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In this episode of the Holt Outdoors Podcast, we address a listener-submitted question from Jordan Thompson about how to transition from pleasure hunting to competition coon hunting. Whether you are starting with a registered Blue Tick pup or a seasoned Walker hound, entering your first PKC or UKC-sanctioned hunt can be daunting. Brennan Holt breaks down the essentials into three critical categories: the gear, the mindset, and the dog.

We dive deep into the necessary dog training equipment, from trusted tracking systems like the Garmin Alpha 200 Plus to the importance of high-quality hunting lights and chaps. Brennan also discusses the mental shift required for a cast, emphasizing why you must know the rules and your dog’s unique voice before spending money on an entry fee. From understanding "leash lock" and scoring strategy to the "150-coon rule" for building hound performance, this episode is the ultimate roadmap for any coon hunter looking to enter the competition circuit.

Inside this episode:

The Gear Checklist: What is a necessity (quality tracking and lights) vs. what you can live without (thermals and squallers).

Mindset & Knowledge: Why reading the rulebook and doing "mock hunts" with buddies is the best preparation.

The Competition Dog: The five traits a winner must have, including independence, hustle, and the "150-coon" base.

The Golden Rule: Why "having coons in the tree" is the only metric that truly matters for winning casts.

Support the Show:
Hit the JOIN button on our YouTube channel for exclusive access to the CCS Series, live hunts, and member-only podcast content!

#CoonHunting #HoltOutdoors #CompetitionHunting #DogTraining #GarminAlpha #PKCHunt #UKCHunting #HoundHunting #HuntingPodcast
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Holt Outdoors is an online video and podcast series focused on making memories, having fun, and sharing tips and tactics to help you be more successful in the outdoors. We bring you authentic, genuine outdoor content — just as nature intended.

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In this solo edition of the Holt Outdoors Podcast, I dive deep into a recent PKC $35 open event to break down exactly how the cast went with my dog, Shy. Competition coon hunting is a rollercoaster of ups and downs, and this episode offers a raw, honest look at the technical mistakes and strategy shifts that happen in the woods. From miscalculating scores in my head to being "leash locked" by a competitor, I share the hard lessons learned during a night of den trees and tough circle point decisions.

The core of today's discussion focuses on hound accuracy and the frustrating reality of slick treeing. Shy has treed over 80 coons for me in less than a year, but the struggle for consistent hound performance continues. I propose the "150-coon rule" and ask for your feedback: is a 60% accurate dog a "gambler" for life, or can more time in the woods fix a man-made trait? I also discuss my future plans for the kennel, including my search for a naturally independent female with a proven Wipeout pedigree to expand our breeding options.

Inside this episode:

Cast Breakdown: A play-by-play of the PKC open event, including strike and tree point distribution.

The Scoring Trap: Why I am switching to a notebook system to stop miscalculating scores under pressure.

Accuracy Debate: Discussing the difference between a "unicorn" dog and a reliable ambush-style hound.

Future Prospects: Why I’m looking for a special cross from a known dog man to take the kennel to the next level.

Support the Show: Enjoying the transparency? Hit the JOIN button on our YouTube channel for exclusive access to the CCS Series, live hunts, and member-only podcast content!

#CoonHunting #HoltOutdoors #DogTraining #ShaiTheDog #HoundHunting #GarminAlpha #PKCHunt #WipeoutHounds #MissouriHunting

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Holt Outdoors is an online video and podcast series focused on making memories, having fun, and sharing tips and tactics to help you be more successful in the outdoors. We bring you authentic, genuine outdoor content — just as nature intended.

🔗 Stay Connected & Gear Up
New Website & Merch: www.holtoutdoors.com

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🎧 Listen to the Holt Outdoors Podcast:
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-holt-outdoors-podcast/id1823288020

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2vxPYgdS2XT9MA9YDdYS3Q?si=e8513b0767f14a94

📲 Follow us on social media for even more outdoor adventures! ⬇️
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In this episode of the Holt Outdoors Podcast, we sit down with Jeff Long, a Missouri coon hunting veteran with over 50 years of experience in the timber. Jeff shares a lifetime of wisdom on dog training, starting with his first Walker hound bought from the legendary Russell Beck. If you are a hound hunter looking to refine your competition coon hunting strategy or just starting a young dog, Jeff’s insights on "Brains and Heart" are essential viewing.

Jeff breaks down the evolution of the Walker hound, explaining why modern dogs are faster and more independent than those of 30 years ago. We dive into a detailed profile of his current standout dog, Dirt, exploring his pedigree (Three Blank Joker x Kenneth Johnson's Wild) and how a natural hunting style leads to hound performance in the woods. From the "10-coon rule" for building confidence to the biggest mistakes parents make when introducing youth to the sport, this episode is packed with value for the modern coon dog enthusiast.

Inside this episode:

The Starting Process: How Jeff and partner Keith Palmer divide the work of starting vs. finishing young hounds.

Accuracy vs. Speed: Why Jeff prefers a dog that can work any track over a "hot-nosed ambush" dog.

The Youth Mistake: Why an experienced "meat dog" is better than a puppy for keeping kids interested in hunting.

Correcting Empties: Why Jeff believes "Brains and Nose" are the only real fixes for a slick-treeing dog.

Legends of the Past: Memories of the original Stage Coma, Triple Tough Luke, and Domino.

Support the Show: Enjoying the content? Hit the JOIN button on our YouTube channel for exclusive access to the CCS Series and more behind-the-scenes hunting action!

#CoonHunting #HoltOutdoors #DogTraining #WalkerHounds #HoundHunting #HuntingPodcast #GarminAlpha #MissouriOutdoors #JeffLong

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In this high-value episode of the Holt Outdoors Podcast, we are joined by Brody Julien, a Missouri native and U.S. Army veteran, to break down the critical role of terrain navigation in hound training. From the "sand hills" of North Carolina to the deep creek ditches of Northern Missouri, Brody explains how different environments shape a coon dog's ability to strike and tree. If you're looking to improve your competition coon hunting score, understanding how dogs "pocket" coons in varied timber is a game-changer.

We also tackle one of the most controversial topics in the sport: the coonhound market. Brennan and Brody dive into the reality of buying and selling dogs on Facebook, debating whether a world-class pedigree actually "stacks the odds" or if raw hunting experience is the ultimate deciding factor. You'll hear about the "150-coon philosophy"—why patience and consistent time in the woods outrank the shock collar every time. Whether you use a Garmin Alpha 200 Plus to track your Walker hounds or are searching for a naturally independent female, this episode provides the "by-the-book" insights every coon hunter needs to find and train a winner.

Inside this episode:

Army Airborne to the Timber: How military discipline translates to mastering complex competition rules.

Terrain Shock: Why dogs from the Ozarks struggle with Northern Missouri's deep creek ditches.

The Market Reality: Honest talk on finding value in unproven lines and avoiding "bad apples" online.

The Ground Game: The unusual story of a yearling Josie Wales pup catching coons on the fly.

Consistency as a Trait: Why predictability is more valuable than a "freak show" dog that lacks consistency.

Support the Show: Hit the JOIN button on our YouTube channel for exclusive access to the CCS Series, live hunts, and member-only content!

#CoonHunting #HoltOutdoors #HoundTraining #GarminAlpha #MissouriHunting #DogTraining #HuntingPodcast #ShaiTheDog #NorthMissouriHunting

___

Holt Outdoors is an online video and podcast series focused on making memories, having fun, and sharing tips and tactics to help you be more successful in the outdoors. We bring you authentic, genuine outdoor content — just as nature intended.

🔗 Stay Connected & Gear Up
New Website & Merch: www.holtoutdoors.com

Become a Member Today! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF1f2TpJvF__PNYtWrlpx6w/join

🎧 Listen to the Holt Outdoors Podcast:
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-holt-outdoors-podcast/id1823288020

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2vxPYgdS2XT9MA9YDdYS3Q?si=e8513b0767f14a94

📲 Follow us on social media for even more outdoor adventures! ⬇️
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In this episode of the Holt Outdoors Podcast, we are joined by Missouri native and lifelong coon hunter, Kim Barker of Osage Fork Kennels. With nearly 65 years of experience in the woods, Kim shares incredible stories from his childhood spent in the back of his grandfather's truck to his time serving in the U.S. Army and returning home to the hound hunting community. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in competition coon hunting and the heritage of the Walker hound.

Kim provides a unique perspective on the evolution of coon dogs, comparing the "packing" hounds of the past to the faster, more independent competition dogs of today. He discusses his most famous hounds, including the legendary Smoke, and his experiences hunting alongside the original Stage Coma. Beyond the technical aspects of dog training and Garmin GPS tracking, Kim emphasizes the importance of family, sharing heartwarming stories about his grandsons discovering the sport. Whether you’re looking for advice on accurate coon dogs or just want to hear great hunting stories, Kim Barker’s wisdom on hound performance and consistency is invaluable for every coon hunter.

Inside this episode:

Life at Osage Fork: Growing up on a family cattle farm and the early days of dog trading.

The Modern Coon Dog: Why Kim believes today's breeding has created faster and better dogs than ever before.

Competition Mindset: Winning the Missouri Federation and why fun should always be the priority.

Training for Success: The importance of consistency, vet checking, and the "quality over quantity" approach to hunting.

Passing the Torch: Why taking the next generation hunting is more rewarding than any trophy on the wall.

___

Holt Outdoors is an online video and podcast series focused on making memories, having fun, and sharing tips and tactics to help you be more successful in the outdoors. We bring you authentic, genuine outdoor content — just as nature intended.

🔗 Stay Connected & Gear Up
New Website & Merch: www.holtoutdoors.com

Become a Member Today! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF1f2TpJvF__PNYtWrlpx6w/join

🎧 Listen to the Holt Outdoors Podcast:
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-holt-outdoors-podcast/id1823288020

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2vxPYgdS2XT9MA9YDdYS3Q?si=e8513b0767f14a94

📲 Follow us on social media for even more outdoor adventures! ⬇️
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@holt_outdoors

Facebook: @Holt Outdoors

Instagram: @Holt_Outdoors

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🚨To Apply, Head To Youtube & follow the steps! 🚨

In this special edition of the Holt Outdoors Podcast, we discuss the future of the Coonhound Championship Series (CCS) and provide vital instructions for CCS Season 2. As competition coon hunting continues to grow, we are looking back at the success of our first season and detailing how you, the audience, can get involved. We’ve developed a custom CCS rule set designed to prioritize the hound's performance over the handler's tactics, ensuring the best coon dog wins every night. 

Brennan and Trey dive into the proof of concept that was Season 1, sharing insights on the production of hunting videos and the challenges of filming live hunts in the woods. This episode is packed with information for anyone interested in hound hunting, from our unique one-on-one cast format to upcoming member-exclusive content like live streams and sanctioned competition hunts. Whether you’re a long-time member or a new viewer, this podcast outlines the roadmap for the most exciting development in the coon hunting community. 

Inside this episode: 
CCS Season 2 Entry: Learn how to "throw your hat in the ring" and compete in the upcoming season. 
Rule Set Breakdown: Why our rules put the power back in the dog's hands.
Member Perks: The benefits of joining Holt Outdoors, including early access to seasons and exclusive series.
The Winner's Circle: Announcing the automatic invite for the Season 1 champion. 

Support the Show: Hit the JOIN button on our YouTube channel to get exclusive access to the full CCS series, behind-the-scenes content, and to help us keep these hunts coming! 

#CoonHunting #CCSSeason2 #HoltOutdoors #DogTraining #HoundHunting #HuntingPodcast #GarminAlpha
___

Holt Outdoors is an online video and podcast series focused on making memories, having fun, and sharing tips and tactics to help you be more successful in the outdoors. We bring you authentic, genuine outdoor content — just as nature intended.

🔗 Stay Connected & Gear Up
New Website & Merch: www.holtoutdoors.com

Become a Member Today! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF1f2TpJvF__PNYtWrlpx6w/join

🎧 Listen to the Holt Outdoors Podcast:
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-holt-outdoors-podcast/id1823288020

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2vxPYgdS2XT9MA9YDdYS3Q?si=e8513b0767f14a94

📲 Follow us on social media for even more outdoor adventures! ⬇️
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@holt_outdoors

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Instagram: @Holt_Outdoors

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In this episode of the Holt Outdoors Podcast, we dive deep into coon dog independence and hound training strategies for competition coon hunting. Brennan Holt shares a detailed breakdown of a recent pleasure hunt and mock cast with his dog, Shai, alongside Max and Heist. If you are looking to improve your dog's performance in the woods, understanding the difference between a "dead loner" and an independent hound is essential for any coon hunter looking to win.

Brennan addresses common hurdles like slick trees, "doggy" behavior, and how to use a Garmin Alpha 200 Plus to track and correct your hounds during a cast. This episode covers vital dog training techniques, including when to use correction and how to reward your hound with fur to build treeing confidence. Whether you are a seasoned competition hunter or just starting out with coon dogs, these insights on Shai's journey will help you master the craft of hound hunting.

Inside this episode: Defining the "Dead Loner": Learn why some dogs actively avoid other hounds and how that impacts a cast.

The "Blown Up" Head: Brennan explains why high energy from the holidays can lead to mistakes like slick trees.

Correction Strategies: Practical tips on walking Shai off a bad tree and maintaining consistency.

The Power of the Fur: Why "knocking it out" is the ultimate reward for building a young dog's confidence.

Support the Show: Enjoying the podcast? Hit the JOIN button on our YouTube channel for exclusive access to the CCS Series and more behind-the-scenes hunting action.

#CoonHunting #HoltOutdoors #DogTraining #ShaiTheDog #HoundHunting #HuntingPodcast #GarminAlpha

___

Holt Outdoors is an online video and podcast series focused on making memories, having fun, and sharing tips and tactics to help you be more successful in the outdoors. We bring you authentic, genuine outdoor content — just as nature intended.

🔗 Stay Connected & Gear Up
New Website & Merch: www.holtoutdoors.com

Become a Member Today! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF1f2TpJvF__PNYtWrlpx6w/join

📲 Follow us on social media for even more outdoor adventures! ⬇️
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@holt_outdoors

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Instagram: @Holt_Outdoors

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Looking back at 2025: Gear, Growth, and the Future of Holt Outdoors! 🌲🐾

In this special end-of-year episode of the Holt Outdoors Podcast, host Brennan Holt reflects on a milestone year and dives deep into a comprehensive gear review. Whether you are a seasoned competition hunter or just getting started, this episode is packed with honest, unsponsored insights on the equipment and dog food that actually stood up to the test of the woods over the last two years.

Brennan shares his personal journey of finding "the one"—the dog that has finally given him the confidence to compete—and discusses the hard lessons learned while transitioning from retired veterans to a new string of young hounds.

Inside this episode:
The Great Dog Food Debate: Honest experiences with Inukshuk, Joy, Extreme Dog Fuel, and Victor.

Tracking Systems: Why the Garmin Alpha 200 Plus is a game-changer and the truth about Dogtra Pathfinder reliability.

Thermal Optics: A look at the Pard TA32-25 and why "Sky Mode" is a must-have for hunting.

Essential Apparel: Reviewing LaCrosse boots (Alpha Agility vs. Alpha Lite 2) and high-quality belt packs from 4R Kennels.

2026 Preview: Vital updates on CCS Season 2 and upcoming playoff action.

Special Shoutouts:
Johnson’s Telemetry: The go-to experts for all things Garmin.
Hammer Lane Hound Supply: Supporting local hound hunters in Conway.

Support the Podcast: Enjoying the show? Hit that LIKE and SUBSCRIBE button! Consider becoming a channel member to gain exclusive access to the CCS Playoff series and more.

#CoonHunting #HoltOutdoors #GarminAlpha #HoundHunting #GearReview #CoonDogs #HuntingPodcast

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Holt Outdoors is an online video and podcast series focused on making memories, having fun, and sharing tips and tactics to help you be more successful in the outdoors. We bring you authentic, genuine outdoor content — just as nature intended.

🔗 Stay Connected & Gear Up
New Website & Merch: www.holtoutdoors.com

Become a Member Today! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF1f2TpJvF__PNYtWrlpx6w/join

🎧 Listen to the Holt Outdoors Podcast:
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-holt-outdoors-podcast/id1823288020

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2vxPYgdS2XT9MA9YDdYS3Q?si=e8513b0767f14a94

📲 Follow us on social media for even more outdoor adventures! ⬇️
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In this episode of the Holt Outdoors Podcast, host Brennan Holt dives deep into a busy week of competition hunting with his dog, Shy. From a small PKC hunt to the high-stakes Western English Association double-header in Seneca, MO, Brennan shares the highs, the lows, and a critical "tough love" lesson learned from a World Champion handler about the importance of being decisive in the woods.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

Competition Breakdown: Brennan recaps three different casts from the past week, including specific scoring situations and dog performance.

Dog Development: A raw look at "Shai" and his progress in maturing through competition pressure and figuring out his hunting style.

The "World Champ" Lesson: Brennan shares a pivotal piece of advice from Cheyenne Cummings that every competition hunter needs to hear: Stop being hesitant and call your dog.

Health & Nutrition: An honest discussion about dog weight, diet, and switching feeds to keep hounds in peak performance.

CCS Season 2: Stay tuned for a major announcement on January 16th regarding the future of the Coonhound Championship Series.
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🌲 Holt Outdoors Official Links
Holt Outdoors is an online video and podcast series focused on making memories, having fun, and sharing tips and tactics to help you be more successful in the outdoors. We bring you authentic, genuine outdoor content — just as nature intended.

🔗 Stay Connected & Gear Up


New Website & Merch: www.holtoutdoors.com 


Become a Member Today! Hit the JOIN button on our YouTube page to get access to the CCS hunts and exclusive member-only content! 

🎧 Listen to the Holt Outdoors Podcast:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-holt-outdoors-podcast/id1823288020

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2vxPYgdS2XT9MA9YDdYS3Q?si=e8513b0767f14a94

📲 Follow us on social media for even more outdoor adventures!

TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@holt_outdoors

Facebook: @Holt Outdoors

Instagram: @Holt_Outdoors

Special Shout Outs:
Johnson’s Telemetry: For all your Garmin needs.
Rusty Wade: For incredible custom knives and birthday gifts.

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The Worst Night of Coon Hunting I've Had In Years!

Join Brennan Holt as he recounts a disastrous night of coon hunting that tested his limits, his gear, and his trust in his instincts. With temperatures in the low 20s and snow on the ground, the night started with a bad feeling—and quickly got worse.

In this episode, you'll hear the full story of:

Our dogs, Shy and Heist, are getting loose and running miles deep into a massive conservation area with ZERO cell service.

The tension of tracking a lost dog toward a state highway and onto locked private property.

Why I believe in the "Less than 30°F Rule" for coon hunting, and how it came true.

The crucial protocol that saved the night: Calling the local Sheriff's office for help to access private land and retrieve a lost dog.

The shocking, freezing riverbank rescue where we finally found Shy fighting a coon under a massive root ball.

Ultimately, this was a difficult, freezing night that proved the importance of trusting your gut and doing the right thing.

What do you think about the 30° rule for coon hunting? Let us know where you hunt in the comments below!

Shoutouts & Links
Johnson's Telemetry: Big thanks for supporting the podcast and setting us up with the Garmin Alpha 200 Plus system. Give them a call for all your Garmin needs! ⬇️

Johnsonstelemetry.com

CCS Hunts: Learn more about the Coonhound Championship Series hunts. Click the join button below to get access!

Jesus and Hounds Hunt: Check out the Facebook page for this fellowship hunt happening on January 10th, 2026.
___

Holt Outdoors is an online video and podcast series focused on making memories, having fun, and sharing tips and tactics to help you be more successful in the outdoors. We bring you authentic, genuine outdoor content — just as nature intended.

Listen to the Holt Outdoors Podcast:

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-holt-outdoors-podcast/id1823288020

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2vxPYgdS2XT9MA9YDdYS3Q?si=e8513b0767f14a94

Follow us on social media for even more outdoor adventures! ⬇️

TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@holt_outdoors

Facebook: @Holt Outdoors

Instagram: @Holt_Outdoors

Support the show