Generations To Hunt

hello, everyone! Welcome back to another episode of the Generations That Hunt podcast. It's October, and you know what that means—whitetail season is open in Michigan and most other states. It's a busy time for all of us hunters, and I've been swamped with house renovations and school, but I'm excited to get out there soon.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with my buddy Matt , who is joining our team to help with filming for our YouTube channel. Matt recently went on an elk hunt in September, and we discussed his experiences and the challenges he faced.

Matt shared his background, growing up hunting on his family's 60-acre property in southwest Michigan. He didn't have a traditional deer camp experience but got into public land hunting in his mid-20s. His first big game hunt on public land was an over-the-counter elk hunt in Colorado, which he described as a life-changing experience.

We talked about the importance of having a good support system during hunting trips and how crucial it is to stay positive, even when things don't go as planned. Matt's recent elk hunt was tough—they didn't see a single elk—but he emphasized the value of the experience and the camaraderie with his hunting buddies.

We also touched on the logistics of planning out-of-state hunts, the importance of applying for points in various states, and the dream of hunting in Alaska someday. Matt's optimism and passion for hunting are truly inspiring, and I'm excited to see the content he'll create for our YouTube channel.

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we dive into the final week of our "Stay Out September" series, focusing on the importance of getting your house in order before the hunting season kicks off. With opening day just a week away, we discuss the need to balance our passion for hunting with our responsibilities at home, especially for those of us with families.

We emphasize the significance of completing household chores and projects, often referred to as the "honey-do list," to ensure that our spouses and families are happy and supportive of our time spent in the woods. Joe shares his experiences as a married man with kids, while I reflect on my situation as a married individual without children. We both agree that being intentional with our time and responsibilities can lead to a more enjoyable hunting season.

Throughout the episode, we touch on strategies for planning ahead, such as using weather apps to anticipate hunting conditions and organizing our schedules to accommodate family needs. We also highlight the importance of communication with our partners, ensuring they feel involved and appreciated.

As we wrap up the series, we reflect on what we've learned, the value of preparation, and the importance of community among hunters. We encourage our listeners to take the time to get organized, enjoy the upcoming hunting season, and remember that the relationships we nurture at home are just as important as the deer we pursue in the woods. Good luck to everyone on opening day!

I had the pleasure of welcoming back Alex and Jeff from VPA, a company known for their high-quality broadheads. With the hunting season underway, we dove into the perennial debate about which broadheads to choose, especially since we've been using VPA's products and have been thoroughly impressed.

We kicked off the conversation by discussing the busy nature of their operations, even during what many consider the off-season. Jeff and Alex shared insights into the materials used in their broadheads, specifically the differences between 1045 carbon tool steel and the more premium S7 steel. They explained how each material affects edge retention and sharpening, emphasizing that while the 1045 is easier to sharpen, the S7 holds an edge longer, making it a favorite among their customers.

Dave posed some great questions about the durability and performance of broadheads, particularly in relation to different game animals. Jeff highlighted that their broadheads are designed to withstand tough conditions, even when shot through bone, and that ethical hunting is a core value for VPA. They also discussed the importance of testing and feedback in their product development process, ensuring that every broadhead meets high standards before hitting the market.

We explored the trend of broadhead weights and sizes, noting that while lighter and faster options are popular, there's a growing appreciation for heavier setups that provide better penetration. Jeff and Alex shared their commitment to creating durable, ethical products that hunters can rely on for multiple seasons, rather than disposable options that require frequent replacement.

The episode wrapped up with a discussion on the innovative Omega broadhead, which features replaceable bleeders designed for durability and re-sharpening. Jeff and Alex's passion for their products and dedication to customer feedback was evident throughout our conversation, making it clear that VPA is committed to providing hunters with the best possible tools for ethical hunting.

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Welcome back to Generations of Hunt! In this episode, Dave and I dive into the final gear prep for the hunting season. We've covered getting into shape, shooting practice, and running through your gear in previous weeks. Now, it's time to focus on the minutiae of your setup, especially your clothing and ensuring everything is quiet and efficient.

Thank you for tuning in, and we hope these tips help you have a successful and enjoyable hunting season. Happy hunting!

Key Points Discussed:Clothing and Gear OrganizationNoise ReductionLighted Nocks and BatteriesFilming Your HuntsMinimalist ApproachFinal Thoughts

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Welcome back to another episode of the Generations of Hunt Podcast! This week, Matt and I are recording from the garage, so bear with us if the audio isn't perfect.

We dive into some exciting new gear updates.Matt recently got the Heat Boost Huntworth bibs and jacket for my birthday, but with the current 80-degree weather, I haven't had a chance to test them out. Matt shares his thoughts on the new VPA Broadheads, specifically the three-blade fixed head, and we discuss the benefits of different broadhead setups.

Matt has made a significant change in his hunting setup, moving from a stand to a saddle. He talks about the advantages of the Latitude sticks, which are much lighter than his previous gear, and how this change will impact his hunting strategy this season.

I share a wild story about almost getting scammed while trying to buy a new Hoyt bow. After a series of suspicious interactions and a fake motorcycle accident, I finally managed to get the bow from a legitimate seller. This experience has made me more cautious about online transactions, and I emphasize the importance of using secure payment methods like PayPal goods and services.

With September here, our excitement for deer season is ramping up. We discuss the early opening of various states' hunting seasons and the unusual early crop turn this year. This could make for an interesting mid-season, especially with the potential EHG scare due to the wet summer.

Matt shares his struggles with getting a successful food plot going this year. Despite multiple attempts and different seed brands, heavy rains have thwarted his efforts. However, he's optimistic about his latest planting and hopes it will attract deer come October.

We also touch on our out-of-state hunting plans. Matt will be heading to South Dakota for a pheasant hunt and later to Missouri for deer hunting. Looking ahead, we have trips planned to Kansas and Iowa, which promise better chances at larger bucks compared to Michigan.

As we wrap up, we reflect on the upcoming season and our strategies. Whether it's focusing on private land or exploring new public land spots, we're both eager to see what this hunting season has in store.

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I had the pleasure of speaking with Aaron from Michigan Ambush about hunting gear. We delved into the importance of gear in hunting, especially given the rising costs and the constant technological advancements in the industry. Aaron shared his mission to educate consumers through his YouTube channel, where he provides in-depth reviews to help hunters make informed decisions before making expensive purchases.

We discussed the trend of increasing prices in hunting gear and how companies test the market to see what consumers are willing to pay. Aaron highlighted the advancements in materials and technology, such as the use of 7075 aluminum and Cerakote finishes, which add strength and durability to hunting equipment.

Aaron also shared his personal journey into hunting, starting in his twenties and evolving from gun hunting to bow hunting, and eventually to mobile and saddle hunting. He emphasized the importance of being proficient with your gear and having a system in place to ensure everything is organized and ready for the hunt.

We touched on the challenges of running a YouTube channel, including dealing with the algorithm and audience engagement. Aaron stressed the importance of consistency and trying different content to see what resonates with viewers. He also talked about the balance of providing unbiased reviews while acknowledging his personal preferences.

Finally, we discussed the significance of supporting local bow shops, like Sunrise Archery, where Aaron has built a strong relationship with the staff. He emphasized the value of good service and the importance of keeping these small businesses thriving.

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we dive into the second week of our "Stay Out September" series. As we gear up for the youth hunt and special hunts for veterans and disabled individuals, we wish everyone the best of luck. This week, our focus is on broadheads and tuning your bow for optimal performance.

We start by emphasizing the importance of tuning your bow to ensure proper arrow flight, regardless of whether you prefer fixed blades or mechanical broadheads. I share my personal experiences with different broadheads, including the Toughhead 3-blade, Annihilators, and Sever Robusto, and stress that the key is to make sure your setup is dialed in.

We discuss the importance of checking your bow for any issues, such as serving separations or D-loop problems, and the need to address these immediately. We also highlight the significance of practicing with your broadheads at various distances to ensure they fly true, as they can behave differently from field points.

For those using fixed blades, we delve into the nuances of sharpening techniques and the tools required, such as sandpaper, diamond plates, and sharpening guides. We also touch on the importance of having replacement blades and O-rings for mechanical broadheads to ensure you're always prepared.

As we wrap up, we remind everyone to get their bows tuned and ready now, as archery shops are getting busier with the season approaching. We also discuss the value of warranties on gear and how they can make a significant difference.

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we dive into our "Stay Out September" series, focusing on preparing for the upcoming hunting season without actually heading into the woods. With the weather still too hot and Labor Day weekend approaching, we emphasize the importance of using this time wisely to get ready for the season.

We kick off by discussing the importance of physical training. Whether it's running, walking with a weighted pack, or just getting into better shape, being physically prepared is crucial. We share personal experiences about the challenges of carrying heavy packs and the importance of starting slow to avoid injuries.

Next, we talk about gear preparation. From breaking in new boots to setting up your stand or saddle, it's essential to ensure everything is in working order. We stress the importance of practicing with your gear in less-than-ideal conditions to simulate real-world scenarios.

We also touch on the importance of shooting practice. Whether it's shooting from elevated positions, practicing quick draws, or holding at full draw for extended periods, being proficient with your bow is key. We share tips on how to simulate the adrenaline rush of a real hunt by incorporating physical exercises into your shooting practice.

Finally, we remind our listeners to continually evaluate and refine their setups. Whether it's adjusting your pack to reduce weight or practicing in different types of trees, the goal is to be as prepared as possible when the season starts.

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We kicked off the episode by catching up with Jordan, who has been incredibly busy with various media engagements, including radio shows, newspapers, magazines, and podcasts. He’s been actively involved in addressing deer management issues in Michigan, particularly focusing on the policies affecting the Upper Peninsula (UP).

Jordan shared his frustrations about the recent deer management decisions made by the Natural Resources Commission (NRC). Despite the hard work and data-backed recommendations from his Deer Management Initiative (DMI) team, the NRC ultimately dismissed their suggestions in favor of outdated and ineffective policies. This decision was influenced by longstanding relationships and political gamesmanship, undermining the integrity of the process.

We delved into the complexities of deer management in the UP, discussing the challenges posed by a high predator population, habitat loss, and the impact of severe winters. Jordan emphasized the importance of a balanced buck-to-doe ratio for a healthy deer herd and criticized the outdated mentality of protecting does at all costs. He argued for a more balanced approach, including conservative doe harvests and a one-buck rule to improve herd health and sustainability.

Our conversation also touched on the broader issue of hunter mentality. Jordan highlighted the need for a shift from a "me-first" attitude to a stewardship mentality, where hunters see themselves as guardians of the resource, focused on conservation and sharing the experience with others.

We wrapped up the episode by reflecting on the deeper meaning of hunting. For Jordan, hunting is not just about the harvest but about reconnecting with nature, finding peace, and restoring his soul. It’s a journey that goes beyond the gear and the kill, offering a profound sense of fulfillment and connection to the natural world.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Generations of Hunt. We hope you found Jordan’s insights as enlightening and thought-provoking as we did. Stay tuned for more discussions on hunting, conservation, and the great outdoors!

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I had the pleasure of being hosted by David Riley in his home, surrounded by the impressive Michigan bucks he's harvested over the years. We kicked off the conversation by discussing the significance of taxidermy and the stories behind each mount. David shared heartfelt anecdotes, including the emotional journey of hunting after his accident, emphasizing that the experience and memories often outweigh the size of the rack.

As we transitioned into the main topic, David provided insights into his current preparations for the upcoming hunting season. He talked about his meticulous process of locating targets, shooting practice, and packing for his first out-of-state hunt in September. David's approach to hunting is deeply rooted in the experience and the process, rather than just the end goal of filling a tag.

We delved into the importance of out-of-state hunts and how they can be a learning experience. David encouraged hunters to take the plunge and go for it, even if it means starting with smaller, less popular states before tackling the big ones like Iowa or Kansas. He shared his own experiences of hunting in various states and how each trip has contributed to his growth as a hunter.

David also provided a detailed breakdown of his strategy for an early September opener. He emphasized the importance of glassing for two evenings and one morning before the season starts, to locate and pattern the deer. His plan involves a mix of light scouting, glassing, and being mobile to adapt to the conditions and deer movements.

Throughout the episode, David's passion for hunting and his methodical approach to the sport were evident. He stressed the value of the process, the lessons learned from each hunt, and the importance of doing things your way. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the game, there's a wealth of knowledge to be gained from David's experiences and insights.

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