Kentucky Afield

Turkey season is right around the corner in Kentucky, and there’s no better way to get prepared than hearing straight from the source. In this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast, we sit down with Zak Danks, the Turkey Program Coordinator for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, to break down what hunters can expect this spring. With Youth Season set for April 4–5 and the General Statewide Season running April 18 through May 10, Zak shares why optimism is high heading into 2026. Thanks in part to strong cicada hatches over the past two years, turkey numbers are looking solid across much of the state. Hunters in western Kentucky can expect a great crop of 2-year-old gobblers, while central and eastern portions of the state should offer a healthy mix of jakes and mature toms. We also dive into the science behind the season. Zak walks us through ongoing research efforts—including banding studies, GPS-tracked hens, and audio monitoring of turkey vocalizations—and explains how this data is shaping management decisions and ensuring sustainable hunting opportunities for years to come. Whether you're a seasoned turkey hunter or gearing up for your first season, this episode is packed with insights to help you hit the woods with confidence.

This week’s episode takes a storytelling approach to fisheries management with Jay Herrala of the Rivers and Streams Research Branch of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Jay walks us through the history behind today’s bass populations — starting with the changes that shaped both Kentucky’s lakes and the Ohio River — and how those shifts led to the current conditions anglers see on the water. From there, he explains an experimental project aimed at improving bass fishing on multiple fronts: relocating bass from overcrowded lakes to the Ohio River to help create better growth potential in those lakes, while also supporting river populations that have struggled with natural recruitment. Jay shares what this effort looks like on the ground and what early results are showing from the research side. Beyond the science, Jay brings a wealth of on-the-water experience across Kentucky’s lakes and streams — and he shares his “Best-of-the-Best” fishing destinations around the state. If you’re looking for new places to fish or want insight on where to plan your next trip, you won’t want to miss his recommendations. As always, we mix in some stories, conversation, and a little behind-the-scenes insight into how fisheries management really works in Kentucky. 🎧 Listen now and start planning your next trip

On this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast, we sit down with KDFWR Commissioner Rich Storm to talk about the path that led him from a passion for the outdoors to leading The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Rich shares how his early hunting and fishing experiences shaped his interest in conservation, and influenced his career and leadership style. We also discuss some of the accomplishments he’s most proud of during his time with the department, as well as the real challenges facing fish and wildlife conservation today. From agency successes to the road ahead, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people and priorities guiding conservation in the Commonwealth.

On this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast we're joined by David Baker, KDFWR Central District Fisheries Biologist! We're talking about what's "hot" right now in regards to fishing, and some of the best-eating species that the state has to offer are currently on the menu. We'll discuss how and where to target them for wintertime fishing success! Fisheries crews across the state are also preparing to install a massive amount of habitat in lakes across the Commonwealth, made possible by Christmas tree donations that are coming in from the public right now. We'll tell you how and why these habitat sites are built, as well as where you can find locations for them online. Thanks for listening, and good luck on the water!

On this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast, we're joined by Dr. John Hast, Bear and Elk Program Coordinator for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, for an in-depth conversation on black bears and bear hunting in the Commonwealth. With Kentucky currently in the middle of its rifle season for bears, we're breaking down why the season is timed the way it is, the long-term goals of Kentucky’s bear program, and how season dates help meet those management objectives. We also dive into the reasoning behind why baiting bears is not allowed in Kentucky, how weather conditions can influence bear movement and hunter success, and how shifting food sources impact bear behavior throughout the season. To wrap things up, Chase shares the story of harvesting his first-ever Kentucky black bear on public land during the October archery season. Whether you’re a seasoned bear hunter or just curious about Kentucky’s growing bear population, this episode offers valuable insight straight from the biologist helping lead the program.

Modern Firearms Season kicks off this weekend, and deer hunting doesn’t get much better than this! 🦌 In this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast, we’re joined by Deer Program Coordinator Joe McDermott to talk about the latest deer research shaping management decisions across the Commonwealth — including a GPS collar study that’s shedding light on how deer move as the rut approaches. The results point to great conditions for hunters hitting the woods this weekend. We also dive into the importance of harvesting does in areas with high deer numbers, how hunters play a key role in keeping herds healthy, and ways to get your harvested deer tested for CWD through our freezer drop-off sites and the Shoot for Samples program — where you could win a $500–$2,000 prize just for participating. If you’re gearing up for Modern Gun Season, give this episode a listen.

This week, we’re joined by Rachel Crume, KDFWR’s R3 Program Coordinator, and Megan Bagby from the R3 Branch. We kick things off with early season deer hunting strategies, and Rachel—who’s also an experienced deer tracker—shares valuable post-shot advice every hunter can use this fall. From there, we dive into the work of the R3 Branch (Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation), highlighting how they help get people outdoors and involved in hunting, fishing, and other wildlife-related activities. Programs like Becoming an Outdoors Woman workshops and Hunter Education courses are just a couple of examples we cover. We round things out with some fishing talk and a few fun side topics along the way.

In this episode, we’re joined by Tommy Apostolopoulos, Wildlife Biologist with the KDFWR Deer Program, to talk all things early season deer hunting in Kentucky. With archery and crossbow seasons just around the corner, Tommy breaks down what hunters can expect this year—from whitetail behavior in the early season to tactics for success when temps are high and patterns are still predictable. We also cover: 🦌 New regulations for 2025, including expanded opportunities with new and lengthened seasons 📍 Public land hot-spots to consider for your next hunt 🔬 What hunters need to know about CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease) surveillance this fall 📚 Tips on staying informed and legal afield Whether you're a seasoned bowhunter or heading into the woods for the first time, this is a must-listen as we kick off the 2025–26 deer season.

We sat down with KDFWR R3 Coordinator Rachel Crume to talk about the importance of recruiting, retaining, and reactivating outdoor enthusiasts—for the future of conservation in Kentucky. From Learn to Hunt and Fish classes to Becoming an Outdoors-Woman workshops and Annie Oakley Range Days, there are more ways than ever to get involved. Plus, we dive into some of our own hunting and fishing experiences, and learn a bit about big-game tracking from an expert in the field!

On this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast, we’re talking wild pigs and wild water! Biologist Terri Brunjes from KDFWR’s wild pig program joins us to break down the damage feral swine cause in Kentucky—and what’s being done to root them out. We also swap stories about kayaking and whitewater paddling, a shared passion among those on the show. Tune in for a fun and informative ride from the backwoods to the backwaters, and remember to report wild pigs or wild pig sign if you see it!

On this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast we're joined by Jay Herrala, a biologist who specializes in moving-water fisheries for the KDFWR. It's the best time of the year to stream fish in Kentucky, so we're definitely talking about opportunities. Additionally, we've had some unique rainfall in the state this year, so we'll pick Jay's brain on the affects of flooding on the fisheries. Then, of course, it's Derby week... So we'll get Lee's thoughts on the big race in before the podcast ends!

Ahead of the Kentucky Elk Hunt Drawing we're all excited at the thought of elk hunting in the Commonwealth! So we asked Dr. John Hast, KDFWR Bear and Elk Program Coordinator, to join us for an episode... We discuss elk hunting in the state over the years and what it's like now, what the odds of being drawn are, how the process works, tell a few stories, and much more. The deadline to enter for the drawing is April 30, so be sure to click over to FW.KY.GOV and visit "My Profile" if you'd like a chance at getting drawn!

Jeff Crosby, KDFWR Fisheries Biologist, joins us for this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast! We'll dive into some of the most aggressive biting and hard fighting fish that the state has to offer, and explore the hybrid species in-depth. Why do they make hybrids? What's the advantage? Do they truly fight harder? We'll answer those questions and many more on this episode of the podcast!

On this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast we're joined by Zak Danks, the Turkey Program Coordinator for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources! Zak has some exciting news to share as turkey season is on the horizon, both for this year's hunt, and for the next several years to come... Find out why things might be looking up for the turkey population and turkey hunters of the state, as well as what biologist are doing in the field at this very moment!

On this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast we're joined by Dave Baker, a fisheries biologist with The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources! Dave is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to both fish and fishing, as he's not only a professional in the field, but also an excellent angler as well... Here we're talking about all the exciting spring fishing opportunities that are on the horizon, including: White Bass, Crappie, Sauger, Walleye, Largemouth Bass, and Catfish! Get your rods and reels ready... It's just about time to go fishing!

We're joined by Nick Ray, the Assistant Director of KDFWR's EIT division! "EIT" stands for Engineering, Infrastructure and Technology, and the follks who work in this division really make things work for the outdoors men and women of the state... We'll learn about some of the projects they take on, how they increase opportunity as a whole, and hear some stories of the challenges that they can run into along the way!

On this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast we're joined Dr. John Hast, Kentucky's lead bear and elk biologist, and he's taking us deep into the world of wildlife management and conservation efforts for two of the state's most iconic species: black bears and elk. Dr. Hast discusses the ongoing work to protect and sustain these populations, the challenges they face, and the exciting hunting opportunities available to sportsmen and women. In addition to wildlife management, Dr. Hast shares his personal passion for the Cumberland River—one of his favorite spots to fish during the winter months. Hear about his love for this beautiful stretch of water, its unique ecosystem, and the types of fishing adventures it offers. Whether you're a hunter, angler, or nature enthusiast, this episode provides valuable insights into Kentucky's natural resources and the dedicated work going into preserving them for future generations.

We're joined by Dr. John Brunjes, the Migratory Bird Program Coordinator for KDFWR! John is an avid outdoorsman, and specifically a waterfowl lover. He speaks to all the reasons that waterfowl hunters love what they do, and about what makes it such a unique hunting opportunity. Additionally, Dr. Brunjes also sheds some light on the "behind the scenes" of migratory bird conservation efforts in North America... After speaking with him, we feel like we need to give waterfowl a shot!