Send us a text

Deer management extends far beyond the lush green food plots that dominate hunting magazines and outdoor television. With expert guest Tom Byers, we explore the comprehensive approach to whitetail habitat improvement that will transform how you manage your hunting property.

Tom shares his extensive background in deer nutrition and property management, developed through years of professional experience with deer farming and collaboration with leading whitetail biologists. He reveals why your prime food plot location might not be where you think - those convenient logging landings and clearings often lack the vital topsoil needed for productive plantings. We discuss the critical importance of soil testing, proper pH management, and why "lime first, then fertilize" should be every food plotter's mantra.

Perhaps most surprising to many hunters is Tom's revelation about forest management. A properly timed winter timber harvest that allows for spring stump sprouts can provide equivalent nutrition to a cultivated food plot - with significantly less cost and labor. We explore the strategic placement of nutritional plots versus kill plots, optimal plot designs that force deer movement, and how three-dimensional electric fencing can protect smaller plots until hunting season.

With summer planting season approaching, this episode delivers actionable insights whether you're managing hundreds of acres or just a small parcel. From soil selection to plot protection, we cover the fundamentals that will maximize your property's deer-holding potential while avoiding common and costly mistakes. The chainsaw might just be your deer herd's best friend after all!

Check us out on Facebook and instagram Hunts On Outfitting, and also our YouTube page Hunts On Outfitting Podcast. Tell your hunting buddies about the podcast if you like it, Thanks!

Send us a text

When patience meets preparation, magic happens in the wilderness. After twenty painstaking years of waiting in New Brunswick's moose lottery system, Jesse Ells' father finally received his coveted tag—and what followed was nothing short of extraordinary. 

Jesse takes us deep into the  Mountains of northern New Brunswick, where three generations of his family embarked on this long-awaited hunt. With meticulous planning that began months in advance—salt blocks strategically placed in spring, trail cameras monitoring activity—they were ready when opening day arrived. Within just twenty minutes of legal shooting time, their patience was rewarded with a magnificent bull moose that dressed out at exactly 900 pounds.

But the story doesn't end there. What makes this tale remarkable is what happened next: despite having filled their personal tag, Jesse and his father immediately transitioned to guiding others. By the end of the brief five-day season, their camp had achieved perfection—seven tags, seven successful hunts. Jesse shares the triumphs, the challenges of extracting enormous animals from difficult terrain, and the lessons learned when clients don't heed their guides' expertise.

The most memorable moment comes as Jesse recounts "the one that got away"—standing just 15 yards from the largest bull he's ever seen, watching helplessly as it slipped away before a shot could be taken. His vivid storytelling puts you right beside him in the field, feeling both the exhilaration of success and the sting of missed opportunity that keeps hunters coming back year after year.

Whether you're planning your own moose hunt or simply enjoy authentic wilderness adventures, Jesse's experiences offer valuable insights and pure entertainment. Listen now to experience the highs and lows of chasing giants in the Canadian wilderness—and don't forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoy the episode!

Check us out on Facebook and instagram Hunts On Outfitting, and also our YouTube page Hunts On Outfitting Podcast. Tell your hunting buddies about the podcast if you like it, Thanks!

Send us a text

Ever watched someone pull back a compound bow and thought, "That looks way too complicated" or "I could do that easily"? Either way, you're in for some surprises! In this eye-opening episode, we demystify compound bow shooting with former Bass Pro archery department expert Logan Elliott breaking down everything beginners need to know.

The journey begins with finding the right bow for your body - a process that's far more personal than many realize. Logan walks us through how proper draw length, draw weight, and grip can make the difference between frustrating failure and addictive success. We explore the science behind let-off percentages, anchor points, and release techniques that form the foundation of consistent shooting.

Equipment selection becomes crystal clear as we discuss arrow spine ratings, broadhead options, and the great debate between whisker biscuit and drop-away rests. Whether you're considering bow hunting or simply target shooting, understanding these components removes the intimidation factor that keeps many potential archers on the sidelines.

Perhaps most importantly, Logan repeatedly emphasizes that practice trumps price tags every time. "I could still outshoot myself with my $600 bow compared to my $3,500 setup simply because of practice," he notes, highlighting that dedication creates proficiency regardless of budget. For those looking to extend their hunting season, challenge themselves with a new skill, or simply enjoy backyard target practice during summer barbecues, compound bow shooting offers an accessible pathway to outdoor accomplishment.

Ready to pull back that string and experience the satisfaction of perfect arrow flight? Subscribe to our podcast for more outdoor insights, and connect with us on Facebook or email us at [email protected] to share your archery journey.

Check us out on Facebook and instagram Hunts On Outfitting, and also our YouTube page Hunts On Outfitting Podcast. Tell your hunting buddies about the podcast if you like it, Thanks!

Send us a text

A mountain lion's paw print in fresh snow means something different to Scott of Montana Mountain Lion Adventures—it's the beginning of a primal pursuit that represents one of hunting's most specialized traditions. Through decades of experience training "long, sophisticated tracking machines" (his hounds), Scott has developed a deep understanding of both the cats he pursues and the dogs that help him do it.

From his childhood fascination with a life-sized mountain lion mount in his family's kitchen to becoming president of the Montana State Hounding Association, Scott's journey reveals the extraordinary patience and perseverance required to master this craft. He shares the pivotal moment when an ornery but skilled local hunter took him under his wing, leading to his first successful mountain lion hunt and the realization that his previous failures weren't due to a lack of tracking ability but working with dogs unsuited to Montana's challenging conditions.

Scott provides fascinating insights into his selective breeding approach—by 18 months, his dogs must independently trail and tree lions, and by 30 months, they must perform on dry ground without snow to assist tracking. His commitment to quality over quantity is evident in his guiding philosophy, typically using only three dogs when most would run six or seven, ensuring every hound genuinely contributes to the hunt.

Beyond the hunt itself, Scott's participation in Montana's Mountain Lion Monitoring Program reveals surprising scientific discoveries about these predators. GPS-collared cats have shown that while some lions kill deer weekly, others might survive 20 days between major kills, relying on smaller prey. Perhaps most striking is the evidence that mortality rates in non-hunted lion populations closely match those in areas with well-managed hunting quotas, challenging common assumptions about conservation approaches.

Call Scott directly to discuss booking a hunt—with only a limited number of clients accepted each year and typically booked 1-2 years in advance, these specialized experiences require advance planning but deliver an authentic connection to one of hunting's most challenging pursuits.

Check us out on Facebook and instagram Hunts On Outfitting, and also our YouTube page Hunts On Outfitting Podcast. Tell your hunting buddies about the podcast if you like it, Thanks!

Send us a text

Ready to test your black bear knowledge? This month's trivia episode pits Team Cubs against Team Boars as our panel of hunters tackles surprising facts about North America's most widespread predator.

Did you know the largest black bear ever recorded was killed in New Brunswick, Canada, weighing a staggering 902 pounds after being field dressed? Or that Alaska holds North America's highest black bear population at roughly 100,000 animals? These are just appetizers to the feast of knowledge served up as our contestants battle through questions about bear biology, hunting regulations, and field tactics.

The conversation reveals fascinating insights about these remarkable creatures. Black bears possess an extraordinary sense of smell that vastly outperforms their relatively poor eyesight, with some reports suggesting they can detect bait from up to ten miles away. Their seven-month pregnancy results in cubs born blind and weighing less than a pound. For hunters pursuing these animals, proper meat handling is essential – cooking to an internal temperature of 160°F eliminates the risk of trichinosis, resulting in what one guide describes as "the best meat I've ever had."

Perhaps most valuable is the spirited debate about baiting strategies, where team members argue the merits of limiting bait to create competition versus providing abundant food to minimize intrusion. This practical discussion, combined with historical context about indigenous hunting methods and medieval European trophies, creates a comprehensive picture of human-bear interactions across time and geography.

Whether you're an experienced bear hunter or simply curious about these magnificent animals, this episode delivers both entertainment and education. Subscribe now to catch future trivia challenges and hunting discussions!

Check us out on Facebook and instagram Hunts On Outfitting, and also our YouTube page Hunts On Outfitting Podcast. Tell your hunting buddies about the podcast if you like it, Thanks!

Send us a text

Ever wondered about the craftsmanship behind the game calls that bring wild turkeys strutting into range? This episode pulls back the curtain on the fascinating world of custom call making with Kenneth McDonald, founder of River's Edge Game Calls.

Kenneth's journey began unexpectedly when he drew a tag for New Brunswick's first-ever turkey season. Armed with just a store-bought pot call and determination, he successfully harvested a tom on opening day. That success sparked a passion that would transform his woodworking hobby into a specialized craft. "I looked at this pot call and I'm thinking, 'I could do better,'" he tells us, describing the moment that launched his call-making adventure.

What follows is a masterclass in the surprisingly complex science behind effective game calls. Kenneth walks us through the intricate details that affect a call's sound – from wood density and surface materials to the precise engineering of internal components. We discover how different cuts create unique sounds in diaphragm calls, why glass-over-glass designs allow for custom soundboards, and how even the striker's length and weight dramatically influence performance. For anyone who's ever used a game call without considering its construction, this conversation will forever change how you view these essential hunting tools.

Beyond the technical aspects, Kenneth shares the profound satisfaction of knowing his handcrafted calls have helped hunters across North America connect with the outdoors. "That makes me a part of your hunt," he explains, highlighting the special relationship between call makers and the hunting community. His passion extends beyond craftsmanship to conservation, emphasizing how hunters contribute significantly to wildlife preservation.

Whether you're a seasoned turkey hunter, a call-making enthusiast, or simply curious about the intersection of craftsmanship and outdoor pursuits, this episode offers valuable insights into an often-overlooked aspect of hunting tradition. Join us for this fascinating conversation, and you might just find yourself appreciating your next turkey call in an entirely new way.

Check us out on Facebook and instagram Hunts On Outfitting, and also our YouTube page Hunts On Outfitting Podcast. Tell your hunting buddies about the podcast if you like it, Thanks!

Send us a text

Lindsay Ware takes us deep into the remarkable world of professional game recovery with tracking dogs, revealing the intricate relationship between hunter, handler, and canine that ensures ethical hunting outcomes. As one of Maine's busiest wildlife trackers, Lindsay shares why she chose wire-haired dachshunds over larger breeds for their maneuverability in thick terrain and impressive stamina during long tracking days.

The conversation dispels common misconceptions about how tracking dogs work. Far from simply following blood, these extraordinary animals use every available scent marker - interdigital gland secretions, body odor, breath traces, disturbed vegetation, and the distinctive smell of stressed animals. When blood trails fade or rain washes evidence away, these additional scent sources become crucial to successful recovery.

Lindsay provides fascinating insights into wounded animal behavior that few hunters ever witness. The sophisticated "J-hook" maneuver where animals circle back to observe their trail, strategic use of water crossings to slow pursuers, and the surprising terrain challenges animals will navigate despite injuries all demonstrate wildlife's remarkable adaptability. She partially debunks the "wounded animals always head to water" myth while explaining the specific circumstances when water entry actually occurs.

Perhaps most valuable are the practical tips for hunters facing the distressing situation of an uncertain hit. Lindsay explains why calling professional help early before contaminating the scene with multiple searchers dramatically increases recovery chances. Her stories of close calls with wounded moose highlight the dangers trackers sometimes face, while the emotional relief of successful recovery underscores why this work matters so deeply to the hunting community.

For anyone who values ethical hunting practices and wildlife conservation, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the specialized world of tracking that combines ancient canine instincts with modern training techniques to honor our responsibility to the animals we hunt.

Check us out on Facebook and instagram Hunts On Outfitting, and also our YouTube page Hunts On Outfitting Podcast. Tell your hunting buddies about the podcast if you like it, Thanks!

Send us a text

Walker Witt embodies the dream that many eastern hunters hold close—leaving everything behind to build a life in the western mountains. After growing up hunting whitetails and turkeys in Pennsylvania, Walker packed his bags the summer after high school graduation and headed to Montana to guide elk hunts. He never looked back.

Walker brings a unique background to his guiding career. A bull rider since age 17—initially hiding competitions from his concerned mother—he carries that same grit into the mountains. This resilience served him well when he was thrown into guiding responsibilities after another guide abandoned their hunting party. Despite being new to elk country, Walker's hunting instincts proved strong, and he quickly adapted to calling in bulls and reading elk behavior in the thick northwestern forests.

The conversation delves into fascinating insights about western hunting. Walker explains how herd bulls in thick timber typically manage only about a dozen cows compared to 30-60 in open country due to visibility limitations. He shares his philosophy that "you can fool an elk's eyes and his ears, but you'll never fool his nose," emphasizing wind strategy above all else. Eastern turkey hunters, he notes, often make superior elk guides because their calling experience transfers perfectly to elk hunting scenarios.

Perhaps most captivating is Walker's passion for hound hunting. Starting with beagles for rabbits in Pennsylvania, he now runs hounds for mountain lions and bears in Montana and Idaho. He explains the surprising fact that mountain lions typically tree quickly (within 600-800 yards) because their muscular bodies can't sustain prolonged oxygen demands—contrary to bears that might lead hunters on 20-mile pursuits. His recent work removing a problem cougar that was killing livestock and pets highlights the practical conservation role that hunters play in managing predator populations.

Whether you're an aspiring western hunter, fascinated by predator hunting, or simply enjoy authentic stories from the mountains, Walker's journey from Pennsylvania bull rider to Montana wilderness guide offers a genuine look at what it takes to pursue a life committed to the outdoors. Listen now to experience hunting wisdom earned through years in some of America's most challenging terrain.

Check us out on Facebook and instagram Hunts On Outfitting, and also our YouTube page Hunts On Outfitting Podcast. Tell your hunting buddies about the podcast if you like it, Thanks!

Send us a text

Buckle up for a wild ride as Dalton Patterson takes the reins to host our third monthly hunting trivia showdown! We've assembled two formidable teams of hunting enthusiasts ready to test their outdoor knowledge in a hilarious battle of wits.

Team "Facial Hair" reunites trivia veteran Kyle Gillies with one of our most unexpected guests ever - self-proclaimed hunting expert "Hunter Phil," who can't stop promoting his questionable book "This Is Your Season." Facing them down is Team "Peach Fuzz," featuring local craftsmen Scott McKillop and Caleb Jones, both determined to claim the coveted Hunts On Outfitting camo hats.

As the questions fly, you'll find yourself learning fascinating tidbits about hunting history, wildlife biology, and outdoor regulations. Did you know Newfoundland hosts the world's only non-resident huntable caribou herd? Or that pheasants can fly at a surprising 48 miles per hour? From the origins of the Boone and Crockett Club to the specifics of waterfowl migration patterns and raccoon hunting caliber restrictions, this episode delivers both education and entertainment.

The competition remains neck-and-neck throughout, with hilarious trash-talking, questionable hunting stories, and genuine camaraderie shining through. The intensity builds to a climactic finale featuring perhaps the most unexpected trivia question we've ever asked (hint: it involves bird anatomy).

Whether you're a seasoned hunter looking to test your knowledge or simply enjoy the banter between passionate outdoorsmen, this episode captures the spirit of hunting culture - the perfect blend of expertise, storytelling, and friendship that makes our community special. Join us for the laughs, stay for the learning, and see which team claims ultimate trivia victory!

Check us out on Facebook and instagram Hunts On Outfitting, and also our YouTube page Hunts On Outfitting Podcast. Tell your hunting buddies about the podcast if you like it, Thanks!

Send us a text

Tony Steeves takes us behind the curtain of professional hunting guiding, revealing the deeply personal side of helping others experience the thrill of the hunt. Growing up in rural New Brunswick where hunting wasn't just a sport but a way of life, Tony shares how his childhood days of following his father on trap lines evolved into a passion for guiding that complements his day job as a truck driver.

What makes Tony's perspective particularly valuable is his insight into the emotional component of guiding. He eloquently describes the satisfaction of watching clients experience their first bear sighting or successful harvest, comparing it to the joy of watching a friend succeed. "To watch him go from questioning what he did to the instant extreme smile on his face - that's what the guiding's all about," he explains, highlighting how the true reward often comes from witnessing others' experiences rather than personal achievement.

Working with Long Lake Adventures on 800,000 acres of private timberland, Tony guides primarily for black bear and moose hunts. He offers fascinating details about bear behavior, calling them "ghosts of the woods" for their ability to appear silently despite their size. His stories range from clients forgetting ammunition to his experience guiding for the television show Canada in the Rough, where his emotional reaction to a successful moose hunt reveals the depth of his connection to the craft.

Perhaps most illuminating is Tony's discussion of his recent experience as a client himself during a Newfoundland moose hunt. This role reversal taught him new field dressing techniques and gave him fresh appreciation for the client experience - knowledge he'll bring back to his own guiding. Throughout our conversation, Tony advocates passionately for stronger guide licensing standards and the importance of hunting organizations that preserve outdoor traditions for future generations.

For anyone considering a guided hunt or curious about the human side of professional guiding, this conversation offers rare insight into what separates merely competent guides from those who create truly transformative wilderness experiences.

Check us out on Facebook and instagram Hunts On Outfitting, and also our YouTube page Hunts On Outfitting Podcast. Tell your hunting buddies about the podcast if you like it, Thanks!