Birdshot Podcast

In this episode of the Birdshot Podcast, Nick Larson is joined by Fritz Heller, a dedicated upland hunter, to discuss the 2025 hunting season, dogs, grouse hunting, and much more. Fritz shares insights into the challenges of the season, including heat waves and the impact on bird numbers, as well as his experience training new puppies. The conversation also gets into Fritz's plans for the future, including his search for a camper for hunting trips and his thoughts on managing bird populations and hunting conditions.

Fritz Heller is an upland bird hunter, dog trainer, and dedicated outdoorsman from Michigan. He has been actively involved in training dogs and hunting for many years, sharing his knowledge of the sport with others. Fritz is passionate about the welfare of wildlife, managing habitats, and improving bird populations, and has a wealth of experience hunting grouse, pheasants, and other upland species.

The impact of weather conditions on the 2025 hunting season

Heat waves and their effects on bird numbers, especially in the early season

The importance of habitat regeneration and the role of different species, like blackberries, in grouse hunting

How puppy training can vary by breed, and how Fritz is raising his new Labrador and Cocker Spaniel puppies

Fritz's thoughts on taxidermy and the importance of commemorating hunting memories

The search for a camper and how Fritz is researching the best setup for his future hunting trips
Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:00:00] - Introduction

[00:10:57] - 37 Degrees and Snow depth

[00:19:57] - Fritz’s Week Trip this Year

[00:36:13] - Different Color Phase

[00:43:23] - Discussing the puppy’s first season

[00:51:37] - Pippa: A Hunting Dog and the difference from a Lab

[01:01:40] - Puppy walks

[01:13:04] - Ruffed Grouse Drumming in Spring

[01:17:28] - Camper, Truck and Rig

[01:20:52] - Closing and upcoming plans for the next hunting season

Follow the guest, Fritz:

How to Hunt Ruffed Grouse with a Flushing Dog: https://projectupland.com/grouse-species/ruffed-grouse/how-to-hunt-ruffed-grouse-with-a-flushing-dog/  

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 is joined by Phil Bourjaily, Shotgun Editor at Field & Stream and passionate bird hunter. Phil shares insights from his pheasant hunts, discusses the current state of upland bird populations, and offers tips on hunting pheasants with pointing dogs. He also talks about how habitat loss affects bird numbers, the role of public and private land hunting, and how hunting conditions vary season to season. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just getting into upland bird hunting, this conversation offers a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Phil Bourjaily is a Shotgun Editor at Field & Stream, where he covers topics ranging from bird hunting to gun reviews and outdoor traditions. He’s a seasoned upland bird hunter with a wealth of experience hunting pheasants, grouse, and other upland species. His love for bird dogs and his deep understanding of hunting habitats make him a valuable resource for bird hunting enthusiasts.

How habitat loss impacts pheasant and quail populations

The importance of public and private land in upland hunting

Tips for hunting pheasants with pointing dogs, especially during late-season hunts

The best weather conditions for pheasant hunting and how snow can affect bird behaviour

The best shotgun set-up for pheasant hunting, including the right gauge and choke combinations

[00:00:00] - Introduction

[00:04:40] - Armadillos

[00:10:29] - Public vs. Private Land Access

[00:16:56] - Short Hairs vs. Other Dogs

[00:24:58] - Zeke's Hunting Behavior - Moving, Tracking, and Following

[00:29:00] - Discussion on Choosing the Right Gauge for Pheasant Hunting

[00:48:05] - Weight and Balance in Pheasant Guns

[00:58:09] - Bismuth Pricing

[01:11:18] - Find More of Phil’s Published Work

Follow the Guest Phil:

Field and Stream: https://www.fieldandstream.com/authors/phil-bourjaily 

Top 10 best shotguns: https://www.fieldandstream.com/outdoor-gear/guns/shotguns/best-pheasant-hunting-shotguns 

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 Minnesota upland hunter Isaiah Osborne to talk pheasants, sharptails, German shorthaired pointers, and growing up hunting without a bird dog. Isaiah shares his journey from discovering wild birds with friends in high school, to serving in the Marine Corps, to learning bird dogs from professional trainers in Arizona. The conversation covers pheasant behavior, Gambel’s quail, tracking vs. true dogs, winter pheasant strategies, and building a reliable upland hunting truck setup.

Isaiah Osborne is a dedicated upland hunter from New Ulm, Minnesota. Raised in a large family with no dogs allowed, he eventually found his way into upland hunting, served in the Marine Corps, trained with Gordon’s Gun Dogs in Arizona, and now hunts behind two German shorthaired pointers across Minnesota and the Great Plains.

How Isaiah grew up pheasant hunting without dogs and how bird dogs changed everything

What he learned training quail dogs in Arizona with professional handlers

The difference between true dogs and tracking dogs in upland hunting

Why pheasants run early season and hold tight after snowfall

How Isaiah hunts Gambel’s quail, sharptail grouse, and Minnesota pheasants

Tips for public land hunting, dog handling, and winter bird behavior

Details of his truck, kennel, and gear setup for multi-dog upland hunting

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

[00:00:00] - Introduction and winter conditions

[00:03:26] - Growing up in New Ulm and discovering pheasant hunting

[00:06:11] - Bird-hunting article and Isaiah’s background

[00:12:15] - Hunting Gambel’s quail with and without dogs

[00:15:52] - How many birds did they walk past without dogs

[00:18:05] - Tracking dogs vs. true dogs in pheasant country

[00:26:14] - Snow conditions and birds holding tight

[00:32:27] - Ideal pheasant hunting weather

[00:40:08] - Sharptail grouse hunting in North Dakota

[00:40:51] - Adjusting pheasant dogs to big running prairie birds

[00:44:56] - Isaiah’s bird dog training setup with pigeons

[00:52:13] - Truck setup: F-150, topper, Decked drawers, Ruff Land kennels

[01:02:24] - Favorite shotguns and 28-gauge pheasant loads

[01:03:15] - Closing thoughts and hunt-swap idea

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isaiah_osborne10/

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 welcomes back Ted Koch, for an important conversation on prairie grouse conservation, grassland loss, ranching, and the future of upland habitat across North America. Ted also shares unforgettable elk-hunting stories, ruffed grouse parallels, and urgent insights into habitat fragmentation and the decline of gamebird populations.

Ted Koch is a retired endangered species biologist and CEO of the North American Grouse Partnership. With decades of experience in western wildlife conservation, Ted works directly with ranchers, agencies, and conservation partners to protect prairie grouse species, including sharp-tailed grouse, greater prairie-chickens, lesser prairie-chickens, and sage-grouse.

Why prairie grouse populations are collapsing across North America

How grassland loss and fragmentation impact sharptails, prairie-chickens, and sage-grouse

Why ranching is essential to upland bird habitat

How public-land and private-land management affect upland hunting access

What hunters can do to support prairie conservation and rangeland stewardship

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

[00:00:00] - Introduction

[00:04:36] - What’s keeping Ted Busy

[00:19:20] - Storytelling, memory, and the hunt

[00:20:42] - Introduction to the North American Grouse Partnership

[00:25:18] - Private-land rangelands and public perception

[00:37:05] - How Conservation Practices Create Real Value for Wildlife and Habitat

[00:43:37] - Rangelands, Cattle Production and Food Output

[00:56:12] - Comparing The Approach with CRP

[01:00:50] - National Grasslands Conservation Act and Its Role in Farm Bill Funding

[01:04:40] - Learn More about The North American Grouse Partnership and Membership

Website: grousepartners.org 

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

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

Saving Ranching to Save Wildlife: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lxM6vvEoRgc

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 reconnects with Jimmy Lewis, a passionate bird hunter and overlanding expert, for a deep dive into the world of upland hunting and the overlanding rigs that make it all possible. Jimmy talks about his transition back into guiding, his updated overlanding setup, and the challenges of hunting in varying conditions. From rooftop tents and truck bed caps to bird dogs and family adventures, this episode covers it all.

Jimmy Lewis is an experienced bird hunting guide, outdoor enthusiast, and expert in overlanding rigs. After years of guiding in Montana and beyond, he recently transitioned back into full-time teaching while juggling his passion for guiding, bird hunting, and overlanding. His thoughtful approach to creating the ideal hunting and camping setup makes him a go-to resource for anyone interested in taking their outdoor adventures to the next level.

 Expect to Learn:

How overlanding rigs can be built for upland hunting, including his latest truck setup for guiding.

The importance of a reliable vehicle and why Jimmy switched from a Dodge Ram to a Toyota Tundra.

The advantages of rooftop tents and what to look for when selecting one for your overlanding setup.

Tips for keeping your bird dogs safe and comfortable while traveling, including kennel ventilation and temperature management.

How camping in varying conditions (from extreme heat to snow) enhances the outdoor experience.

The mental and physical benefits of getting outside in different seasons, from early autumn hunts to late-season adventures.

 Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

[00:00:00] - Introduction

[00:07:48] - Season in Montana

[00:14:28] - Jimmy’s Dog Blake

[00:23:22] - Old Rig and the Transition

[00:30:38] - Gen-Three Toyota Tundra and upgrades

[00:43:55] - Smart Cap and Overlanding Modifications

[00:53:58] - Advice for Setting Up Your Own Overlanding Rig

[00:58:44] - Roof-Top Tents

[01:14:47] - The Cooler vs. Fridge Tipping Point

[01:24:19] - Bumper Replacement Details for the Gen-Three Tundra Build

[01:27:45] - How to Reach Jimmy for Rigs or Guiding

Follow the Guest Jimmy:

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

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/finsandfeathersoverland/?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/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, host Nick Larson is joined by Andrew Lowles and Mark Symes of Ruffed Grouse Society of Canada, as they discuss the state of grouse and woodcock hunting in Atlantic Canada. They cover their unique experiences managing land for upland birds, their passion for conservation, and what makes hunting in their regions special. From forest management practices to the challenges and rewards of bird hunting in the varied landscapes of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Andrew and Mark share their wealth of knowledge, offer advice to hunters, and highlight the exciting potential for growth within the Ruffed Grouse Society of Canada.

Expect to Learn:

The diverse forest types in Eastern Canada and how they contribute to grouse and woodcock habitats.

The role of the Ruffed Grouse Society Canada in promoting habitat management and conservation in the region.

How hunters can use modern tools like OnX to plan their hunts on Crown land and private property.

The unique challenges and opportunities of hunting in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, including woodcock flight patterns and grouse cycles.

Insight into how the Ruffed Grouse Society Canada is growing and how members can get involved in local conservation efforts.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:00] - Podcast Introduction and Welcoming Andrew and Mark from 

[03:40] - Andrew’s Background and Journey into Grouse Hunting

[07:53] - Mark’s Path from Moose Hunting to the Uplands

[09:24] - Managing Forest Lands for Upland Birds in Atlantic Canada

[11:30] - Public Land and Crown Land Access in Nova Scotia

[14:40] - Old Farmsteads, Wild Apples, and Hidden Grouse Habitat

[19:43] - Defining Good Grouse Cover and Forest Types in New Brunswick

[25:15] - Private Land Regulations and Trespass Law Differences

[33:01] - Regional Differences in Habitat Across Canada

[35:46] - Softwoods, Christmas Trees, and Grouse Habitat Impacts

[37:00] - The Mission and Growth of Ruffed Grouse Society Canada

[43:03] - Habitat Projects and Access Initiatives

[52:53] - Exploring New Covers and Hunter Observations

[57:08] - Training Dogs and Transitioning to Pointing Breeds

[01:05:00] - Hunting as a US Visitor and Guide Requirements

[01:10:35] - Promoting Awareness and Conservation Opportunities

[01:17:14] - Closing Remarks and Episode Wrap-Up

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 Brad Trumbo, business owner at Palouse Upland Media. Brad shares his journey from big-game hunting in the East to his deep love for upland bird hunting in the West. They discuss the unique landscapes of Eastern Washington, the challenges of hunting various upland birds, and Brad’s approach to bird dogs and land management.

Brad Trumbo: A biologist, bird hunter, and author, Brad's experience spans from fish passage research to working in public land management. His passion for upland hunting, especially in the Palouse, has inspired him to write about both the birds and landscapes he loves.

Expect to Learn:

How Brad transitioned from big-game hunting to upland birds

Insights into hunting in the Palouse region of Washington and Idaho

The challenges of hunting valley quail, pheasant, and Hungarian partridge

Brad’s approach to bird dog training and management

How to understand and enjoy the landscapes while hunting

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:00:00] - Podcast Introduction and Welcoming Brad Trumbo

[00:02:53] - Defining the Palouse Region's Landscape and Ecology

[00:04:03] - Brad's Path from Biology and Fisheries to Upland Hunting

[00:06:25] - The Transition from Big Game to a Passion for Bird Hunting

[00:07:01] - The Story Behind Getting the First Bird Dog

[00:08:59] - On Dog Breeds, Aging, and Adapting Hunts for Senior Dogs

[00:15:35] - Breakdown of Washington's Upland Bird Seasons

[00:21:17] - A Hunting Anecdote: The Giant Whitetail and the Covey of Huns

[00:23:06] - The Challenges of Archery and Ethical Hunting Considerations

[00:28:30] - How a Dog's Health Issue Catalyzed a Writing Career

[00:31:57] - The Journey to Publishing "Wing Shooting the Palouse"

[00:34:03] - Blending Natural History and Personal Narrative in Writing

[00:39:50] - Habitat and Strategies for Hunting Western Ruffed Grouse

[00:44:10] - Hunting for the Love of Landscape Over Bird Tally

[00:54:20] - Public Land Access and Hunter Programs in Washington

[01:02:10] - The Appeal of Covey Birds and Hunting Valley Quail

Follow the Guest Brad Trumbo:

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

Website: https://bradtrumbo.com/

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 reload episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson delves into a lively Q&A session with a loyal listener, Brady Martin. As Brady embarks on his first season of serious grouse hunting with his new bird dog, he shares the challenges, questions, and experiences he’s encountered. Together, they explore everything from scouting, bird cover, and hunting techniques to managing expectations for new hunters and bird dogs.

Brady Martin is a first-time grouse hunter getting serious about the sport with his young bird dog. From his background in law enforcement and K-9 handling to his transition into upland bird hunting, Brady brings a unique perspective on both the joy and the challenges of pursuing ruffed grouse and woodcock. With a strong curiosity and desire to learn, he’s asking all the right questions as he embarks on this new adventure.

How to effectively scout and assess grouse hunting spots using e-scouting tools

Why early-season grouse hunting can be particularly challenging

How Brady is training his young bird dog and what he’s learning in the process

Tips for understanding the nuances of grouse and woodcock cover

The importance of adjusting your approach based on bird behavior and cover changes

 Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:00:00] - Introduction and Thank You to Patreons

[00:08:57] - Poodle Pointer

[00:16:39] - Nick’s Journey

[00:18:14] - First Question: Scouted Spots You Drive Past

[00:28:52] - Is It Just Grouse or Woodcock Too?

[00:32:35] - Early Season Challenges: Leaves, Food, or Scattered Birds?

[00:52:25] - Hazel Brush

[00:57:14] - Good Grouse Cover: White Pine, Hazel, and Swamps

[01:17:29] -  Personality and Patience in Hunting and Fishing

[01:28:05] - Handling a Dog on Point: Whoa or Let Them Learn?

[01:32:57] - Last Question: Dog Training Helping a Dog Hunt Out of Sight

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 welcomes back entrepreneur, conservationist, and upland hunter Greg Cronkhite. The discussion ranges from early-season grouse hunting challenges to Greg’s remarkable journey through conservation-focused land management and the launch of Habitat One, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing wildlife habitat. Whether you're a public lands enthusiast, private landowner, or upland hunter, this episode combines stories from the field with practical strategies for preserving and enhancing the land we all love.

Greg Cronkhite is a lifelong outdoorsman, successful entrepreneur, and founder of Habitat One. Known for transforming 3,000 acres of farmland into a thriving wildlife habitat in South Dakota, Greg brings hands-on experience and innovative thinking to habitat development. Now focused on helping others improve wildlife landscapes, Greg’s new mission is to make conservation accessible, effective, and financially viable for landowners across the country.

The realities of early-season grouse hunting and how warm weather affects bird movement

Greg’s personal transition from owning private land to exploring public lands and the joy of learning new terrain

Why he started Habitat One and how it fills a crucial gap in conservation funding

Barriers landowners face when considering habitat projects and how Habitat One helps them say “yes”

Opportunities to get involved: from volunteering to donations and joining as a Landowner Benefit Advocate

[00:00] - Introduction

[02:41] -  Warm Weather & Slow Grouse Hunts

[13:30] - Trading Familiarity for Adventure

[20:41] - From Retirement to Re-Focus

[27:21] - The CRP Aha Moment

[31:10] - Starting Habitat One

[36:38] - Join the Mission: Landowner Benefit Advocates

[40:39] - Ongoing Projects

[46:50] - Challenges and barriers with CRP

[49:43] - The Habitat One Vision.

Follow the Guest Greg: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-cronkhite-b6131613/ 

Website: https://habitat-one.org/ 

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 Ann Jandernoa, a revered grouse hunting expert, dog trainer, cartographer, and founder of Northwind Enterprises. From her years of field experience and understanding of grouse behavior, Ann shares techniques, habitat insights, and the role of precise mapping in upland bird hunting. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting, this episode offers learning from a master of the craft.

Ann Jandernoa, known for her legendary knowledge of ruffed grouse habitat and behavior, creates custom habitat maps, trains hunting dogs, and educates hunters through her podcasts and videos. She brings a scientific yet highly practical lens to upland hunting.

How to read and interpret grouse habitat from aerial maps

The relationship between food sources, cover, and grouse movement

Tips on training and reading your bird dog in different cover types

The importance of sound when navigating the woods and locating birds

How to evaluate mapping tools and navigate public land more efficiently

[00:00:00] - Introduction

[00:06:19] - Last year's season observations 

[00:14:26] - Predator pressure

[00:21:32] - Thimbleberry yield and drought effects

[00:25:44] - Dog Bells and Preferred Sound for Hunting

[00:30:54] - Avoiding Wolf Encounters with Dogs

[00:57:50] - Allowing Range for a Young Setter in Training

[01:06:38] - Field Trial Differences in Europe

[01:20:03] - Scouting for Grouse Without Aspen Cuts

[01:27:51] - Aspen Cut Value for Birds After Leaves Fall

[01:40:37] - Adapting Hunting Approach for Different Times of the Season

[01:47:33] - Advice for Finding Grouse in Appalachia

[01:50:24] - Where to Find Maps and Learn More about Ann

Follow the Guest Ann: 

Website: https://mobilehuntingmaps.com/

Fifty-Five Years a Grouse Hunter: https://amzn.to/4oinwqD

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.