Down The Barrel With Jimmy, Deano, and Jared

In this episode of the Down the Barrel Podcast, the crew sits down with Minnesota bowhunter Brandon Ledoux to talk about his journey into serious bowhunting and the lessons learned along the way. Brandon shares how losing his father at a young age helped shape his connection to the outdoors and fueled a lifelong passion for hunting. What started with rifle hunting eventually turned into a full commitment to bowhunting, where constant learning, adapting, and learning from mistakes became the keys to success. The conversation covers everything from missed shots and tough hunts to spot-and-stalk successes, filming hunts for the Ledoux Crew YouTube channel, and how hunting strategies evolve over time. Brandon also talks about balancing family life with hunting and how becoming a husband and father forced him to hunt smarter and make the most of limited time in the woods. It’s a great conversation about perseverance, storytelling, and the reality of chasing whitetails—successes, failures, and everything in between. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com) First Call For Help (www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf,report)

In this episode of Down The Barrel, we’re joined by public land hunting standout Greg Lease. Greg is a member of MNBOW, a former deputy, and someone who has built a reputation for consistently finding success chasing whitetails on public land across the Midwest. Greg shares his passion for the hunt and breaks down how he approaches public land in multiple states, including Kansas, Iowa, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Missouri. From scouting strategies to adapting to different terrain and hunting pressure, Greg talks about what it really takes to get it done on public ground. If you’re interested in traveling to hunt, learning how to unlock overlooked public land opportunities, or just hearing stories from the road chasing Midwest whitetails, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Grab a seat, tune in, and learn how Greg consistently finds success where everyone else is hunting. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com) First Call For Help (www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report)

In this episode, we dig into where the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association (MDHA) stands on some of the most talked-about issues facing hunters and gun owners today. We break down the latest wave of proposed anti-Second Amendment legislation in Minnesota and what it could mean for our community—not just for deer hunters, but for predator management and the future of hunting as a whole. We also dive into a growing national conversation around Fourth Amendment concerns involving conservation officers and access to private property—an issue that’s raising eyebrows across the country and hitting close to home here in Minnesota. Throughout the episode, we share MDHA’s stance, our personal perspectives, and what we believe is at stake. If you’ve been wondering where we stand on these issues, this is the episode to listen to. And of course, it wouldn’t be us without mixing in a little humor along the way. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) First Call For Help 211 (www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

In this episode we sit down once again with our good friends Josh and Katie to hear all about their recent Utah turkey hunting adventure. What started as a quick trip to chase a couple Merriam’s turkeys turned into a great story. Along the way we dive into Minnesota turkey hunting, talk about walleye fishing on Lake of the Woods, and swap stories about a few classic Canadian staples—from Tim Hortons coffee to shore lunches on the lake. We also check in on how the whitetail deer population is doing in Ontario and what hunters are seeing north of the border. As always, the conversation goes wherever it wants—plenty of laughs, a few good hunting stories, and even a little marriage counseling sprinkled in along the way. If you enjoy hunting, fishing, road-trip adventures, and good friends around the mic, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) First Call For Help 211 (www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

All the way from South Africa, we’re joined by Pieter Viviers, owner of Marupa Safaris, along with our good friend Tony Roettger for an unforgettable conversation about African big game hunting. In this episode, Pieter shares how he got started bringing American hunters to South Africa and what a true African safari experience really looks like. We break down the trophy options available, realistic costs, travel planning tips, and what hunters should expect when booking the adventure of a lifetime. We also dive into the inherent dangers of hunting Africa’s largest game — including intense stories of Cape buffalo encounters and lion charges that will have you leaning in a little closer. From rifles and calibers to timing your trip and preparing properly, we cover the details that matter. If Africa has ever been on your bucket list, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Don’t forget to like, follow, and subscribe — and as always, thanks for listening to Down The Barrel. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) FirstCallForHelp211 (www.firstcall211.net) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

We sit down with Tom Gable of the Voyageurs Wolf Project for a straight-up, science-driven conversation about wolves, deer, and what’s really happening in Northern Minnesota. Tom breaks down their new three-year deer survival study—59 deer collared and counting—as researchers dig into winter severity, predation, logging practices, and habitat changes. The big takeaway? It’s not just about wolves. Habitat—especially thermal cover and forest age—may be the real key to healthy deer populations. We talk shortened logging rotations, the loss of conifer cover, fire suppression, predator-prey dynamics, and why managing deer resilience might matter more than managing predators. We also get into public opinion, wolf policy, trail camera research, and the challenges of navigating science in today’s online world. If you care about deer, wolves, forestry, or the future of wildlife management in Minnesota, this is a must-listen episode. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) FirstCall For Help 211 (www.firstcall211.net) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

In this episode of Down The Barrel, we sit down once again with Tony Roettger, from Safari Club International - Minnesota Chapter—and as always, it’s a great conversation. We dive into the upcoming MN SCI Expo happening in Brooklyn Park, breaking down what this incredible event is all about. From conservation-driven fundraising to supporting wildlife initiatives and protecting our outdoor heritage, Tony shares why this expo matters and how you can join us for a night dedicated to great causes, camaraderie, and conservation. Of course, we also get into some unforgettable hunting stories. Tony talks about his one-of-a-kind archery bobcat hunts—a rare and challenging pursuit that few hunters ever experience. We also hear about incredible moments in the field during archery ram hunts with his kids. These stories are what it’s all about: family, tradition, conservation, and making memories that last a lifetime. It’s packed with great information, conservation impact, and the kind of hunting stories that keep us all coming back for more. Don’t forget to like, follow, and subscribe so you never miss an episode of Down The Barrel Podcast.

In this episode of Down the Barrel, the crew recaps how SHOT Show went this year—highlights from Vegas, the chaos, the conversations, and the gear that actually stopped us in our tracks. We also hit on what’s coming up with MDHA regional meetings and why members should be paying attention. We break down who we ran into on the SHOT Show floor, with honorable mentions going to Off Grid Armory, Athlon Optics, Christensen Arms, Real Avid (including their slick new range bags), and HM Defense—because yes, their big guns definitely turned some heads. And of course, it wouldn’t be Down the Barrel if we didn’t wander off into a few random, only-interesting-to-us rabbit holes along the way. Vegas stories, gear talk, MDHA updates, and plenty of side trails—this one’s got a little bit of everything know-and-go crowd loves. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) First Call For Help (www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

In this episode, the guys are joined by Justin Wiese of Wheezy Outdoors for a laid-back conversation covering ice fishing, trapping, and winter life in northern Minnesota. Justin shares what he’s seeing on the ice this season, from strong panfish bites to tricky ice conditions caused by warm weather and pressure ridges. They dig into modern ice fishing tools like LiveScope and Vexilars, how technology can save time when fishing with kids or guiding clients, and why responsible use matters. The conversation also covers bobcat and coyote trapping, predator dynamics, ice shelter setups, heaters, trout fishing on stocked lakes and the Gunflint Trail, and what it takes to keep winter outings fun for the whole family. It’s an honest, experience-driven discussion that feels like a fish house conversation—full of practical tips, stories, and Northwoods perspective. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) First Call For Help 211 (www.firstcall211.net) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

We head onto the ice and into the dark house to talk one of the most traditional and adrenaline-filled winter pursuits out there — dark house spearing for trophy northern pike. We’re joined by lifelong ice spearing legend Denny Lemler, who shares decades of stories, hard-earned lessons, and the kind of insight you only get from spending countless hours staring into a spearing hole. Denny breaks down where he likes to set up, what he looks for under the ice, and how reading fish movement through clear water is a lot like deer hunting — patience, positioning, and timing are everything. We dig into gear, spears, and decoys, including some of the wild and creative decoy designs that have proven to draw in big pike over the years. From subtle movements to aggressive presentations, Denny explains what gets fish to commit and what makes them turn away at the last second. As always, there’s plenty of fun along the way — stories from the dark house, laughs, side trails, and the kind of conversation that reminds you why traditions like spearing are still alive and well. If you love ice fishing, northern pike, or just hearing great outdoor stories from someone who’s lived it, this episode is one you won’t want to miss. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) First Call For Help ( www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

Ring in the New Year with a just-for-fun, no-pressure episode of Down The Barrel! The guys kick back to wrap up the year, wish everyone a Happy New Year, and remind you to be safe and have fun as the calendar flips. Along the way, we hit a few classics—breaking down how MDHA works, what makes this organization tick, and why member-driven conservation still matters. Things also go slightly off the rails (as expected) with some well-earned commentary on those damn Black Angus cows. We also drop a new sponsor announcement for 2026, welcoming another great partner into the Down The Barrel family as we head into the new year. We wrap it up by looking ahead at what’s coming in 2026 for MDHA, Wolf Report, and the podcast itself—new projects, new ideas, and plenty more stories to share in the year ahead. Thanks for listening, thanks for supporting MDHA, and here’s to another year of conservation, hunting tradition, and good times. BTYB MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) Deadnuts Outdoors (www.deadnutsoutdoors.com) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

It’s the most wonderful (and slightly unhinged) time of the year on Down The Barrel! The guys settle in for a festive Christmas & Eggnog Edition, talking all things Christmas and New Year’s — from holiday traditions and classic (and not-so-classic) Christmas movies to what’s on the menu this time of year. They also dig into what’s going on with the Pet and Livestock Protection Act, mix in some ice fishing talk, late-season outdoors chatter, and, of course, plenty of the usual seasonal BS you’ve come to expect. And because no holiday show is complete without a little audience participation — send us your favorite eggnog recipes. We’ll be trying a few next week, so if it’s good, bad, or downright questionable, we want to hear it. Grab a mug, pour something festive, and enjoy this holiday-flavored episode of Down The Barrel. BTYB: MDHA (https://www.mndeerhunters.com) Wolf Report (https://www.wolf.report) Deadnuts Outdoors (https://www.deadnutsoutdoors.com) MNBOW (https://www.mnbowhunters.com)

The guys connect virtually with some great folks from the Des Moines Valley Chapter of MDHA to talk about one of MDHA’s most meaningful youth programs—the Kilen Woods Youth Deer Hunt. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity gives young hunters a fully outfitted, mentored deer hunt made possible by dedicated MDHA volunteers. We’re joined by Brian, chapter president; Denis, former Minnesota Deer Hunters Association president; and Matt, a former Kilen Woods youth hunter who’s come full circle to serve as a mentor today. Together, they share what makes this hunt so special, the impact it has on kids and families, and why programs like this matter for the future of hunting and conservation in Minnesota. Huge thanks to the Des Moines Valley crew for joining us—and thanks for bearing with us through a few technical hiccups along the way. It’s a great conversation about mentorship, tradition, and giving the next generation a positive start in the deer woods BTYB: MDHA (https://www.mndeerhunters.com) Wolf Report (https://www.wolf.report) Deadnuts Outdoors (https://www.deadnutsoutdoors.com) MNBOW (https://www.mndeerhunters.com)

We’re back around the table with our good friends Josh and Katie, and like most good conversations in deer camp, this one goes everywhere — fast. From classic deer camp stories and chasing woodcock in the Northwoods, to a whole lot of unscripted, hunting-related BS, this episode is packed with laughs and side trails. Expect maybe too many laughs, a little Canadian flavor, some friendly jabs, and just enough marriage counseling to keep things interesting. It’s the kind of conversation that feels less like a podcast and more like hanging out after a long day in the woods — no filters, no agenda, just good friends talking hunting, life, and everything in between. If you’re looking for hard data and serious tactics… this probably isn’t the one. If you’re looking for fun, stories, and real camp-style banter, pull up a chair and hit play. Listen all the way to the end for a very special Canadian Christmas Carol you won’t forget. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) Deadnuts Outdoors (www.deadnutsoutdoors.com) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com

On this episode, we’re joined by one incredible guest: BerLynn Fleury, Women’s Engagement Coordinator for Roger Up. BerLynn sits down with us to share her story, talk about the mission behind Roger Up’s women’s program, and revisit the unforgettable MDHA–Roger Up Lady Veterans Deer Hunt from a few weeks back. We swap stories, laugh plenty, and reflect on the great crew of women who joined us—plus a few of the MDHA “goobers” who tagged along. It’s a conversation about community, service, purpose, and the power of getting outdoors together. Take a few minutes to tune in, meet BerLynn, and learn more about the incredible people and programs at Roger Up. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) Deadnuts Outdoors (www.deadnutsoutdoors.com) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

On this edition of Deer Camps, we welcome back our good friend Joe Cannella for another great conversation. Joe takes us up to his deer camp in the Togo, Minnesota area, sharing the history behind the camp, what makes it unique, and the challenges of chasing whitetails in the far north woods. We dive into the traditions, the landscape, and even a few of the quirks that make Joe’s camp just a little creepy—but still pretty darn cool. As the conversation unfolds, things even start to feel like a mini deer camp of our own, complete with stories, laughs, and the kind of camaraderie that makes these places so special. It’s a fun, interesting episode filled with good laughs and genuine deer camp spirit. Thanks again to Joe for hanging out with us! BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) Deadnuts Outdoors (www.deadnutsoutdoors.com) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)