Birdshot Podcast

Bird dogs come and go over a hunting life, and every new puppy is a chance to do it better than the last. Fresh off bringing home a new setter pup, Nick Larson sits down with Steve Snell of Gun Dog Supply to talk through what 50-plus dogs have taught Steve about raising the next one, from the first weeks at home to a lifetime in the field.

It had been since 2018 — episode #12 — that Steve was last on the show, and a lot of ground gets covered here. The conversation opens on bird dog safety: heat and when to call a hunt, the real risk math on rattlesnakes versus ticks, and the hazard most owners underrate (porcupines, not snakes). From there it works its way through nearly every stage of a dog's life — breed selection, the first few weeks with a puppy, crate training, sound exposure, table work, and the gear that actually matters — before closing on Garmin's new TT25 beeper and why Steve runs mini flex bands on every dog he owns.

A throughline keeps surfacing: the hunter's job is to make good decisions on the dog's behalf, because the dog won't make them for itself.

Expect to Learn:

- Why Steve sees protecting the dog as the hunter's responsibility — the dog won't protect itself.

- How heat, sun, wind, and terrain change the call on whether to run a dog at all.

- Why porcupines may be a bigger day-to-day problem than the rattlesnakes everyone fears.

- How Steve thinks about matching a breed to where and how you actually hunt.

- What Steve focuses on in a puppy's first few weeks, and why he keeps sessions to five or ten minutes.

- Why he raises every dog inside the house, and how exposure to noise, crates, kids, and vehicles builds a bulletproof dog.

- The only two pieces of gear Steve insists on for a new puppy — and why a drag line does so much work.

- What's new with Garmin's TT25 beeper, and why Steve recommends a mini flex band for every bird dog.

Frequently Asked:

When should you stop hunting a bird dog in the heat?

Steve uses roughly 65 degrees as his cutoff in Texas and says he'll never run a dog over 70 when it's sunny with no wind. The number isn't fixed — humidity, cloud cover, and wind all change it. His larger point: bird dogs won't quit on their own, so it's on the hunter to make the call, even when that means not hunting at all.

What's the most underrated danger for a bird dog in the field?

Porcupines, in Steve's experience. Snakes get treated as the boogeyman, but porcupine encounters are far more frequent, and they smell appealing to a pointing dog. The real trouble is the dog that doesn't learn its lesson — the one that goes back for revenge. He'd take a skunk encounter over a porcupine any day.

How do you choose the right bird dog breed?

Steve's rule is to match the breed to where and how you actually hunt the majority of the time — not to the breed you find most appealing. He also starts his search geographically, buying pointers out of lines hunted in tough country like Texas, Oklahoma, and the Southwest, because a dog bred where you hunt is built for it.

What should you do with a bird dog puppy in the first few weeks?

Steve keeps it simple and short. Sessions run five to ten minutes, broken up across the day, so the puppy never gets burned out or sour. He focuses on self-control and exposure over drills, and he always leaves them wanting more — and he prefers raising the dog inside the house from day one.

Notable Quotes:

"To me it's the hunter's responsibility to protect the dog 'cause the dog's not gonna protect himself." — Steve Snell

"Developing a puppy — that's my favorite part of the game." — Steve Snell

Resources Mentioned:

- Steve Snell's "7 Puppy Tips" puppy-raising article (Gun Dog Supply): https://www.gundogsupply.com/2026-04-23-7-puppy-tips.html

- Garmin TT25 Mini (the beeper/collar Steve discussed): https://www.gundogsupply.com/garmin-tt25-mini.html

Follow Steve: Gun Dog Supply — https://www.gundogsupply.com

Follow Nick: Instagram @birdshot.podcast — https://BirdshotPodcast.com

Listen:

- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7

- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609

- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkIF3w6P9rkuciwX-jEMG3g

Support the Show:

- onX Hunt — use code BSP20 to save 20% on your onX Hunt subscription.

- Trulock Chokes — use code BS10 to save 10%.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Birdshot Podcast, Nick sits down with Keith Marcott to talk about woodcock hunting, bird travel, and a lifetime spent chasing upland birds across North America and overseas. Keith shares stories from hunting woodcock in New Brunswick, Quebec, and Scotland, along with memories from Wyoming, the western bird country, and the years before GPS and OnX made it easier to find cover.
Keith Marcott is a retired engineer and lifelong upland hunter now based in Wyoming. After growing up bird hunting in the Northeast, he eventually built a life around western birds — Huns, chukar, sharptails, prairie grouse, and mountain hunts with Llewellin setters. Some of his most meaningful bird hunting memories, though, came from repeated trips into New Brunswick and Quebec, and later to Scotland, where woodcock hunting shaped the way he thinks about dogs, habitat, and travel.
In this conversation, Keith and Nick talk about:
- Woodcock hunting in New Brunswick, Quebec, and Scotland
- What separates woodcock hunting from grouse hunting
- How hunters found productive cover before GPS and OnX
- Bird hunting travel, border crossings, and old-school camp logistics
- Western bird hunting, dogs, landscapes, and the pull of woodcock country
Episode breakdown:
- [00:05:02] Keith Marcott’s background and a lifetime of bird hunting
- [00:07:01] Moving west: Wyoming, huns, chukar, and prairie birds
- [00:09:42] Keith’s bird hunting road trip across multiple states
- [00:11:07] Camping, snake country, and hunting dogs in the West
- [00:13:00] Snake avoidance training and a rattlesnake encounter in the field
- [00:19:20] Western hunters, ticks, and the difference between regions
- [00:27:07] The first New Brunswick woodcock trip
- [00:29:27] Hunting with guide Danny Bird and chasing woodcock full-time
- [00:36:47] Repeated trips into Canada and DIY hunting in Quebec
- [00:42:05] Alaska, British Columbia, and border-crossing logistics with dogs and guns
- [00:48:01] Finding woodcock cover before modern mapping technology
- [00:49:27] Why woodcock still matter to a western bird hunter
Links:
- Birdshot Podcast: https://birdshotpodcast.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/hwy22outdoors/
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast
Support:
- Use promo code BSP20 to save 20% on your onX Hunt subscription: https://onxmaps.com/hunt/app
- Use promo code BSP10 to save 10% at Meadow Creek Mounts: https://meadowcreekmounts.com/
Birdshot is presented by onX Hunt.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson sits down with Todd Bumgardner, founder of Pack Mule Training Co., for a deep dive into physical preparation for the uplands. They discuss the shift from extreme "murder yourself" workouts to a philosophy of long-term consistency, focusing on how small, frictionless habits can pay massive dividends come September. Todd brings nearly 20 years of experience training hunters and elite military units to help upland hunters move better, stay resilient, and extend their longevity in the field.

I’ve been following these principles for three years now, and the biggest change for me wasn't some fancy new gear—it was realizing that consistency is the most important variable. I used to tolerate sore shoulders and heavy legs during those first few grouse hunts, but by keeping a simple routine and rucking year-round, those opening-day miles now feel like a breeze. Todd and I dig into the "why" behind Zone 2 cardio, the efficiency of the 20% body weight ruck, and how to outsmart your own willpower by making your training environment frictionless.

Expect to Learn:

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:02:06] – Nick’s Turkey Season Prep and Meadow Creek Mounts Update

[00:05:06] – Meet Todd Bumgardner: Founder of Pack Mule Training Co.

[00:08:37] – Why Consistency is the Most Important Variable in Your Training

[00:13:02] – Reducing Friction: The "Floss One Tooth" Approach to Habits

[00:35:13] – Step-by-Step: The 3-Mile Rucking Assessment

[00:45:10] – The Science of Zone 2 Cardio and Aerobic Efficiency

[01:03:00] – Incline Training: NordicTrack at 40% vs. Stair Climbers

[01:08:43] – The One-Minute Coffee-Brew Mobility Routine

[01:14:00] – Nick’s Minimalist Strength Routine: Pull-ups, Zerchers, and Incline Bench

[01:31:26] – Todd’s Bird Dog Search

Follow The Guest, Todd Bumgardner:

Follow the Host, Nick:

Listening Links:

SUPPORT:

The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: onX Hunt

Todd’s free PDF download: The Upland Hunter Off-Season Basic Training Program.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson sits down with Greg Maher of Meadow Creek Mounts for a conversation about the practical shift from traditional beads to optics in the turkey woods. They dig into the engineering behind rib-mounted sights, the "equalizer" effect of a red dot on gun fit, and why seeing more of the bird is a significant advantage when the shot counts.

Greg Maher is an engineer and a lifer in the turkey woods with over 20 years of experience. After identifying a need for better optic placement on shotguns that weren't originally drilled and tapped, he launched Meadow Creek Mounts in 2020. Based in South Carolina, Greg is a dedicated public land hunter who has pursued turkeys in over 20 states, bringing a perspective focused on gear reliability and the "why" behind every piece of equipment in his vest.

Expect to Learn:

Why a red dot acts as an "equalizer" for head position and consistency in the field.

The technical differences between open and enclosed reflex sights and how they handle the elements.

Why mounting an optic on the rib provides a superior field of view compared to receiver mounts.

A practical "one-shot" method for zeroing your optic to save on expensive TSS ammunition.

How to use a bore laser and a reference sheet to ensure your zero hasn't shifted during travel.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:02:46] – Greg Maher and Meadow Creek Mounts in a Nutshell 

[00:07:02] – From Beads to Red Dots: The "Aha" Moment in the Woods 

[00:15:39] – The Engineering of Rib Mounts vs. Receiver Mounts 

[00:21:47] – Understanding Reflex Sights, Astigmatism, and Reticle Options 

[00:31:32] – Battery Life, "Shake Awake," and Avoiding "Amazon Specials" 

[00:40:55] – Step-by-Step: Zeroing and Patterning for Precision 

[00:50:07] – Greg’s Personal Setup: The Mossberg SA-20 and Hand-Loaded TSS 

[00:56:41] – Red Dots for Wingshooting? 

[01:00:27] – Perspective on "Slams" and Returning to the Spring Woods 

[01:04:36] – Where to Find Greg and Closing Thoughts 

Follow The Guest, Greg Maher:

Website: https://meadowcreekmounts.com/ 

Email: [email protected] 

Follow the Host, Nick:

Instagram: @birdshot.podcast

Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com

Listening Links:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkIF3w6P9rkuciwX-jEMG3g

SUPPORT

Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

Use Promo Code | BSP10 to save 10% on https://meadowcreekmounts.com/ 

Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/

The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson sits down with Patrick Hunter for a laid-back and insightful conversation about upland bird hunting in the Southeast. They dig into everything from family hunting traditions and first shotguns to the pursuit of elusive woodcock and what makes southern hunting so different.

Patrick Hunter is an avid upland hunter and outdoorsman based in coastal South Carolina. With a background rooted in family hunting traditions, Patrick pursues a wide range of game including woodcock, quail, ducks, and wild turkeys. By day, he works as an engineer, but he has developed a growing passion for outdoor writing, contributing to publications like the Ruffed Grouse Society and Project Upland while advocating for conservation and awareness of southern bird hunting opportunities.

 Expect to Learn:

What makes bird hunting in the Southeast uniquely challenging and rewarding

How woodcock hunting can transform both hunters and their dogs

The cultural traditions behind southern hunts like dove shoots and duck hunting

Insights into lesser-known species like rails (marsh hens) and their hunting styles

Why spring turkey hunting is one of the most addictive and meaningful pursuits

 Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:00:00] - Introduction and Early Hunting Background

[00:07:00] - First Shotguns, Bird Dogs, and Hunting Traditions

[00:13:15] - Raising Kids Around Hunting and the Outdoors

[00:19:26] - Duck Hunting in the Southeast and Unique Setups

[00:27:08] - Seaweed, Conservation, and Writing About Bird Hunting

[00:34:26] - Discovering Woodcock Hunting in the South

[00:39:34] - Dove Hunting Culture and Rail (Marsh Hen) Hunting Explained

[00:48:12] - Turkey Hunting Stories, Traditions, and Close Calls

[00:55:54] - Public Land Hunting, Mentorship, and Sharing the Outdoors

[01:11:38] - Where to Find Patrick and Closing Thoughts

Follow The Guest, Patrick Hunter:

Patrick Hunter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jpatrickhunter/

Website: https://www.highway22outdoors.com/

Highway 22 Outdoor Shop: https://www.highway22outdoors.com/shop

Youtube (Company): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp64d9-168IfGomYk14T_GA

Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/hwy22outdoors/

Follow the Host, Nick:

Instagram: @birdshot.podcast

Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com

Listening Links:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast

SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot

Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/

The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson sits down with Mike Neiduski of Ugly Dog Hunting Company for a wide-ranging and entertaining conversation covering hockey, Pheasant Fest highlights, dog gear innovations, and the tools that made a difference this season. The conversation wraps with an exciting announcement, Nick is adding a new puppy to the family.

Mike Neiduski is the founder of Ugly Dog Hunting Company, a Minnesota-based retailer specializing in high-quality hunting dog gear and training equipment. A passionate upland hunter and dog owner, Mike is deeply involved in the bird hunting community and regularly shares insights through the Ugly Dog Podcast.

Expect to Learn:

The real-world pros and cons of Garmin’s new TT25 beeper collar

Why upland hunters are embracing GPS watches

Smart gear upgrades that improved efficiency this season

How a simple walkie-talkie can enhance group hunts

Essential tools and mindset shifts for bringing home a new bird dog puppy

[00:00:00] - Introduction and Hockey Banter

[00:07:06] - Analysis of Player Performances and Skills

[00:13:07] - Olympic Games and USA vs Canada Showdown

[00:19:46] - Player Dynamics and Team Strategies

[00:25:24] - The Impact of Officiating on Game Outcomes

[00:36:26] - Insights from Pheasant Fest and Gear Trends

[00:45:54] - Precision in Hunting with GPS Technology

[00:53:45] - Understanding GPS Data and Its Challenges

[01:00:17] - The Importance of Smartwatch Integration in Hunting

[01:09:00] - Finding the Right Gear for Cold Weather Hunting

[01:15:24] - Innovative Communication Tools for Hunting

[01:24:01] - Convenience in Hunting Gear

[01:39:05] - Preparing for a New Puppy

Follow The Guest, Mike Neiduski:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-neiduski-75635126/

Facebook (Company): https://www.facebook.com/uglydoghunting

Instagram (Company): https://www.instagram.com/uglydoghuntingco/

Tiktok (Company): https://www.tiktok.com/@uglydoghuntingco

Youtube (Company): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7G1T81K9zEBLmB0AoqOcgA

Website: https://uglydoghunting.com/

Products mentioned on the show: Cold weather gloves - https://amzn.to/47hxsuf Portable tripod - https://amzn.to/4r0e1NyRockie Talkie - https://amzn.to/4kZsQysSika Alpha Fleece - https://amzn.to/4l0heeDCold weather FastFit gloves - https://amzn.to/3OCyfzD

Follow the Host, Nick:

Instagram: @birdshot.podcast

Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com

Listening Links:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast

SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot

Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/

The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, Nick Larson sits down with Doug Stewart, an avid upland bird hunter, author, and expert on traditional side-by-side shotguns. Doug shares his deep passion for bird hunting, the stories behind his favorite guns, and offers plenty of advice for anyone interested in the world of vintage shotguns. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting to explore, Doug’s wealth of knowledge will leave you inspired and eager to get out in the field.

Doug is the author of two books about traditional side-by-side shotguns: The Traditional Side-by-Side and its sequel. With decades of experience under his belt, he offers a unique perspective on the craftsmanship, history, and performance of these iconic firearms.

 Expect to Learn:

The stories behind Doug's hunting adventures and his approach to the sport.

Why side-by-sides are more than just guns – they’re part of a tradition.

How to choose the right side-by-side shotgun for your hunting style.

Doug’s personal tips on hunting gear and the joy of being out in the field.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

[00:00:00] - Welcome & Introduction

[00:01:02] - Chasing Birds in Colorado, Nebraska & New Mexico

[00:05:57] - The Grouse Camp Tradition

[00:10:13] - How Doug’s Wife Became an Upland Hunter

[00:12:11] - Doug's TV Habits: True Crime and History

[00:13:07] - Hunting with Vintage Guns

[00:19:57] - Barrel Length and Gun Fit

[00:28:14] - The Importance of Gun Balance in the Field

[00:31:13] - Sporting Clays vs Upland Bird Guns

[00:40:21] - Vintage Shotguns: What to Look For

[00:51:15] - Starting Out with Side-by-Sides

[01:07:57] - Doug's Upcoming Book: What's Next?

[01:12:11] - The Joy of the Hunt

Follow The Guest, Doug Stewart:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dougstewartauthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doug_stewart_author

Website: https://www.dougstewartauthor.com/

The Book: https://www.dougstewartauthor.com/the-book

The Book Part II: https://www.dougstewartauthor.com/the-book-part-ii

Follow the Host Nick:

Instagram: @birdshot.podcast

Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com

Listening Links:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast

SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot

Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/

The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this heartwarming episode of The Birdshot Podcast, Host Nick Larson welcomes back Tim Flanigan, a revered outdoorsman, author, photographer, and retired game warden. Now in his 80s, Tim reflects on a life immersed in upland bird hunting, wildlife photography, and conservation. He shares rich stories from his time in the field, thoughts on aging gracefully, and timeless lessons passed down through generations of hunters and mentors.

Tim Flanigan is a celebrated upland bird hunter, retired game warden, and author of books such as Grouse & Woodcock: The Birds of My Life and the Night Killers series. Known for his evocative writing, wildlife photography, and depth of field knowledge, Tim has become a treasured voice in the hunting community.

 Expect to Learn: 

Why life truly begins at 40, especially for outdoorsmen

The value of mentorship and passing on hunting traditions

Tales from the field: from poachers to unforgettable first grouse hunts

Insights into Tim’s books, including Grouse & Woodcock and Turkey Man

How aging changes a hunter’s priorities from the kill to the memories

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:00:00] - Welcome & Turning 80 with Tim Flanigan

[00:02:56] - Life Begins at 40

[00:05:30] - What inspired you to write an article?

[00:14:43] - Chasing Grouse and Outlaws: A Game Warden’s Story

[00:19:43] - Grouse, Woodcock, and the Joy of Observation

[00:41:58] - What do you look at when you’re shooting?

[00:53:09] - The grouse's morning stretching routine

[01:12:39] - Photo Tim wants to capture

[01:28:17] - Book Recommendations and Final Thoughts

Follow The Guest, Tim Flanigan

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimFlanigan.NatureExposure/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timflanigan418/?hl=en 

Book#1:https://www.wildriverpress.com/product/grouse-woodcock-timothy-c-flanigan-wild-river-press/

Book#2:Poacher Pursuit: Game Warden vs Wildlife Killers

Book #3:Night Killers: Blood Lusting Poachers

Follow the Host Nick:

Instagram: @birdshot.podcast

Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com

Listening Links:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast

SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshotUse Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/

The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson is joined by Marc Musselman, CEO at Alclair Audio, to discuss the intersection of bird hunting and hearing protection. From nostalgic stories of Nebraska pheasant hunts to embracing Minnesota winters and late-season grouse excursions, the conversation evolves into a deep dive on the science and user experience behind custom digital hearing protection. Marc shares his journey through the hearing industry, the challenges of adoption among upland hunters, and why hearing protection should be as common as boots and a bird vest.

Marc Musselman is a lifelong upland hunter and audio innovator based in Minnesota. Originally from Nebraska, his passion for bird hunting, especially grouse and woodcock, runs deep. Through Alclair, Marc has made it his mission to help hunters protect their hearing while staying tuned into the natural world, combining decades of engineering expertise with a hunter’s instinct.

Expect to Learn:

How Marc’s childhood pheasant hunts shaped his upland hunting journey

What goes into making custom digital hearing protection for hunters

The difference between hearing enhancement and noise suppression in the field

How to properly acclimate to digital hearing protection for upland hunting

What’s next for hearing protection innovation and Alclair’s mission

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

[00:00:00] - Introduction and recent hunts in snowy Minnesota

[00:08:30] - The joys and trials of late-season grouse and woodcock hunting

[00:18:00] - Dog talk: Oscar’s progress and the next setter

[00:25:00] - From Nebraska to Minnesota: Marc’s hunting roots and evolution

[00:37:00] - Camper life and cross-country bird hunting dreams

[00:46:42] - How Alclair got started in music and moved into hearing protection

[00:50:52] - Understanding digital hearing protection: features and challenges

[01:08:00] - Tips for adjusting to and maximizing Alclair EXP Pro

[01:21:00] - Final Thoughts 

Follow the Guest, Marc Musselman

Marc Musselman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-musselman-b733a68/ 

Alclair LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alclair-audio/ 

Aclair’s Website: https://alclair.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcmusselman/?hl=en 

Follow the Host Nick:

Instagram: @birdshot.podcast

Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com

Listening Links:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast

SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot

Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/

The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From the Ruffed Grouse Society:“With heavy hearts, we share the news that Glen Robert Blackwood, a beloved friend, colleague and devoted conservationist, passed away on Dec. 29, 2025, at age 62. Glen’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew him and in the broader conservation community he served so passionately.” (continue reading at ruffedgrousesociety.org)

Obituary: https://www.grcremation.com/obituaries/glen-blackwood

Episode Highlights (from the original recording):

Barn parties and popping for bass

Ruffed Grouse and American Woodcock Society update

Upland anthologies

Books for various upland species

Glen’s recommendations for some good reads

Listen back to this conversation with Glen Blackwood of the Ruffed Grouse Society and American Woodcock Society.

Timestamps:

[00:00] – Introduction to the episode.

[01:27] – Tribute to Glenn Blackwood.

[06:26] – Glen’s conservation work with RGS and AWS.

[07:24] – Glen’s background and journey into upland hunting.

[11:35] – Early bird hunting memories with family.

[17:06] – A teenage fishing story with a lesson from his father.

[25:08] – Conservation projects and habitat work in Michigan.

[28:15] – Favorite books and key sporting literature titles.

[41:20] – Reflections on rereading and gaining perspective.

[49:49] – Dogless grouse hunting and lesser-known authors.

[56:09] – Glen’s top bird hunting book picks by species.

[59:02] – Signs of a strong bird season and closing thoughts.

Become a Patreon Support | patreon.com/birdshot

Follow us | @birdshot.podcast

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