In this episode, Dan Johnson introduces himself as the new host of the Western Rookie Podcast, sharing his background in hunting and podcasting. He converses with Adam Parr about the transition from hunting in Michigan to Colorado, discussing the challenges and learning curves associated with Western hunting. They delve into the importance of proper gear, physical preparation, and navigating access to hunting locations. Adam shares his experiences with elk hunting, emphasizing the need for mental and physical readiness, as well as understanding species behavior. The conversation concludes with practical tips for first-time Western hunters, encouraging them to connect with local resources and prepare adequately for their adventures.

Takeaways:

• Dan Johnson introduces himself as the new host of the podcast.
• Adam Parr shares his transition from Michigan to Colorado for hunting.
• Choosing the right gear is crucial for Western hunting success.
• Physical preparation is key to handling the rugged terrain.
• Navigating access to hunting locations can be challenging.
• First-time hunters should learn about the species they are pursuing.
• Elk hunting requires understanding their behavior and habitat.
• Having a mentor can ease the learning curve for new hunters.
• Trail cameras can be useful but have limitations in Western hunting.
• Preparation and knowledge are essential for a successful hunting experience.

In this episode, Brian Krebs and Dan Johnson discuss the transition of the Western Rookie podcast, with Dan taking over as host. They explore the evolution of Western hunting perspectives, the importance of learning through experience, and the launch of Dan's new podcast, Get Drawn West. The conversation highlights key takeaways from past guests, the significance of scouting and preparation, and the mystique surrounding Western hunting. They also share their bucket list hunts, the role of guides, and the importance of gear in successful hunting experiences.

Takeaways

• Dan is taking over the Western Rookie podcast.
• Learning from various experiences is crucial in hunting.
• Podcasting provides a platform for sharing knowledge.
• Time in the field is essential for success in hunting.
• The West offers unique hunting opportunities.
• Scouting is vital for successful hunts.
• Understanding the mystique of Western hunting is important.
• Bucket list hunts motivate hunters to improve.
• Guides can provide valuable learning experiences.
• Preparation and gear are key to successful hunting.

On this episode of the Western Rookie, Brian introduces Dan Johnson from the Sportsmen's Empire podcast network to catch up what their upcoming season looks like for western hunts as well as a big announcement with some changes coming to the Western Rookie Podcast. 

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian shares a full rundown of backup options for hunters who haven’t drawn a tag yet, including leftover tags, OTC opportunities, and first-come-first-serve permits across the West. He also delivers timely updates on the public land sale victory, a Colorado wolf controversy, and why it’s still worth hitting the mountains even when plans don’t go perfectly.

Key Takeaways:

• Leftover / OTC Opportunities:
  • Colorado: Leftover tag sale opens August 5; OTC 2nd and 3rd rifle seasons still available
  • Idaho: Leftover tags on August 7 & September 18; Controlled Hunt 2 app runs Aug 5–15
  • Utah: Any Bull OTC tags open July 10; Spike tags open July 17
  • Wyoming: Leftover tags on sale July 17; reduced-price cow/calf and doe/fawn tags available
  • Oregon: First-come-first-serve leftover tags—check system frequently
  • Montana: Surplus list signup ends July 15
  • Arizona: OTC archery deer tags available November 5
  • Bonus Tip: Consider eastern whitetail states like North Dakota and Kansas for OTC or first-come tags
• Public Land Sale Update:
  • Thanks to massive public response, the Senate public land sale proposal was removed
  • The fight isn’t over—Sen. Mike Lee and others are still pushing for future land transfers
• Colorado Wolves Update:
  • CPW is holding a special meeting on rising wolf-livestock conflicts
  • So far, 9 wolf deaths have occurred since reintroduction
  • Raises concerns about ballot box biology and wildlife management without scientific oversight

Conclusion:
If you’re tagless after July 4th, it’s time to act fast. Leftover tags and OTC options are slim, but they’re still out there. Pick one, treat it as a chance to try something new, and make the most of your fall. Every hunt is better than no hunt.

Don’t miss the next deadline—download the free Western Rookie Application Calendar at westernrookie.com and use code WESTERN for $50 in GOHUNT Gear Shop credit.

Application Deadline:

DATE at TIME

Application Style:

STYLE

Application Cost:

COST

State Application Website:

WEBSITE

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!
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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

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

In this episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs hosts a packed conversation featuring Dean Krebs, Tad Johnson, and Collin Fountain from the newly formed North American Pronghorn Foundation (NAPF). Together, they dive deep into why pronghorn needed their own conservation group, the unique challenges these animals face, and the exciting projects NAPF has planned to protect and enhance pronghorn populations across the West.

Key topics discussed:

• Why pronghorn are uniquely impacted by fencing and what NAPF is doing to help.
• The surprising biological needs of pronghorn compared to mule deer and other western wildlife.
• Insights into the huge impact severe winters and infrastructure have on pronghorn migrations.
• The critical importance of wildlife corridors and fence modifications to pronghorn survival.
• Specific, actionable ways listeners can support and get involved with pronghorn conservation.

Ready to help make a difference for pronghorn? Head over to pronghorns.org today to join as a member, explore volunteer opportunities, or grab some NAPF merch to show your support. Follow @NAPF_official on Instagram and help spread the word to protect these iconic western animals!

FREE Western Rookie Application Calendar

www.westernrookie.com/freeproducts

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

Okuma Fishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
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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

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

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs is joined by Tyler Notch to address an urgent and pressing issue: the potential sale of millions of acres of public lands. Tyler and Brian dive deep into the legislation proposed by Senator Mike Lee, the risks it poses to public land access, and why this battle matters deeply to every hunter and outdoor enthusiast. The conversation emphasizes unity across the outdoor community and stresses the critical importance of taking immediate action to protect these lands.

Key topics discussed:

• Details of the proposed bill to sell 2-3 million acres of BLM and USFS lands.
• The hidden tactics used by politicians to quietly pass controversial land sales.
• Why this sale would set a dangerous precedent for future public land losses.
• How the sale of public lands negatively impacts hunters, anglers, hikers, and all outdoor recreation.
• Clear, actionable steps every listener can take right now to make their voice heard.

Listen to this urgent conversation and join the collective effort to save our public lands. Subscribe to the podcast and follow @westernrookie on social media to stay informed and involved.

FREE Western Rookie Application Calendar

www.westernrookie.com/freeproducts

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

Okuma Fishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF

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 episode of The Western Rookie Podcast, Brian welcomes Gideon and Danielle from Kansas Shed Dogs to explore the exciting world of shed hunting with trained dogs. They share their extensive experience using Labrador retrievers to find sheds, offering listeners practical tips on dog training, shed hunting strategies, and navigating challenges like rattlesnakes. Gideon and Danielle reveal their methods for scouting prime shed hunting locations, explain the critical role of fresh deer sign, and discuss how terrain and timing affect shed hunting success.

Key Takeaways from this Episode:

• 🔸 Dog Selection & Training: How to choose a high-drive, shed-focused dog and effective training techniques.
• 🔸 Terrain & Scouting Tips: Why certain locations consistently produce sheds and how to scout effectively.
• 🔸 Managing Multiple Dogs: Strategies for successfully hunting sheds with more than one dog.
• 🔸 Rattlesnake Encounters: Real-world advice for handling dangerous wildlife encounters safely.
• 🔸 Dog Health & Nutrition: Recommendations for maintaining optimal health and recovery for high-performance hunting dogs.

👉 Follow Gideon and Danielle on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook @KansasShedDogs, and listen to their podcast, The Kansas Shed Dogs Podcast, for more expert tips and shed hunting adventures.

Subscribe to The Western Rookie Podcast to get more insightful episodes aimed at enhancing your outdoor adventures!

FREE Western Rookie Application Calendar

www.westernrookie.com/freeproducts

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

Okuma Fishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF

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

MyMedic Kits

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Instagram Tags:

@GUEST @steelheadoutdoors @maverickblinds @revealcellcam @vortexoptics @gohunt @sitkagear @sportsmens_empire @ninefingerchronicles @hoytbowhunting @xopgear

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian shares a jam-packed update covering point deadlines, land access battles, and the latest in public land politics. Brian dives into time-sensitive applications, the ongoing corner crossing legal saga, and a brewing storm over a federal land sale. If you're a public land hunter or building points across the West, this episode is a must-listen.

Key Takeaways:

• Application & Point Deadlines:
  • Nevada Points Deadline: Today – June 10
  • Nebraska Points Deadline: Saturday, June 14
  • Kansas Resident Deer Application: Saturday, June 14
  • Utah Points + Antlerless Deadline: Friday, June 20
• Corner Crossing Case Update:
  • Federal civil case upheld in favor of hunters—no trespassing found
  • Billionaire landowner is petitioning the Supreme Court to overturn the ruling
  • If SCOTUS hears the case and rules in favor of hunters, corner crossing could become legal nationwide
  • If SCOTUS rules for the landowner, access to millions of acres of land could be blocked
• Federal Land Sale Update:
  • The Utah–Nevada land sale proposal (originally 460K acres, actually 1.5M acres) was struck down
  • Sen. Mike Lee (UT) is pushing to sneak the language back into a must-pass Senate bill
  • Conservation groups, hunters, and public land advocates are staying vigilant

Conclusion:
Whether it’s building your point strategy or defending public land, now’s not the time to get complacent. Stay alert, make your voice heard, and don’t let billionaires rewrite our public land laws.

Stay ready. Stay involved.
Download the free Western Rookie Application Calendar at westernrookie.com, and use code WESTERN to join GOHUNT Insider and get $50 in Gear Shop credit.

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

In this episode of The Western Rookie Podcast, Brian sits down with Adrian Guyer, owner of Ridgeline Athlete, to discuss getting physically prepared for western hunts. Adrian shares his extensive background as a strength and conditioning coach and explains why hunt-specific fitness training is crucial for success in the backcountry. From endurance and mobility to injury prevention, Adrian highlights the most important aspects hunters should focus on. He also provides practical advice for those just getting started, emphasizing realistic goals and effective training strategies to maximize your hunt and minimize injury risk.

Key takeaways from this episode:

• 🟢 Why cardiovascular endurance is the #1 priority for backcountry hunting
• 🟢 How mobility and joint health dramatically improve your hunting experience
• 🟢 Effective strategies to safely build strength and durability for heavy pack-outs
• 🟢 Common mistakes hunters make in their fitness routines—and how to fix them
• 🟢 Realistic fitness approaches for hunters who start training later in the season

👉 Check out Ridgeline Athlete at ridgelineathlete.com and use code TWOBUCKS50 for 50% OFF your first month or standalone program.

Subscribe to The Western Rookie Podcast and follow along for more great content designed to help you succeed on your next western hunt!
 

https://www.instagram.com/ridgeline_athlete/

FREE Western Rookie Application Calendar

www.westernrookie.com/freeproducts

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

Okuma Fishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF

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

MyMedic Kits

https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tool_type=cl&merchant_id=3b3250a4-1c69-4622-aba2-bfa731775635&website_id=7f6281aa-3b5b-4477-94d5-7d43b2199765&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmymedic.com%2F&ctc=Western

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs covers a triple-header of upcoming big game application deadlines. From overlooked opportunities in California deer, to trophy mule deer in Arizona, and the rising popularity of Montana antelope, this episode breaks down what to know before the early June deadlines. Whether you're expanding your rotation or just starting, these three states offer a mix of realistic tags, point-building strategies, and long-shot trophy chances.

Key Takeaways:

• Application Deadlines:
  • Montana Antelope: June 1, 2025
  • California All Species: June 3, 2025
  • Arizona Deer, Bison, Sheep: June 3, 2025
• California Deer:
  • No non-resident quota—same draw odds for residents and non-residents
  • Mix of mule deer and blacktail, with 160–170" potential in select zones
  • Multiple OTC and archery-only tags available across the state
  • Not ideal for Midwest hunters, but a great option if you live in the West
• Arizona Mule Deer:
  • Bonus point system with 20% tags to max point holders, 80% to weighted random
  • Strong trophy potential (180–190"+) with many rifle hunts drawn in 5–10 years
  • Trail camera ban may improve DIY success on mature bucks
  • Great value if you’re already building elk points with the license hack strategy
• Montana Antelope:
  • Still offers solid access and good odds for archery hunters with 0–2 points
  • Rifle tags in the 700 series (SE Montana) offer strong populations and solid access
  • Trophy quality is even across units—focus more on access and herd size than points
  • Antelope points are rising fast—8+ points now puts you in elite draw status

Conclusion:
With three unique states and three very different styles of hunting, now’s the time to lock in your long-term strategy. From California blacktails to Arizona giants to Montana pronghorn, there’s something here for every Western hunter.

Don’t miss a deadline!
Download the free Western Rookie Application Calendar at westernrookie.com, and use code WESTERN to join GOHUNT Insider and get $50 in Gear Shop credit—just in time for summer scouting season.

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