The First Gen Hunter Podcast

On this episode Kent, Brandon and Alex talk about the near and far of the spring outdoors. Topics include sheds (of course) with a special update on Professor X's shed, turkey plans and successes, prepping for Montana spring bear and an update on the road to poodition. Happy Spring everyone! Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Check out the First Gen Hunter Website Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Spartan Forge Camofire Black Ovis My Medic MTN OPS Fox River Socks GunSkins East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

The title of this episode relates to a question we have all found ourselves asking many times before. Whether we are considering burning a few vacation days, or arrowing a pesky squirrel bent on molesting our deer hunt, we all have those questions while we are hunting. As an avid hunter and outdoorsman, Kris Chain of My Season Report had those same questions and he began to formulate a singular resource where folks like us could go to quickly find our answers. My Season Report is the product of that plan. Kris joins the show to talk about how exactly his incredible tool came to be, what he likes to chase after in the woods, and of course we rabbit trail all over the map hitting topics like education, the fiery fury of bear spray, and weird things we do as parents. Visit Kris' Website Follow Kris: @myseasonreport Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Check out the First Gen Hunter Website Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Spartan Forge Camofire Black Ovis My Medic MTN OPS Fox River Socks GunSkins East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

I say it all of the time, the best part of running your own hunting show is that you get to talk with some incredible hunters on a regular basis. Through the 85 episodes of The First Gen Hunter Podcast, Noel Gandy and Heath Rayfield have stood out as not only very talented hunters, but all around great dudes. In this episode we reviewed the 2021 hunting season and heard all of the drama that goes into a great season like these gents had. Follow Noel: @noelgandy Follow Heath: @heathrayfield Follow Buckventures The Woodsman: @bv_the_woodsman Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Check out the First Gen Hunter Website Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Spartan Forge Camofire Black Ovis My Medic MTN OPS Fox River Socks GunSkins East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

It ain't easy being a first generation hunter. Like many things hunting requires a wealth of knowledge and skills needed to reach a breakthrough moment and find some measurable success as a brand new participant. In this episode I am joined by fellow first gen hunters Amos Medford and Josh Hillyard to share stories and thoughts that have come along with our efforts to breakthrough as first gen hunters. Follow Amos: @wannabehuntingpodcast Follow Josh: @josh.hillyard Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Check out the First Gen Hunter Website Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Spartan Forge Camofire Black Ovis My Medic Alien Gear Holsters MTN OPS Fox River Socks GunSkins East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Humans have several unique symbiotic relationships with different species in the various kingdoms of life, but none is more famous than our mutualistic relationship that we share with our canine companions. For thousands of years man and dog have roamed the earth depending on each other for food and safety, but in the postmodern age our partnership has evolved to include picking up sheds, and Jeremy Moore has been putting forth his best efforts to help spread the word on this recent training target for dog handlers. In this episode we will discuss Jeremy's story as an outdoorsman and dog handler, the number of sheds we walk past, and the finer details of teaching old dogs new tricks. Follow Jeremy: @dogbonehunter Visit Jermey's Website Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Check out the First Gen Hunter Website Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Spartan Forge Camofire Black Ovis My Medic MTN OPS Fox River Socks GunSkins East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Hilariously disturbing is a term we will use in this one as Kent discusses with Alex, Brandon and guest Josh Divan of Pheasants Forever the ethics behind using a trail cam to catch someone in the act of a disturbing, yet public ritual. The crew also discusses a few new points sent in by a listener continuing the discussion on the importance of having plenty of hunters. Finally Josh talks about the current open enrollment period for landowners to put their qualifying acres into CRP (Conservation Reserve Program) designated ground to expand wildlife habitat. Plenty of great conversation that dances all over the map that you'll be glad you tuned in for. Follow Pheasants Forever on Instagram: @pheasants_forever Join Pheasants Forever Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Check out the First Gen Hunter Website Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Spartan Forge Camofire Black Ovis My Medic MTN OPS East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Rabbits are one of those timeless species that we assume hunters enjoy pursuing each season, but in reality there are many hunters who miss out on these furry little hunting season extenders. Hunting rabbits may seem fairly straight forward, but as you will soon find out after listening to Kevin, there is plenty of room for a good strategy for going into each hunt. Follow Kevin: @murphyssmallgamenation Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Check out the First Gen Hunter Website Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Spartan Forge Camofire Black Ovis My Medic MTN OPS East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

We found Jake! And to celebrate we brought him and the rest of the usual crew back together to do another episode of Hunt Therapy! This one is chock full of good stuff from bow string finger tendonitis, to the nastiness of skinning a raccoon, and the quickly approaching opportunities available to those interested in putting in for limited draw tags. In Part 2 of the show we are joined by Charles of Whitwam of Howl For Wildlife to discuss the importance of being active with legal matters that pertain to hunting and science based wildlife policies. Follow Howl For Wildlife on Instagram: @howl_org Visit the Howl For Wildlife Website and Get Active! Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Check out the First Gen Hunter Website Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Spartan Forge Camofire Black Ovis My Medic MTN OPS East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Rabbits, squirrels, and quail. That's about the limit of what's left to hunt here in Iowa, and I'd guess much of the rest of the country as well. So as the days quickly end for chasing these underrated species, I wanted to focus hard on the bobwhite quail, and there is nobody better to give us an education on this than our friend Todd Bogenschutz of the Iowa DNR. Todd was on the show in the past to talk upland birds in Iowa, and in this episode he provides masterclass on quail specifically. Todd talks about the history of quail in the midwest and southern US, their breeding and covey habits, their diets, why pen released birds don't work, how to hunt the speedy little birds, and the challenges they face on the modern landscape. This is the biggest amount of quail specific info I have ever come across and I'd be willing to guess you will be saying the same thing after tuning in. Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Check out the First Gen Hunter Website Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Spartan Forge Camofire Black Ovis My Medic MTN OPS East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

As we set out on another trip around our favorite star, there is much to ponder about what the upcoming hunting year might hold for us. Brandon, Alex and Kent talk about their 2022 hunting resolutions that they hope to achieve by this time next year, and they dive into a recent, challenging conversation that had the hunting world in an uproar for a few days. It was a fun episode to record, and even more fun to listen to. I think you will agree. Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Check out the First Gen Hunter Website Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis MTN OPS East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Mike Reeber is from the Lone Star State, and he joined the show to talk about the best part of hunting- the vittles, the delicacies, the meaty memories, THE FOOD. So much of hunting goes into getting to the point of pulling the trigger, but the fully realized enjoyment of hunting comes from eating the meat, and Mike does an excellent job maximizing every ounce of wild game he harvests. Mike not only enjoys harvesting and preparing wild game, but he also loves shed hunting so you know I can't help myself and spend a chunk of time talking sheds in Texas. Check out Mike's Website Follow Mike: @mikereeber Check out the Roaming Fire Website Follow Roaming Fire: @roamingfirefood Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Check out the First Gen Hunter Website Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Merry Christmas! 2021 is drawing to a close. Pretty soon our hunting licenses will need to be updated, and our focus will shift from deer, waterfowl, and pheasants to sheds and spring turkeys, but as we close out the year we get to celebrate the greatest gift of all- the gift provided to us by the God of all creation given in the form of His Son, Jesus. That’s what we are here to talk about in this episode of the podcast, and avid whitetail hunter Rusty Boruff is here to tell us this ancient story of hope. Of course we can’t help ourselves and we talk about a whole lot of hunting as well which includes: the ultimate hunter’s stocking stuffers, the most underrated county in deer hunting, and the incredible work Rusty has going on with One Eighty. I hope you enjoy this episode, and I hope this Christmas season is finding you at peace and reflecting on the hope of the original Christmas. Follow Rusty: @rustyboruff Follow One Eighty: @oneeightyzone Support and Serve with One Eighty Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Holding a deer tag into the late season provides a unique challenge that all of our rut wizard friends don’t find themselves in very often. It’s almost like we are doing the extra time, because we didn’t get our homework done by the due date that every one else seemingly had no problem with. But if we look at the late season as just another opportunity to hunt our favorite game, we will realize that are tardy tag isn’t a burden at all. Instead it is another opportunity to learn how deer survive and behave throughout the different phases of the season. Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

If you've hunted long enough you know that that act of pulling the trigger, or releasing an arrow is a very small part of what goes into hunting, but it is the brief moment that we dream about. So much of the conversation about hunting centers on the gear and the process, but in this episode we talk about the moment of truth as we talk through the success Brandon, Alex and I have enjoyed so far this season. We had a lot of fun rehashing our tales of triumph and hope our stories inspire you as you lean into the late season. Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Happy Thanksgiving! I have so many blessings in my life to be thankful for, and you as a FGHP listener are one of them- so thank you! In this episode Brandon and I hit a part 2 to one of our earliest episodes that covers one of the toughest questions for new and veteran hunters: where should I set up to hunt? We talk about some general rules we use to guide our decision making, adjustments we make throughout the phases of deer season, and how to use logic to help you connect the dots on your way to tagging a buck, and what to do when frustration boils over. Recording this episode was a major help to us and I'm confident listening in will be a big advantage to you as well. Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Banner days are banner days, because they are so good you want to make a banner and nail it to the lodgepole of your cabin to extol the greatness of what happened that day. This episode of hunt therapy was the first ingredient to a banner day for me. Jake and I met up to hunt in Noel's neck of the woods and we had a great time recording this show. We start out by listing names for big bucks, get the inside scoop on the legend of Doofus, and talk about the good, the bad, and the ugly of hunting October. There's so much to enjoy about this conversation that even if work is miserable, or if your season hasn't been working out, or whatever could be bugging you, if you tune into this one, I can pretty well guarantee you will be smiling for the next hour and 22 minutes. Follow Noel: @noelgandy Follow Buckventures The Woodsman: @bv_the_woodsman Follow The Hunt Fish Life: @hntfsh_life Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt Follow East2West Hunts: @east2westhunts Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

In our lives we on occasion are fortunate enough to cross paths with someone who is truly passionate about what they do. Their whole demeanor is infectious, and as you listen to and watch them speak and interact with others you feel yourself buying into their cause. Bob St. Pierre of Pheasants Forever is one of those rare individuals. Bob was kind enough to join this episode of the show to talk about the current state of upland habitat, populations, and of course hunting. Bob shares his own experiences as an uplander and also lends his own perspective on where things are now, and where they are heading in the next decade for upland habitat and the bird species that depend on it. By the end of tuning in, I’m confident that you will be bought in as well. Follow Bob on Instagram: @pheasantbob Follow Pheasants Forever on Instagram: @pheasants_forever Join Pheasants Forever Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

There are many hurdles we first gen hunters have to clear in order to successfully break into the hunting scene. Along with a knowledge deficit, lack of private hunting access, and no tactical foundation, acquiring all of the necessary gear to get out and hunt is one of the tallest hurdles for first gen hunters. Thankfully there are several options to help solve this problem, but I have found none better than the businesses Camofire and Black Ovis. Kendall Card- Cofounder of these companies, joined the show to explain their back story, and he also pitched in on the other main topic of the show which is deer hunting. Most states have their deer seasons under way at this point so we break down some of the factors we can control to help our seasons get off with a strong start. Follow Camofire and Black Ovis on Instagram: @camofire & @blackovis Follow Kendall on Instagram: @kendalljcard Follow Alex Instagram: @alex.hunt & @east2westhunts GoWild: @Alex G Facebook: @east2westhunts Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

We Iowegians like to brag about our status in the trophy whitetail category. You want a slob buck? Start putting in to draw a tag in the Hawkeye State. But what deer are to Iowa, elk are to Arizona. It's no secret that monstrous elk reside in the Grand Canyon State, and our friend Alex Gruin of East2West Hunts has been working hard on his own tag acquisition project to battle the 1% draw odds and go chase after these majestic animals. Finally after 8 long years of waiting his number was called and his hunt was scheduled, and he joins us in this episode to report on how it all went down. Follow Alex Instagram: @alex.hunt & @east2westhunts GoWild: @Alex G Facebook: @east2westhunts Follow First Gen Hunter Instagram: @first.gen.hunter GoWild: @Kent Boucher Facebook: @first.gen.hunter Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

This is the 2nd installment of the hunting camp style series that we are now calling Hunt Therapy. This is your every other week opportunity for hunt themed laughs, and tips that we are confident you will find both relatable and therapeutic. This episode includes Alex's preview of his dream elk hunt in Arizona, Brandon's dove hunting plans, Jake's obliterated archery target, and my war on business casual dress codes. Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Most people think of New York as the concrete jungle, far removed from any resemblance of its pre-settled beauty, and while that is true when considering the New York City area and it’s suburbs, that’s far from the truth for the remainder of the state. Dense forests edged by cropland, lakes, and mountains are what make this state beautiful and a prime home for whitetail deer. Jon Teater is a NY native and whitetail land manager who was kind enough to lend us his time to educate us on how hunting whitetails in NY can be done. Follow Jon: Instagram: @whitetail_landscapes Website: https://whitetaillandscapes.com/ Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

This is the kickoff to a new biweekly series here on The First Gen Hunter Podcast- The Campfire Chronicle Series (not to be confused with another fantastic podcast by a similar name that's out there on the podcast airwaves) where core characters of the podcast come together around the virtual campfire of a virtual hunting camp to laugh at each others' pain, tell each others' secrets, swap hunting yarns, and talk all things hunting. In this first installment me, Alex Gruin, and my brother Jake are joined by previous guest and friend of the show Alex Earhart who provides some helpful insight on gearing up during the hottest times of the year. Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Run and gun whitetail hunting is a widely used term in the hunting world, and I think a lot of people don’t quite understand what that hunting tactic looks like, or how to practically apply within their own approach. Thankfully Dan Johnson of Sportsman’s Nation is a subject matter expert who has been successfully using the run and gun method year after year to tag beautiful, mature deer in Iowa. There’s a lot of ground covered in this episode that includes scenario specific hunting strategies, sneaking up on bedded deer in standing corn fields, and how Dan ended up with nine fingers. Tune in to sop up loads of applicable run and gun hunting information and a whole bunch of laughs here on episode 65. Follow Dan on Facebook & Instagram: @ninefingerchronicles and @sportsmensnation Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

One of the greatest confrontational challenges to ever exist since the creation of currency is “Put your money where your mouth is.” Of course much of this has probably come down to betting and fantasy football, but the statement can certainly be used when discussing the reality of talking about conservation, compared to actually doing the work of a conservationist. Marissa Jensen of Pheasant's Forever has done just that. As the National Education and Outreach Manager, Marissa has done her best to reach new, and inexperienced hunters and outdoors people and help them find their place within the hunting community. Follow Marissa on Instagram: @rosehips_and_turtles Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

On this episode I was joined by Nick Otto the host of The Huntavore Podcast. Nick and I talk a little hunting, but mostly about food. For many folks that are interested in trying to hunt, it is the food that provides the justification for finally purchasing a hunting license. Nick will join me in discussing this most important aspect of hunting as we explore topics ranging from shot placement to what Nick would choose for his last wild game meal. It’s a great interview that will inspire you to take a few more risks in nature’s kitchen. Follow Nick on Instagram: @huntavore Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

When the term “legend” gets thrown into a conversation your brain may rabbit trail to thoughts of Michael Jordan, Mickey Mantle, or Abraham Lincoln- some pretty incredible folks from a public knowledge standpoint. But what about those every day legends who walk among us in the work place, church, school, or even deer camp. Who are those legends to you? Well, to the close friends of Zach Polaske, Zach is just that. What started as a nickname given to him for his incredible ability to locate deer, elk, and walleyes has evolved to include his legendary toughness to fight an extremely rare and aggressive form of bone cancer all while continuing to pursue his outdoor passion with his family and friends. Zach tells some of his favorite hunting stories, and shares some excellent early season archery deer tips. I was honored to have the opportunity to share Zach’s story, and we all are fortunate to be able to hear it. Follow Zach on Instagram: @douglas_county_legend Support Zach and His Family Attend the Polaske Family Benefit Support First Gen Hunter by shopping at the following partners: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase Special thanks to Matt Mackey, Jimmy Glaeser, Matt Fox, Brian Highland, Jamie Vee, Paul Polaske, Steve Amys and Brian Rusk for sharing their thoughts and stories about Zach. Great people are surrounded by great friends.

Of the many lost arts of worlds nearly forgotten, blacksmithing is possibly the most interesting. Of course there are a few talented folks out there who carry on some of these traditions, but few are better and more thoroughly devoted to using their art for the betterment of hunting than Mr. Daniel Casey of Casey Arms. Stationed in Romance, Arkansas, Daniel uses his God-given gift for forging iron into incredible antique pistols, rifles, shotguns, swords, knives and many other weapons that will drop your jaw and compel you to take a hammer to your piggy bank. Daniel was kind enough to join Brandon and me on this episode to discuss the weapons he makes, and what goes into making them. He also provides an expert’s survey of the hunting opportunities that his unique and beautiful state has to offer. Visit The Casey Arms Website Follow Casey Arms on Facebook and Instagram: @caseyxarms First Gen Hunter Partners Support First Gen Hunter By Shopping: Camofire Black Ovis East2West Hunts Use promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

In this episode John Lusk of Lusk Archery Adventures joins the show to talk about a wide range of archery hunting topics. These topics include testing archery equipment, the overseas trophy hunting debate, John’s hunting plans for 2021 and a lot more. Hunting season is coming soon, let the excitement build as you tune into episode 60! Subscribe to John's YouTube Channel Follow John on Facebook & Instagram: @luskarcheryadventures First Gen Hunter Partners Camofire Link: https://www.camofire.com/?avad=296077_f214c5e01 Black Ovis Link: https://www.blackovis.com/?avad=296077_b2167fab1 East2West Hunts: https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

This is a First Gen Hunter archives special- recorded 9 months ago and finally releasing today- Brandon and I had a great time talking about how hunting has changed for each of us through time, and what we continue to look forward to as we develop as hunters. The conversation also includes plenty of encouragement and tips for other hunters who are looking how to improve their own hunting skills and experiences as they continue to hunt into the future. First Gen Hunter Partners Camofire Link: https://www.camofire.com/?avad=296077_f214c5e01 Black Ovis Link: https://www.blackovis.com/?avad=296077_b2167fab1 East2West Hunts: https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

The title for the episode pretty much explains it- this episode is all about the adventure of a lifetime. Brian is a bear hunter, and a bear hunting guide. He’s killed black bear in the lower 48, but spends 40 days every year guiding hunts in the Brooks Range of Northern Alaska, and many of those hunts are for Grizzly and Brown Bear (yes, I know same species, but considered different animals by those who are shaking hands with them on a regular basis). Brian tells us how he got into hunting, stories of his bear hunting adventures, and plenty of tips, tactics and tricks all throughout this one. Give Brian a Follow: Instagram: @brian_hallberg and @contactoutdoors Check out Brian’s Website: https://contactoutdoorsmedia.com/ First Gen Hunter Partners Camofire Link: https://www.camofire.com/?avad=296077_f214c5e01 Black Ovis Link: https://www.blackovis.com/?avad=296077_b2167fab1 East2West Hunts: https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

This is the most fun we’ve ever had on the show, we are all over the place. And by we I mean Brandon, Alex, Jake and Yours Truly. A million laughs and a super diverse conversation that includes a rating of our spring outdoor activities, Alex’s social media hater, tag acquisition bailouts in Montana, my poor fishing abilities and solstice/equinox blunder, Brandon’s old age, wolves in Idaho, tag application updates, and of course Jake forgetting to put powder in his muzzleloader. All of these topics and a whole lot more. We hope you enjoy the therapeutic effects of this episode as much as we did. First Gen Hunter Partners Camofire Link: https://www.camofire.com/?avad=296077_f214c5e01 Black Ovis Link: https://www.blackovis.com/?avad=296077_b2167fab1 East2West Hunts: https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Deer hunting changes quickly, and the hunting products available are one of the main sources of that change. Through time our ancestors went from using spears, slings, atlatls, eventually progressed to bows and arrows, and finally firearms- and that's only the weapon component to hunting. Clothing, trail cameras, footwear, optics and so many other important tools used by hunters have greatly changed, and that's what this interview is all about, taking the next step in becoming a more effective hunter. Bill Thompson, the founder of Spartan Forge, has combined his experience as a bow hunter with the skill and knowledge he has acquired through his years of experience working within Army Intelligence, along with hundreds of years of radio collar deer movement data, and created an incredibly powerful phone application that serves as a tool for decoding the patterns of whitetail movement where you hunt them in your corner of the country. Check out the Spartan Forge website: https://www.spartanforge.ai/ Follow Spartan Forge on Instagram: @spartan.forge First Gen Hunter Partners Camofire Link: https://www.camofire.com/?avad=296077_f214c5e01 Black Ovis Link: https://www.blackovis.com/?avad=296077_b2167fab1 East2West Hunts: https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Idaho is probably most well known for it consistently over performing college football team that plays on blue turf, but the topic in this episode is all about their elk. Although I have spent very little time in Idaho, I have consistently heard tales of its incredibly steep terrain. Our guest Casey Byers has moved from the Midwest to Idaho and has settled into the elk hunting culture quite successfully. In this episode he talks about elk behavior, where elk can be found, specific tactics for hunting elk, and how to get one off the mountain if you are fortunate to tag one. Follow Casey and His Team on YouTube: Hooked Hunting Instagram: @hookedhunting First Gen Hunter Partners Camofire Link: https://www.camofire.com/?avad=296077_f214c5e01 Black Ovis Link: https://www.blackovis.com/?avad=296077_b2167fab1 East2West Hunts: https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

One of the most fascinating aspects of the hunting world are all of the nuanced corners where hunters specialize in pursuing unique game with their own highly effective methods that most folks have no concept of. That’s where running beagles on swampers deep in the Alabama swamps fits in. This is the kind of hunting that requires year round dedication to dog training, maintaining physical fitness, well functioning equipment, and a certain measure of toughness that most other hunts won’t demand. Tremayne Benson of Benson’s Kennel is at the very top of this community and was gracious enough to lend us his time to explain what exactly it takes to be a houndsman in swamp rabbit habitat. Follow Tremayne on Instagram: @bensonskennel Check out the Benson’s Kennel website: https://www.bensonskennel.com/ First Gen Hunter Partners Camofire Link: https://www.camofire.com/?avad=296077_f214c5e01 Black Ovis Link: https://www.blackovis.com/?avad=296077_b2167fab1 East2West Hunts: https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Sheds, Turkeys and Shrooms: the only spring hunting seasons here in the heartland. Imagine bagging all three in one day? That would be about as rare as a royal flush. But our guest Garrett “Gary” Feik has done just that, and he’s here to share his experience on how to find Morels. As unique and enjoyable as morel season is, it’s gone almost as fast as it arrives so knowing where to look is the best way to capitalize on this brief opportunity. Follow Feik on Instagram: @gfeik77 First Gen Hunter Partners Camofire Link: https://www.camofire.com/?avad=296077_f214c5e01 Black Ovis Link: https://www.blackovis.com/?avad=296077_b2167fab1 East2West Hunts: https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

We are still in the thick of turkey season and First Gen Hunter is here to help you tag a gobbler. In this episode Brandon and I talk to The Primitive Preacher himself, Mr. Jesse Gjefle of the Wisconsin portion of the Driftless Area has a unique passion for old world hunting equipment, and builds his own bows and arrows, and he also naps and forges his own points. Yeah he’s that cool. We didn’t just bring him on to talk about his skills as a craftsman though, we have him on to lend some of his turkey knowledge that has served him well through the years as an avid turkey hunter. Jesse walks us through where he sets up, what turkeys do all day, how and when to call, and his own approach to hunting Ben Franklin’s favorite birds. Follow Jesse: Facebook: Primitive Preacher YouTube: Primitive Preacher First Gen Hunter Partners Camofire Link: https://www.camofire.com/?avad=296077_f214c5e01 Black Ovis Link: https://www.blackovis.com/?avad=296077_b2167fab1 East2West Hunts: https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

The time, money and effort hunters put into filling a big game tag is hard to measure beyond the simple math that shows it ain’t cheap. Oddly enough hunters will often spare no expense on the gear, weapons, ammunition, travel and lodging in order to notch their tags, and then turn around and skimp on getting a high quality taxidermy job done on their prized game. This interview with master taxidermist Matt Welsh of Raccoon Valley Taxidermy addresses those kinds of mental breakdowns and inconsistencies along with the basics of preparing your trophy for the taxidermist, the difference between good taxidermy and average taxidermy, the one job that’s wide open for the taking within the hunting industry, and what life is like as a taxidermist, Follow Matt: Facebook & Instagram: @raccoonvalleytaxidermy Website: https://www.raccoonvalleytaxidermy.com/ TFGHP Partners: Camofire Link: https://www.camofire.com/?avad=296077_f214c5e01 East2West Hunts: https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Sheds are nearly buried again in the green new carpet of spring, morels aren't quite ready and the gobbles of a tom turkey disturb the quietness of the cool morning air... ahh it's spring in the turkey woods. And there is no one better to talk about how to fill turkey tags than Mr. Heath Rayfield of Buckventures The Woodsmen. Heath is a family man, avid hunter, and hunting guide in the Carolinas, and hunting turkeys is his bread and butter. He was kind enough to come back on the show and explain to us how he finds so much success hunting these birds- year after year. Follow Heath on Instagram & Facebook: @heathrayfield TFGHP Partner https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Spring has officially arrived and that means the end of shed season, the start of turkey season and a giant to-do list to complete before the archery deer opener this coming fall. Bow tuning, practice shooting and new accessory purchases dominate the list of “chores” that need to be addressed, but as a budding archer, putting together an effective plan for tackling the list can be tough to figure out. That’s why archery enthusiast Jeff Reid is here tell us how he gets ready during this valuable time leading up to hunting season. From competition shooting to making smart purchases Jeff walks us through a pathway to better hunting with the ol’ bow and arrow. Follow Jeff on Instagram: @jeffreid TFGHP Partners Facebook: Steele Custom Baits - 10% off first order for all First Gen Hunter Podcast listeners https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

There are a lot of critters I hope to get the chance to hunt. Of course many of them are on everyone else’s dream hunt list, but near the top is this nonnative species of deer- the sika deer. With the rutting behavior similar to a midwestern whitetail, the body size of a southwestern Coues deer, the vocals of a miniature bull elk, and the habitat preferences of waterfowl- these deer are fascinating to say the least. As small as their range is in North America, Brandon and I had to get connected with a local who knows these animals well, and Laura Upham was the perfect person to talk to. Laura is a state forester, avid outdoors person, and a first gen hunter. We talk about everything she loves to do in the outdoors and then get an education on how sika deer live, and how to hunt them. Follow on Facebook: Delmarva Tracking Hounds TFGHP Partners Facebook: Steele Custom Baits - 10% off first order for all First Gen Hunter Podcast listeners https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchases

Squirrel hunting has served as the first date for many hunters through the decades, and yet many fall away from it as they move on to bigger game like deer, elk, turkeys and waterfowl. Guest Marcus Gray is a wildlife biologist who has endured the test of time and with his own line of Mountain Feist squirrel dogs he is chasing squirrels with more passion than he had on his first ever hunt. These acrobats of the forest are well worth their weight in stew, and Marcus fills us in on how to bag a limit more often than we don’t. Marcus also takes us through the importance of conserving pollinator habitat, his dogs and a lot more. Check out Marcus’ website: http://www.graysmountainfeist.com/ Follow on Facebook: Gray’s Mountain Feist TFGHP Partners https://whiteduckoutdoors.com/ - promo code: FIRSTGEN = 10% off first purchase https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Term papers, all nighters, midnight coffee brewing, changing majors and… running a hunting YouTube channel on the side? It’s not the typical college experience, but the team members of Dorm Room Outdoors make it happen. In this episode they discuss how they balance classwork and sports with hunting, as well as a recap on their 2020 hunting seasons and what they hope the hunting world looks like in the future. Follow DRO on Instagram: @dormroomoutdoors Subscribe to DRO on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVIveRmj_treKjMsNO9aKEA TFGHP Partners https://whiteduckoutdoors.com/ - promo code: FIRSTGEN = 10% off first purchase https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

“I’ll take surprising hunting facts for $800…” Surprising as it may be, Rhode Island- The Ocean State, is a tremendous whitetail location with plenty of public hunting access, quality bucks, and incredible shed hunting opportunities. But don’t take my word for it because I’ve never been there. That’s why Ryan and Dan from Rhode Island Whitetails joined the show to fill you and me in on how to hunt deer in this beautiful whitetail state. Follow Rhode Island Whitetails on Instagram: @rhodeisland_whitetails Subscribe to their YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtX7q3LmRG0tOWDY3xlcqYg TFGHP Partners https://whiteduckoutdoors.com/ - promo code: FIRSTGEN = 10% off first purchase https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

Tagging big, mature deer on a regular basis is the culmination of a lifetime spent perfecting the finer details of hunting. Cole Young has done that. Cole gained access to a dynamite farm, custom fit the habitat to maximize its potential, got a monster whitetail on trail camera and then wrapped a tag around his antlers within two attempts at hunting him. There is so much to learn in this one, and if you are wanting to the the next step with improving your hunting success- this one is for you. https://whiteduckoutdoors.com/ - promo code: FIRSTGEN = 10% off first purchase https://www.alexgruin.com/- promo code: firstgen10 = 10% off any purchase

For many hunters small game is where they got started. Whether it was circling trees for squirrels, or stomping on brush piles for rabbits, the hunting was simple and the payoff was often a few delicious critters ready for the oven when the hunt ended. That’s exactly what this episode is about- how to hunt rabbits more effectively. Brad and Todd from Lone Oak Outdoors spend a month or two each year running behind a team of Beagles trained to sniff out speedy cottontails in Virginia. They fill us in on the dogs, the strategy and the gear needed to become a full time bunny buster. Follow: @teamloneoak on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbZG13tl8HobhdNHoUVXltg East 2 West Hunts 10% off Promotion- Enter Code firstgen10 at checkout

Shed hunting is one of the best ways to shake off the post hunting season blues and work off a few holiday pounds. Of course, in the midwest whitetail antlers are what most folks are looking for. But as you will hear in this episode, author Joe Shead, who literally wrote the book on shed hunting was kind enough to share his wealth of knowledge on how to find antlers for not only whitetails, but elk, moose, mule deer and caribou as well. Visit Joe's Website: https://goshedhunting.com/ Subscribe to Joe's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOzva_xtmYpJpuiEB3zf8Ow East 2 West Hunts 10% off Promotion- Enter Code firstgen10 at checkout

I believe one of the biggest factors that keeps hunters from expanding their experiences to other states is the mountain of questions and concerns about all of the details required for hunting far away from home. How do you bring your deer rifle, or you bow? What about the knives for field dressing? How about bringing the meat home if you are successful? These are some major questions that need to be answered before people can enjoy all the hunting opportunities that our country has to offer, and Alex Gruin is the guy to help. Follow Alex: @alexg.hunt, @east2westhunts East 2 West Hunts 10% off Promotion- Enter Code FirstGen10 at checkout

Everyone wants to belong. For many that's what hunting has provided for them. A network of like-minded, passionate individuals to swap stories, pictures and strategies with. Unfortunately, many of those networks get disrupted by jealousy, pride and harassment. The opposite of what people are looking for. But thanks to good people like Brad Luttrell and his team at GoWild, a thriving community of outdoor enthusiasts exists for all of the right reasons. Brad joins this episode of TFGHP to talk about his hunting roots, the founding of GoWild, the importance of participating in a supportive outdoor community, his favorite wild game recipes and his goals as a hunter. Download the GoWild App to join the GoWild Community Visit: timetogowild.com East 2 West Hunts 10% off Promotion- Enter Code FirstGen10 at checkout

Quail is one of the most underrated species to hunt and if your state is like mine, there are still a few more days to get out and chase after these incredible birds. The problem is a lot of hunters really don't know how to target these Bob White whistlers. Heath Rayfield of The Woodsman is a longtime upland guide who hunts quail almost daily in the Carolinas. Heath does such a a great job explaining many of the important tips and tactics needed for bagging quail that I can pretty much guarantee you will be daydreaming about your next covey rise. Follow Heath on Facebook and Instagram: @heathrayfield Follow Buchanan Shoals: https://buchananshoals.com/ East 2 West Hunts 10% off Promotion- Enter Code FirstGen10 at checkout

Unlike most good things that come to an end, the conclusion of hunting season actually leads to more good things- specifically shed antler season. Hunting for shed antlers is a fantastic way to spend time outdoors. Racking up mile upon mile in search of that ivory colored tine sticking up out of the surrounding landscape is what dreams are made of. Speaking of dreams, the start of this show is a good conversation between Kent and Brandon which includes retellings of Kent’s dreams about shed hunting. There’s a ton of great conversation, laughs, and excellent shed hunting tips in this episode so be sure to tune in!