The Western Rookie - Hunting Podcast

On this episode of GOHUNT’s  Western Rookie Podcast, Brian wraps up the recent Nebraska Whitetail hunt with the XOP crew!

If you haven’t had a chance to listen to Nebraska Part 1, I definitely recommend going back and starting with that episode! 

In this episode, Brian shares insights from his recent Nebraska hunting trip, detailing the challenges faced, the strategies employed, and the excitement of Brock's first deer. The conversation also highlights the importance of scouting, product testing, and the camaraderie among the hunting team. Brian reflects on the overall experience, emphasizing the lessons learned and the joy of outdoor adventures.

Overall, the Nebraska trip was an amazing experience and I can’t wait to get back out there and hit the ground running after spending so much time learning that area and figuring out how the deer are using the landscape! But for now, we are off to Wyoming for an Antelope hunt followed by North Dakota Whitetails!

Takeaways:

• The Nebraska hunt faced tough conditions with high temperatures.
• Scouting was crucial to finding deer patterns.
• Brock's first deer was a significant milestone for the team.
• Product testing was integrated into the hunting experience.
• Saddle hunting offers advantages over traditional tree stands.
• Team dynamics played a key role in the hunting experience.
• The importance of adaptability in hunting strategies was highlighted.
• The camaraderie among the team enhanced the overall experience.
• Brock's excitement during the tracking process was infectious.
• Future trips are being considered based on this experience.

Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to [email protected]!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN 
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GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
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First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE  https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE 

https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u

Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS 

https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb

On this episode of GOHUNT’s  Western Rookie Podcast, Brian has Chad Grauel on the podcast to talk about helping others get into hunting and being a great mentor!

In this podcast, Brian Krebs and Chad Grauel discuss the challenges and considerations of starting out in hunting, particularly in the Western United States. They emphasize the importance of pacing oneself, being realistic about physical abilities, and adjusting plans based on conditions and elk behavior. They also highlight the value of mentorship and sharing knowledge with others who are new to hunting. Overall, the conversation provides insights and advice for those interested in trying new hunting experiences. Breaking into a hunting group can be challenging, but it's possible by demonstrating value and commitment. Good hunting partners are highly valued, so showing that you bring something to the table, whether it's physical fitness, calling skills, gear knowledge, or cooking abilities, can increase your chances of being invited. Being eager to learn, putting in the work, and being a team player are also important qualities. It's essential to show that you're willing to contribute and be a valuable member of the group. 

In this final part of the podcast, Brian and Chad discuss the importance of camaraderie and teamwork in hunting. They share stories of hunting trips and the memorable experiences they've had with their hunting buddies. They emphasize the value of having fun and creating lasting memories, rather than focusing solely on success. They also discuss the importance of sharing knowledge and helping others get into hunting. They encourage hunters to be open to new members in their hunting groups and to support and inspire each other. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of community and the joy of hunting together.

Takeaways:

• Pace yourself and be realistic about your physical abilities when starting out in hunting.
• Adjust your plans based on conditions and elk behavior.
• Seek mentorship and be willing to share knowledge with others who are new to hunting.
• Start with shorter trips and gradually build up to longer and more challenging hunts.
• Remember that hunting is not just about the kill, but also about the experience and time spent in nature. Demonstrate value and commitment to increase your chances of being invited to a hunting group.
• Show that you bring something to the table, such as physical fitness, calling skills, gear knowledge, or cooking abilities.
• Be eager to learn, put in the work, and be a team player.
• Show that you're willing to contribute and be a valuable member of the group. Camaraderie and teamwork are essential in hunting
• Having fun and creating lasting memories is more important than success
• Sharing knowledge and helping others get into hunting is valuable
• Being open to new members in hunting groups can enhance the experience
• Supporting and inspiring each other is crucial in the hunting community

https://www.instagram.com/chadgrauel/

Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to [email protected]!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN 
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers

First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE  https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u

Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS 
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb

Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK

On this episode of GOHUNT’s  Western Rookie Podcast, Brian has Reece Anderson on the podcast for a refresher before season opens on how to take care of hides in the field!

In this podcast, Brian Krebs and Reese Anderson discuss taxidermy and the proper care of trophies. They cover topics such as caping, preserving the hide, and the dos and don'ts of taxidermy. They also touch on CWD laws and the importance of properly disposing of animal remains. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights for hunters and anyone interested in preserving their trophies. In this part of the conversation, Reece and Brian discuss the process of caping a deer and the best techniques for removing burrs, clearing the ears, and handling the eyes. They also touch on the importance of preserving the cape for taxidermy purposes and provide tips for doing a euro mount. 

Additionally, they discuss the care of velvet antlers and offer advice on keeping them cool and dry. In this conversation, Brian Krebs and Reece Anderson discuss the proper care and handling of game for taxidermy. They cover topics such as caping, preserving velvet antlers, using VelvaLock, and the cost of replacing damaged capes. They also provide tips for handling antelope and emphasize the importance of cooling the animal quickly. The conversation concludes with information on how to contact Reece and where to find more of his work.

Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to [email protected]!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE  https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u

Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb

Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK

Takeaways:
 

• Proper caping and care of the hide is essential for preserving trophies
• Cutting the hide along the hair pattern and avoiding unnecessary cuts ensures a better outcome
• Following CWD laws and properly disposing of animal remains is important
• Working with a professional taxidermist can result in a higher quality mount When caping a deer, be careful not to cut on top of the earbud as it can be difficult to sew back up.
• To remove burrs, use an outdoor edge replaceable blade knife and keep the skin tight while scraping with the knife.
• For clearing the ears, cut through the cartilage and be mindful not to cut into the inner ear.
• When handling the eyes, stick a finger in the corner of the eye and peel off the skull, being cautious not to cut the eyelid.
• Preserve the cape if possible, as taxidermists may buy it for euro mounts or other purposes.
• For a euro mount, split the head down the center of the face and avoid scraping the knife blade on the skull.
• To care for velvet antlers, keep them cool and dry, and avoid sticking tags directly on the horns. Proper caping techniques are crucial for preserving the quality of the hide for taxidermy.
• Velvet antlers can be preserved by using VelvaLock adhesive spray.
• It is recommended to cool the animal quickly after harvesting to prevent spoilage.
• Replacing a damaged cape can be expensive, so it's important to handle the hide with care.
• Antelope hides are delicate and require special handling to prevent hair loss.
• Reece Anderson can be contacted through Northwind Taxidermy for any taxidermy-related questions or services.

On this episode of GOHUNT’s  Western Rookie Podcast, Brian, Tom, Logan, Sam, and Brock have a pre-game talk about the upcoming Nebraska hunt live from Whitetail Camp!

The crew is in Nebraska chasing whitetail bucks, testing XOP product, and filming content for the brand along the journey! There is high anticipation in camp for the first hunt of the season, lots of smack talk and laughs, and some great food on the fire! 

The guys talk some public land whitetail strategies for the week, how the scouting days have gone, and what everyone is excited most about. We also check out some of the latest and greatest prototype gear from XOP that will be launching for 2025 and get first crack at hunting out of some exciting new products! 

https://xopoutdoors.com

https://instagram.com/brockjensen_/

https://www.instagram.com/samuel_moore_media/

https://www.instagram.com/lwrighty/

https://www.instagram.com/tom_lalond/

Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to [email protected]!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE  https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u

Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb

Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK

On this episode of GOHUNT’s Western Rookie Podcast, Brian has Jeff Helm on the podcast to talk about chasing giant bulls and rutting axis bucks! In this conversation, Brian Krebs and Jeff Helm discuss various hunting experiences, with a focus on elk hunting. They talk about the different types of hunts, from over-the- counter tags to premier units, and the differences in elk behavior based on hunting pressure. Jeff also shares his love for archery hunting and the variety of hunting experiences he enjoys, including elk and axis deer. They discuss the affordability of elk hunting and the importance of prioritizing hunting in one's life.

Overall, the conversation highlights the passion for hunting and the different strategies and experiences that come with it. In this conversation, Brian Krebs and Jeff Helm discuss different strategies for elk hunting. They explore the pros and cons of calling bulls versus finding them through spot and stalk methods. They also touch on the topic of trophy mounts and how Jeff prefers Euro mounts over shoulder mounts to save space. They discuss the importance of meat preservation and how Jeff shares his elk meat with friends and family. Jeff shares some of his favorite recipes for cooking elk meat. Overall, the conversation provides insights into elk hunting strategies and the practical aspects of hunting, such as trophy mounts and meat utilization.

• Takeaways:
• There are different types of elk hunts, from over-the-counter tags to premier units, each with its own challenges and opportunities.
• Elk behavior can vary based on hunting pressure, with elk in premier units exhibiting more natural behavior.
• Jeff Helm enjoys a variety of hunting experiences, including elk and axis deer, and prioritizes spending the fall in the mountains.
• Elk hunting can be affordable, especially for those who prioritize and save money throughout the year.
• Adaptability and observation are key in successful elk hunting, as each hunt is unique and requires different strategies. 
• There are different strategies for elk hunting, including calling bulls and spot and stalk methods.
• Euro mounts are a popular choice for saving space when displaying trophy animals.
• Sharing elk meat with friends and family is a common practice among hunters.
• Simple recipes, such as using seasonings and marinades, can enhance the flavor of elk meat.
• Hunting experiences and memories are often more important than the size of the trophy.

Connect with Brian Krebs

https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to [email protected]!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN

https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE

https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE

https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE

https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u

Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-

fbb

Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS

https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK

In this conversation, Brian Krebs and Evan Williams discuss various topics related to archery. They talk about the recent announcement of John Dudley returning to Hoyt and the importance of maintaining good relationships in the industry. They also discuss the evolution of archery technology and the ability to fine-tune setups for individual preferences. The conversation covers the factors to consider when choosing a bow, such as draw weight, draw length, and arrow configuration. They emphasize the importance of accuracy and penetration in hunting scenarios and the need to find the right balance for different species and hunting conditions. They also touch on the value of having one versatile bow rather than multiple specialized bows. Evan and Brian discuss various topics related to bowhunting. They cover the importance of kinetic energy in arrow penetration, the behavior of animals when shot, the significance of shot placement, and the challenges of shooting at bedded animals. They also touch on the differences between hunting with a bow and hunting with a rifle, the benefits of adjustable draw lengths, and the advantages of longer axle-to-axle bows. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights and considerations for bowhunters.

Connect with Brian Krebs

https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to [email protected]!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN

https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE

https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE

https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

In this episode, Brian Krebs and Silas Morris discuss the topic of rifle calibers and bullets for hunting in different environments. They explore the idea of using the same rifle for both whitetail hunting in Wisconsin and elk hunting in the West. They emphasize the importance of shot placement and understanding the capabilities of your rifle. They also discuss the effectiveness of different bullet types and the need for two different bullets for different types of hunting. In this conversation, Silas and Brian discuss the importance of bullet speed and size in hunting different animals. 

They explore the relationship between bullet velocity and animal size, and how faster bullets can lead to quicker kills. They also touch on the idea of using a single bullet for all hunting purposes and the benefits of sticking with one rifle and one load. The conversation also covers the significance of shot placement and the need for hunters to strive for ethical and humane kills. They conclude by discussing the importance of optics in hunting and the challenges of finding a scope that works well for both short-range and long-range hunting.

https://www.instagram.com/silas.outdoors/

Takeaways:

• Choosing the right rifle caliber and bullet for hunting depends on the specific hunting environment and target species.
• Shot placement is crucial for a clean and ethical kill, regardless of the caliber or bullet used.
• Understanding the capabilities and limitations of your rifle is important for making effective shots.
• Using the same rifle for both whitetail and elk hunting is possible, but it may require adjusting bullet selection for different hunting scenarios.
• Consider factors such as bullet weight, energy, and bullet construction when selecting ammunition for different hunting situations. 
• Faster bullets can lead to quicker kills, especially for smaller animals like antelope.
• Bullet size and speed can influence the outcome of a hunt, but the size and toughness of the animal also play a role.
• Using a single bullet for all hunting purposes can simplify the process and eliminate the need for constant adjustments and re-sighting.
• Shot placement is crucial for ethical and humane kills, and hunters should strive to end the animal's suffering as quickly as possible.
• Choosing the right optics for hunting requires considering the specific hunting scenarios and balancing the need for short-range and long-range capabilities.

Connect with Brian Krebs

https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to [email protected]!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN

https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE

https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE

https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE

https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u

Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-

fbb

Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS

https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK

On this episode of GOHUNT’s Western Rookie Podcast, Brian talks with Bryan Heward about finding giant bucks, the importance of genetics, and hunting Antelope Island

The podcast revolves around mule deer hunting, specifically in Utah. The hosts discuss the challenges and joys of hunting mule deer, including the changing diet of the deer throughout the year and the impact of weather conditions on antler growth. They also touch on the decline of mule deer populations and the potential for natural selection to create a stronger, more adaptable breed of mule deer. The conversation highlights the importance of conservation efforts and the desire to provide future generations with the opportunity to hunt mule deer. 

In this conversation, Brian Krebs and Bryan Heward discuss their experiences tracking and hunting big bucks. They talk about the strategies they use to find specific bucks and the factors they consider when deciding which buck to target. They also discuss the management of deer herds on Antelope Island and the challenges they face in maintaining healthy populations. The conversation highlights the importance of genetics, habitat, and hunting practices in the success of deer populations. Overall, the conversation provides insights into the world of big buck hunting and the complexities of managing deer herds.

https://www.instagram.com/bryan.heward/

Connect with Brian Krebs

https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to [email protected]!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN

https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN

https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

GOHUNT Explorer Mapping Only - $20 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN

https://alnk.to/4BEUo3x

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE

https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE

https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u

Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS 

https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb

Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS

https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK

Koby Owens, a content producer at Weatherby Firearms, discusses his career in outdoor content production and his experiences on various hunting adventures. He shares how he got into photography and videography, the challenges of balancing capturing shots and enjoying the experience, and the importance of building relationships in the industry. Koby also talks about the unique aspects of his job, such as producing content for product launches and field testing equipment. He highlights the importance of audio in video production and the challenges of capturing high-quality self-photography.

In this conversation, Koby Owens and Brian Krebs discuss various topics related to photography and outdoor adventures. They share tips for taking better photos, including using unique perspectives, taking advantage of natural lighting, and planning photo shoots. They also talk about their love for finding and collecting rocks and artifacts during their outdoor excursions. The conversation concludes with a discussion about where to find Koby's work, including the Weatherby YouTube channel and his personal Instagram account.

Takeaways

• Building relationships is crucial in the outdoor industry, and it's important to establish
• connections before asking for opportunities.
• Being a content producer involves capturing both photography and videography, and it
• requires planning and prioritizing shots.
• Audio is a critical aspect of video production, and bad audio can ruin a film.
• Balancing capturing shots and enjoying the experience can be challenging, but picking
• the right moments to capture specific shots is key.
• Self-photography can be achieved through the use of tripods and the help of fellow
• photographers. Use unique perspectives and leading lines to create interesting photos
• Take advantage of natural lighting, especially during golden hour

Plan your photo shoots and analyze your photos to improve

Collect rocks and artifacts as sentimental souvenirs

Check out Koby's work on the Weatherby YouTube channel and his personal Instagram

account

https://www.instagram.com/koby.owens/

https://linktr.ee/KobyOwens

Connect with Brian Krebs

https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to [email protected]!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN

https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN

https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

GOHUNT Explorer Mapping Only - $20 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN

https://alnk.to/4BEUo3x

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE

https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE

https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u

Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS

https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb

Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS

https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK

On this episode of GOHUNT’s  Western Rookie Podcast, Brian chats with Cody Rich about how he balances time and chooses which hunts to do next!

Cody is the guy beyond The Rich Outdoors, Elk Hunt 201, and Rich Ideas Lab and lives for the outdoors. Cody has built his life intentionally so that he can spend more time enjoying the things that matter most in his life and today he shares what some of those favorite hunts are of his, and how he chooses the next adventure! Brian also covers some of the listener questions from the recent hunt planning series!

https://www.instagram.com/therichoutdoors/

https://linktr.ee/codyrich

Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie

Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to [email protected]!

Sponsors and Discounts:

GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4

GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u

GOHUNT Explorer Mapping Only - $20 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/4BEUo3x

Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE
https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q

Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE
https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u

Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb

Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK