Sportsmen's Empire - Western Big Game Hunting

Most elk hunters make one costly mistake: they move too much, call too much, and blow out the very bulls they’re trying to hunt. Kurt from Western Obsession breaks down the smarter, harder way to hunt elk, and why staying put, reading wind, and letting the glass do the work can change everything.

Returning guest Kurt joins Dan Johnson to unpack the exact mindset and field strategy behind successful western elk hunting, from archery season in the rut to late-season rifle hunts. He explains why the best hunters aren’t the loudest ones, why bugle tubes can do more harm than good, and how to turn elk behavior into a plan instead of a gamble.You’ll discover:

Kurt also shares the mental side of elk hunting that too many people underestimate: frozen boots, soaked gear, brutal elevation, and the pressure of being in the kill bubble when one wrong move can end everything. If you’ve ever wondered why elk hunting feels so humbling, or how to finally stop getting your butt kicked in the mountains, this conversation gives you the framework.

They also get into the evolving debate over bow vs rifle for western species, why archery elk remains the ultimate challenge, and what it really takes to go from "just some idiot walking around the woods with a bow" to feeling truly dangerous in elk country.Perfect for western hunters, DIY elk hunters, and anyone who wants a real-world strategy for hunting elk smarter, staying tougher, and making better decisions when it matters most.

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This week on the podcast, we start with a hunt that manages to hit both a frustrating low and an exciting high in less than 30 minutes. What begins with frustration turns into a breakthrough—and serves as a good reminder that sometimes the best thing you can do in the woods is slow down, pay attention, and be patient.

We also dig into scenting conditions and some of the data I’ve collected over the past two years, looking at temperature, humidity, and how those conditions can influence what’s happening on a track. Rather than simply blaming or praising the dog, the goal is to understand the environment we’re asking them to work in.

We end  by talking about something every hunter eventually has to learn: you’re not hunting the same dog you were last year. Next week opens Pandora's box into how your dog is changing and so are you. Thank you for tuning in to Creekside Chronicles 

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We would like to thank those who support this podcast.  Special thanks to Double U Hunting Supply for sponsoring this episode.  

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The gear you trust in the woods matters more than the latest hype, and Dan Johnson lays out the exact products he actually hunts with, why they earned a permanent spot in his setup, and which upgrades are worth your money before the season opens.

If you want a no-fluff breakdown from someone who beats up his equipment and still expects it to work in mud, cold, heat, and last-minute chaos, this episode gives you the shortlist. Dan explains why he stays loyal to certain brands, how he evaluates gear by durability and real-world performance, and why some products are worth paying more for while others are not.You’ll discover:

Dan also breaks down the thinking behind his gear choices, from total arrow weight and bow setup to rangefinding optics, scent elimination laundry, and the stand and saddle systems he uses now that his hunting style has evolved. If you’ve been wondering what actually survives hard use, what’s marketing noise, and what deserves a real look before opening day, this one is packed with practical answers.

Perfect for bowhunters, whitetail hunters, and anyone trying to build a dependable kit without wasting money on gear that won’t hold up. Dan keeps it blunt, specific, and grounded in what he’s actually carrying into the woods this season.

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Join us for a laid-back yet insightful conversation with Skeeter, Eric Beckman, a passionate

outdoorsman and wild game chef, as he shares his journey into hunting, foraging, and cooking

Michigan's wild bounty. Discover practical tips on field dressing, foraging secrets, and creative

ways to prepare wild protein, all while emphasizing conservation and mindfulness in nature.

● The benefits and techniques of rucking and outdoor training for hunting, including

packing fifty pounds regularly during summer for upcoming hunts.

● How to identify and forage local Michigan edible plants, mushrooms, and wild

game—including tips on spotting white oaks, beech trees, and chaga.

● The process of cleaning and preparing unusual game animals such as snapping turtles

and invasive crayfish, including tasteful tips for cleaning, purge processes, and cooking

methods.

● Creative wild game recipes, like bang bang bluegill and spicy woodchuck tacos, with

emphasis on presentation, flavor, and serving suggestions.

● Strategies for scouting deer and other game with a slow, holistic approach—finding

bedding areas, food sources, and movement corridors instead of rushing through.

● The importance of respecting game animals through proper care, field dressing, and

preparation, transforming nuisance species into table fare.

● Building connections and sharing outdoor passions with family and friends, making every

outdoor adventure an opportunity for learning and bonding.

Listeners are encouraged to explore local wild edibles responsibly, respect game animals, and appreciate

the slow, observant approach to nature and hunting. Skeeter's insights blend practical tips with a passion for

conservation and culinary creativity, inspiring a thoughtful wildlife and outdoor experience.

Attribution Code

"Slow Burn" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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The first day of training sets the tone for everything that follows—and this episode is all about testing your patience. How we used other podcast to see the early warning signs of heat stress and the things you can do when in the field to help. Don't waste a precious time when you have limited days. Have a great season. 

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Double U Hunting Supply: Get all your hound hunting gear at Double U. Products every hound hunter trusts to keep up with their pack. Double U Hunting Supply.com

We would like to thank those who support this podcast.  Special thanks to Double U Hunting Supply for sponsoring this episode.  

www.dusupply.com

https://www.youtube.com/@DoubleUHuntingSupply/podcasts

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Unlock the secrets to hunting success with Joseph Jones, a dedicated bowhunter who chased a legendary buck for three years—until a game-changing revelation reshaped his gear strategy. From urban hunting tactics to the best gear for close-quarters, Joseph shares how adapting his equipment and mindset led to more effective hunts—and a deeper connection with his kids in the woods.

Discover how hunting in tight spaces in North Carolina influences stand choices, the importance of versatility in gear, and the innovative tricks Joseph uses to beat the trees — from DIY tree cover to the perfect climbing stand. We break down his approach to trail cameras, scent control, and the must-have accessories that keep him stealthy and efficient.You'll learn why Joseph prefers certain bows like the Prime NXT for growing with his son, how personal comfort and confidence in your gear can turn a good hunt into a great one, and the latest gear hacks that give you an edge—think bug-repellent clothing and scent-eliminating technology. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a seasoned pro, Joseph’s insights on gear, mindset, and patience will motivate you to elevate your hunting game.

This episode is essential listening for hunters aiming to refine their tactics, reduce their scent footprint, and learn how small adjustments in gear and strategy can unlock big results. If you're chasing your own legendary buck or simply want to hunt smarter, this conversation will inspire you to rethink your approach and enjoy the process more than ever.

Joseph Jones is a seasoned hunter with years of experience in urban and traditional hunting setups, known for his dedication to both his craft and passing down the passion to his kids. He's passionate about leveraging technology and DIY solutions to stay stealthy and effective in the field.Why this works: This episode hooks listeners with a compelling story of perseverance and evolution as a hunter, enticing them with practical tips on gear and strategy. It appeals directly to hunting enthusiasts who want to improve their odds and enjoy the process, blending real-world tactics with insights on mindset and technology for maximum impact.

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Show notes: Get ready for the August hound hunting season with practical preseason tips. In this episode, we cover:

A little preparation now can help you and your dogs have a safer, more successful start to the season. Good luck, and have a great season. 

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For the best lights in the business

Check out: Cajunlights.com 

Double U Hunting Supply: Get all your hound hunting gear at Double U. Products every hound hunter trusts to keep up with their pack. Double U Hunting Supply.com

We would like to thank those who support this podcast.  Special thanks to Double U Hunting Supply for sponsoring this episode.  

www.dusupply.com

https://www.youtube.com/@DoubleUHuntingSupply/podcasts

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are you tired of unproductive hunts and wondering where the elk are hiding? Discover the game-changing strategies that seasoned elk hunter and expert scout Josh Sears uses to find elk year-round—no matter where you hunt, east or west. Whether you’re new to hunting or a seasoned pro, this episode reveals how to interpret maps, identify key terrain features, and use satellite imagery to pinpoint the best spots before you even leave home.

Josh Sears, founder of Boots on the Ground Services, shares his insider tips on e-scouting, including how to interpret topo lines, identify potential elk bedding areas, and navigate tricky terrain from thousands of miles away. He explains why north-facing slopes and benches are often elk magnets, how weather and seasonality impact elk movement, and why water sources are critical—even in dry months. Plus, learn how to adapt your scouting approach based on the time of year, weather conditions, and your hunting style.

We break down specific tactics: dropping pins on remote high-elevation spots, understanding the significance of clear trails and sign, and factoring in pressure from other hunters. Josh reveals how to find alternative spots when your first plan gets overrun or cattle has grazed out your prime location. His advice on how to efficiently scout during a short trip or even during the season itself will make your next hunt more productive and less stressful.

Whether you're planning a quick weekend trip or hunting a remote backcountry area, knowing these detailed scouting methods can mean the difference between filling your tag and coming home empty-handed. This episode is perfect for hunters eager to learn how to think like an elk and read the land like a pro—so you show up confident, prepared, and one step ahead of the herd.Interested in turning your e-scouting efforts into real-world results? Josh’s “Boots on the Ground” service offers tailored scouting trips, helping hunters verify their locations and gather crucial intel on public land elk hotspots. Visit BootsOnTheGroundServices.com for more info and custom packages.

Gear up with real-world insights from a true elk hunting expert—hit play and transform your approach from guesswork to certainty. Your next big elk encounter could be just a map pin away.

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This week, I hit the road for a weekend hunting trip with my longtime friend, Bob Melville. We've shared a lot of miles and a lot of hunts over the years, so the conversation naturally goes beyond just the chase.

In this episode, we dive into the constant challenge of evaluating our hound packs—knowing when to be patient, when to make tough decisions, and why building a solid pack is never as simple as it looks from the outside.

We also have an honest discussion about the realities of raising hounds. From the time and effort required to the disappointments and rewards that come with developing young dogs, we talk about what it really takes to build a pack you're proud to hunt behind.

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Subscribe to: 

Full Cry Magazine

Bear Hunting Magazine

American Bear Foundation

Virginia Bear Hunters Association 

For the best lights in the business

Check out: Cajunlights.com 

Double U Hunting Supply: Get all your hound hunting gear at Double U. Products every hound hunter trusts to keep up with their pack. Double U Hunting Supply.com

We would like to thank those who support this podcast.  Special thanks to Double U Hunting Supply for sponsoring this episode.  

www.dusupply.com

https://www.youtube.com/@DoubleUHuntingSupply/podcasts

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Most mule deer hunters overlook one of the most critical aspects of success: understanding the prairie ecosystem like a local. In this episode, Dan Johnson shares raw, real-world insights from years of hunting mule deer across South Dakota, Nebraska, Montana, and beyond—all on public lands and walk-in spots. Discover how cattle, water, terrain, and deer movement patterns influence every move you make in the field, without relying on fancy gadgets or guesswork.

Dan’s experience reveals the unspoken rules of prairie hunting that can make or break your hunt—like why cattle are more enemies than allies, how to interpret subtle water sources, and why patience in tight drainages pays off. You'll break down concrete tactics such as cattle checks, glassing from the right angles, and reading terrain cracks that hide beds and bucks. He shares stories of dramatic bed switchings, deceptive water locations, and the importance of staying mobile and adaptable—because assumptions often lead to failure.

You’ll discover the art of "checking and moving"—how to interpret cattle activity, water signs, and terrain features to locate prime deer bedding and feeding zones. Plus, Dan discusses why the simplest, most overlooked tactics—like glassing in the right light, understanding deer behavior, and choosing the best access points—can unlock your most successful hunts. If you're looking to go beyond theory and learn practical, field-tested strategies, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

Whether you're new to western hunting or hunting prairie mule deer is your next challenge, you'll come away with a clearer understanding of how to navigate the landscape, interpret deer signs, and hunt smarter—not harder. Dan's candid storytelling, seasoned advice, and honest mistakes make this episode essential listening for anyone eager to unlock the secrets of the open country.

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