In this episode, we break down one of the most common—and frustrating—habitat challenges landowners face: how to manage overgrown understory when prescribed fire isn’t working or isn’t an option. Years of fire suppression have allowed midstory vegetation to block sunlight, eliminate native ground cover, and stall wildlife habitat across much of the Southeast.

Joe Baya and Butch Thierry are joined by Jody Pagan of Ecosystems Protection Service and Brian Sheppard of Brush Clearing Services, two seasoned habitat professionals who explain the difference between manipulating land and truly restoring ecosystems. They walk through how to evaluate soils, vegetation, and disturbance history, why sunlight is the key driver of habitat, and how to recognize when fire alone can no longer do the job.

The conversation then shifts to mechanical and chemical alternatives, including forestry mulching, timber harvest, and herbicide work. Brian explains when mulching makes sense, its limitations, and why follow-up fire and maintenance are critical for long-term success. Real-world restoration examples highlight how resetting vegetation can quickly bring back ducks, turkeys, quail, and other wildlife.

We also discuss how landowners can use NRCS and Farm Bill programs like EQIP and CSP to help offset costs and accelerate habitat work.

Whether you’re managing timber, wetlands, or a hunting property, this episode delivers a clear, practical roadmap: restore sunlight, reset vegetation, reintroduce fire, and maintain the system the land was built for.

In this episode, we break down one of the most common questions in whitetail deer management: How many deer—especially does—should you harvest each season? Hunters often rely on guesses, trail-cam photos, or instinct, but Dr. Bronson Strickland, one of the leading experts in deer biology and habitat management, explains how to use forage capacity, herd size, buck-to-doe ratios, and fawn recruitment to make science-based harvest decisions.

Dr. Strickland walks us through evaluating habitat quality, recognizing signs of overbrowsing, understanding how much deer truly eat, and determining a healthy buck-to-doe ratio. We also explore the impact of skewed ratios on rut timing, fawn health, and overall herd performance.

Then we shift to the technology side with Paragon Aerial Solutions, leaders in thermal drone deer surveys. They explain how modern aerial counts determine accurate herd numbers, prevent double-counting, measure buck-to-doe ratios, estimate fawn recruitment, and identify where deer actually spend time on the property. We discuss survey accuracy, cost-per-acre, seasonal timing, property size limitations, and how drone data integrates with mapping apps like OnX and HuntStand.

Whether you're managing small acreage or a large hunting property, this episode gives you a full, science-driven roadmap: forage capacity → deer demand → herd size → ratios → fawn recruitment → harvest goals. Perfect for landowners, habitat managers, and anyone wanting to improve their whitetail herd using real data, not guesses.

Important Links:

Great Days Outdoors

First South Farm Credit

Southern Seed and Feed

Dixie Building Supply / Baker Metal Works

Chestnut Hill Outdoors

Texas Hunter Products

Black Buffalo

Paragon Aerial Solutions

Join hosts Joe Baya, Nick Williams, and Butch Thierry as they dive into the best hunting gifts and gear for 2025 in this special holiday episode of the podcast.

Whether you're searching for the ultimate Christmas gifts for hunters or just want to upgrade your own outdoor gear, our experts review top-rated hunting equipment and share their favorite stocking stuffers. Discover insider tips on hunting clothing, base layers, smart outdoor tech, stabilized binoculars, premium scopes, and essential gear for every hunter.

Highlights include reviews of Texas Hunter products, Chestnut Hill Outdoors food plot solutions, Leupold CDS systems, SIG Sauer Zulu stabilized binoculars, and more. Plus, get creative ideas for family gifts, unique camp accessories, and ways to document your best hunting memories.

Tune in to learn how to find the perfect hunting gift for every outdoorsman and outdoorswoman on your list!

Important Links:

Great Days Outdoors

First South Farm Credit

Dixie Building Supply / Baker Metal Works

Chestnut Hill Outdoors

Texas Hunter Products

Black Buffalo

Join host Joe Baya, co-host Butch Theory, and special guest Dr. Bronson Strickland of Wildlife Investments as they dive deep into the science of deer hunting, strategic buck harvest, and effective wildlife management. In this episode, the team discusses actionable strategies for balancing doe and buck populations, maximizing trophy buck potential, and implementing expert food plot and habitat improvement techniques. Learn proven game camera tips, culling methods, and age-based deer management practices that can take your deer hunting and land investment to the next level. Whether you’re a novice hunter or seasoned land manager, discover how to optimize your hunting property for long-term success.

Important Links:

Great Days Outdoors

Farm Credit of Northwest Florida

First South Farm Credit

Southern Seed and Feed

Dixie Building Supply / Baker Metal Works

Bucks Island Marine

157 Outfitters

Chestnut Hill Outdoors

Texas Hunter Products

Barnett Crossbows

In this episode, Joe Baya & Butch Thierry welcome Ian Wallace from Chestnut Hill Outdoors to share expert advice on transforming your property into a wildlife haven.

Focusing on food plot trees like the Dunstan chestnut, Ian explains how strategic land management boosts deer hunting success, enhances wildlife nutrition, and creates long-lasting habitat diversity.

Learn about effective timber stand improvement, cost-effective ways to increase carrying capacity, and the benefits of integrating mass-producing trees for year-round attraction.

Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new landowner, these practical tips for improving your hunting property are essential listening for anyone interested in wildlife habitat, deer attractants, and property investment for hunting

Important Links:

First South Farm Credit

Dixie Building Supply / Baker Metal Works

Bucks Island Marine

Chestnut Hill Outdoors

Texas Hunter Products

Barnett Crossbows

Join host Joe Baya and expert guest Dr. James Crowell, aka “Dr. Deer,” as they dive deep into wildlife management, timber stand improvement (TSI), and maximizing land investment for deer and habitat optimization.

This episode covers the essential differences between timber stand and wildlife stand improvement, optimal oak tree diversity (60/40 red to white), thinning practices for healthier hardwood stands, the value of prescribed fire, and strategies to boost deer habitat and forest productivity.

Dr. Crowell shares actionable insights for landowners looking to improve soil health, manage timber for both wildlife and investment, and take advantage of government cost-share programs.

Whether you’re a seasoned land investor, recreational property manager, or new landowner, these expert tips on forest, habitat, and deer herd management will help you leave your land better than you found it.

Important Links:

Great Days Outdoors

Farm Credit of Northwest Florida

First South Farm Credit

Southern Seed and Feed

Dixie Building Supply / Baker Metal Works

Bucks Island Marine

157 Outfitters

Chestnut Hill Outdoors

Texas Hunter Products

Barnett Crossbows

Join host Joe Baya with co-hosts Butch Thierry and Nick Williams as they welcome Kent Grimm from Duck Hut to discuss innovative strategies for wood duck conservation and waterfowl habitat management.

This episode dives deep into the benefits of installing wood duck boxes, the importance of predator guards, and practical tips for improving wetland and hunting land for wildlife.

Kent shares his journey developing durable plastic wood duck boxes and explains how these artificial nesting sites can dramatically increase duck populations.

Whether you're a landowner, hunter, or conservationist, learn how to enhance your property for waterfowl and support successful wildlife habitat improvement.

Important Links:

Great Days Outdoors

Farm Credit of Northwest Florida

First South Farm Credit

Southern Seed and Feed

Dixie Building Supply / Baker Metal Works

Bucks Island Marine

157 Outfitters

Chestnut Hill Outdoors

Texas Hunter Products

Barnett Crossbows

In this episode of Huntin’ Land, host Joe Baya is joined by Butch and special guest Parker Godwin of Farm Credit of Northwest Florida to explore what it really takes to buy, finance, and manage your own hunting land. The conversation digs into the emotional and practical hurdles of land ownership, from overcoming the intimidation factor and saving for a down payment, to the sense of control and fulfillment that comes with managing your own property.

Listeners will hear candid stories from Joe and Butch about their personal journeys—navigating the transition from hunting leases to private land, the importance of neighborhood and property selection, and the long-term rewards of investing in land for both recreation and family legacy. Parker provides expert insight into the financing side, breaking down the different types of land loans available, how to leverage equity for improvements or expansion, and the unique benefits of working with a lender who understands the needs of hunters and outdoorsmen.

Key topics include:

• The psychological and financial challenges of buying land for the first time
• The value of control, investment, and building equity in your own property
• Strategies for starting small and “trading up” to larger tracts over time
• Financing options: fixed-rate loans, lines of credit, and the flexibility of note modification
• Leveraging existing equity for improvements or additional purchases
• The importance of neighborhood, soil, and long-term planning in property selection
• Real-world stories of land improvement, habitat management, and the joy of sharing hunting experiences with family and friends

Whether you’re dreaming of your first 10 acres or looking to expand your landholdings, this episode offers practical advice, inspiration, and trusted resources to help you take the next step toward land ownership. Plus, you’ll learn about Farm Credit’s patronage program and how working with the right lender can make your land dreams a reality.

Important Links:

Great Days Outdoors

Farm Credit of Northwest Florida

First South Farm Credit

Southern Seed and Feed

Dixie Building Supply / Baker Metal Works

Bucks Island Marine

157 Outfitters

Chestnut Hill Outdoors

Texas Hunter Products

Barnett Crossbows

In this episode of Huntin’ Land, host Joe Baya is joined by Butch and Nick Williams to break down the art and science of early season deer hunting and buck patterning. The conversation dives deep into the practical steps for identifying and targeting mature bucks, from establishing and monitoring food plots to deploying trail cameras and analyzing weather patterns for consistent success. The hosts share their personal experiences on both private and public lands, offering real-world insights into stand placement, scent control—including the use of ozone generators—and the critical role of wind direction and access routes.

Listeners will discover how to leverage modern technology like cellular trail cameras, mapping apps, and weather data to refine their hunting strategies, as well as the importance of minimizing pressure and adapting to changing conditions. The episode also features candid discussions about the challenges of hunting in the South, the realities of balancing time in the field with family and work, and how technology can help hunters be more selective and effective.

Whether you’re a seasoned bowhunter or just gearing up for your first season, this episode delivers actionable tips, proven tactics, and trusted resources to help you make the most of your property and maximize your chances of early season success. Plus, you’ll hear about recommended partners and products for landowners, from food plot blends to land financing and essential gear.

Important Links:

Great Days Outdoors

Farm Credit of Northwest Florida

First South Farm Credit

Southern Seed and Feed

Dixie Building Supply / Baker Metal Works

Bucks Island Marine

157 Outfitters

Chestnut Hill Outdoors

Texas Hunter Products

Barnett Crossbows

In this episode of Huntin’ Land, host Joe Baya is joined by Butch and special guest Captain CT Meyer for an action-packed adventure on the Ohio River, right on the Kentucky-Indiana line. The crew dives deep into the world of bowfishing, targeting invasive Asian carp and sharing firsthand experiences from a high-energy night on the water. Listeners will get an inside look at the challenges and excitement of controlling carp populations, the environmental impact on native fish like paddlefish, and the vital role bowfishermen play in maintaining river ecosystems.

The conversation explores the accessibility of bowfishing for all skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned outdoorsmen, and highlights the camaraderie and fun that make this sport unique. Captain CT Meyer shares his journey from humble beginnings to building a top-tier bowfishing operation, complete with a fully equipped lodge that offers comfort, convenience, and a true home base for guests. The episode also covers the practicalities of planning a trip, from equipment and travel logistics to the variety of experiences available—whether you’re after numbers, trophy fish, or just a memorable night with friends and family.

Whether you’re a saltwater angler curious about freshwater action, a hunter looking for a new challenge, or someone seeking a unique group getaway, this episode delivers real-world insights, entertaining stories, and actionable tips for making the most of your time on the water. Plus, you’ll hear about recommended partners, products, and how to connect with Captain CT Meyer for your own bowfishing adventure.

Important Links:

Great Days Outdoors

Farm Credit of Northwest Florida

First South Farm Credit

Southern Seed and Feed

Dixie Building Supply / Baker Metal Works

Bucks Island Marine

157 Outfitters

Chestnut Hill Outdoors

Texas Hunter Products

Barnett Crossbows