Okayest Hunter ®

The crew brings relatable stories from hunting the rut, with stories every hunter can appreciate. From last-minute second-guessing things to the thrill—and heartbreak—of tracking deer, they talk about the emotional rollercoaster of being out in the field when things don't go to plan. We dive into recent hunts, close encounters with elusive bucks, and the different challenges faced on both public and private lands. We also share practical tips, like using drones for recovery, handling nerves, and the power of patience. Through candid admissions, laughter, and a listener call-in from Eric's Dad, this conversation is a reassuring reminder that at some point, all hunters face their fair share of mishaps and triumphs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Derek shares the story of a textbook rut hunt that came together perfectly, showing just how unpredictable and rewarding deer season can be. After scouting a promising area and setting up quietly, he was ready to go—until a mature 10-pointer responded to his calling sequence and stepped into range. With a well-placed shot and the support of Eric and Tyler for the track and drag-out, Derek tagged a solid buck on public land, a true highlight of the season. His persistence, from preseason scouting to holding out until the last possible minute, paid off in a big way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we take the podcast on the road, recording live from the Majestic Theater with serial entrepreneur Andy Wines. While Andy dives deep into his productive and intentional approach to work, he shares how he balances his entrepreneurial ventures with deer hunting. The conversation flows naturally from tactical hunting insights—like scouting with trail cams and choosing the right stand—to the profound, almost spiritual aspects of harvesting your own food and passing down traditions to the next generation. We touch on the romantic side of hunting, exploring the primal connection to nature, and why being in the woods offers a reset like nothing else. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just curious about the lifestyle, this episode delivers a mix of humor, insight, and heartfelt moments. Don't miss Andy's take on what makes deer camp sacred, and the joy of sharing these traditions with his daughter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Van Beek joins this episode of Dropping Pins with an epic early-season deer hunting success story. As a new dad juggling family and hunting, Joe shares the detailed strategy that helped him bag one of his best bucks yet. He dives deep into how he scouted the area, set up trail cameras, and utilized unique access points to outsmart mature deer during a hot and dry early fall. With confidence, patience, and meticulous attention to detail, Joe’s plan paid off, resulting in a thrilling encounter where he had a 45-minute standoff with the buck at just 26 yards. From scouting swamps to making calculated decisions in the field, this episode is packed with insights for hunters looking to elevate their game. Plus, Joe’s post-hunt encounter with the police over a driveway blood trail adds a hilarious twist to the story! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Okayest Hunter Podcast kicks off with Greg’s return, bringing plenty of classic OHP banter. The crew dives into early-season hunting updates as Greg shares his recent bowhunting experiences, including a few close encounters but no shots fired. They strategize around an incoming cold front and juggle hunting plans with family commitments. The conversation heats up with gear talk, featuring Muck Boots’ new Alpha Pursuit ankle boot, and they explore its benefits for Midwest hunting. The highlight of the show is guest Jody Marler, a homebuilder and media pro from Montana, who’s taking a nostalgic trip back to Illinois for some whitetail action. The group trades stories on deer camps, the evolution of hunting gear, and keeping things authentic in the outdoor world. Perfect for anyone who loves swapping hunting strategies and hearing down-to-earth stories from the field. Check out the new Muck Alpha Pursuit Ankle Boot: https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-101146695-15887989 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Derek sits down with Big Buck Killer Ryan Glisky of Pennsylvania. Ryan starts off by talking a little bit about his early season success in Maryland this year with a great buck he took on an early season betting pattern. Ryan relates a lot of his decision-making with confidence that has been built up over the years in the areas and styles of hunting he incorporates. The conversation turns from early season to Ryan‘s favorite time of year to hunt which is the rut. He talks about his focus on doe betting areas and travel pinch points between dough betting. The idea of confidence comes up again as they discuss the importance of putting time in and sticking it out in locations, you have confidence in. Ryan shares a wealth of knowledge and a diverse range of strategies that he has used to put himself in front of mature bucks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ryan Shutts joins Eric and Derek from Bear Archery to talk about the latest lineup of Bear bows, including the highly anticipated Persist 33, Whitetail INT, and the Legit Max. They dive into Bear Archery's mission of making hunting accessible to everyone by offering bows that are not only packed with innovative technology but are also highly adjustable to fit a wide range of hunters. Ryan shares his passion for archery and breaks down each bow’s unique features while the hosts throw in a bit of banter about their recent hunts and family experiences in the deer woods. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting out, this episode highlights some of the best bow options for anyone looking to level up their archery game this season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Dropping Pins, Derek talks with good buddy Matt Streim who owns Weathered Oaks Game Calls and is co-host of the Okayest Fisher Podcast. Although Matt cut his teeth as a Northwoods tree stand hunter, circumstances have since changed and Matt has found himself hunting areas that are lacking trees large enough to hunt from. This has created the opportunity for him, along with the family members he hunts with, to explore ground hunting mature whitetails. No blinds, no enclosed hunting shack, just a homemade stool/ chair and experience with how to blend into the surroundings. Matt talks about some of the challenges of hunting from the ground, and how one of the largest hurdles coming from a tree stand background, is giving up visibility and basically only being able to focus your shots to one side of you, rather than 360 degrees. Matt discusses things he has learned and how he uses these techniques to stay super mobile and keep the deer unaware of his next moves. Matt dives into an awesome story about one of the closest encounters with a mature buck I’ve ever heard. The story offers all sorts of learning moments, from time of year, pre-rut behavior, ground cover and positioning etc. This is an interesting and effective tactic and hopefully after hearing Matt explain the process and its benefits, you give it a try and add another deadly tactic to your hunting tool kit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eric flies solo this week, catching up with everyone right before heading off on a family vacation. With hunting season underway, he shares a sweaty 90-degree hunting recap, dealing with malfunctioning trail cams and some seriously obnoxious doe blowing his cover. You can expect the usual Okayest humor, a bit of gear talk (spoiler: mosquitoes hate Sitka), and the stress of juggling family life, work, and hunting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode starts off a little unexpectedly as Derek and Tony are just chit chatting before hit the record button, but things escalate quickly as they often do with good hunting stories, and Derek hits record after Tony dives into a great story about one of his first travel public land hunts. This hunt takes place before the public land DIY hunting craze hit and many of Tony’s fellow outdoor industry insiders didn’t think hitting the public would pay off in any way. But Tony had to prove them wrong! This story kicks off an awesome episode with plenty of stories from Tony with all sorts of great learning moments, anecdotes, and key takeaways. Tony shares his incredibly down to earth and relatable experiences with listeners as he provides lessons learned from his vast experiences hunting public land all across the US. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week Derek and Eric chat with Ryan Shutts, the Product Manager behind Bear Archery’s compound and youth bow lines. Ryan shares insights on Bear’s deep-rooted tradition in archery and how they're keeping Fred Bear's blue-collar, accessible ethos alive in a world where prices keep going up. We chat about the resurgence of traditional archery, the smooth draw of single-cam bows like the Adapt 2, and why balance is something to strive for in a bow in contrast to shaving pounds. Ryan also shares tips for getting your kids into archery and the importance of finding the right bow to match your hunting style. He also answers a bunch of listener questions! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Derek talks to Devin Duncan of Virginia. Devin grew up hunting the vast public land mountains of western Virginia and learned the ropes from his father. Devin talks about how his dad had used mules for years to pack into remote steep terrain and also for packing out the harvest. Devin talks about the woods of his area and how the deer survive in pockets of terrain. We discuss an awesome hunting story from Devin’s largest buck, takes a couple seasons ago. Devin goes into detail about how and why he chose the area he did and how he chose to approach his spot. All the decision making he put into setting and making a move later in the day paid off HUGE with a chance at a monster mature buck followed by a strange bear sighting. Devin shares some ideas about backpack style hunting, tree stands, saddles, and still hunting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Okayest Hunter Podcast, Jace Martinetto shares his journey from being a landscaper to becoming the producer and videographer for outdoor hunting shows, including Okayest Hunter and Jake Break Hollow. Jace discusses how his passion for videography led him to take big risks, invest in his craft, and eventually transition from his media business to focusing full-time on building Jake Break Hollow—a unique hunting show inspired by camaraderie and the "good life" of the outdoors. Jace also opens up about the challenges and excitement of moving across the country to pursue this venture. Check out Jake Brake Hallow: https://www.jakebrakehollow.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Derek sits down to talk with another big buck killer from the North East. Rodney Elmer of Mountain Deer Taxidermy is a generational hunter from Vermont who chases big buck tracks through New England when the snow flies. He has been a hunter safety educator, taxidermist, and seminar speaker and most recently created a successful YouTube channel focused on having fun with family and friends in the deer woods. Rodney and Derek start by chatting about the terrain and territory that Rodney hunts in the NE. This big woods terrain is not only challenging on hunters but also the deer population. They discuss deer habits and behaviors and how that relates to time of year and the landscape they live in. Rodney gets into an awesome tracking story from his younger years in which tracking a small buck led him to a much larger buck, which decided to teach Rodney a few lessons that day. Rodney does a masterful job explaining and laying out his thought process on what he did and why, as well as how the buck used a variety of evasive maneuvers to distance himself from danger. Rodney’s story led to a conversation about the overall mentality and immense challenge that is hunting mature bucks. Rodney gives the listener plenty to think about as he deviates from tactics and talks about mindset, positivity, karma, and doing what we do for the right reasons. This was such an honest and refreshing discussion about hunting, and hopefully, it helps us all keep our minds in the right headspace this season. Check out his YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwHNQN7oV2bO6nHZ1WU0Stg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Greg Tubbs is back in studio! We dive right into the chaos of Foam Fest 2024, where apparently, three bows met their unfortunate demise! From near-misses to unexpected bow mishaps, we recount the highlights and memories from the event. We’re not out here trying to break bows, but hey, it’s better to work out the kinks at Foam Fest than from a treestand! With Eric, Derek, and Greg in the studio, you know it’s going to be a wild ride. We talk about the event’s great turnout, awesome giveaways, and, of course, some classic hunt camp banter. Tune in for a dose of Midwest camaraderie, okay jokes, and the usual shenanigans as we chop it up with Tyler Webster from the Birds, Booze, and Buds podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we talk to Jeff Doyle, a renowned buck tracker from the Northeast. Jeff has an awesome YouTube channel and tracking series called “Tracking 200” that focuses on using snow and a hunter’s wits and knowledge to follow bucks and kill them in an intense moment. Jeff talks about his upbringing in hunting with his dad and how he really began to sprawl out and learn as he moved from his beginning hunting areas. We discuss some tracking stories and how sometimes getting caught up on the “hot area” can be a bit silly and good bucks can live anywhere. Jeff dives into some great stories in which calling and pretending to be another buck have helped him get the big bucks standing in the tracks to come a little closer. Jeff highlights an awesome story from this past season with his father in which intuition and past experiences helped put in the perfect spot at the perfect time and get it all on video in “The Perfect Tracking Day” which will hit YouTube later this fall. 📺 https://www.youtube.com/@jeff_doyle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well, this episode was a bit of a wildcard. Eric was flying solo and decided to just wing it on a random Monday night. With the phone lines open and no real game plan, he wasn't sure how things would go—honestly, there was a good chance it would suck. But he made it happen. Eric chatted about everything from mock scrapes and prep work for hunting season to the upcoming Foam Fest, which is shaping up to be a good time with lots of gear, giveaways, and good company. He also touched on a new initiative Okayest Hunter is launching called "Fulfill Your Tag," aimed at raising money for conservation through small donations when you buy your hunting tags. It’s all about doing more than just filling a tag—it's about giving back and ensuring we give more than we take. There was one caller, Noah, who saved Eric from rambling alone for too long. They talked about the importance of community at events like Foam Fest, shared tips on mock scrapes, and discussed the unpredictable nature of hunting and the excitement that comes with it. If you’re into unscripted, off-the-cuff hunting talk, this episode is definitely that. See you at Foam Fest or catch you on the next episode. Register for Foam Fest here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/foam-fest-2024-tickets-903396221417 If you like Deer Stuff, you'll love this hoodie: https://www.okayesthunter.com/products/deer-stuff-hoodie Presented by: https://www.nosler.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gary has a long history of being a woodsman here in WI. He grew up hunting and spent many years trapping and running a series of huge traplines with at times over 300 traps. Gary’s interest has since turned in the direction of bowhunting mature bucks both here in WI and trips around the Midwest. Gary has filmed for The Hunting Beast, Public Land Whitetails, and Behind the Echo YouTube channels and has been featured on many podcasts. Today we talk about a few of his ah ha moments through his re-invigorated desire to hunt big bucks. Gary has spent a lot of his time in the vast marshes of WI but has since taken on learning hill country areas of Indiana and Illinois, finding great success in both new states. His stories lead us through multiple different learning experiences. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Okayest Hunter podcast, Eric Clark is flying solo in the studio but brings on a guest, Kevin Vistisen, to discuss the latest in hunting and gear. Eric starts by acknowledging that his usual co-hosts, Derek and Greg, are busy with other commitments, but he keeps the energy high with plenty of updates on their upcoming events, like Foam Fest and partnerships. Eric dives into the nitty-gritty of hunting life, from dealing with technical mishaps to managing personal life interruptions, all while keeping a laid-back, relatable tone. The episode highlights the excitement surrounding Foam Fest, their 3D archery event happening in Wisconsin, with details on the impressive giveaways from their sponsors, like Latitude, Spartan Forge, and Nosler. Eric also touches on the ongoing struggle hunters face with mosquitoes during early season hunts, sharing tips on how to mitigate the annoyance, including a recommendation for Cedar oil-based products like Cedarside. The conversation takes a casual turn as Eric and Kevin exchange stories and tips about gear, including the latest from brands, and the challenges of balancing hunting with life’s other demands. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the scene, this episode is packed with practical advice and a good dose of humor. Check out: https://dhthree.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 7- Dave Bechtel We start the conversation with diving into a few things that Dave does to make sure he is dialed with his archery setup with consistent realistic practice. Dave talks about the importance of keeping up with practice through season. Dave tells a story about hunting with his Aunt Karen and how he made a bold opening day decision in 90 degree heat to hang and hunt in an area no one else ever went on a piece of private property. The target buck came by and Dave made short work it. We discuss how this mindset has helped Dave put himself into bucks on other properties, like a group of bucks he hunted and eventually killed last season. We talk a little about what to look for on new properties and things he has learned while traveling to IL to hunt public land. We end the episode with the one that got away from Wi gun season last year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Scot, from Feathers and Antlers Outdoors, joins the OHP crew for a laid-back chat about his archery shop in Commerce, Georgia. For the past nine years, Scot and his family have been running the shop, offering a wide range of bows, arrows, broadheads, and outdoor gear. The shop’s all about making sure customers feel welcome and have plenty of space to browse without feeling cramped. The conversation is full of laughs as Scot and the hosts dive into what it’s like running an archery business, the latest trends in gear, and some of the quirks of the industry. Scot’s especially proud of the fact that they’ve shipped custom arrow builds to all 50 states, proving just how far their reputation has spread. They also touch on the importance of supporting local businesses and give a nod to Fred Bear, one of the original legends of archery and a true pioneer in outdoor content creation. https://www.feathersandantlersoutdoors.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Logan is a Union Lineman who lives in West Virginia. He has hunted since he could walk but has really started to chase mature deer the past three years. He hunts mainly on weekends and has really dived deep into learning and understanding big bucks and their habits. Logan tells a great story about his first and biggest mature buck he killed in 2022 and how that hunt helped him realize how thermals overrule wind direction in the evenings, and how mature deer use the landscape to keep them alive. Logan dives into another epic story about a property he scouted in Ohio. We make a pit stop and discuss his scouting techniques and what he does when looking at a new property. We continue into his story about hunting the biggest buck he has ever hunted and the lessons that deer taught him. We discuss some more recent finds he discovered while scouting this past offseason and his plans to get back on the buck this summer and fall. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Okayest Hunter Podcast, the guys are joined by Bill Thompson from Spartan Forge. They chat about hunting ethics, technology, and business values. Bill shares his journey of developing Spartan Forge, emphasizing the importance of creating tools that enhance hunter autonomy while maintaining transparency and integrity in the business. He also touches on the future of Spartan Forge, teasing upcoming features and collaborations that aim to push the boundaries of hunting technology. Throughout the episode, Eric, Derek, and Bill discuss the broader implications of their work, touching on leadership, the philosophy of stoicism as it relates to business and deer hunting, and the challenges of maintaining ethical standards in business. The conversation highlights the importance of focusing on long-term success and making decisions that align with core values, both in hunting and in life. The episode is a blend of humor, deep insights, and practical advice, making it a must-listen for hunters and anyone interested in the intersection of technology and the outdoors. Check out Spartan Forge and use CODE: OHP to save on your annual subscription Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steve starts off by talking about his massive trail camera studies he has done over the past 5-6 years which now has 120+ cameras collecting data in the big woods of northern Pennsylvania. Steve has found that across multiple different types of locations such as bedding areas, scrapes, feeding areas, and transitions one thing has been consistent- big bucks move in daylight when weather conditions are right. Steve aims to choose his hunting days when the weather is right and tries to do the same with his clients. We talk about trail cam strategies and things we have seen and learned about deer movement from them which transitions us into some stories about attempting to use trail cam data to attack specific bucks and how most of the time, unsuccessful plans are the greatest teachers. Steve shares two unsuccessful attacks last season and we talk about how huge of a role acorns can play not only in deer movement, but rut activity and shed antlers dropping also. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Okayest Hunter podcast, the crew welcomes Matt Morris, an amateur boyer and avid traditional bow hunter. They start by introducing Matt and his unique hobby of making traditional bows, known as bowery, and delve into his background. Matt shares his journey from hunting with a compound bow to embracing traditional archery. He describes the appeal of crafting his own bows, saying, "I wanted to simplify some things. If you start at the bare bottom of a very basic stick that shoots other sticks." Matt, a Marine Corps veteran with a background in government and aerospace, explains how his transition from a high-pressure job to the private sector led him to traditional bow making. He emphasizes the importance of action and hands-on learning, comparing it to his wife's experience in the workplace. Matt recalls how his friend Zach Hason, podcast host of the Okayest Trapper podcast, led him to make a bow for Zach, who, much to Matt's chagrin, still doesn't use it. The conversation shifts to Matt's passion for traditional archery and the meticulous process of crafting bows. He discusses the different types of wood used, the detailed work involved, and the satisfaction of creating something functional and beautiful. The episode concludes with Matt's excitement for his upcoming hunting trips, including a bear hunt in Manitoba and a blacktail hunt in Kodiak. Eric and Derek express their admiration for Matt's dedication and craftsmanship, highlighting the importance of preserving these traditional skills in today's fast-paced world. Check out the Bowyer podcast on the Okayest Podcast Network: https://www.okayesthunter.com/pages/bowyer-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former Marine Sniper Tony Van Asten joins the podcast to talk about setting up a leased property to attack a specific buck and the lessons learned along the way. Overlooked buck bedding, wind swirls, and knowing when to shoot before big bucks get your scent. Tony also talks about tactics in hill country and how to use thermals and entry times to increase your odds. Tony shares a story about jumping a big buck next to a parking lot in July, then coming back during bow season and capitalizing on his plan even after his arrow falls off the rest before his shot. Tony's YT: https://www.youtube.com/@tonyvanasten/videos Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Jonathan McCormick AKA Red Beard Outdoors shares his inspiration and his focus on outdoor activities. He introduces "Red Beard Outdoors," his podcast that began as an Instagram page to document his adventures with his kids in Utah's incredible public lands. Jonathan loves sharing outdoor experiences and gear reviews, and he's all about having great conversations and staying consistent with his content. The chat dives into hunting setups, comparing mechanical and fixed broadheads, and the importance of practicing archery in different conditions. Jonathan also shares his excitement for his upcoming hunting trip to Wisconsin, where he'll be using his saddle setup. He's looking forward to the chance to unplug and enjoy the outdoors. Presented by: www.nosler.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian joins Derek with an awesome story that draws multiple learning opportunities and links into 3-4 other stories about the same location but affords new and different insights and experiences that tie together very nicely. Along the way, we discuss subtleties of mature buck movements, bedding areas, how bucks use the wind and thermals to travel through areas, and how Brian has taken advantage of this. Derek interjects with a few correlations to ideas that were brought up in the first two episodes and how they relate to multiple circumstances. We wrap things up with Brian telling us about his goals for this season in attacking a totally new area with different terrain that he is not used to. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Beau Below with Ghost Bucks joins us in the studio as we talk about whitetails, whitetail fever, and random stories. We're getting excited about the upcoming season! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Derek talks to two fellow WI hunters who have been in a group chat about deer hunting together for 5+ years. We start with some initial stories about learning moments in which Cory shares his mock scrape tactics for locating and hunting mature bucks on public land bordering private and a few lessons learned from chasing a true giant. Tim shares a story about cutting his teeth hunting Northwoods deer in Lincoln and Oneida counties. He tells about a legendary buck named “Rome” who Tim chased for a few seasons and followed on his trail cameras. This buck taught him many things but one big takeaway was that mature bucks do their own thing and seldom walk the same trails as other deer, which saved this bucks life in one encounter. We also discuss learning moments and important things to think about when hunting out of state and in new areas. Tim and Cory talk about hunting public land in Iowa and how to manage time and multiple hunting areas. We talk about trail cameras and how hunters should try not to get caught up with chasing photos but use woodsmanship and scouting to help them focus in on possible locations to ambush bucks caught on camera. We wrap up the conversation with Tim and Cory’s goals for this upcoming season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Derek introduces Dropping Pins, where the idea was born and what we hope to provide our listeners. Derek dives into his first story which outlines a very special location in the Northwoods of WI. This location was found by Derek’s father but quickly stolen and told was off limits to everyone except the week of WI gun season. This sanctuary technique paid off huge for 5 seasons and harvesting 5 bucks in the spot, including my first two mature bucks during midday hours. We dive deep into specifics on this unique spot and how hunting in a very particular way helped Derek be successful and have many important learning outcomes because of this experience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our good buddy, Brian Douglas with Good Sit Mobile, comes back on the show to shoot the breeze as we all deal with Whitetail Fever rushing over us now that the Fourth of July has come and gone. This week's episode is full of some good laughs and shitty stories, with a few learning moments and solid takeaways if you're willing to tune into the full episode. Presented by: www.nosler.com Check out: https://www.goodsitmobile.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Setting trails cams for the "Whitetail Shift" towards the end of August happens now. Tune in this week as we chat trail cam tactics and strategies as the Okayest Hunter crew strategies for the upcoming season. Presented by: https://www.nosler.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Madi Woodward with Nosler, Inc. joins the show this week to talk about all things ammo and, specifically, Nosler ammo. We cover some basics around ammunition terminology, caller and listener questions, big game hunting, whitetail hunting and some Okayest moments afield. If you're looking to learn more about rifle ammo, this is a great episode for beginners and more seasoned rifle hunters alike. Presented by: www.nosler.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Radzwilla with Hook & Barrel returns to the podcast to chats about building character in the outdoors through adversity. Doing hard things is an important component of building up the outdoor and hunting community. Check out Hook & Barrel Presented by Nosler Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step back in time and take a trip down memory lane this week as we chat with Sam Holcomb about Field & Stream's return to print just in time for Father's Day! Gift the F&S 1871 Club Membership Enter a story about your Dad or Father Figure to F&S by 6.23.24 Presented by Nosler Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's topic revolves around bow tuning, with Greg and Eric discussing the importance of adjusting your bow's rest and sight to fit your shooting style. Greg shares his technical expertise, while Eric adds his Okayest questioning, insights, and personal anecdotes. They also explore the benefits of paper tuning and the challenges of zeroing in a bow. Throughout the episode, the fellas compare brands and price points, highlighting accessible ready-to-hunt packages from Bear Archery. They emphasize the importance of choosing equipment that suits your needs, whether new or used. This episode offers a perfect blend of technical knowledge and friendly banter. It is a must-listen for any bowhunter looking to dial in their bow for the upcoming season or 3D shoots. Presented by Nosler Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To hear what we have in store for the trail cam debate, listen through until the end. On the rest of the episode we chat about turkey hunting season stories and wrap up, hunting with kids, being a dad that hunts, hear from a couple callers about food plots and fawns - then we get into trail cam debates. Presented by Nosler Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we delve into our hunting setups, sharing tips on using climbing sticks, saddles, and camera gear for self-filming hunts. Blake Below joins the conversation, offering insights from his public land hunting experiences and emphasizing the importance of scouting and strategic access. The discussion highlights the challenges and strategies of self-filming hunts and the dynamics of hunting with a cameraman. The episode also covers tips for hunting public land, stressing the value of scouting and learning the terrain. Blake wraps up by talking about the Ghost Bucks YouTube channel, their engaging content, and plans for a new podcast focused on hunting stories and lessons. Overall, it’s a blend of practical hunting advice, personal anecdotes, and some good-natured humor per usual. Presented by: https://www.nosler.com/ Latitude Method II Saddle Kit: https://alnk.to/8iTLHYg Carbon SS Climbing Sticks: https://alnk.to/fHlAUfP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A rambling session with guest Shaun Ridder, host of the newest podcast to join the Okayest Podcast Network, Camp Okayest. We chat about old-school hunting shows, the evolution of hunting shows to modern times, and general hunting content. Then, we shift gears to share a few buck encounters and our mobile hunting setups. Presented by https://www.nosler.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we chatted with our new friend, Nicholas Delprete, with Harnessed Adrenaline, whom Derek met during his recent Texas hog hunt. Nicholas is a guide in Colorado and shares how he became a guide and what it's all about. He also talks about his stance on the legislative changes potentially coming down the pike in CO. We hear some great stories and talk about the differences between just recreating outdoors and hunting insofar as it relates to the question non-hunters sometimes ask about why we hunt. Presented by: https://www.nosler.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The discussion on turkey choke setups in the podcast episode highlights Greg's preferences and experiences with various chokes for optimizing turkey hunting gear. We discuss the reliability of these setups, sharing anecdotes about their longevity and effectiveness in the field and personal preferences for different types of chokes depending on hunting conditions and turkey behavior. The conversation extends to specific choke types, such as the Carlson XD choke, which Tubbs praises for its excellent pattern consistency with Winchester XR ammunition, suitable for up to 50 yards. They explore the technical aspects of choke performance, including the impact of different ammo and the precision needed for turkey hunting, where a tight shot pattern is crucial. The episode is both practical and technical, offering insights into how different choke setups can affect the outcome of a turkey hunt. Of course, we have our typical podcast shenanigans, answer listener questions from the comments, and take a call from a special guest towards the end of the show. Presented by Nosler - The World's Finest Bullets, Ammunition, Rifles & Brass Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Conservation Warden Erik Anderson and Bradley Wilson talk about what it means to be a DNR Warden. They take time to answer listener questions, share stories from the line of duty, and bust common myths about DNR Conservation Wardens. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this podcast episode, co-founder of Weathered Oaks Game Calls, Matt Streim returns to share insights about their specialized turkey calls. Despite an Okayest start with some chair adjustments, the conversation quickly turns to the craftsmanship behind Weathered Oaks' products. Matt explains that their calls, which are handcrafted and lathe-spun using various types of wood, include features like being double-sided and waterproof. These attributes make them unique in the market, especially as they can function perfectly even when wet, a claim tested thoroughly by Matt himself. As the episode unfolds, it's clear that the creation of these calls is not just a business but a passion for Matt, who started making his own turkey calls in 2019. The conversation also touches on some technical aspects of turkey calling, like how different woods affect the sound quality of the calls. This technical dive is interspersed with anecdotes from other guests and calls from listeners, adding levity and practical hunting advice to the mix. The overarching theme is the blend of entrepreneurship, craftsmanship, and genuine enthusiasm for turkey hunting that defines Matt's work with Weathered Oaks. Learn more at: https://www.weatheredoaksgamecalls.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Luke Cox with Hunt Lift Eat joins the show this week to share his mission and ethos of the Hunt Lift Eat brand and how it all started while he was still on active duty in the United States Army. Of course, we have a few laughs and share why hunting and the community of it all is so important to our heritage as hunters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alec Bekkers with Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Wisconsin Chapter, joins us this week to talk about the Learn to Hunt program, R3, adult-onset hunting, land locked public land, and his 2023 archery buck. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jared Scheffler with Whitetail Adrenaline joins the Okayest Hunter podcast to discuss the genesis of the WA brand and Jared's approach to hunting whitetail across several types of terrain and habitats. Eric and Jared also discuss some of the ego that exists within the hunting community and how important it is to hunt your own hunt. A modern-day Fred Bear: https://okayest.media/2024/03/27/modern-hunting-techniques-with-jared-scheffler/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The newest podcast in the Okayest Podcast Network family is The Okayest Cook! Tune in as we discuss what it means to be an okay cook and how we can learn to improve our kitchen skills and participate in the shared experience of commensality. www.okayestcook.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we take to the phone lines and hear from a few callers about how to start turkey hunting, how to scout turkeys, call, set up decoys, and all the shenanigans that go along with an Okayest turkey hunt. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether it's a 6" spike buck antler, your kid found shed hunting with you or a 150" set of antlers shed from the season before you shot that 150" when he became a 160", Rack/Hub is helping you mount your memories at an affordable price! Bonus: When you're not trying to hang a shoulder mount in your living space, your home decorator will typically allow antlers in more places than a shoulder mount! To learn more about Rack/Hub and save 10% on any purchases, check them out here: https://www.rack-hub.com/okayest Join in on the contest mentioned on this weeks' episode with Okayest Hunter & Shed Season! Contest Dates - 5th thru 14th The giveaway total to be worth $500 (Okayest - $150 bundle and SS/RH - $350 SS merch and RH gift card) Just use hashtag #okayestshed on any shed-hunting posts on Instagram to be entered to win! The smaller antlers are harder to find. Good luck! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices