Dan Marcelin joins the InCamp Podcast to talk about getting started in deer hunting and what actually matters when you’re new. We cover his first time in the woods, the prep that went into it, the mistakes that showed up, and what he learned once it was time to track, harvest, and handle a deer.

This episode focuses on mentorship and why having the right people around speeds up the learning curve. Dan explains how gear choices, patience, and paying attention to sign made a difference, and why understanding deer behavior matters more than hype or shortcuts.

We also get into the reality of killing an animal—what it requires mentally, how to do it the right way, and the responsibility that comes with taking game for food. From time in the woods to putting meat in the freezer, this conversation keeps hunting grounded in preparation, respect for wildlife, and learning by doing.

If you’re new to hunting or helping someone through their first season, this episode lays out what to expect and what to focus on.

• First-time hunters learn fast when expectations are realistic.

• Good mentorship shortens the learning curve.

• Preparation matters more than gear trends.

• Deer behavior and sign tell you what’s actually happening.

• Tracking and recovery are part of the job.

• Killing an animal deserves respect and attention to detail.

• Bringing home meat makes the work worth it.