Larry sits down at the campfire with longtime friend, author, and professor Dr. Mike Arnold, recently named DSC Foundation’s Educator of the Year for 2026. The two visit about Mike’s lifetime of work in education and outdoor writing, then dive deep into his unforgettable hunt in the Scottish Highlands with Royal Outfitters UK. Mike recounts the toughness and magic of the mountains, pursuing hard-earned hill red stags during the rut, taking a younger stag for the larder and population control, and making the longest shot of his hunting career on an old warrior stag. He also shares the stories behind a trophy roebuck and a rare royal Sika stag, along with fascinating insights into Sika biology, behavior, and how hunters help manage deer numbers for Scotland’s massive forestry industry.

Along the way, Larry and Mike talk about the stark beauty and rich history of Europe, from castles to the famous “Harry Potter” Jacobite train, and how trips like these are ideal for both hunters and non-hunters alike. They wrap this portion of the conversation by touching on Mike’s ongoing writing projects, including new work that highlights how hunters around the world are solving human–wildlife conflicts through ethical, science-based conservation.

Topics in this episode include:

Dr. Mike Arnold honored as DSC Foundation Educator of the Year 2026

Challenging red stag hunting in the Scottish Highlands during the rut

Pursuing and taking a roebuck and royal Sika stag

How hunters support Scotland’s forestry and wildlife balance

The draw of European hunting: history, culture, and great adventures for hunters and non-hunters

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