In this Evergreen edition of the Big Buck Registry’s Deer Hunt Podcast, we’re reaching back to one of our most impactful early episodes — a 2013 conversation with Dean Vanier, founder of Northwoods Common Scents.

Dean has spent over 30 years perfecting his approach to whitetail communication using 100% pure scent — and in this masterclass, he shares how hunters can use scent not as a gimmick, but as a tool for understanding and influencing deer behavior.

We cover:

• Mock scrapes, drag rags, and the concept of the "virtual deer"

• Why buck urine is underrated early in the season

• Dean’s scent layering strategy through all phases of the rut

• How scent helps you “talk” to deer using their own instincts

• And how the industry has changed since this episode first aired — including CWD laws, synthetic scents, and ATA/RHA certification

Dean’s methods are still converting skeptical hunters to this day — and his passion for woodsmanship through scent makes this one of the most timeless episodes in our archive.

🎧 Listen now to revisit a true craftsman in the deer woods.

🔗 Learn more about Dean and his products at: https://www.teamnorthwoods.com

✅ Subscribe & Follow for more Evergreen episodes from the BBR vault.

Original Air Date: 2013 Re-release Date: 2025 Guest: Randy Gagne, Master Bow Technician – Morse’s Sporting Goods (Hillsborough, NH)

Episode Summary:

In this special re-release of Episode 15, we sit down with master bow technician Randy Gagne of Morse’s Sporting Goods to explore the fundamentals of compound bow setup, arrow tuning, broadhead prep, and ethical archery. Originally recorded in 2013, this episode is part of our Evergreen Series—timeless interviews remastered for today’s listeners, with fresh updates and modern context.

Randy has long been one of New England’s most sought-after bow techs. From draw length and string life to crossbows, rest types, and seasonal prep, this episode delivers a masterclass in bowhunting setup that’s just as relevant today as it was over a decade ago.

Now in 2025, we also revisit Randy’s journey—including his expansion into taxidermy, and how his role has evolved in preserving both the gear and the memories of a successful hunt.

• How to determine correct draw length and poundage

• The difference between fixed and mechanical broadheads

• Why proper string maintenance is essential (and what can go wrong)

• How to check your arrows for hidden issues

• The evolution of whisker biscuits and drop-away rests

• Why tuning matters more than brand

• How crossbows have transformed the archery world

• Randy’s real-world tips for storing, prepping, and practicing with your bow

• What’s changed in bowhunting technology since 2013

• How Randy's work has expanded into taxidermy and memory preservation

In the intro and commentary, Jay shares how the following have advanced since the original airing:

• Cam tech (Bowtech DeadLock, Mathews SwitchWeight)

• Carbon risers and flagship bows like the Hoyt RX-8, Mathews LIFT

• Strings (pre-stretched, peep-alignment without tubing)

• Arrows (micro-diameter, high FOC, spine consistency)

• Broadheads (SEVR, Iron Will, Magnus, Rage, G5)

• Crossbows (e.g., Ravin R500 @ 505 fps)

• Smart tech (Garmin Xero, digital rangefinding, app-based tuning)

Influencer shoutouts include: 🧠 John Dudley 🏹 Levi Morgan 🎯 Chris Bee 📏 Tim Gillingham 🏔️ Cameron Hanes

• Role: Master Bow Technician & Taxidermist

• Business: Morse’s Sporting Goods – Hillsborough, NH

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

• Specialties: Compound bow setup, string/cam tuning, gear fitting, ethical prep, and custom taxidermy

Like what you heard? 📲 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you listen. 🌲 Visit us at BigBuckRegistry.com 📩 Share this episode with a hunting buddy. 💬 Leave a review to help more hunters discover timeless knowledge.

In this edition of the Big Buck Registry's Deer News, we bring you twelve key stories every hunter should know as we head deeper into 2025. From Washington D.C. to the backwoods of Wisconsin, this roundup covers everything from sweeping conservation wins and poaching crackdowns to predator control, CWD outbreaks, and controversial legislation. Congress wraps up the Biden era with major investments in wildlife and outdoor access, while states wrestle with issues like buck limits, deer tag programs, and firearm restrictions. Whether you're in the tree stand, driving the backroads, or tuning in from camp, this is the news shaping the future of whitetail hunting across America.

1. ACE & EXPLORE Acts (Washington, D.C.) Congress passes two bipartisan bills funding CWD research, wetlands restoration, and outdoor access—plus mandates broadband in public rec areas and shooting range construction. 
2. ESA Reform & Fish & Wildlife Director Nominee (Washington, D.C.) Proposed changes to the Endangered Species Act stir debate, and Brian Nesvik’s nomination to lead the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service raises concerns among environmental groups.
3. Wisconsin Poaching Crackdown Over 250 deer were illegally killed in one of the largest poaching crackdowns in state history. Offenders face jail time, steep fines, and decades-long license bans.
4. Texas Deer Smuggling Operation Texas Game Wardens file 1,200+ charges in a massive deer breeding and smuggling case. Violations include CWD testing failures and falsified records.
5. Maine Coyote Hunting Bill Rejected A bill aiming to restrict coyote hunting to a defined season is shot down. Officials say year-round control is vital to protect deer, pets, and livestock.
6. Ohio CWD Cases Increase Ohio reports 24 new cases of Chronic Wasting Disease this season. Wildlife officials expand surveillance zones and urge hunters to submit samples.
7. Oklahoma Buck Limit Proposal Lawmakers consider reducing the annual buck limit from two to one. Some hunters support the change; others want more data before backing the bill. 
8.  Florida Antlerless Deer Rule Changes Hunters in Deer Management Unit D2 can now harvest antlerless deer all season long on private land. The bag limit increases to better manage the herd.
9. Pennsylvania Deer Season Opener Debate A new bill seeks to shift the season opener back to Monday after Thanksgiving. The move would restore tradition but may limit access for some hunters.
10. Michigan Doe Tag Legislation Proposed legislation offers hunters two free antlerless tags with a base license, aimed at reducing herd size, crop damage, and deer-vehicle collisions.
11. Maryland Lead Ammo Ban Fails Efforts to phase out lead hunting ammunition stall in the state legislature. The debate over wildlife safety and affordability continues.
12. Colorado Gun Law Tightens Colorado passes a law restricting semiautomatic firearms with detachable magazines. Hunters express concern over how it may affect traditional sporting use.

In this episode, we explore the most pressing wildlife management issues across the United States, from record-breaking deer hunting seasons to groundbreaking conservation efforts. From Mississippi's legal battle over deer-dog hunting to Missouri’s fight against chronic wasting disease, we’re diving deep into the decisions shaping the future of hunting, wildlife preservation, and public safety. Whether you’re a hunter, conservationist, or just curious about how these topics affect your community, this episode has something for everyone.

Topics Covered

• Mississippi’s Deer-Dog Hunting Debate: A tradition under scrutiny—can property rights and hunting heritage coexist?
• Ohio’s Record Deer Harvest: What’s driving the highest deer harvest in 13 years?
• Pennsylvania’s Proposed Hunting Rule Changes: How 2025 could redefine hunting across the Keystone State.
• Missouri’s Chronic Wasting Disease Fight: Will new carcass disposal rules change the game for hunters and conservationists?
• Montana’s Landfill Deer Culling Efforts: Why a landfill is at the center of the state’s disease containment strategy.
• Maine’s Deer Dilemma: Lyme disease, car crashes, and the search for innovative solutions in Southwest Harbor.
• Grand Rapids’ Urban Deer Hunt Proposal: Archery in city limits—could it work?
• Ohio Poacher’s Record-Breaking Fine: The $43,000 trophy buck case shaking up the hunting community.
• New York’s Venison Donation Program: Turning an illegal hunt into a win for families in need.

💬 Have thoughts on today’s stories? Share your opinions with us on social media using #BBR

Links and Resources

• Mississippi Wildlife Regulations
• Ohio Department of Natural Resources
• Pennsylvania Game Commission
• Missouri Department of Conservation
• Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
• Feeding New York State Venison Program

Big Buck Registry Links

• Official Website: Big Buck Registry
• Spotify: Deer Hunt - Big Buck Registry
• Apple Podcasts: Big Buck Registry Podcast
• iHeartRadio: Listen on iHeartRadio
• TuneIn: Listen on TuneIn
• Amazon Music: Listen on Amazon Music

Social Media Profiles

• Facebook: Big Buck Registry on Facebook
• Instagram: @bigbuckregistry2012
• Twitter: @BigBuckRegistry

'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE RIFLE SEASON

Written by Tim Biebel

CUZ STICKLAND

'Twas the night before Rifle Season and all through my mind,

Were images of big bucks that were one of a kind.

My Gear was in a pile on the bench by the door,

The next morning I’d be wearing it at quarter past four.  

ROBBIE KROGER

I snuggled into bed but not a wink did I sleep,

For I only saw deer as I tried to count sheep.

My wife slept beside me and I thought, “Oh, how I’m blessed”,

She was excited for me, but still got plenty of rest. 

HEATHER JONES SHEPHERD

I laid awake for hours on end,

Able only to think of how the next day would trend.

My eyes were heavy but I couldn't seem to shake

Visions of a buck that only big dreams could make.

HAL BLOOD

Then suddenly in front of me was the buck of my dreams!

I brought my gun up but only heard screams.

My safety was stuck and I could not get it off,

And as the buck stood and stared he just seemed to scoff.

JOSH CARNEY

The safety was stuck and try as I might,

I fiddled and fiddled but couldn’t get it right.

At that moment it seemed that life was not fair,

And I succumbed to the fact that I didn’t have a prayer. 

MICHELLE SCHEUERMANN

Then oddly enough he looked at me with a grin,

And said with a smile “You’ll never win!”

I finally got it fixed but was just out of luck,

For by the time I was ready out of sight ran the buck.

JIM KELLER

When the woods settled down I heard a strange noise,

Ringing in my head was a sound that usually annoys.

Then I awoke to discover it all just a scare,

For the buck in my dreams was not even there.

DUSTY PHILLIPS

I sat up in bed and took a look at the clock,

My alarm was sounding loud and I was still full of shock.

I gathered my strength and hopped out of bed,

Threw on my clothes and buttered my bread.

JAY SCOTT AMMANN

Out in the forest the bucks were in wait,

And going back to sleep would only spell fate.

I smiled when I looked at the sky crystal clear,

For I'd soon be after the buck I dream't of all year.

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Big Buck Registry’s Deer Hunt Podcast, host Jay Scott Ammann welcomes former President Theodore Roosevelt, one of history’s greatest hunters and conservationists. Roosevelt shares captivating stories of hunting whitetail and mule-deer, delving into their unique behaviors, the challenges of the chase, and the importance of respecting the animals and the land. He also explains the principles of ethical hunting and his role in establishing game laws and preserving wild places for future generations.

Key Discussion Points:

• • Whitetail Deer Hunting

• • Why Roosevelt admired the adaptability and resilience of whitetail deer.
  • Memorable hunts across the Adirondacks, Dakota river bottoms, and Louisiana swamps.

    Mule-Deer Adventures

  • Tracking mule-deer in the rugged Rocky Mountains and Badlands.
  • The unique challenges of hunting mule-deer versus whitetails.

    Hunting Ethics

  • Roosevelt’s philosophy of fair chase and the importance of ethical hunting.
  • Stories of rejecting unfair practices like jacking and crusting.

    Conservation Legacy

  • How Roosevelt’s experiences shaped his fight for game laws and protected lands.

The critical role hunters play in preserving America’s wilderness.

Notable Quotes:

• “The true hunter is a man of ethics and honor.”
• “The whitetail deer is a symbol of the wilderness that still endures.”
• “Without conservation, the future of hunting—and the wild itself—remains at risk.”

Subscribe to the Big Buck Registry’s Deer Hunt Podcast for expert hunting tips, legendary stories, and conservation insights. Share this episode and help spread Roosevelt’s timeless message about ethical hunting and wilderness protection.

• Website: Big Buck Registry Podcast
• Follow Us:
  • Facebook: @BigBuckRegistry
  • Instagram: @BigBuckRegistry
  • Twitter: @BigBuckRegistry
  • Tell Us Your Story: www.SpeakPipe.com/bigbuckregistry

Welcome to the October 2024 Edition of the Big Buck Registry's Deer News, news you might have missed over the last month.

In this edition, first Jim takes us to Michigan to explore a Michigan Bill that Seeks to Reverse Deer Hunting Restrictions for Youth, Veterans, and Disabled Hunters. Then Dusty covers a story in Wisconsin about the Wisconsin DNR Initiating a  Review of Deer Management Units Ahead of the 2025 Season.  Jay explores the New York DEC Transition to Electronic Deer Tags for the 2024-2025 Hunting Season.  Dusty covers the latest on CWD and Jay discusses deer overpopulation, both stories from Virginia.  Finally, Jim wraps up with a CWD story out of Texas.  

Show Notes for Big Buck Registry's Deer News - January Edition

Topics Discussed:

• Nationwide Debate on Drones for Deer Recovery    - Exploring the ongoing debate across the United States regarding the use of drones in deer hunting and recovery.
• Hawaii's DLNR Axis Deer Culling Program    - Discussing Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources initiative to control the Axis deer population in Maui Nui.
• Ohio's Record-Breaking Buck Investigation    - Delving into Ohio's investigation into the potentially illegal harvest of a record-breaking white-tailed deer in Clinton County.
• The James Keel Dwarf Buck Story    - Unveiling the fascinating story of James Keel's harvest of a unique dwarf buck in Mississippi.
• Deer Culling in Wildwood, Missouri    - Examining the deer culling efforts and their implications in Wildwood, Missouri.
• Washington DC's Decade-Long Deer Snipe Program    - Reviewing the long-term deer snipe program in Washington DC and its impact.
• Texas Deer Hunting Economy    - Analyzing the economic aspects and significance of deer hunting in Texas.
• The Disappearance of Turbo the Deer in South Carolina    - Investigating the mysterious disappearance of Turbo, a well-known deer on an island in South Carolina.
• NWTF Deer Hunt for Disabled Hunters in Virginia     - Highlighting the annual National Wild Turkey Federation deer hunt in Virginia, dedicated to disabled hunters.
• New Wisconsin Legislation for Deer Hunting     - Discussing new legislative measures in Wisconsin aimed at improving deer hunting in the northern region.

**End of Show Notes**

• Wisconsin Gun Deer Season: The 2023 season saw a decline in harvests, emphasizing safety in hunting practices.
• Massachusetts Sunday Deer Hunting Debate: Legislators are considering lifting a century-old ban on Sunday deer hunting.
• Minnesota's "Hunters For Hunters" Group: A new group is focusing on the impact of wolves on deer populations.
• Unsolved Case of Hunter Terry Brisk: Minnesota still seeks answers seven years after the mysterious death of Terry Brisk.
• Deer Hunting Expansion in Massachusetts: The Quabbin Reservoir sees an expansion of deer hunting to address rising deer populations and protect ecosystems.
• Utah Hunting Regulation Changes for 2024: Significant changes to hunting regulations, focusing on modernization and sustainability.
• Pittsburgh Pilot Deer Control Program: A successful pilot program in city parks has culled 64 deer, aiding urban wildlife management.

In this November Edition of the BBR Deer News, news you might have missed over the last month, we cover several stories from around the country.  Here are the stories we cover and felt were news worthy:

• Controversial Sharpshooters: Discussion on sharpshooters hired to kill deer from helicopters on Catalina Island, California.
• Kentucky Poaching Cases: Coverage of poaching incidents in Kentucky.
• Urban Deer Hunting in West Virginia: A story about deer hunting in urban areas of West Virginia.
• New Bow and Arrow Hunt in Rhode Island: Introduction of a newly sanctioned bow and arrow hunting method in Rhode Island.
• Tree Stand Safety in Wisconsin: Advice on avoiding ash trees for tree stands in Wisconsin.
• Chronic Wasting Disease in Minnesota: Examination of a CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease) story in Minnesota.
• Spear Hunting in Arkansas: Discussion about the practice of spear hunting in Arkansas.
• Potential Record Buck in Texas: Report on a potential new record-setting buck in Texas.
• Major Changes in Utah: Discussion of significant changes in deer hunting regulations in Utah.
• Deer Population Management Debate in New York: Insights into a debate over managing a growing deer population in Jamestown, New York.