Venture Hunting & Outdoors: For all your hunting gear needs. Visit Venture Hunting

This week, Matty is joined by Sean Chick, a dedicated hunter who shares the unique story of gaining access to a property with a struggling deer herd and taking steps to boost its numbers and quality.

Sean’s journey highlights the practical challenges and rewarding outcomes of managing deer populations while balancing ethical hunting practices.

If you, too, have deer numbers dwindling on your block, the information provided by Sean could be the information you need to completely turn the deer numbers around, just like Sean was able to do.

Despite being limited in his bowhunting due to a shoulder injury, Sean’s passion for the outdoors and commitment to herd improvement shines through.

Podcast Topics:

- Sean’s bowhunting origins and evolution

- The impact of wild dogs on deer herds

- Ethical and sustainable deer management practices

- Managing genetics: Why “mong heads” need to go

- Balancing the herd: The importance of mature does

- Strategies to create a thriving hunting block

- Wild dog trapping: Methods, tools, and insights

- Navigating the of herd dynamics year-round (when to shoot and not shoot what)

- Filming The Season

And much, much more.

Find Sean Chick:

@src_huntntrap

Find Becoming a Bowhunter:

Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast

Hosted by: @mattyafter

Podcast Sponsors:

Dog and Gun Coffee @dogandguncofee

Bloody great coffee ready for adventure - Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/

Kayuga Broadheads @kayuga_broadheads

For precision and reliability in your hunting gear use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Check out https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/

Venture Hunting & Outdoors @venturehunting

For all of your hunting gear and needs head over to https://venturehunting.com.au/

This week Matty is joined by living legend Dr. Ed Ashby.

Dr. Ashby was the man who helped to reinstate bowhunting in South Africa.

The man documented over 630+ animals that he took with his bow and arrow.

Each time trialing different arrows, broadheads and total weight setups to come to a conclusion of best setups for bowhunters which is all documented and shared through “The Ashby Bowhunting Foundation.”

https://www.ashbybowhunting.org/

“The goal of every bowhunter should be to achieve the most penetration possible on an animal, with the intent of a full passthrough.” - Dr. Ed Ashby | Founder

Podcast topics:

- The Science of Bowhunting: Ethical Hunting Redefined

- Heavy Bone Thresholds and Their Impact on Success

- Stalking Skills: The Lost Art of Close-Range Hunting

- Lessons from 631 Animals: Dr. Ashby’s Bowhunting Insights

- Mechanical vs. Fixed Broadheads: The Ultimate Debate

- Conservation Through Bowhunting: A Hunter’s Role in Wildlife Management

- The Physics of Penetration: Why Momentum Matters Most

- The Future of Bowhunting: Innovations and Challenges Ahead

And much, much more…

Find Dr. Ed Ashby’s Work:

https://www.ashbybowhunting.org/

Make a donation to the foundation: https://www.ashbybowhunting.org/make-a-donation

Find Becoming a Bowhunter:

Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast

Hosted by: @mattyafter

Podcast Sponsors:

Dog and Gun Coffee @dogandguncofee

Bloody great coffee ready for adventure - Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/

Kayuga Broadheads @kayuga_broadheads

For precision and reliability in your hunting gear use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Check out https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/

This week Matty is joined by Joel Turner from Shot IQ.

Joel has cracked the code to override the human instinct and safety mechanisms that we have in place can negatively affect your accuracy inside of shooting. 

Whether you’re shooting a gun or shooting your bow, this system is an easy-to-implement process that removes target panic and makes a repeatable process every time.

Podcast Topics: 

- The Australian paddy melons

- how did this all come to fruition

- The Science and psychology behind the shot process

- Open and closed loop systems

- Thoughts are not thinking

- How to override your thoughts and take back control

- Applying the system to each style of release aid 

- Compound Vs. Trad Shot

- An elk hunt to remember

- The trick to calling in Bull Elk and Red Stags

And much, much more.

Find Joel Turner:

@joelturneractual

https://www.turnermodel.com/

https://www.shotiq.com/home

https://www.mindiq.com/enroll

Find Becoming a Bowhunter:

Instagram: @becomingabowhunter.podcast

Hosted by: @mattyafter

Podcast Sponsors:

Dog and Gun Coffee @dogandguncofee

Bloody great coffee ready for adventure - Use code BOWHUNTER for $10 off your next purchase. Visit https://www.dogandguncoffee.com/

Kayuga Broadheads @kayuga_broadheads

For precision and reliability in your hunting gear use code BAB10 for 10% off your next order. Check out https://www.kayugabroadheads.com.au/