Days In The Wild - Big game Hunting podcast

Welcome back to Days in the Wild Big Game Hunting Podcast, brought to you by Phoenix Shooting Bags. In this episode, recorded live from the Mile High Expo, I sit down with Jason Phelps to talk all things turkey hunting. We dive into late-season turkey behavior, why older toms can actually become more killable in mid-May, and how subtle calling can make all the difference when birds start hanging up. If you’ve ever struggled with late-season gobblers, wondered when to call and when to shut up, or tried to figure out Merriam’s birds in the West, this episode is full of practical insight you can take straight into the field. Jason breaks down how he approaches a brand-new area, how he likes to roost birds, where he sets up in relation to the tree, and why turkey hunting in the mountains often feels a whole lot like elk hunting. We also get into subspecies differences, decoy use for archery, late-season patterns, and why some birds seem easy while others humble you quick. In This Episode We Cover Why late-season turkey hunting can be deadly on older toms How the breeding cycle changes gobbler behavior Why mid-May can be a prime time to target mature birds The mistake of overcalling once a bird answers on the roost Why subtle calling — or silence — often works better How to think about a gobbler’s visual expectations when he pitches down Merriam’s vs Rio’s vs Easterns and how their behavior differs Why archery turkey hunting often benefits from a decoy setup How Jason scouts and roosts birds in unfamiliar country Why turkey hunting in the West feels a lot like elk hunting The challenge and reward of aggressive run-and-gun turkey tactics Stories from Arizona, Florida, Long Island, Nebraska, California, and Mexico Key Takeaways Late season can be the best time to kill older birds. Once hens begin laying and spending more time on the nest, gobblers often become easier to work because they suddenly find themselves alone and looking. Once a bird answers from the roost, less is often more. One of the biggest mistakes hunters make is continuing to call too much. Once he knows where you are, silence can be your best move. Setups matter as much as calling. A gobbler expects to see the hen where he heard her. If your setup doesn’t account for that, you can get hung up birds no matter how well you call. Merriam’s birds are different. They roam more, change roost trees more often, and can require a more aggressive, mobile style of hunting. Turkey hunting in the mountains has a lot in common with elk hunting. Covering country, using terrain, cutting distance, locating vocal birds, and making smart moves all carry over. Memorable Topics from the Conversation Why Jason likes to hunt that May 5 to May 15 window for mature gobblers The importance of knowing when a hen should be visible to a bird How bobcats and predators can affect when birds come off the roost in certain areas Why decoys may matter more in late-season archery setups The difference between hunting a bird’s routine and hunting a bird that has become more erratic Why running ridges for gobbles in Merriam’s country feels just like chasing elk Quote Worth Remembering “As soon as I know that my tree yelp got that gobble, do not call again until that bird pitches out of the roost. All you can do is screw it up from there.” Why This Episode Matters Turkey hunting can seem simple until you start trying to consistently kill mature birds. Then you realize it’s a game of timing, setup, patience, and reading behavior. This episode is a great reminder that success often comes from doing less, paying attention, and understanding where the bird is in the season — not just how good you are on a call. Stay Connected If you’ve been getting value from the show, make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss upcoming episodes. turkey hunting tactics, late season turkey hunting, Jason Phelps turkey hunting, Merriams turkey hunting, archery turkey hunting, turkey calling tips, roosted gobbler tactics, western turkey hunting, Days in the Wild podcast, Phoenix Shooting Bags

Guest: Scott Leysath — The Sporting Chef Episode: Field-to-Table Made Simple What’s inside (quick hits): The three biggest mistakes that make wild game “gamey”—and how to fix them Field care that actually matters (cooling, cleanliness, trim) Cut-to-method pairings for deer, elk, upland, and waterfowl Weeknight formulas: fast marinades, hot-and-fast sears, smart sides Gateway dishes that win over non-hunters (and why they work) Takeaway: Respect the animal, manage heat and fat, add acid and texture—great wild game is technique, not luck. Follow Scott: @thesportingchef Follow John: @johnstallone

Guest: Marlon Holden Episode: Fall 2025 – Mule deer hunting, Camo, Boots, gear What we cover (quick hits): Hunting mule deer in South Dakota recap Layering systems, camo to wear Boots, socks AZ mule deer quota system Connect with Marlon: @graylighthunter Connect with the show: @johnstallone

Rifle vs. Archery — strengths, limits, and how to choose What we cover (quick hits): Why Matt hunts with both weapons—and what each teaches the other Ethical effective range: defining it for your skills, terrain, and conditions Fieldcraft vs. ballistics: closing inside 40 yards vs. building a rock-solid rifle position Calling, wind, and movement discipline—what changes with bow vs. rifle Practice plans: 4-week tune-ups for bowhunters and rifle hunters Gear that matters (and what’s overrated) for real-world hunts Links: IG: https://www.instagram.com/mattrege/ If you enjoyed this one, share it with a hunting buddy and leave a quick rating—it helps a ton.

Whitetail Rut Tactics + Buying Land John sits down with Jordan Blissett to break down practical rut strategies—how to read phases (seeking, chasing, lockdown), pick high-odds terrain, manage wind the smart way, and decide when to call or stay silent. Then they pivot to buying land for whitetails: access and neighborhood first, must-have habitat features, quick-win improvements, and rookie pitfalls to avoid. Highlights Rut stand selection: leeward edges, hub scrapes, ditch/creek crossings Calling & decoys: when they help—and when they burn a spot Pressure management on small tracts Land buying: access, cover diversity, neighbors, red flags First-year improvements that move the needle Follow Jordan IG: https://www.instagram.com/jordanblissett/ Team page: https://openseasonproperties.com/our-team/jordan-blissett/

Legacy, Stewardship, and Straight Talk: A Conversation with Dan Cabela Summary John sits down with Dan Cabela—conservation advocate and scion of the Cabela family—to share a wild-game meal and talk honestly about why hunting matters, how funding and policy actually move the needle for wildlife conservation, and what it takes to bridge the gap between hunters and non-hunters. No dunking, no shouting—just good food and better questions. What you’ll hear Origin story: The moment Dan’s love for the outdoors turned into a commitment to stewardship. Conservation, not slogans: How regulated hunting, tags, and excise taxes fund habitat, research, and management. Ethics in practice: Fair chase, technology creep, and what “doing it right” looks like before, during, and after the shot. Bridging divides: How to talk to non-hunters with humility, data, and real stories. Global perspective: Wins and lessons from projects around the world—and what actually scales. Legacy & responsibility: Carrying a famous name without being trapped by it. Wild game on the table: Cooking notes, transparency, and why sharing a meal changes the conversation. Quick takeaways Stewardship > rhetoric: Policy + funding + local buy-in beat internet arguments. Many pathways to help: You don’t have to hunt to support wildlife—join, donate, volunteer, vote smart. Food is a bridge: A plate of honest wild game opens doors that debate can’t. Measure impact: If it doesn’t move habitat, populations, or community support, it’s just noise. Suggested chapter guide (drop in timestamps after publish) Cold open & wild-game dish Dan’s early field memories → stewardship pivot How conservation gets funded (and where it fails) Ethics & tech in modern hunting International lessons that apply at home Sharing wild food with skeptics Rapid-fire: favorite hunts, mentors, books Calls to action & ways to get involved About our guest Dan Cabela is a lifelong outdoorsman and conservation advocate whose work spans habitat projects, policy support, and community engagement. He focuses on pragmatic solutions that sustain wildlife and local economies. Links & resources Howl for Wildlife — Take action, learn more, and support science-based management: [howlforwildlife.org] Connect Guest: Dan Cabela — IG @dancabela Host: John Stallone — IG: @johnstallone

We sit down with Robert Cowan and Michael Cardinal Episode Summary John sits down with Michael Cardinal to unpack the hunt behind his latest bull—how he scouted, read sign, and made decisions when the plan fell apart.

Elk Hunter Missing in Colorado Episode title “Missing in the High Country: An Elk Hunter’s Story in Colorado” Summary Guest Dac Collins In this episode, John unpacks the developing story of an elk hunter who went missing in Colorado—what’s known so far, how search-and-rescue operations unfold in the Rockies, and the practical steps backcountry hunters can take to reduce risk and help responders if something goes wrong. The conversation balances empathy for the family with actionable fieldcraft and preparedness. Note: Facts are evolving. We stick to verified information and avoid speculation. What you’ll hear Timeline & terrain: What’s known about the incident and the landscape factors at play (elevation, weather, access). SAR reality check: How mountain Search and Rescue is mobilized, what slows missions, and what information helps the most. Preparation that matters: Comms plans, weather/nowcasting, navigation backups, and “don’t split the party” rules. If you get turned around: Immediate steps that improve survival and make you easier to find. For hunting partners at home: How to structure check-in windows, map shares, and who to call if a teammate is overdue. Respect & responsibility: Keeping the focus on the missing hunter and supporting family and responders. Quick takeaways Tell two people your plan (route, camp, bail-out options, check-in times). Carry redundant comms: phone + battery, offline maps, PLB or satellite messenger (preset check-ins & SOS). Weather drives risk—nowcast every 30–60 minutes in the mountains. If lost: STOP (Stop, Think, Observe, Plan), make yourself findable (bright panel, whistle, signal mirror), and stay put when it’s safer than wandering. Safety checklist (copy/paste) Trip plan shared (route, alt routes, check-in times, who to call) Phone with offline maps + spare battery PLB or sat messenger with preset messages to a contact Paper map + compass (know a bearing to camp/trailhead) Weather layers (puffy, rain shell, hat/gloves) + headlamp Signal gear: whistle, bright panel, small mirror Fire kit, basic med kit, calories & water treatment Call to action

Throwback episode with Paul Medel

“Solo vs. Social: The Psychology of the Hunt with Beau Martonik” ✍️ Episode Description: In this compelling episode of Days in the Wild, I sit down with hunter, writer, and East Meets West podcast host Beau Martonik to dig into the mental side of hunting—specifically the contrast between solo and social hunting experiences. Beau opens up about how hunting alone in remote terrain builds resilience, sharpens instincts, and forces you to confront your inner world. We also explore the camaraderie of camp, the challenges of balancing solo ambition with shared experiences, and how both play a vital role in shaping today’s hunter. If you've ever questioned whether you're more effective—or more fulfilled—hunting alone or with others, this episode will speak directly to you. 📌 Topics We Cover: The mindset differences between solo and group hunts Why solo hunting builds personal growth and mental toughness How social hunting cultivates community and tradition Making space for solitude while still honoring shared camp culture Gear choices that support both independence and team hunting Learning to embrace discomfort and silence in the backcountry Lessons Beau’s learned through years of chasing whitetails and mountain bucks 💬 Notable Quotes: “Solo hunts strip away the noise and reveal what kind of hunter—and person—you really are.” “There’s power in both solitude and community; the key is knowing what you need in each season.” 🧠 Key Takeaways: Solo hunting demands higher levels of self-reliance, decision-making, and mental stamina Group hunting offers emotional support, shared knowledge, and deeper traditions The choice between the two is often less about success and more about personal evolution Understanding your psychological needs in the field can elevate your overall hunting experience 🔗 Connect with Beau Martonik: 🎧 Listen to his podcast: East Meets West 📸 Instagram: @beau.martonik 🌐 Website: www.eastmeetswesthunt.com 📣 Call to Action: Enjoyed the episode? Make sure to subscribe, rate the show, and share with fellow hunters—whether they ride solo or run with a crew. Stay tuned for more deep dives into hunting, mindset, and the wild places we chase.

n this episode of Days in the Wild, I sit down with backcountry hunter and elite outdoor photographer Steven Drake to unpack his approach to gear, preparation, and the mental edge needed to thrive deep in the wilderness. We dive into his minimalist yet functional backcountry pack system, how he balances photography and hunting in extreme terrain, and the hard-earned lessons that shape his mountain mindset. Whether you’re dialing in your gear list or just looking for inspiration from someone who truly lives the wild, this episode is loaded with insight, authenticity, and practical takeaways. 📌 Topics We Cover: Steven’s exact backcountry gear loadout—what makes the cut and why The philosophy behind “gear with purpose” How to prioritize weight vs. comfort for extended hunts Balancing camera gear with hunting efficiency Mindset shifts that separate successful backcountry hunters Why Steven believes in failing forward as a way to grow Lessons learned from grueling hunts in Alaska, the Rockies, and beyond 💬 Notable Quotes: “If everything in your pack doesn’t serve a purpose, it doesn’t belong there.” “The most valuable skill in the backcountry isn’t shooting—it’s adapting.” 🧠 Key Takeaways: Intentional gear selection makes you more efficient, not just lighter. Simplicity in systems leads to mental clarity in high-stress situations. Physical preparation is essential, but mental resilience is the real game-changer. Photography and hunting don’t have to compete—they can fuel each other. 🔗 Connect with Steven Drake: 📸 Instagram: @stevendrakephoto 🌐 Website: www.stevendrakephoto.com 📣 Call to Action: Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with your hunting crew. And don’t forget to check out previous episodes of Days in the Wild for more insight from the field.

I'm proud of Braxton he has been carrying the torch for public lands and has helped it to enter in to the mainstream conversation. I heard him recently on Tucker Carlson Made me think back to our podcast back in 2018 In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Days in the Wild, John Stallone sits down with combat veteran, author, and elk hunting guide Braxton McCoy. Braxton shares the harrowing story of surviving a suicide bombing in Iraq, enduring dozens of surgeries, and ultimately forging a new path in the wilderness as a guide and advocate for healing through the outdoors. From the battlefield to the backcountry, Braxton opens up about trauma, resilience, and the role hunting played in reclaiming his identity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the restorative power of nature and the strength of the human spirit. 📌 What We Cover: Braxton’s story of survival and recovery after his near-fatal injury in Iraq The physical and emotional toll of trauma—and how the outdoors became his refuge Why elk hunting helped him reconnect with his purpose and identity The value of mentorship, grit, and persistence in both life and the hunt His philosophy on what it means to truly live a wild and meaningful life 💬 Notable Quotes: “I wasn’t looking for healing when I started hunting again—I was looking for purpose. The healing came anyway.” “The backcountry doesn’t care about your excuses. It’s honest—and that’s why it saves people.” 🔗 Connect with Braxton McCoy: 📘 Author of The Glass Factory 📸 Instagram: @braxtonmccoy 🌐 Website: www.braxtonmccoy.com If this episode moved you, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear Braxton’s story. Stay wild—and stay strong.

Throwback Title: Mule Deer Hunting on the Wasatch Front with Kip Fowler Show Notes: A Southern Utah native, Kip now lives and hunts in Northern Utah, along the Wasatch Front. Backpacking bow hunting in the high country is one of his specialties, and he shares some of his advice for how to improve your hunting game. Kip was always worried about becoming too reliant on technology, but there came a point when he realized that it was actually holding him back and it cost him a prize deer. That’s when he started to look for tools that would make the hunt easier, and he shares some of his adaptations. It’s so easy in bowhunting to get discouraged, especially when you have moments where you get so close, but then something goes wrong. “Really successful bowhunters are constantly trying to eliminate the things that could go wrong”, says Kip. And they stick with it. A lot of bowhunters will spend tons of time practicing their shot, testing their equipment, and planning their hunt. But they’ll forget to try out the food they’re going to eat ahead of time, and that can lead to some seriously unpleasant surprises out in the backcountry. Don’t forget to test your food, and your body’s reaction, before you head out. Pictures can help you remember a hunt, but they don’t tell everything. Kip and I both have journaled some about our hunts, and the details we recorded are so much different and more helpful than just looking at pictures. If you loved this podcast, don’t keep us a secret. Like us, share us, and leave us a review so that we can keep bringing you hunting stories from some of the greatest experts in the backcountry. What’s Inside: When water sources and feed sources are an important part of the hunt. Where is it easier to hunt mule deer: the desert or the high country? Why mental fortitude is going to help you on the hunt. How nail polish, sharpies, and other hacks can help you make small improvements. Mentioned in this Episode: Days in the Wild on itunes Days in the Wild on Podbean Phoenix Shooting Bags Short Description: As a lifelong bowhunter, Kip Fowler has some tips to take your bowhunting to the next level. In addition to telling some great hunting stories, Kip focuses on some of the smaller details today that can add up and make your bowhunting experience more successful and enjoyable. Tags: Utah hunting, mule deer hunting, hunting on the Wasatch Front, improve your bowhunting, bowhunting technology, bowhunting tips and tricks, bowhunting hacks

🎙️ Podcast Episode: The Mindset of Champions with Eric McCormick Description: What does it take to train the world’s toughest athletes? This week, we sit down with Eric McCormick—renowned personal trainer for legendary endurance hunter Cameron Hanes . Eric shares powerful insights into cultivating an unbreakable mindset, staying positive through adversity, and building the discipline required to excel at the highest level. In This Episode: ✅ Eric’s journey from passionate athlete to elite trainer ✅ What it’s like working with Cameron Hanes ✅ How to overcome limiting beliefs and mental roadblocks ✅ Daily habits and routines to stay positive, motivated, and disciplined ✅ Advice for anyone wanting to level up their fitness or mental toughness ✅ Why purpose matters more than motivation—and how to find yours Key Quotes: “Every day you show up, you’re building a version of yourself you’ll meet down the road—make sure it’s someone you’re proud of.” – Eric McCormick About Eric McCormick: Eric is a sought-after trainer known for pushing the limits of physical and mental endurance. His work with Cameron Hanes, David Goggins, and countless others has inspired athletes, hunters, and everyday warriors to break through barriers. Resources & Links: 🔗 Follow Eric on Instagram 🔗 Visit Howl for Wildlife 🔗 Learn more about Cameron Hanes Listen & Subscribe: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!

Elk Hunting With Zach Bowhay

Get your voice heard

Michael Cravens and I have a quick impromptu conversation about the public lands situation, Its very important you listen in and take action because weather you think it does or not it affects you TAKE ACTION