The Great Lakes Outdoors Podcast

Small changes in the woods can completely change your deer season. Mike of Full Draw Land Management LLC breaks down the exact mistakes most hunters make with food plots, stand placement, access, canopy cover, and bedding locations - and how to fix them before your property gets blown out.

If you’ve ever wondered why deer vanish in the middle of October, why your food plot gets hammered at night but stays empty when you hunt it, or why your “perfect” setup still isn’t producing mature bucks, this conversation hits every weak spot. Mike, Kyle, and Travis  get brutally practical about what actually holds deer on a property and what just looks good on a map.

You’ll discover:

• Why access is often more important than food
• How sunlight on the forest floor can create up to four tons of food per acre
• The difference between AM stands, PM stands, and transition stands
• When clover, chicory, oats, cereal rye, brassicas, or fruit trees make sense
• Why “too thick” and “too open” can both ruin a property
• How to think about neighboring properties before you ever buy land

Mike also shares the real-world consulting process behind Full Draw Land Management, including how he grades properties, why neighborhood pressure matters, and what he looks for when a client wants to turn 40 to 120 acres into a better hunt. He explains why some plots should be treated like sanctuaries, why mature deer react to scent and movement faster than most hunters realize, and how tiny access tweaks can mean the difference between a dead property and a huntable one.

This episode matters if you’re buying land, improving a deer camp, or trying to make your current property hunt like it should. The biggest mistakes in deer management are usually the simplest ones, and once you hear Mike’s approach, you’ll start seeing your own property differently.

Perfect for deer hunters, landowners, and anyone who wants more daylight movement, better hunts, and fewer self-inflicted mistakes this season.

For more information email Mike at [email protected] or look him up on Facebook at Full Draw Land Management LLC.

When you think of fishing in Michigan, you probably picture just casting and catching — but behind the scenes, a quiet upheaval is taking place. Troy Stokes, president of the Michigan Bass Federation, and Mark Etch, tournament director, reveal how they're building a grassroots movement to protect, promote, and elevate fishing statewide. Discover how this volunteer-driven organization fights invasive species, advocates for year-round catch and release, and creates opportunities for anglers of all ages to step up and make a difference.

You'll learn about the upcoming state and national tournaments that could be your ticket to fishing for hundreds of thousands of dollars — all for just a few hundred dollars and a passion for the water. Troy and Mark explain how the federation is shaping policies on Wake Boats, invasives, and habitat conservation, influencing decisions that affect Michigan lakes and waterways. They also highlight the importance of youth programs, increasing memberships, and how engaged anglers can amplify their voice at the table with the DNR and other agencies.

This episode breaks down actionable ways you can get involved, whether through membership, volunteering, or simply spreading the word. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just looking to get your kids into fishing, listen now to see why Michigan's fishing scene is more dynamic — and more crucial to conservation — than ever before.

Perfect for anyone eager to impact local waterways, aspiring tournament anglers, or community members passionate about preserving Michigan’s outdoor heritage. Don’t miss how organized activism and dedicated individuals are transforming the future of fishing in the Great Lakes State.

Most hunters believe success hinges on the right stand or perfect wind — but what if the secret to better hunting isn’t what you’re doing during the hunt? Rich from Killer Food Plots reveals the overlooked strategies that can turn your property into a deer magnet, even in the most challenging conditions. Whether you're managing a small backyard or a large piece of land, learn how creating the perfect habitat with food plots, bedding areas, and strategic planting can dramatically boost your odds — and keep deer coming back year after year.

In this episode, we dive deep into the science and craft of food plotting. Rich shares how planting oats as late as September can provide crucial late-season forage, and how simple techniques like mowing and no-till planting can turn a barren field into a high-quality habitat in just a few years. Discover the hidden power of landscape features like drain ditches and hedgerows that deer naturally use to evade pressure, and learn how to incorporate these funnels into your strategy.

We break down:

• The best timing and methods for planting spring and summer plots that attract and hold deer longer
• How to use switchgrass and other native grasses to create bedding cover that deer prefer for fawning and winter success
• The latest innovations in soil health — from liquid fertilizers to drone technology that can scan, seed, and even treat your land remotely
• Why focusing on habitat management can outperform even the most carefully planned hunts
• Tips for working with farmers and neighbors to improve access and reduce pressure on your property

If you're serious about maximizing your property’s potential or simply want to learn how to outsmart pressure and heavy crop harvesting, this episode is essential listening. Rich’s real-world experience and innovative tips make farming and habitat creation approachable and effective for hunters at every level.

Rich is a seasoned habitat specialist and founder of Killer Food Plots, known for his innovative approaches to food plotting, soil health, and deer management. His expertise guides hunters and land managers to make smarter, more sustainable choices that pay off year after year.

Perfect for hunters, landowners, or anyone looking to unlock the full potential of their property — the game-changing tactics in this episode could be your secret advantage. Hit play and start turning your land into a deer paradise today.

Join Kyle and Trav as they dive into waterfowl season prep, hunting stories, gear talk, and the unique challenge of the Great Loop — all sprinkled with humor and practical tips for outdoor enthusiasts.

In this episode, Travis and Kyle discuss recent boating mishaps, waterfowl hunting strategies, property management, and the importance of community in hunting. They also touch on the evolving technology in trail cameras and the upcoming youth events supporting outdoor traditions.

Join us for a lively discussion on the current environmental conditions, deer hunting strategies, and wildlife behaviors in Michigan — all intertwined with personal anecdotes and practical tips.

In this episode:

• The impact of recent weather patterns on outdoor activities and wildlife movement
• Building and utilizing tree stands and blinds for deer hunting
• The fascinating behaviors of wood ducks and their nesting habits
• Strategies to minimize scent detection and attract deer
• Exploring new hunting technology ideas, including virtual shooting apps
• Updates on Michigan deer regulations and conservation efforts
• The benefits and challenges of saddle hunting and mobile setups
• How weather and habitat influence deer and duck populations
• Personal stories about poison ivy, ticks, and insect management in the field

In this episode of the Great Lakes Outdoors Podcast, Kyle and Travis unlock the strategies that turn casual hunters into seasoned experts who consistently outsmart mature deer and waterfowl. From managing water levels to optimizing food plots, they reveal the insider tactics that give you the edge, including how strategic scent use and stand placement can dramatically change your season.

You'll discover:

• The surprising effectiveness of early seduction tactics like Hodag scent ropes and how they attract bucks and geese months before season peaks.
• Practical tips for food plot timing, from August seedings to late-season stand adjustments based on crop changes and deer movement patterns.
• The latest insights into waterfowl hatch success, duck and goose hatch statistics, and how shifting water conditions affect migration and local bird numbers.
• How to leverage trail cameras legally in 14 states and the crucial difference between using them for scouting versus over-reliance.
• The mental game of hunting: balancing passion, strategy, and timing to ensure long-term success without burnout.
• Fun stories that highlight the unpredictability of wildlife — like rescuing a baby goose and the surprisingly high survival odds of small animals like turkeys and waterfowl in the wild.

Join Kyle and Trav as they chat with Brian from Migration Waterfowl about his journey through waterfowl and deer hunting, sharing valuable wisdom on managing small properties, podcasting challenges, and industry insights. This episode offers tactical tips, behind-the-scenes stories, and a deep appreciation for the hunting community.

In this episode of the Great Lakes Outdoors podcast, hosts Kyle & Travis are joined by Max from the Michigan Fishing Company. They dive into the world of fishing in the Great Lakes region. They discuss the challenges and joys of fishing, the impact of social media on the fishing community, and the importance of preserving local fisheries. Max shares his experiences as a Michigan angler, highlighting the diverse fishing techniques and the camaraderie among fishermen.

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the controversial bills (5801 and 5802) proposing the use of gill nets in the Great Lakes. Max emphasizes the potential negative impact on local ecosystems and communities. They urge listeners to oppose these bills by contacting local legislators.

For those who want to voice their opposition to the gill nets, please reach out to:

• David Martin: [email protected]
• Alicia St. Germaine: [email protected]

Stay connected with Michigan Fishing Co on social media:

• Instagram: @michiganfishingco
• YouTube: @michiganfishingcompany
• TikTok: @michiganfishingcompany

In this episode of the Great Lakes Outdoors podcast, hosts Kyle and Travis discuss their recent turkey hunting experiences. Travis shares a detailed account of his morning hunt, where he successfully shot a turkey despite several challenges, including a late start and unexpected encounters with coyotes. The conversation highlights the importance of patience, cover, and strategic positioning in turkey hunting. They also discuss the dynamics of hunting alone versus with others, emphasizing the personal satisfaction and camaraderie each approach offers. The episode wraps up with a shout-out to the Gibraltar Duck Hunters Association for their community contributions and a teaser for the next episode, which will focus on Detroit River walleye fishing and related regulations.