What's up everyone! This week I'm sitting down with Lydia Smith, and honestly, I'm blown away by this woman. She's one of the most consistently successful elk hunters I've ever met—killing big bulls year after year like it's no big deal. And here's the kicker: she's completely self-taught. No dad taking her out as a kid, no mentor guiding her through it. Just pure grit, determination, and an obsession with figuring it out.

In this episode, Lydia breaks down her 2024 hunt where she spent 16 days solo in the backcountry chasing what she called "the growler bull"—a massive Idaho six-point that she'd been hearing bugle outside her tent for two weeks. We dive deep into her stalking tactics (spoiler: she barely calls at all), how she slow-plays opportunities most hunters would rush, and why she believes elk on public land are getting conditioned to human calling.

But this conversation goes way beyond tactics. Lydia opens up about the emotional weight of taking an animal's life, dealing with criticism for showing her emotions on camera, and some seriously intense experiences in the backcountry—including a moose attack at 17 that could've ended very differently. We also talk about what it takes to go solo as a woman in the mountains, building confidence through experience, and why she chooses to live a life centered around hunting even when it means sacrificing the conventional path.

If you're someone who's grinding it out on public land, trying to learn this game without a mentor, or just want to hear from someone who's mastered the art of patience and persistence in the elk woods, this episode is for you. Lydia's story is proof that you don't need anyone's permission or guidance to become exceptional—you just need to refuse to quit.

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00:00 - Intro
03:45 - Lydia's background: Self-taught and starting at 18
08:30 - The 2024 hunt setup: 16 days solo in the backcountry
12:15 - "The growler bull" - Two weeks of hearing him bugle
18:20 - The perfect storm and the final stalk
24:40 - The two-hour chase and getting within range
28:50 - The shot and the agonizing overnight wait
32:10 - Finding him 300 yards away
35:45 - Why this bull was so special
38:20 - Solo hunting: The magic and the terror
42:00 - Her second bull story: Watching him take his last breath
46:15 - Dealing with criticism for showing emotions
50:30 - The moose attack at 17 and other backcountry close calls
54:20 - Her stalking philosophy: Why she barely calls anymore
58:40 - Daily tactics and being strategically patient
1:02:15 - Hunting new areas vs. local knowledge
1:04:30 - Outfitting business info and closing thoughts

Hey everyone, Cody Rich here from The Elk Hunt Podcast, your go-to spot for all things elk hunting. From DIY backcountry grinds to chats with the legends who've been stacking up big bulls for years, we've got the stories, tips, and tactics to fire you up for September. In this killer episode, I sit down with Tom – an absolute beast in the woods who's one of the most underrated elk slayers out there. We dive deep into his solo hunt this year where he arrows a solid herd bull in thick timber, sharing the play-by-play on how he closed the deal without a caller. Tom breaks down his evolution from chasing runners as a kid to mastering herd bull setups, reading elk behavior like a book, and turning midday lulls into prime opportunities. We talk real talk on solo strategies – from minimal bugling to let curiosity do the work, to raking, wind plays, and picking your battlefield. If you're grinding solo or just want to level up your game, this one's packed with nuggets that'll have you rethinking your next setup. Seriously, bookmark this ep and spin it a couple times – it's one of my favorites all year. Don't forget to drop a review if you're digging the show, it helps big time. And hey, we're running a massive giveaway: a Weatherby Alpine CT rifle, Maven scope, and Tricer bipod – 100% free entry, just hit up the website and toss in your email for a shot at it. Let's get after it!

Learn More from Tom

Big shoutout to our partners who keep the hunts rolling – gear up with these and use code TRO for sweet discounts:

00:00 - Intro & Episode Tease: Cody kicks off the show, hyping the chat with Tom and why it's a must-listen for hardcore elk hunters.
03:15 - Sponsor Shoutouts: Quick hits on Tricer, Stone Glacier, and the giveaway details.
06:30 - Solo Hunting Origins: Tom shares his early days learning from his dad, chasing runners, and his first solo herd bull kill 15 years ago.
12:45 - Reading Elk Behavior: Breaking down herd bulls vs. satellites, why cows often lead the run, and using bugles to gauge intent.
19:20 - Minimal Calling Tactics: Tips on curiosity killing the cat, raking for comfort noise, and avoiding over-bugling to close the deal.
25:40 - This Year's Solo Hunt Story: The play-by-play on Tom's Idaho bull – setup, wind plays, raking exchanges, and the 20-yard shot.
33:15 - Challenges of Solo Calling: Getting shots without getting pinned, using mouth reeds to stop bulls, and directing bugles for better approaches.
39:50 - Midday Magic & Persistence: Stories of working bulls all day, bedding areas, and turning "runners" into kills once cows settle.
46:30 - Decoys & Adaptations: When and how decoys shine (or don't), plus lessons from open country vs. thick timber.
52:10 - More Bull Encounters: Tom's seven solo calls this season, reading scenarios, and a deep backcountry midday setup that almost paid off.
58:25 - Wrapping Up & Lessons Learned: Final thoughts on always improving, post-setup reviews, and intro to Tom's courses.
1:04:00 - Outro & Plugs: Cody's sign-off, giveaway reminder, and where to find more resources.

Let Curiosity Work for You: Instead of constant bugling duels, go silent or minimal after initial contact – elk often come in closer when they're unsure of your exact location, giving you better shot opportunities without getting pinned.

Read the Herd Dynamics: Not all "runners" are the bull fleeing; often it's the cows leading the charge. Listen to bugle types to tell if the bull's talking to you or just herding cows, and wait for midday bedding to force a confrontation.

Persistence Pays in Midday Lulls: Don't bail after morning action quiets – stick on a herd all day, pack food/water, and capitalize on bedding areas. Bulls are more callable once cows settle, turning long chases into kills.

In this episode of the Run the Rack Outdoors Podcast, host Weston Homa sits down with elk hunting expert and podcast veteran Cody Rich for an in-depth dive into the highs and lows of September archery elk hunting. Drawing from Weston's recent Idaho hunt and Cody's decades of backcountry experience, they unpack hard-earned lessons on managing hunting pressure, mastering midday strategies, refining calling tactics, and building the mental toughness to turn close calls into success. From choosing your battlefield wisely to embracing the grind of multiple setups, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for aspiring elk hunters. Plus, Cody shares thrilling stories from his epic mountain goat hunt in British Columbia and teases his innovative new hunting smartwatch. Whether you're prepping for your first rut chase or fine-tuning your skills, this episode will leave you motivated to "run the rack" harder than ever.

This episode is sponsored by Tricer and Stone Glacier—essential gear for going deeper in the backcountry.

00:00 - Introduction and Welcome Host Weston Hoa welcomes Cody Rich to the Run the Rack Outdoors Podcast, sharing excitement about Cody's reputation in the hunting podcast world. They kick off with light banter about the bittersweet end of archery season and the shift to late-season pursuits in Montana and Idaho.

01:30 - East vs. West: Whitetail vs. Mule Deer Debate Cody and Weston geek out on their deer preferences—Cody leans whitetail despite being in mule deer country, while Weston declares himself a "mule guy" obsessed with their elusive dance. They touch on blacktail influences and shoutout Braxton Hamilton's Wyoming mule deer insights.

04:45 - Elk Hunting Focus and Goals Shifting to elk, Weston recaps his second year bowhunting: a solo cow success in Colorado last year, and this year's two-week Idaho rut hunt chasing a 4-point bull or better. Cody shares his big-bull aspirations and the universal "aha" moments of adapting plans when reality punches back (à la Mike Tyson).

07:20 - Biggest Lesson: Hunting Pressure Trumps All Weston's top takeaway: No amount of gear, calls, or tactics beats avoiding human pressure. Cody agrees, emphasizing e-scouting and weather planning must prioritize low-pressure zones for peak elk action.

10:15 - Midday Strategies: What to Do with Your Hands The classic backcountry dilemma—morning/evening action spikes, but midday boredom hits. Cody breaks down the pros/cons of deep camping (limited radius vs. solitude), advising patience over forcing setups. He stresses watching bedding areas, scouting for Plan B elk, and avoiding 20-mile death marches; instead, focus on 80/20 opportunities.

18:40 - Choosing Battles: Patience in the Rut Cody recounts a hunt where he resisted chasing a close-but-fading bull, instead waiting for a distant one with cows—resulting in a bow-range approach. Weston shares a similar ridge-top decision, highlighting macro views over impulsive stalks.

23:10 - Calling Tactics: Distance Matters Weston contrasts bugling at range vs. "in the bedroom," sharing two stories: a drawn-out midday ping-pong that fired up but didn't close, and a close-quarters blow-up in thick reprod. Cody advises softer cow/calf calls early, saving challenges for sub-100 yards, and using partners for silent slips.

32:50 - When to Leave Elk to Find Elk Tackling the frustration of tough hunts with few sightings, Cody explains hunting killable setups over obsessing one herd. Emphasize sign-reading, blind calling in sign-rich areas, and accepting silent approaches—expect 10 solid setups for a shot opportunity.

41:20 - Mindset: Focus on Skills, Not Kills Drawing running analogies, they discuss embracing "micro wins" (e.g., finding elk, entering the red zone) to build confidence and gut intuition. Cody's superpower? Carefree execution—treat busts like bad golf shots to stay deadly under pressure.

52:10 - After-Action Reviews and Gut Intuition Cody pushes post-hunt map audits: Review wind, terrain, and timing to sharpen when-to-attack instincts. Trade-offs like deep camping are inevitable—woodsmanship comes from screwing up and learning.

58:30 - Cody's Epic Hunts: Elk with Jayden Bell and BC Goat Adventure Cody recaps a multi-bull Wyoming success with Jayden Bell and dives into his dream BC mountain goat hunt: planes, canoes, glaciers, and a gnarly pack-out after a perfect Billy stalk amid endless rain. He teases stunning footage from the adventure.

1:06:45 - Sneak Peek: Bridger Watch Reveal Cody unveils his 3-year passion project—a hunter-built smartwatch with offline mapping, superior fitness tracking, and backcountry edge over Garmin. Big reveal November 1st at bridgerwatch.com; beta testing underway for 2026 launch.

1:12:20 - Podcast Cross-Promo and Run the Rack Origins Mutual shoutouts: Cody plugs The Elk Hunt Podcast and The Rich Outdoors; Weston shares his one-man passion for backcountry hunting, running ultras, and deep convos. Teases Boston Marathon plans and fitness for hunts.

1:15:40 - Closing: Mental Toughness and Hard Things Wrapping on longevity—Cody eyes 60-year-old grinders like Mark Livesay; Weston stresses evidence-based confidence from consistent hard efforts. Call to action: Embrace the journey, stack skills, and run the rack.

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Stone Glacier Stone Glacier crafts ultralight, technical hunting gear built to withstand the mountains' toughest demands. Their modular packs, versatile apparel, and shelters—like the Grumman down system for unbeatable warmth-to-weight—let you transition seamlessly from hunt to pack-out. Engineered for backcountry endurance, it's the system serious hunters trust. Download their app for exclusive deals and free shipping on your first order. Visit stoneglacier.com now and gear up for your next pursuit.

In this action-packed episode of the Elk Hunt Podcast, host [redacted for anonymity, but based on context] sits down with seasoned elk hunter Jeff Helm to recap his remarkable 2024 season, where he harvested four mature bulls across vastly different states and terrains. Jeff dives into his addiction to hunting Roosevelt elk on the rugged Oregon coast, sharing tales of navigating ancient forests, battling poison oak, and out-hunting locals. The conversation shifts to an epic backcountry Wyoming adventure with llamas, where Jeff, Mark, and Josh adapted to heavy horse hunter pressure, glassed for patterns, and called in bulls using calf sounds and strategic setups. Packed with storytelling, Jeff reveals his adaptable tactics, from spot-and-stalk in Idaho to calf calling in thick timber, emphasizing mental toughness, pre-scouting, and building hunter intuition. Whether you're a beginner or advanced hunter, this episode offers invaluable insights into consistent success on public land.

This episode is brought to you by Tricer, they make gear that is Fast. Light. Simple. Tricer is taking the industry by storm, in fact you should have seen the booth at Sheep Show it was packed to the gills everytime I walked by there. It’s not just hype though, I have said it for years Drew Miles is mad scientist and the speed at which he is reinventing and solving problems is absolutely insane. More than just tri-pods Drew and the team have some really cool products coming out this year. In fact the new bipod is now available for preorder. Head over to Tricer.com and check out all the new products available for pre-order and get you our name on the list. that new bi-pod is very slick and half the price of similar bi-pods. Also I love the new 360 that allows you to put micro pan on any of your tri-pod head. Check it out Tricer.com and use code TRO to save 10% This episode is brought to you by Tricer they make gear that is Fast Light, simple. Drew and the team have been dominating the lightweight backcountry tripod market but now they are taking on the shooting tripods with some really cool innovation. I absolutly love to see guys like drew crushing it and cant wait to see Tricer dominate the tripod market. Check them out at tricer.com and if you are in the market for a new tripod be sure to use code TRO for 10% off your order.

Next, we’ve got Stone Glacier, the brand that sets the bar for high-performance gear in the backcountry. From their lightweight, durable backpacks to their breathable, water-resistant clothing, Stone Glacier is built to help you go further and stay comfortable, no matter how tough the conditions. If you’re serious about your gear and need something that won’t hold you back on those long, rugged hunts, check out Stone Glacier at www.stoneglacier.com

Here are three insightful takeaways for the average listener, drawn from Jeff's experiences and advice—focusing on practical, mindset-shifting lessons for consistent elk success:

Hey folks, Cody Rich here, and man, buckle up because this episode is a raw, real-time deep dive into a Wyoming rifle elk hunt that's got it all – scouting unknowns, llama-packed backcountry vibes at 10,000 feet, epic pack-outs, and two tags filled in just three days! I'm joined by my buddy Jaden as we break down the grind: e-scouting pockets, dodging thunderstorms that light up the sky like fireworks, outsmarting grizzlies (kinda), and turning plans into pure gold with bulls dropping in cliffy sheep country. We geek out on rifle tactics – walking past elk to find better ones, hunting the inverse Viewshed, and why getting deep isn't always deep enough without the right mindset. From hailstorms mid-pack-out to burgers at the trailhead spotting your next play, this one's packed with lessons on pressure, weather wildcards, and why persistence (and a solid game plan) pays off big. If you're gearing up for rifle season or just love those high-altitude hunt stories that get your blood pumping, hit play and let's roll!

Sponsored by OnX Today's episode is brought to you by OnX, and I wanna tell you about a killer feature I absolutely love – pulling up hyper-local weather right in the app for your exact hunt spot. No more guessing with some random town forecast; just select your area and boom, you've got the real deal for planning that perfect glassing session. If you didn't know, now you do! Upgrade to Elite with code TRO and save 20% off. Head to onxmaps.com and level up your maps game.

Sponsored by Maven Optics This episode is also brought to you by Maven Optics – no middleman, no markup, just world-class binos, scopes, and spotting scopes shipped straight to you. Wyoming-based crew making killer gear at killer prices; I've been rocking theirs for years and love the quality and the people behind it. If you're in the market for optics that punch above their weight, check 'em out at mavenbuilt.com. Use code TRO at checkout for a special gift – tell 'em Cody sent you!

Hey everyone, Cody Rich here from The Rich Outdoors, and man, do I have a banger of an episode for you today! I sat down with my buddy Dillon Dietz, the mastermind behind "Elk Don't Exist," and we dove deep into his epic Montana archery bull story after 12 years of grinding. We're talking solo pack-outs in hailstorms, finally tagging out early, and how ditching the over-calling game changed everything. Dillon shares the highs and lows – from freezing in thunderstorms to that heart-pounding 30-yard shot on a funky five-by-clubby freak. We geek out on early-season tactics, why getting into the "nucleus" of elk chaos is key, and lessons from my own tough private land hunt where blind calling saved the day. If you're chasing your first bull or just love those raw, real hunting yarns that fire you up for September, this one's packed with tips, laughs, and motivation to keep pushing. Let's dive in!

Sponsored by Stone Glacier Today's episode is brought to you by Stone Glacier. I've been hauling with their packs for years, and this season I'm running the new Avro 6400 – big enough for a 10-day backcountry grind but streamlined for day hunts too. Love the minimalist, lightweight design; I pack enough gear without the bag adding extra weight. From day packs to expedition beasts, they've got you covered. Head over to stoneglacier.com and gear up.

Sponsored by Treer Tripods This episode is also brought to you by Treer Tripods. You need something solid for those fancy Maven optics – grab a Treer tripod and one of their panheads. My buddy Drew started this company, and his innovations are killer, with tons of new products dropping soon. My setup: Treer AD with the LP panhead – super lightweight, smooth, and handles big optics no problem. Add the bino clamp adapter for the full kit. Check 'em out at treer.com and use code TRO to save 10% off, plus snag a sweet setup. Great option if you're in the market for a lightweight elk hunting tripod!

Hey folks, Cody Rich here from The Elk Hunt Podcast, joined by Dillon Ness for a high-octane episode just days before the 2025 elk season. With work, family, and hunting chaos in full swing, we dive into Dylan’s strategies for killing big bulls in open prairie and mountain country. From spotting and stalking to mastering the “90/10 rule” for high-probability shots, Dillon Ness shares hard-earned lessons on picking the right terrain, playing the wind, and staying patient with a 25-day season. We explore how to avoid low-percentage plays, adapt to elk behavior, and capitalize on calf calls for monster bulls. Packed with raw stories and practical tactics, this episode will fire you up to hunt smarter and stack the odds in your favor!

Tricer Bipod: Gear up for rifle season with Tricer’s new bipod—fast, light, and simple. Cody’s been shooting off it all summer, loving its versatility with long and short legs, Arca and Picatinny compatibility, and unbeatable value. Perfect for elk hunters who need a steady shot without the bulk. Check it out at www.tricertripods.com and use code TRO to save 10% on your bipod setup. Get stable, get hunting!

Stone Glacier Black Label Program: Stone Glacier’s Black Label program brings elite gear in sleek black, like the Grumman Down Hoodie and Hardwall Softshell. Buy Black Label at www.stoneglacier.com/blacklabel for free shipping, early access to new gear, and a dedicated customer service rep. Plus, every purchase enters you into the Back in Black giveaway for a Hoyt RX9 bow, Sig P320, Sky Archer pack, and more. Go black, hunt big with Stone Glacier!

00:00 - Intro and Season Chaos: Cody welcomes Dillon, joking about the pre-season frenzy with work and a new shop build, as elk season looms a week away.

02:30 - Sponsors: Tricer and Stone Glacier: Shoutouts to Tricer’s versatile bipod and Stone Glacier’s Black Label program with giveaway perks.

04:45 - Balancing Work and Hunting: Dillon shares how he juggles family, work, and hunting, prioritizing elk season over summer fly fishing.

07:30 - 25 Days vs. 5 Days Strategy: Dillon explains how a 25-day season allows patience and high-probability stalks, unlike the rushed 5-day grind.

12:00 - High-Probability vs. Low-Probability Stalks: Dillon breaks down a 350 vs. 370 bull scenario, choosing terrain and wind for better odds.

18:15 - Spot-and-Stalk in Open Country: Dillon’s go-to for prairie and mountain elk, targeting sage hillsides and north-facing timber for killable bulls.

24:30 - The 90/10 Rule: Dillon’s tactic of stalking 90% of the distance and letting elk close the last 10%, avoiding rushed, low-percentage shots.

30:00 - Calf Calls for Big Bulls: Stories of using calf calls to draw in monster bulls, including a 365 bull lured by a panicked calf at a fence line.

37:45 - Morning Elk Behavior: Dillon’s early-morning hustle, hiking 5-6 miles in the dark to trail bulls before they bed, using bugles to locate them.

44:00 - Evening vs. Morning Stalks: Why Dillon prefers evening kills when elk are on their feet, leveraging low light and wind for better odds.

50:15 - Playing the Wind and Circuits: Dillon’s strategy for predicting elk exits based on wind and their daily circuit, avoiding bedding ambushes.

57:00 - Wrap-Up and Season Wishes: Cody and Dillon hype the upcoming season, wishing luck for big bulls in general units and beyond.

Prioritize High-Probability Stalks: Dillon’s success comes from choosing terrain and wind conditions that stack the odds, like sage hillsides with prevailing winds, over forcing low-percentage plays in flat, open country.

Master the 90/10 Rule: Stalk 90% of the distance to a bull, then let it close the final 10% naturally, avoiding rushed shots or calls that spook big bulls in high-pressure areas.

Use Calf Calls Strategically: A panicked calf call can draw in big bulls, especially in chaotic rut scenarios, but avoid over-calling to keep mature bulls unaware until the shot.

What’s good, elk hunters? Cody Rich here, flying solo on this midseason refresher for The Elk Hunt Podcast! With September in full swing, I’m dropping some serious wisdom to keep you dialed in for elk season. I’m headed out for a mountain goat hunt before diving into back-to-back elk hunts, so the stoke is real! In this episode, I break down my five never forgets—key reminders to stay sharp when the mountain’s kicking your teeth in. We’ll also dive into the 80/20 rule to maximize your hunting efforts, plus what to do when your plans go sideways and the elk aren’t cooperating. From finding new elk to blind calling silent bulls, this episode is packed with tips to keep you in the game. Whether you’re grinding through a tough hunt or just hitting elk camp, let’s get after it and make this season epic!

Show Sponsors

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Stone Glacier: Pack out your elk with Stone Glacier’s lightweight, minimalist packs. The new Archer 6400 is perfect for day hunts or 10-day backcountry missions. Built for hunters who move light and fast. Check out the full lineup at stoneglacier.com.

00:00 - 03:00: Introduction and Sponsor Shoutouts

Cody introduces the solo midseason refresher, shares his upcoming mountain goat and elk hunts, and highlights onX Hunt’s sharing features and Stone Glacier’s Archer 6400 pack.

03:00 - 15:00: The Five Never Forgets

Cody shares his five key reminders: September is short, it can happen in a second, execute your shot, never take the wind for granted, and somewhere on the mountain, elk are going bananas.

15:00 - 22:00: Applying the 80/20 Rule to Elk Hunting

Cody explains the 80/20 rule, emphasizing focusing on the 20% of time (dawn/dusk), areas (where 80% of elk are), and tactics that yield the biggest results.

22:00 - 30:00: When the Mountain Punches You in the Mouth

Cody discusses what to do when plans fail—stay flexible, find new elk, cover ground, and avoid getting married to a bad camp or unhuntable elk.

30:00 - 38:00: Tactical Advice for Silent Elk

Cody shares strategies for hunting non-bugling elk, like blind calling with light cow calls in timber, setting up for 30-60 minutes to draw in silent satellite bulls.

38:00 - 42:00: Closing Motivation and Hunt Plans

Cody wraps up with excitement for his goat and elk hunts, encourages trusting your gut, and promotes the free hunt planner at elkhunt201.com.

Stay Resilient with the Five Never Forgets: Cody’s five reminders—especially that September is short and it can happen in a second—help hunters stay motivated and focused, even when the hunt feels brutal, ensuring you don’t quit early.

Maximize the 80/20 Rule: Focusing on the 20% of time (dawn/dusk), areas (where most elk are), and effective tactics (like targeted calling) can yield 80% of your success, making every hunt more efficient.

Adapt When Plans Fail: When elk aren’t cooperating or pressure ruins your spot, stay flexible, cover ground to find new elk, and use tactics like blind calling to hunt silent bulls, ensuring you stay in the game.

Join us for an exhilarating episode of the Elk Hunt podcast, where host Cody Rich revisits a gripping 2018 interview with Todd Orr, a seasoned Montana hunter who survived a harrowing double grizzly bear attack. Todd shares his incredible story of resilience and survival, detailing the intense moments of the bear encounter and his recovery. Beyond the attack, Todd dives into his unique approach to hunting elk with a pistol, offering insights into tracking techniques, animal behavior, and the challenges of late-season hunting in Montana’s rugged terrain. This episode is packed with thrilling stories, practical hunting tips, and lessons on staying prepared in bear country. Perfect for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts alike, this episode will leave you inspired and ready for your next adventure.

onX Hunt: Elevate your hunting game with onX Hunt, the ultimate mapping tool for hunters. With detailed satellite imagery, property boundaries, and offline maps, onX Hunt helps you scout, plan, and navigate with confidence. Elite members get exclusive access to advanced tools like Terrain X and Game Cam integration. Use code TRO to save 20% on your subscription at onxmaps.com. Start your free 7-day trial today and make this your best hunting season yet!

Tricer: Gear up with Tricer, crafting innovative tripods and bipods designed by hunters for hunters. Their lightweight, durable products, like the Tricer AD with LP pan head, are perfect for rugged backcountry pursuits. Visit Tricer.com and use code TRO to save 10% on your purchase.

Stone Glacier: Tackle the toughest hunts with Stone Glacier’s ultralight, durable packs. Designed for backcountry hunters, their packs feature innovations like Bivy Mode and Load Shelf for stealth and efficient meat hauling. Explore their full line of gear at stoneglacier.com for a lightweight setup that performs.

Time Stamp Chapters

00:00 - 02:30: Introduction and Context for the Archive Episode

Cody explains why this 2018 episode with Todd Orr is being re-released, referencing a recent podcast with Jade and the demand from listeners to hear Todd’s epic story.

02:30 - 08:00: Todd Orr’s Background and Pistol Hunting Journey

Todd shares his transition from bow hunting to pistol hunting after a snowboarding injury, discussing his passion for the challenge and his use of a .44 Magnum and 10mm pistol.

08:00 - 24:00: Elk Tracking Techniques and Strategies

Todd details his approach to tracking elk in late-season snow, including reading tracks, identifying mature bulls, and navigating terrain to outsmart elk.

24:00 - 48:00: Grizzly Bear Attack Story

Todd recounts the terrifying double grizzly bear attack on October 1, 2016, describing the encounter, his use of bear spray, and the aftermath of surviving two charges.

48:00 - 58:00: Lessons from the Attack and Hunting in Bear Country

Todd reflects on how the attack changed his hunting practices, offering advice on bear safety, the importance of preparation, and maintaining awareness in grizzly country.

58:00 - 62:00: Closing Thoughts and Todd’s Knife-Making Business

Cody and Todd wrap up with reflections on the joy of hunting, the thrill of tracking, and a shoutout to Todd’s custom knife-making business, Skyblade Knives.

Mastering Elk Tracking Requires Patience and Observation: Todd’s methodical approach to tracking elk in late-season snow highlights the importance of reading subtle signs, such as track size, dew claw impressions, and weaving patterns, to identify mature bulls and predict their behavior.

Preparation is Critical in Bear Country: Todd’s survival of a double grizzly attack underscores the necessity of carrying and practicing with bear spray, maintaining situational awareness, and being mentally prepared for unexpected wildlife encounters.

Pistol Hunting Adds Unique Challenges and Rewards: Hunting elk with a pistol, as Todd does, combines the precision of rifle hunting with the close-range intensity of bow hunting, requiring hunters to get within 100-200 yards and master their weapon for ethical shots.

Join host Cody Rich and co-host Jaden for a high-energy kickoff to the 2025 elk season, recorded just before the archery opener. Fresh off Alaska hunts, we dive into the frenzy of antelope, cow moose, and elk plans, sharing stories of opening-day rut fests and painful misses. We unpack the 101 vs. 201 elk hunter mindset, exploring how to break free from “Average Joe” habits by mastering skills like finding elk, predicting movement, and adapting to pressure, fires, or weather. With a teaser for our upcoming 301-level elk hunt, this episode is loaded with practical tips, from night calling in tough units to building a versatile skill set. Get ready to level up your elk game and make this season one to remember!

00:00 - Intro and Season Hype: Cody and Jayden kick things off, stoked for the 2025 elk season, fresh from Alaska hunts and juggling antelope and moose tags.

02:30 - Sponsors: Stone Glacier and Tricer Tripods: Shoutouts to Stone Glacier’s lightweight Archer 6400 pack and Tricer’s innovative LP panhead tripod setup.

04:45 - Opening Weekend Chaos: Discussing the gong show of opening days, why Jayden’s skipping antelope opener, and avoiding the “Average Joe” quitter mindset.

08:15 - Cow Moose Hunt Plans: Cody shares his cow moose tag strategy, targeting areas with bull moose hunters for intel and navigating calf restrictions.

12:00 - 101 vs. 201 Elk Hunters: Breaking down the difference between stumbling 101 hunters and consistent 201 killers, focusing on thinking outside the box.

18:30 - Avoiding Average Joe Moves: How “Average Joe” hunters fail by following crowds, and why seeking unpressured pockets is key to consistent success.

24:00 - Calling in Tough Units: Strategies for silent, call-shy elk, like night calling and soft cow-calf sequences, to outsmart pressured herds.

29:45 - Wallows: Worth It or Not?: Debating the effectiveness of sitting wallows, why mornings might beat evenings, and pairing them with glassing for better odds.

36:00 - Diesel vs. Boot Leather: Why driving to find elk can trump hiking, balancing romanticism with practical scouting in high-pressure units.

42:15 - Limited Entry vs. OTC Mindset: Treating premium tags like high-pressure hunts to avoid complacency and maximize success, even with fewer hunters.

48:30 - Contingencies for Fires and Chaos: Cody’s approach to wildfires, road closures, and unexpected setbacks, emphasizing multiple hunt plans and flexibility.

55:00 - Gear: Confidence Over Hype: How dialed gear boosts confidence, but 301 hunters prioritize skills over chasing the latest trends.

1:00:45 - Mastering Elk Hunting Skills: Cody reflects on learning to predict elk behavior, read herds, and stay calm under pressure to level up from 101 to 201.

1:08:00 - Picking a Skill to Master: Cody’s assignment for hunters—pick one skill (e.g., stalking, calling) and build hunts around mastering it for a memorable season.

1:13:15 - Wrap-Up and Hunt Teaser: Cody and Jayden hype their upcoming 301-level elk hunt, promising a recap of their timber-stalking adventure.

Brought to You by Stone Glacier
Pack light, hunt hard with Stone Glacier, the minimalist’s choice for elk country. Cody’s running the new Archer 6400 pack, perfect for 10-day backcountry hunts or streamlined day trips. Lightweight, durable, and no extra bulk—Stone Glacier’s got you covered from day packs to expedition haulers. Check them out at www.stoneglacier.com and use code TRO to save on your next pack. Get ready to haul that elk out!

Powered by Tricer Tripods
Glass smarter with Tricer Tripods, built for elk hunters who need lightweight, rock-solid setups. Cody swears by the Tricer AD with the LP panhead—smooth, compact, and ready for big optics. From binos to spotting scopes, Tricer’s innovative designs keep you steady in the field. Visit www.tricertripods.com and use code TRO for 10% off your full setup. Spot that bull before he spots you!

Ditch the Average Joe Mindset: To move from a 101 to a 201 hunter, avoid crowd-following habits like quitting after a busy opening weekend. Seek unpressured pockets by thinking differently—focus on areas others overlook, like low-quality habitat or remote corners, to find elk consistently.

Master One Skill at a Time: Pick a specific skill (e.g., calling, stalking, or reading elk behavior) and build your hunt around mastering it. Focused practice, like night calling for silent elk or predicting movement, accelerates improvement over scattered efforts.

Stay Flexible with Contingency Plans: Elk hunting is unpredictable—fires, weather, or pressure can derail plans. Always have multiple hunt plans across different ranges or low-country backups to adapt quickly and keep your season alive.