Birdshot Podcast

Birdshot Podcast

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    38th

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  • Typical duration

    69 min

    per episode

Based on Podcast App listening data

Birdshot Podcast episodes

  • #335 | What’s Happening to the Driftless Forests—and to Grouse with Jon Steigerwaldt

    In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson is joined by Jon Steigerwaldt, a Forest Conservation Director for the Ruffed Grouse Society and American Woodcock Society. Jon talks about the critical habitat work happening in the Driftless Region and northeast Iowa, highlighting the challenges facing ruffed grouse populations, the impact of forest management, and ongoing conservation efforts. From habitat restoration to dealing with invasive species, this conversation covers key conservation strategies while also touching on Jon’s experiences hunting and training his bird dog, Hazel.


    Jon Steigerwaldt is a dedicated conservationist and upland bird hunter with a deep background in forestry and forest ecology. With a focus on sustainable forest management, Jon works with multiple states across the Upper Midwest to improve habitats for ruffed grouse, woodcock, and other species. In his role with the Ruffed Grouse Society and American Woodcock Society, Jon is directly involved in large-scale projects to restore forest ecosystems and support wildlife populations in the Driftless Region and beyond.

    Expect to Learn

    • The importance of forest management for ruffed grouse and other upland species

    • How dynamic forest restoration blocks help improve habitat for grouse populations

    • Challenges faced by forest management in the Driftless Region, including parcelization and topography

    • The role of invasive species like multiflora rose and honeysuckle in disrupting habitat

    • Jon's insights into training bird dogs like his setter, Hazel, and the role of dogs in upland hunting

    • Current efforts to revitalize grouse populations in northeast Iowa and other parts of the Midwest

      Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

      • [00:00] - Introduction

      • [04:00] - Nick’s First Ruffed Grouse Hunt of the Year

      • [10:22] - Jon’s Bird Dog, Hazel, and How She’s Developed Over the Years

      • [11:32] - Jon’s First Big Dog

      • [13:33] - Jon’s Career and Education

      • [23:01] - Parcelization and Landowner Challenges in Logging

      • [35:51] - Invasive Species and Their Impact on Forest Ecosystems

      • [44:50] - Forest Management After Natural Disasters

      • [50:13] - Stewardship Agreements and Reinvestment Into Forests

      • [57:28] - Upcoming Events and Community Management


        Follow the Guest Jon:

        • Ruffed Grouse Society: https://ruffedgrousesociety.org/ 

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

        • Fall Membership 2025: https://ruffedgrousesociety.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/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.

              1 hr
            • #334 | How to Find Sharp-tailed Grouse Using the Right Grass Height and Wind with Tom Carpenter

              In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, Nick Larson welcomes Tom Carpenter, aka Carp, back to the show for a discussion on prairie grouse hunting and sharp-tail grouse hunting. Fresh off a couple of hunting trips, Tom shares his expertise and experiences in the Great Plains, hunting sharp-tails, prairie chickens, as well as the unique challenges of these beautiful birds. Carp also reflects on the joy of hunting with dogs and the importance of understanding grassland habitat for both the hunter and the bird.


              Tom Carpenter, affectionately known as Carp, is a seasoned bird hunter, author, and long-time advocate for prairie grouse. With decades of experience, Tom is passionate about hunting sharp-tails, prairie chickens, and other upland game birds across the Great Plains. He’s spent countless days hunting with his bird dogs and has become a prominent voice in the upland hunting community, especially when it comes to prairie grouse.

              Expect to Learn

              • Tom's experiences hunting prairie chickens in Minnesota and sharp-tails across the Midwest

              • The best hunting strategies and terrain for finding prairie grouse

              • Insights into managing a bird dog for prairie grouse hunting

              • Tips on dog training during sharptail hunts and what makes prairie grouse hunting unique

              • The importance of native grasses and proper grazing for the sharp-tailed habitat
                Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

                • [00:00:00] - Introduction

                • [00:06:18] - Success of hunting prairie chickens

                • [00:10:01] - How prairie chickens differ from other upland birds 

                • [00:14:09] - Difference between ankle-high grass, calf-high grass, and knee-high grass

                • [00:22:15] - Have you ever put a snowberry in your mouth?

                • [00:30:56] - How to train a bird dog

                • [00:39:51] - Popcorn flushing 

                • [00:42:49] - Breakdown of hills and wind direction

                • [00:53:09] - Hunting in thick cover vs thinner hills

                • [01:05:49] - Favorite sharp-tail recipe

                • [01:16:42] -The pheasants forever journal

                • [01:17:40] - Wrapping up the episode

                  Follow the Guest Tom: 

                  • Tom as an Editor of Pheasants Forever: https://pheasantsforever.org/Newsroom/2018-April/Changing-of-the-Guard-Pheasants-Forever-Promotes-T.aspx 

                  • Company’s Website: https://www.pheasantsforever.org 

                  • Company’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pheasantsforever 

                  • Company’s Email: [email protected] 

                  • Pheasant Hunting (book): https://amzn.to/46JZptD 

                    Follow 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.

                        1 hr 19 min
                      • #333 | Lessons and Observations from a Lifetime in the Uplands with Mark Reese

                        In this episode of the Birdshot Podcast, Nick Larson sits down with long-time bird hunter and habitat advocate Mark Reese. With decades of upland hunting experience under his belt, Mark shares deep insights on the connection between habitat work, grouse populations, and the broader hunting community. The conversation flows from hunting stories to conservation, mentorship, and how the uplands have shaped his life.


                        Mark Reese is a passionate grouse hunter, conservation volunteer, and advocate for habitat improvement. Though not a biologist by profession, Mark has spent years in the woods doing hands-on habitat work and mentoring younger hunters. His experience spans generations of bird dogs, changing landscapes, and a deep love for the culture of grouse hunting. Mark’s voice is that of the everyday uplander who shows up, gets his boots dirty, and leads by example.


                        Expect to Learn:

                        • What keeps a lifelong grouse hunter like Mark passionate after decades in the woods.
                          • How habitat work directly affects grouse populations and hunting opportunities.

                          • Mark’s personal history with upland hunting and what’s changed over the years.

                          • The role of volunteers and mentorship in sustaining the upland hunting community.

                          • Why bird dogs are central to the upland experience, and the stories they create.


                            Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

                            • [00:00:00] - Introduction.

                            • [00:04:46] - A Good Ol' Fashioned Dove Hunt

                            • [00:08:35] - Meadowlarks to train dogs

                            • [00:17:23] - Trapping Season

                            • [00:22:33] - Journey of hunting and Fishing

                            • [00:36:08] - Training Dogs: Exposure vs. Specific Techniques

                            • [00:40:38] - Changes in Grouse Hunting Habitat Observations and Speculations

                            • [00:55:26] - Developing Dogs with Wild Birds and Minimal Training

                            • [01:12:08] - Escaping Distractions and the Joy of Reading a Book

                            • [01:17:17] - Closing Remarks and how to connect with Mark


                              Follow the Guest Mark: 

                              • Contact: (606) 723-1275
                              • A Life’s Journey Outdoors: https://a.co/d/iJRtAm9 
                              • Kentucky Book Festival: https://kybookfestival.org/featured-author/mark-reese/#Author 
                              • Follow 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.

                                    1 hr 19 min
                                  • #332 | Hunting and Researching Upland Birds on Working Western Landscapes with Dave Dahlgren

                                    In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson discusses the world of grouse research, wildlife conservation, and the use of pointing dogs in citizen science. We explore how upland bird hunters and scientists can work together to collect data, and how David has been at the forefront of using dogs and technology to study sage grouse and other upland birds


                                    David Dahlgren is an Associate Professor and Rangeland Wildlife Extension Specialist at the University of Utah. His research focuses on upland game bird species, particularly sage grouse and dusky grouse, as well as wildlife management on rangelands. With over 20 years of experience in the field, David combines his passion for upland bird hunting with cutting-edge research, including the use of pointing dogs in citizen science projects. He’s also the creator of the Western Range Ranch Management Academy, which teaches ranchers how to balance wildlife conservation with livestock management.

                                    Expect to Learn

                                    • How pointing dogs contribute to wildlife research and citizen science projects.

                                    • The importance of sagebrush cover for the persistence of sage grouse populations.

                                    • Insights into livestock grazing and its surprising benefits for wildlife conservation.

                                    • The value of dog work in tracking and understanding grouse behavior.

                                    • The integration of technology in Wildlife Studies.

                                    • David’s personal favorite bird species to hunt and his experiences with Mearns quail, chukars, and more.

                                      Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

                                      • [00:00:00] - Introduction 

                                      • [00:04:54] - Different Kinds of Dogs

                                      • [00:17:40] - David’s Background and how it relates to Upland Birds

                                      • [00:34:40] - What is meant by Sagebrush Steppe

                                      • [00:49:30] - The Biggest Threats for Sagebrush

                                      • [00:58:29] - Understanding sage grouse habitat

                                      • [01:04:43] - Benefits of using Dogs in Science

                                      • [01:28:08] - Learning from 20 Years of Studying Grazing

                                      • [01:43:20] - David’s Favorite Shotgun

                                      • [01:45:51] - Conclusion

                                        Follow the Guest David:

                                        • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dkdbio/  

                                        • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-dahlgren-0b9004b7/ 

                                        • Rangeland Wildlife Ecology and Conservation open access link https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-34037-6

                                        • Western Ranch Management Academy website https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-34037-6

                                        • Faculty webpage https://qanr.usu.edu/directory/dahlgren-david


                                          Follow 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.

                                              1 hr 48 min
                                            • Bird Dogs, Shotguns, and Upland Adventures — Birdshot Podcast

                                              The Birdshot Podcast explores the upland hunting lifestyle through stories, interviews, and insights from bird hunters, dog trainers, and conservationists across the country. Join us each week as we dive into the traditions, gear, and stories that connect us to the uplands. Subscribe today and join us for the hunt."



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

                                              2 min
                                            • #331 | 50+ Years of Upland Hunting over Flushing Dogs with Randy Shepard

                                              In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson welcomes Randy Shepard, lifelong upland hunter and host of the My Dog Hunts podcast. With over five decades of bird hunting experience, Randy shares stories that span from the pheasant fields of Iowa to the sage country of the Intermountain West.

                                              Randy Shepard grew up pheasant hunting in Iowa, eventually expanding his pursuits to ruffed grouse, prairie grouse, quail, and beyond. Through his My Dog Hunts podcast, Randy tells reflective hunting stories, weaving together decades of personal experiences, lessons learned from great dogs, and observations about changing landscapes.


                                              Expect to Learn

                                              • Randy’s background in bird hunting and how his storytelling podcast came to life.
                                              • The story of his first lab, Pitch, and reflections on the best bird dogs he’s owned.
                                              • Labs vs. Springers: the strengths of each for pheasants, grouse, and prairie hunting.
                                              • The decline of Iowa's ruffed grouse population
                                              • Strategies for hunting sharptails and prairie chickens with flushing dogs, including the importance of timing and wind.
                                              • Memorable stories of getting lost, losing gear, and learning from the unpredictability of the uplands.

                                              • Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

                                                • [00:00:00] - Introduction

                                                • [00:04:00] - Starting the My Dog Hunts podcast

                                                • [00:10:50] - Growing up pheasant hunting in Iowa

                                                • [00:22:01] - Switching between labs and Springers

                                                • [00:42:05] - Flushing dogs vs. pointing dogs for prairie birds

                                                • [00:57:32] - Tips for early season sharptail hunting with flushers

                                                • [00:11:23] - Approaching Sharp-Tailed Grouse in other hours

                                                • [01:18:45] - Hunting rig setup and van modifications

                                                • [01:21:20] - Closing thoughts and where to find Randy


                                                  Follow Guest Randy:

                                                  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/My-Dog-Hunts-100046437775994/ 

                                                  • Website: https://mydoghunts.com/ 

                                                  • Listening Links:

                                                    • Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-dog-hunts-upland-birds/id1508319093 

                                                    • BuzzSprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/959107 

                                                    • Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5a4BnZXPTSdRjTQJODtauK?si=57b93a92960642c5


                                                      Follow 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.

                                                          1 hr 23 min
                                                        • #330 | Vintage Doubles with Kirby Hoyt & Travis Shivel

                                                          In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson welcomes Kirby Hoyt and Travis Shivel from Vintage Doubles to explore the world of vintage shotguns, bird hunting, and the craftsmanship behind classic double-barrel guns. Kirby and Travis discuss their passion for restoring and selling English shotguns, particularly side-by-sides, and discuss the nuances of gun fit, barrel thickness, and gun provenance. They also share insights into the business of vintage gun restoration and how the company came to specialize in the fine art of vintage double guns. Whether you're an avid collector, a bird hunter, or just a lover of fine craftsmanship, this episode will give you a greater appreciation for these beautiful works of art.

                                                          Kirby Hoyt is the owner and founder of Vintage Doubles, a company specializing in the sale and restoration of fine vintage English double-barrel shotguns. Kirby’s expertise spans over decades, working with a variety of gun makers, and he has a deep passion for sourcing, restoring, and finding new homes for these historic firearms.Travis Shivel, a partner at Vintage Doubles, supports the business by handling the tech side of things, including photography, website management, and more. Travis’s background in hunting and his connection to Kirby through their shared love of bird dogs make him a perfect fit for the team.


                                                          Expect to Learn

                                                          • The story behind Vintage Doubles, from Kirby’s first introduction to bird hunting to building a successful business around vintage shotguns.

                                                          • The difference between side-by-side and box lock shotguns, and which one might be a better fit for various types of hunters.

                                                          • How to evaluate vintage guns for purchase, including understanding gun fit, barrel thickness, and stock dimensions.

                                                          • The history behind sleeved barrels, and why some vintage guns have them.

                                                          • The importance of proofing and barrel thickness in determining whether a vintage gun is safe to shoot and its overall value.

                                                          • The unique challenges and rewards of buying and selling vintage firearms in today’s market.

                                                             Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

                                                            • [00:00:00] - Introduction

                                                            • [00:02:04] - Kirby’s Journey into Bird Hunting and Vintage Guns

                                                            • [00:05:33] - Introduction to Travis

                                                            • [00:21:03] - Loads of Side-by-Side and no Over and Under

                                                            • [00:27:02] - Field Ready Usable Guns at Vintage Doubles

                                                            • [00:48:51] - Side Lock VS Box Lock

                                                            • [00:58:38] - Which is more expensive?.[01:00:21] - Sleeved Barrels: What Are They and Should You Buy a Gun with Them?

                                                            • [01:10:45] - Which Gun are you grabbing when hunting?

                                                            • [01:18:38] - Closing thoughts and Vintage Doubles

                                                              Follow the Guests

                                                              • Website: https://www.vintagedoubles.com/ 

                                                              • https://www.vintagedoubles.com/subscribe/ 

                                                              • https://www.rstshells.com/

                                                                Follow 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.

                                                                    1 hr 21 min
                                                                  • #329 | A discussion on started dogs, training, bird hunting and more with Mark Dinsmore

                                                                    In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson sits down with Mark Dinsmore, an experienced bird dog trainer and upland hunting enthusiast. Mark shares his story of becoming an adult-onset hunter, transitioning from no prior bird dog experience to developing a very accomplished French Brittany in the country. They discuss Mark’s journey with his bird dogs, particularly Vern, and explore topics such as gun conditioning, breeding, and field trials. The conversation also covers the challenges of owning multiple dogs, the differences between American and French Brittanys, and the importance of training dogs to be steady and reliable in the field.


                                                                    Mark Dinsmore is an avid bird hunter and dog trainer with decades of experience working with Epagneul Breton. Mark’s journey into bird hunting began when he was 46, with no prior experience, but his dedication to the breed and passion for upland hunting led him to train and compete with his dogs at a high level. His dog Vern became one of the most well-known and accomplished French Brittanys in the United States. Mark is also known for his deep understanding of dog behavior and training, and he has had extensive experience working with multiple breeds, including several European and American lines.


                                                                    Expect to Learn

                                                                    • Mark’s journey into bird hunting and how he started training dogs at 46 years old.

                                                                    • The significance of Vern, his first French Brittany, and how he became an award-winning field dog.

                                                                    • The differences between French Brittanys and American Brittanys, and how they are trained for upland hunting.

                                                                    • The importance of gun conditioning, field trials, and training dogs to remain steady.

                                                                    • Insights into the challenges and rewards of owning multiple dogs, including the process of evaluating and choosing a "started dog."

                                                                       Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

                                                                      • [00:00:00] - Introduction to Mark Dinsmore

                                                                      • [00:09:28] - Mark’s Background

                                                                      • [00:13:45] - Mark landing on Epagneul Breton

                                                                      • [00:23:07] - What Sets Vern Apart 

                                                                      • [00:32:18] - What does it take to be considered a French Brittany

                                                                      • [00:44:47] - Choosing a Started Dog vs. a Puppy

                                                                      • [01:03:42] - Option for Clients to do a Started Dog or Puppy

                                                                      • [01:05:44] - Taking Pups Out for Exposure

                                                                      • [01:27:24] - Closing Thoughts and How to Connect

                                                                         Follow the Guest:

                                                                        • Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/mark.dinsmore.7965 

                                                                        • Company’s Facebook:https://web.facebook.com/ebretons 

                                                                          Follow 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.

                                                                              1 hr 30 min
                                                                            • #328 | Favorite Ways to Train Your Bird Dog with Mark Payton

                                                                              In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson is joined by Mark Payton, a renowned bird dog trainer, author, and YouTube content creator. Mark shares his extensive experience in training bird dogs, emphasizing the importance of patience, timing, and consistency. He discusses key training methods like the Fun Whoa and Chase Method, and offers practical tips for those starting out with their first pointing dog. Mark also dives into the significance of pigeons in training, gun introductions, and how to teach steady points through gradual steps.


                                                                              Mark Payton is a skilled bird dog trainer based in the southern Indiana area. He has trained many dogs using both traditional and modern methods. In addition to his training, Mark is the author of Favorite Ways to Train Your Bird Dog (2009), a highly regarded book that provides concise, practical advice for handling and training bird dogs. Mark also runs a popular YouTube channel, where he shares training techniques and tips with fellow bird dog enthusiasts.


                                                                              Expect to Learn

                                                                              • The importance of introducing dogs to birds early on, and how to use pigeons and launchers effectively.

                                                                              • How to get your dog to point naturally by simulating real bird hunting situations.

                                                                              • Practical tips on gun introductions and teaching dogs to remain steady for flushes.

                                                                              • The benefits of a structured yet flexible approach to dog training.

                                                                              • The difference between developing a dog versus training them with enforcement.

                                                                                 Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

                                                                                • [00:00:00] - Introduction 

                                                                                • [00:03:51] - Why do Dogs Point?

                                                                                • [00:17:52] - Backing in 10 Minutes

                                                                                • [00:28:08] - Steady Points for Dog training and Nick’s Dogs

                                                                                • [00:44:17] - Curiosity About the Whoa Stuff

                                                                                • [00:51:40] - Insightful Tips in the Book

                                                                                • [00:58:01] - Trouble Shooting, Pigeon Launcher and Untrained Dogs

                                                                                • [01:06:02] - How Mark Flushes the Pigeon and Usage of Check Cord

                                                                                • [01:15:37] - Favorite Bird to Hunt

                                                                                • [01:20:10] - Get in Touch and one-on-one personal sessions

                                                                                  Follow Guest Mark:

                                                                                  • YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Payton1221 

                                                                                  • Favorite Ways to Train your Bird Dog: https://amzn.to/3UN4RXn 

                                                                                    Follow 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.

                                                                                        1 hr 22 min
                                                                                      • #327 | Bird Dogs, Shotgun Fit & Better Shooting: Field-Proven Advice from Del Whitman

                                                                                        In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson is joined by Del Whitman, an expert in gun fittings, upland hunting, and training bird dogs. Del shares his experiences working with hunters on gun fittings, his journey with various breeds of bird dogs, and his insights into how training and foundational work are crucial for both dogs and shotguns. They discuss gun maintenance, dog training techniques, and how Del’s approach to both works seamlessly with his professional work and in his hunting adventures.


                                                                                        Del Whitman is a master gunsmith, renowned gun fitter, and dedicated upland hunter with decades of hands-on experience. Through his custom-fitting process and deep knowledge of stock design and function, Del has helped hundreds of wingshooters improve their accuracy and comfort in the field. Whether it’s restoring vintage doubles, refining stock dimensions, or offering practical shooting instruction, Del brings a craftsman’s eye and a hunter’s intuition to every aspect of his work.


                                                                                        📍August Gun Fittings at Pine Ridge Grouse Camp

                                                                                        Del Whitman will be offering shotgun fittings at Pine Ridge Grouse Camp in Minnesota from August 25th–27th. This is a great opportunity to get your gun dialed in before the season. To check availability or reserve your spot, contact Del directly:

                                                                                        📞 231-632-0845


                                                                                        Expect to Learn

                                                                                        • The importance of gun fitting for hunters and how it can impact shooting accuracy.
                                                                                          • Insights on how to properly care for and maintain a shotgun to ensure longevity and reliability.
                                                                                            • How training techniques like the Hunt Smith Method improve bird dog performance and steadiness.
                                                                                              • The benefits of using pigeons and launchers for dog training and how they enhance the learning process.
                                                                                                • The essential role of a good foundation in dog training and how to avoid making common mistakes.

                                                                                                • Episode Breakdown with Timestamps

                                                                                                  • [00:00:00] - Introduction
                                                                                                    • [00:02:38] - Gun Fitting and the Importance of Proper Stock Fit

                                                                                                    • [00:05:28] - Gun Fitting at Pineridge Grouse Camp

                                                                                                    • [00:17:44] - Dog Training: Lessons and Methods from the Field

                                                                                                    • [00:26:33] - Del keeping Pigeons for years

                                                                                                    • [00:32:30] - Hunt Smith Seminar

                                                                                                    • [00:42:41] - Difference between Oil and Wax

                                                                                                    • [00:51:17] - Leather butt and Recoil Pad

                                                                                                    • [01:05:47] - The Three D’s: Density, Distribution, and Diameter

                                                                                                    • [01:14:08] - Favorite Upland Gun

                                                                                                    • [01:17:13] - Conclusion

                                                                                                       Follow the Guest Del:

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

                                                                                                      • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whitmangunsmithing 

                                                                                                      • Howard’s Feed-N-Wax: https://www.amazon.com/howards-feed-wax/s?k=howard%E2%80%99s+feed+and+wax 


                                                                                                        Follow Host Nick:

                                                                                                        • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xnicklarsonx/

                                                                                                        • Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com

                                                                                                        • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birdshot.podcast/?hl=en

                                                                                                          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

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                                                                                                            1 hr 19 min

                                                                                                          About Birdshot Podcast

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                                                                                                          Birdshot Podcast, presented by Upland Gun Company and hosted by Nick Larson, is where upland hunters come together. Each week we share conversations that connect the people, stories, and traditions of…

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