Elk hunting is not about luck—it is about putting yourself in the right 200-yard bubble at the right time, with enough days left to make the moment count. Tim Kent breaks down nearly two decades of hard-earned lessons chasing elk from the East, including the mistakes that cost him bulls, the calling mistake that instantly blew up a setup, and why his biggest breakthrough came from learning where elk actually live instead of where he hoped they would.

Dan Johnson and Tim dig into the obsession that keeps eastern hunters driving west every year: the mountains, the pressure, the gear, the archery challenge, and the brutal reality that elk hunting is often more bowhiking than bowhunting. Tim shares how his approach evolved from flying out with a one-man tent and too much optimism to building hunts around mobility, terrain, thermals, and the kind of pre-hunt scouting that narrows a giant unit down to a few high-percentage pockets.

You’ll discover:

• Why Tim now avoids bugling directly below a bull
• How one wrong call can shut down an entire herd in seconds
• Why two weeks is the sweet spot for serious DIY elk hunts
• The biggest difference between early elk hunting and learning through modern online education
• How to use your own past encounters to identify elevation bands and likely elk zones

Tim also opens up about the emotional side of elk hunting—the frustration of close calls, the adrenaline spike when a bull is coming, and the strange addiction of coming home empty-handed but fired up for next year. If you are an eastern hunter chasing western elk, or you are planning your first serious DIY hunt, this episode is packed with practical insight and a realistic look at what actually moves the needle.

Perfect for anyone preparing for elk season who wants fewer theory-based tips and more field-tested truth from a hunter who has lived the grind, learned the hard way, and is still out there doing it.

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Colorado just changed the elk hunting game—and the next round of regulations could reshape how residents and non-residents chase tags, points, and opportunity. If you hunt the West, this is the kind of episode that can save you years of confusion and help you make smarter decisions before the 2028 changes take effect.

Dan Johnson sits down with Colorado hunter Adam Parr to break down what is really happening with the state’s draw system, why archery tags went from over-the-counter to draw for non-residents, and how point creep has exploded in some units. Adam explains the new system’s biggest shifts, including the move toward a 50/50 split between preference-point tags and weighted lottery tags, plus the simplified point-buying process that could make Colorado easier to navigate and more fair.

You’ll discover:

• What Colorado’s current over-the-counter options actually are for non-residents
• Why some archery units jumped from a few points to double-digit point totals
• How the new draw rules may change your odds and planning strategy
• Why the state’s regulation updates could reduce complexity instead of adding to it
• How residents and non-residents should think differently about long-term tag planning

Adam also shares how he approaches his own season as a resident hunter—from deciding when to burn points versus hunt over the counter, to scouting, glassing, trail cameras, and why he targets unpressured elk early in the season. He talks through the realities of hunting at 9,000 to 10,000 feet, how dry years push elk higher into timber, and the small details that separate a filled freezer from a long, exhausting grind.Then the conversation turns tactical. 

Adam explains the strategies he uses to find elk, including location bugles in the dark, reading fresh sign, hunting natural pinch points, and using terrain and wind to his advantage. He also makes a strong case for hybrid broadheads on elk, especially when blood trailing and recovery matter most.If you are applying in Colorado, planning a Western hunt, or trying to stretch your points without wasting years, this episode gives you a real-world look at what is changing and how to adapt. It’s essential listening for Western hunters who want more than hype and fewer expensive mistakes.

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Mule deer are still the vanishing icon of the West, and if you care about public land hunting, this conversation explains exactly why. Greg Sheehan, CEO of the Mule Deer Foundation, lays out the hard truth behind the decline, what changed after the mule deer heyday, and what hunters and conservation groups are doing right now to turn it around.

Greg brings a rare perspective to the problem. He’s spent decades on both sides of wildlife management, from the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Bureau of Land Management, and now he’s focused on one species and one mission - restoring mule deer and their habitat.

We break down the forces reshaping mule deer numbers across the West, including habitat loss, winter severity, drought, wildfire, migration barriers, invasive grasses, disease, and competition from other deer species. Greg also explains why modern mule deer management is so different from the 1960s boom years, why the old “good old days” are gone, and why today’s hunters are seeing fewer mature bucks on the landscape.

You’ll discover:

We also get into the bigger conservation picture - how state agencies, federal land managers, and groups like the Mule Deer Foundation fund real on-the-ground projects, why membership matters, and what it takes to keep mule deer from becoming a rare opportunity instead of a mainstream hunt.Essential listening if you hunt mule deer, care about western habitat, or want to understand what’s really happening behind the numbers.

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Western Kansas can make you a better hunter - or break your ego fast. Travis Glassman reveals how he consistently patterns mature whitetails and mule deer in one of the toughest, flattest, most overlooked deer countries in the West.

Dan Johnson and Travis catch up after years apart, and the conversation quickly turns into a sharp, practical breakdown of what it really takes to hunt a landscape where deer numbers are down, cover is limited, and every move matters. From chronic wasting disease and drought to shifting deer behavior, Travis explains why success out here depends less on luck and more on reading water, terrain, and pressure with precision.

You'll discover:

Travis also shares how fatherhood has changed his hunting priorities, from chasing antler inches to valuing time, experience, and passing the obsession on to his kids. If you've ever hunted open-country deer, struggled to locate mature bucks, or wondered how to adapt when numbers drop and the conditions get harder, this episode is packed with hard-earned lessons you can use right away.

Perfect for deer hunters who love tactics, western ground, and real-world strategy over theory - especially if you're trying to outthink mature bucks in country that gives you very few second chances.

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Antelope and mule deer don’t just test your shooting. They expose every mistake in your glassing, rangefinding, wind reading, patience, and ability to disappear into terrain without blowing the whole stalk.

Dan Johnson and Kurt Belding trade hard-earned stories from the field and break down what actually works when you’re chasing pronghorn and mule deer with a bow. From 80-yard antelope shot windows to the brutal reality of crawling across open country only to watch deer melt into the next drainage, this conversation is packed with the kind of details western hunters usually learn the hard way.

You’ll discover:

Dan and Kurt also compare prairie hunts to mountain hunts, talk water, shade, bedding behavior, and explain why mule deer can seem impossible until everything finally lines up. Kurt shares the mindset that keeps him effective in the bubble, including the value of backing out, relocating, and waiting for the right moment instead of forcing a shot.

If you hunt the West, want to hunt the West, or just love the chess match behind a successful stalk, this one is essential listening. It’s a real-world masterclass in reading animals, reading country, and staying disciplined when the whole hunt is trying to make you panic.

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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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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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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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Most nurses spend their careers avoiding the emotional toll of death — but Aaron Hepler has a different perspective. After 17 years in intensive care, he’s witnessed the unfiltered reality of tragedy, miracles, and faith, revealing stories that will challenge your understanding of life and death.In this gripping episode of the Hunting Gear Podcast, Aaron shares raw, behind-the-scenes insights from the hospital that will change how you view resilience, faith, and the human spirit. From the chaos of family conflicts in ICU to the quiet moments that feel like miracles, his stories expose the true cost — and beauty — of caring for others on their final journey. You’ll discover why some moments feel like miracles and how faith is often what keeps caregivers grounded in the darkest times.We break down:

This isn’t just a conversation about medicine — it’s a profound exploration of what it means to face mortality and find hope amidst chaos. If you hunt, you know the importance of respecting nature’s power — this episode is a similar lesson about respecting life’s fragile balance.Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and anyone interested in the human condition, Aaron’s stories will deepen your appreciation for the moments that matter most — and how faith can provide strength where science cannot.

Aaron Hepler is a registered nurse in intensive care, with nearly two decades of experience, known for his candid stories of survival, loss, and moments of grace that make every day meaningful. His unique perspective offers a rare window into the unseen battles of caregivers and the miracles they witness.This episode challenges you to look beyond the hunt and consider the true meaning of resilience, faith, and acceptance in life’s fiercest moments. Get ready to be inspired, moved, and reminded of the extraordinary stories hidden in everyday tragedy.

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Most Western hunters get their priorities wrong — they chase small windows of opportunity with limited time and underestimating how pressure has reshaped elk behavior. Bryan Broderick of Day Six Arrows lays bare why one week is no longer enough to hunt true success in the West, revealing the real secrets behind elk movement, pressure, and the relentless grind it takes to get close. If you're hunting public land and dreaming of a big bull, this episode is your must-listen for the reality check you didn't know you needed.

Bryan shares decades of firsthand experience living and hunting where the pressure’s transformed elk from predictable daytime grazers to almost nocturnal ghosts. He discusses why hunting pressure — not just seasons or tags — has made elk smarter, more cautious, and much harder to hunt than ever before. You’ll discover why a single week isn't enough: seasoned hunters now need two full weeks of dedication, with the most effective tactics shifting from calling to stealth, patience, and understanding the animals’ altered routines.We break down practical strategies for success in high-pressure areas, including Bryan’s tips on spotting elk in the dark, moving undetected, and setting up for success without relying on calls or decoys. You’ll learn the importance of terrain, water sources, and pressure points that can make or break your hunt. Bryan explains how the best hunters have adapted their approach — covering ground, staying mobile, and hunting smart rather than loud. The stakes are high, but so is the opportunity: mastering these methods could dramatically increase your chances of that once-in-a-lifetime bull.

This episode is perfect for serious western hunters, especially those who put in the effort but struggle with elusive elk and intense pressure. If you’re ready to upgrade your game, avoid the rookie mistakes, and truly understand what it takes to succeed in today’s pressured public land environments, don’t miss this conversation. Bryan’s insights will shift your perspective from frustration to strategic mastery, giving you the edge in the challenging pursuit of big game.

Bryan Broderick is a seasoned elk hunter and the owner of Day Six Arrows, known for his deep understanding of elk behavior and craftsmanship in archery and broadheads. With over 35 years in the industry, Bryan’s real-world experience on public lands across the West makes his advice invaluable for hunters who want to turn pressure — and long shots — into trophies.Whether you’re planning your next hunt or seeking to refine your tactics, this episode delivers proven techniques and honest truths that could be the difference between coming home empty-handed and filling the freezer with the bull you want.

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