Upland Nation

Exclusive industry insider edition: Not just a major retailer in the bird dog world, Steve Snell is an avid bird hunter. In our extensive interview, we go from the company's history through the transition to online retailing, then hit on some of the most-asked questions Steve gets from customers about gear and how to use it. He talks about trends in product development, why a riveted collar ID tag is crucial, get a debrief on his hunting season in several states, and some advice on hunting public land strategically. Steve walks us through a new GPS collar coming soon from Dogtra, shares tips on traveling with dogs, and offers tips on hunting the elusive blue quail, including the importance of cutting your pointing dog some slack. Steve gives us advice on hunting through a tough season of too much, or too little rain/drought/hail and smaller bird populations. Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems and Heartland Lodge, where you'll get special freebies and gifts for every booking (learn more here). [Take 10% off your next order at CableGangz.com with the promo code CG10.]

Start the year right - get your training act together! Legendary trainer, champion trialer and bird hunter George Hickox shares his wisdom on all things bird dogs. He'll re-define what motivates your hunting dog and how to take him to the next level. He'll change your thinking on a number of topics, and walk us through a better way to get a dog to be steady on pointed birds. We'll cover the benefits and how-to's of roading a dog, too. We'll go to bird dog summer camp, talk sharptail and Hun behavior, and learn, learn, learn. "Fix It" might help your dog's pads late in the season, and listeners share their thoughts on the benefits of hunting solo ... or with someone. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, CableGangz, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com. PS: This episode is also available in video form here.

Planning next season already? Got a few weeks left for this one? Here's the lowdown on hunting in the world's pheasant capital, from fellow hunter and director of the Aberdeen Convention & Visitor's Bureau, Casey Weismantel. He's an ugly dog owner and avid ringneck hunter, and nobody has more fingers on the pulse of hunting our favorite bird. We cover the season's highs and lows, some weather and habitat anomalies, and geat a few insider tips on maximizing the value of your ten-day license. Casey has advice on pheasant habits and habitat, hunting strategies for early and late season. We discuss "pheasantnomics" and the importance of local knowledge (and how to get it), and what constitutes ethical and legal "road hunting" in South Dakota. Casey has ammo recommendations, walks us through public-access and walk-in strategies, and shares his evolution from novice to seasoned hunter. "Fix It" dispels some late-season hunting myths, and listeners share their mentorship stories. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Finally, someone to help us use tie-out stakes and "chain gangs" the right way. Industry insider and avid bird hunter Brennan Landry of CableGangz Supply makes the best gear in the category (and including roading gear, training table rigs and more) and he's here to walk us through using it right. From materials and engineering to manufacturing and the right way to hammer stakes into and out of the ground. Brennan is a big believer in roading bird dogs so he'll explain why, and how, to get the most out of the miles. Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems and Heartland Lodge, where you'll get special freebies and gifts for every booking (learn more here). [Take 10% off your next order at CableGangz.com with the promo code CG10.]

Exclusive! We get the lowdown on new Purina dog foods the day they hit the shelves. Dr. RuthAnn Lobos (@petvetruthann), senior veterinarian at Purina will outline the rationale behind their new "Advantedge Plus" senior and digestive formulations, and why many of us should consider one or the other. We'll parse ingredients, specs, and the new product development process from a researcher's notion to stocking retail shelves. We'll cover why and how dogs "choose" favorite foods, when our dog actually becomes a "senior" citizen, indications of a dog's aging, and find out what ingredients go into the new formulations and why. Dr. RuthAnn talks about why we shouldn't feed prior to a hunt, how Purina "taste tests" new foods, and defines a healthy physique for a sporting dog. "Fix It" keeps your dog warm after a cold wet hunt, and listeners tell us what they're giving their dog for Christmas or Hannukah. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Why isn't he retrieving well? This time in the season, it seems like everyone is wondering what happened to their dog. From not bringing birds all the way back, dropping birds or just going hunting again, many upland dogs are just not delivering, literally, these days. Retriever Hall of Fame inductee, pro trainer, and now successfully transitioned into pointing breeds, Jim Van Engen of Right Start Kennel has answers to our pressing questions. Simply put: force fetch. He'll hit the critical points in a dog's retrieving training whether flusher or pointer, and how to teach those important steps. Of course, we'll talk all things hunting and hit some of the high points of this new phase in his training career. Listeners sound off on safety practices in the field, and "Fix It" has a suggestion when the walk-in spot looks crowded. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, CableGangz, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Most of us, most of the time, could use some help when it comes to the business end of our shotgun. Recently, a guide friend said most of his clients have no idea what choke tubes were in their shotgun. Scary! Bottom line? You'll shoot better with the right choke tubes. Scott Trulock of Trulock Chokes joins me to cover it all, from billet to "boom!" We'll get advice on materials and engineering, care and selection, patterning the right way, and how steel can turn your removable choke tube gun into a fixed-choke gun (yikes). Scott tells a little about how tubes are designed and made, and why a little old company in Wigham Georgia makes over 3,000 varieties of chokes. Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems and Heartland Lodge, where you'll get special freebies and gifts for every booking (learn more here). [Take 10% off your next order at CableGangz.com with the promo code CG10.]

Make your social posts really pop with better photos. Who better than pro photographer Brian Grossenbacher to help? You've seen his images on the cover of every outdoors magazine, and he's certainly spiffed up some of my articles. He's shot for everyone from YETI to Mossy Oak, Field & Stream to Gun Dog magazines. Whether you're shooting with your phone or a fancy SLR, we'll cover ways to tell a better story with your photos, simple tips on making each picture more engaging to the eye and the heart. Brian will show us one easy way to make your dog (and human) photos stand out, and offer alternatives to the cliche' tailgate photo even non-hunters will love. "Fix It" helps you differentiate between good Hun cover and sharptail habitat, and listeners chip in with how much water they carry and why. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Don't panic, no e-collar for you, just an argument for you getting deeper into the dog training process before, during and after you get your pup back from a pro trainer. In fact this guy says you may need more training than your four-footed partner. Talmage Smedley has suggestions on how to look - differently - at how your dog learns, then adjust your training approach accordingly. A look inward wouldn't hurt, either. Open your mind, ask yourself a few questions, and your dog might perform as well in the middle of the season as he did when you brought him home from the trainer. Listeners share their unique takes on early-season hunts, and in "Fix It" we help a listener find training birds. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Why we go ... what we're grateful for, and why. Listeners share their own thoughts, new and classic, and I'll help with a few reasons of my own. If you're looking for more reasons to go hunting, here they are. Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems and Heartland Lodge, where you'll get special freebies and gifts for every booking (learn more here). [Take 10% off your next order at CableGangz.com with the promo code CG10.]

Got a good hunting dog? Prove it by passing the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association's new Gun Dog Test. This is a practical exam in all things a journeyman hunting dog needs to master the field and water. NAVHDA Director of Testing Dan Wittman outlines the origins of this test, replacing the Utility Preparatory Test, explaining the components and why it's become so popular in its first year. We'll cover every aspect, and how it differs from other tests in the NAVHDA system, then delve into some hunting and training tips. We'll cover some warm-weather dog care tips, talk a little sharptail and desert quail, too. "Fix It" suggests a solution to what you might consider an obedience problem in the field (it's not), and listeners share their post-hunt celebrations. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, CableGangz, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

From his experience as a military K9 handler, training and showing dogs of all stripes, to authoring multiple books on the topics, Dr. Cartrell Cooper knows a lot more about how a dog thinks than we'll ever know. I caught him between seminars at Pheasant Fest to explore his unique methods and thought process on everything from motivating your dog, to how and why he reacts to everyday behaviors we exhibit and situations he'll encounter from gunfire to birds. "Fix It" offers a water-finding tip for your online mapping app, and listeners tell us where they're going on opening day. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

On a recent visit to Heartland Lodge in Illinois, I cornered the new-ish owner Tim Duoos, and communications manager Zach Jumps and peppered them with questions about the facility. From how they earned an Orvis endorsement, to maintaining great habitat, we'll get the lowdown from an insider's perspective. We also dig into how we should shop for, and what our expectations should be from, a hunting lodge. Whether you're heading for an entry-level preserve or planning for the trip-of-a-lifetime, you'll be better prepared after our talk. Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems and Heartland Lodge, where you'll get special freebies and gifts for every booking (learn more here). [Take 10% off your next order at CableGangz.com with the promo code CG10.]

Four of my friends call in with on-the-ground reports from the upper Midwest, Arizona, Utah and Oregon. What they've learned could help you as the season progresses - from habitat to hatch reports, strategies to tactics for quail, chukars, Huns, pheasants, ruffies, blues, and woodcock. "Fix It" helps your shooting ... and listeners share their "big trip" memories and photos. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

A wealth of information ... that's the only way to describe Al Gadoury, Montana pro guide and owner of 6X Outfitters in Lewistown. I've learned from Al in the field, and you'll learn from him right here. We'll cover everything you need to know about hunting late-season pheasants. From habitat changes to food sources, strategies from blockers to unloading the truck, Al has wisdom built on a foundation of thousands of miles in the field. We'll cover dog health and safety in the cold, shooting advice and more on this must-listen episode for everyone chasing upland birds. "Fix It" answers Brett's question about a dog that won't give up a retrieved bird, and listeners share their photos of beautiful places - one of the reasons we hunt. If you want to see those photos, go here. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Not that kind of high! Instead, how altering your altitude might help you take more accurate shots. This time of the season, all your faults and flaws are piling up, including keeping track of your dog and missing birds on the wing. I know a thing or two about both and will share some of the lessons I've learned that might help you get better shots and find your dog in the distance or underbrush ... no mind-altering substances allowed! And because so many asked, here again is the link (all lists are in this master list): Ultimate Upland Checklist Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems (10% off use promo code CG10) and Heartland Lodge (goodies, check-in gifts, early bird specials ... details here.)

Bob McMichael is a YouTuber, author of a new book, blogger and fanatic hunter. The "thinking man's chukar hunter," Bob brings a unique perspective to the hunt that has as much to do with the why's of hunting as the how-to. We'll jump headfirst into the rabbit holes of habitat and conservation, go beyond tailgate photos to deeper stuff, and learn where blue grouse and chukar intersect, Bob will offer a few tips on strategy and tactics for devil birds, food sources and why for him, it's not about limits. We'll philosophize a bit about the natural connections made on a hunt and get a sneak preview of his book, Chukar Culture. "Fix It" offers a dog diet suggestion that might provide a smidge more energy, and listeners sound off on their shooting prowess or lack thereof. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Author (Building a Grouse Dog), trainer, breeder, grouse guide and avid hunter, Craig Doherty is uniquely qualified to help us navigate the woods. We'll cover what we can do to help young dogs on early hunts, the right mental approach to dog behaviors, and where grouse and woodcock live during hunting season in the northeast. We'll cover food sources, cover types and what makes up a good covert. Craig will share training and shooting advice, dog handling tips and how to introduce young dogs to the woods. "Fix It" has another item for your hunting season to-do list; listeners sound off on management of their states' walk-in programs - you might find a new destination for later this season! And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bear with me. Maybe you'll learn something. Or stop doing something. Or start doing something else. Bottom line is, to get along in flyover country where most of us hunt, there are some unwritten rules, protocols, and common-sense stuff we should be aware of. Get along "out there," and good things happen. Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems and Heartland Lodge (learn more here). [Take 10% off your next order at CableGangz.com with the promo code CG10.]

From his media content on "Fresh Tracks" and "On Your Own Adventures," Randy Newman is well-known as a influential and motivational big-game hunter. But he's also an avid bird hunter and the intersection of the two passions is where we start our conversation. There's plenty of common ground, and he'll share some of the lessons that apply to the uplands as well as the deep woods. We cover new uses for your online mapping app, ways to find new public hunting ground, some tips for avoiding crowded land, and some of his must-carry gear. He also offers on-the-ground population guesstimates for sharptail season. "Fix It" argues for more open chokes and offers a range-finding tip ... listeners debate whether or not collar bells scare birds. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Trevor Walz of Western Prairie Outfitters joins me for a deep dive into prairie bird habitat and hunting strategies. From the importance of shade, to scouting new ground, this guy has some useful insights. We dabble in Mearn's quail as well, as his outfit also guides Arizona in winter. We'll cover some of the early steps you can take to help your dog's steadiness, starting with creating a more "composed" dog, and touch on some essential gear. Trevor helps us be better clients and finally, reveals the answer to the most-asked question I get: how much do you tip a pro guide? "Fix It" suggests a couple more federal alphabet-agencies that manage public ground on our behalf that most hunters neglect, and listeners sound off on why, when and how they use non-toxic shot - you may be surprised at their answers. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, CableGangz, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Sure, you know the "usual suspects" when it comes to publicly-accessible ground ... walk-in, forest service, BLM. But there are dozens of other patches of real estate managed by nameless, faceless agencies on our behalf, and many are open to hunting. I'll tell a few hunting stories that took place on some of these lesser-known parcels, and provide you with a shopping list of others you might explore. There's also a step-by-step approach to finding more. I'll also suggest some information sources you may not have thought about that may be the key to incredible public-land hunting. Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems and Heartland Lodge, where you'll get special freebies and gifts for every booking (learn more here). [Take 10% off your next order at CableGangz.com with the promo code CG10.]

What's a rooster do all day? If you know, you'll be a better hunter. So I asked Pheasants Forever's resident guru Sabin Adams to take us to school on the subject and boy did I learn a lot. From feeding to roosting to loafing, he clocks the bird's movements so you can be in the right place at the right times. Sabin talks food sources, the importance of physical relationships between food, cover, and water (!). What to do in snowy conditions, rain, what birds eat and where are all part of our wide-ranging discussion. "Fix It" covers strategic feeding of .... us. And listeners share the adrenaline rush - and more, of a pheasant flush. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

He sounds like your favorite coach, teacher or Scoutmaster ... understanding where you (or your dog) are, and where you want them to be. Charlie Jurney is a multi-champion dog trainer, hunter, and author. You've seen his byline in many dog magazines, and on his book Finished Dog. We'll roam the field and water, uplands and marshes while we talk about his connections to legends Richard Wolters and Delmar Smith, then explore his own unique "dog theory." We explore ways you can - and should- train during early-season hunts, get down-and-dirty with Charlie's ways of teaching the retrieve, steadiness, and range for flushing dogs. Charlie explains the clues dogs give us when they're "getting it," and makes clear that we're put on this earth to help dogs do well - it's just a matter of how we do it. "Fix It" has reminders on critical items for your hunting vest, and listeners chip in with their views on the hardest birds to hunt. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

In light of the incredible reaction to Sen. Lee's recent proposal to sell public lands, I'm adding fuel to the fire with information and motivation to keep you poised for the next battle. "Knowledge is power" and knowing from where the money comes and where it goes, arms us better than a 10-gauge street sweeper with a 50-round drum magazine. Until re-election time and the need for campaign contributions, those in power often forget who really holds the purse strings. So here's your opportunity to learn how - and why - hunters and shooters are the driving economic force in wildlife management and conservation. I'll outline the ways we pay more than any other group to take care of the land and the animals dwelling on it. I'll also point out the discrepancy between the loudest voices in the debate (who pay little) and our own brethren (who should be louder and prouder). All of this with one goal: giving you the ammunition to get involved - at any level - in the things that matter. Hunters and shooters have paid the price of admission; we've earned our place at the negotiating table. It's time to go out and use that power for good. Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems and Heartland Lodge. [Take 10% off your next order at CableGangz.com with the promo code CG10.) Early bird specials and goodies with your stay at Heartland Lodge. Go here.

Summer camp! Nope, not braiding lanyards and making s'mores. Out on the prairie, it's all about dogs and wild birds and Mel Leuck joins me from her camp to give us the lowdown on what really happens there. What's a day look like? Why drive so far? She'll have the answers. We also cover important training topics including steadiness on birds, keeping your dog out in front of you, and how to keep dogs cool early in the season. A vet tech too, Mel will help us pull porcupine quills the right way, and shares some emergency gear she carries in the field. [Note: Mel mentions using dry ice as a cooling agent in her trailer's dog room. Dry ice can increase harmful carbon monoxide in a closed space. She ventilates the room well, but you might consider an alternate cooling method. Thanks observant listener!] "Fix It" offers a way to get pup to come a-runnin', and from our social media we perpetuate the debate on 16 gauge shotguns ... the perfect solution to any problem? And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

The smoke has cleared and yes, we won on that proposal of Sen. Mike Lee's to sell off public lands. My guests from the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership are Michael O'Casey and Tristan Henry, and we'll look back on what happened and how, and more importantly what bird hunters can do NOW to prevent another land grab. From "all politics are local" to adopting your very own cause, we'll go deep into the weeds on policy and how critical it is that we grass roots stay engaged. We'll also get some advice on finding public access ground, and share dog notes - both guys are avid chukar hunters and versatile dog owners. "Fix It" has three points of view on caring for your dog's pads. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

If you've ever left the dog behind, forgotten your license or bought a new sleeping bag enroute to your bird camp, this Insider episode is dedicated to you. Over the years, and with help from many of you, we've compiled a comprehensive list of just about anything you'll need on a bird hunt. Here's your reminder. Here is the link (all lists are in this master list): Ultimate Upland Checklist Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems (10% off use promo code CG10) and Heartland Lodge (goodies, check-in gifts, early bird specials and hunt with me details here.)

Grouse, woodcock, training during the hunt, and a short history of Gordon Setters ... those are the topics in my conversation with Stephen Faust, pro grouse and woodcock guide, dog trainer and breeder, and avid hunter. We'll also cover a typical guide's day in the field, how we can be better guide clients, and dog training tips. We'll track a woodcock's day - where it hangs, what it eats and even how professionals like Stephen tag chicks in the spring. We'll look at habitat and habits, and dog handling for these wily birds. Then, into the grouse woods for insights into some lesser-known prime food sources, cover types, and habitat needs from opening day to winter. "Fix It" offers a useful web source for finding birds, and listeners (a lot of them) weigh in on "Do beeper collars scare birds?" You'll take something useful away from that discussion! And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Hey, some of the answers might be right ... and helpful! Listeners ask a lot of questions, and I'm tackling them all on this episode. From pad care to finding new spots to hunt, feeding your dog to finding a shooting instructor, I've dug deep to provide useful starting points - and points to ponder - for a couple dozen questions. (Have your own? Send them here for the next edition: [email protected].) "Fix It" offers another place to bed down on a road trip, and listeners tell us why they do - or don't - use an e-collar or GPS collar. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

It's the time of year when you're assembling this and searching for that, getting your gear together with an eye toward opening day and adventures to come. Here's one piece of gear that you truly shouldn't leave home without - a survival kit. It doesn't need to be big or heavy - this one weighs just over a pound - but its contents could save your life or minimize the inconveniences that come your way. From staying warm and dry to finding your way back to camp, I've got suggestions on what to bring and why. Some is high tech and others old-school, but all are critical if you want to "live to tell about it." Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems and Heartland Lodge, where I'll be doing a residency this fall (learn more here). [Take 10% off your next order at CableGangz.com with the promo code CG10.]

Pro cocker spaniel trainer Gene Barnhardt joins me to cover all things flushing ... and more! You've seen Gene handling dogs on Wingshooting USA TV, and now we'll hear his insights into spaniels from retrieving to range, quartering to water work. Gene is also a breeder so expect insights on how to find the best pup, too. We'll talk teaching steadiness, how to hunt with flushers, mistakes we make when training a flushing dog, and how a "place board" is the ultimate retrieving tool. Gene also offers a couple unique observations on what to do - and not do - when your dog brings a bird back to you ... "Fix It" covers a few useful data sources for planning your road trips, and listeners tell us if they're swapping shotguns this season and why. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

It's easy, and ultimately helps preserve the habitat and our legacy. But it's up to all of us to find and recruit the next generation of bird hunters. We'll learn how with two of the best in the business: Ashley Chance is Hunting Heritage Programs Manager for Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever; Justin Morrisey oversees the National Shooting Sports Foundation's +One program. We'll cover the existential need for funding via hunters' and shooters' spending, then talk theory and practice from identifying potential recruits to resources available to us and them for getting involved in our sport. "Fix It" is about not thinking when shooting - it's too late! And listeners sound off on their command words and why they use them - especially some of the more common ones. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Here it is ... the ultimate shopping list for new puppy owners. Not just the standard stuff, but those other things you will find helpful. In addition to the things, I'll offer some uses you may not have thought about. Plus, some homemade and re-purposed stuff, freebies and cheap versions, bird substitutes from the toybox and pantry. Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems. [Take 10% off your next order at CableGangz.com with the promo code CG10.)

BE A BETTER SHOOTER with these insights from NSCA Level 3 instructor and bird hunter Dave Fiedler. My friend Dave has a different take on becoming a better shooter ... simplify, shed a bad habit (or maybe two), and soon you'll be yelling "Fetch!" Dave will take us through a lesson just as he teaches at Mid Valley Clays & Shooting School with an emphasis on hunting, not target shooting. You can take his tips into the garage and the range, then the field, from practice to practical. In the second half, we cover gun fit for us regular folk who aren't buying a bespoke English shotgun ... simple things we can do to ensure our eye, cheek and shoulder are working together. Then we fix some of the common in-field goofs we make with our feet-eyes-hands-shoulder-gun. "Fix It" squares away your mobile mapping app; and listeners share their horror stories when I requested their worst Friday the 13th bad luck. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

In this deep-dive bonus edition, I'll take you to one of my favorite hunting spots. It was the day of the annular eclipse, where the moon completely obscures the sun, leaving a ring of fire around a black orb. Did that celestial event impact our hunt? You decide. Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems (10% off use promo code CG10) and Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School.

Let's all go back to e-collar school with Pete Fisher. A consultant to Dogtra, the collar company, he's also an award-winning pro trainer and avid hunter. He gives a tutorial on all the critical uses from steadiness to retrieving, covers introducing a collar to young dogs, and reminds us that timing really is everything. We'll learn when and when not to use a remote training collar, other uses and capabilities he's built a career on, and transitioning from yard to field. "Fix It" offers a more realistic way to practice your field shooting at the range, and everyone has a chance to sound off on pet peeves, in our social-media segment. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

We climb the hills and get dirty in this interview with YouTube personality Eric Forrester. Trainer, breeder, avid bird hunter, road warrior, we'll get advice on all of that, and more. From what motivates him, to his training philosophy, we've got insights. You'll also learn about his minimalist bird camp, surprises he's found in the field, the joys of hunting a brace of wires, travel tips and more. "Fix It" suggests a training tool, and we look at why so many of you don't train with a group. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, @midwayusa, #midwayusa, MidwayUSA, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

It's not the Dakotas ... but if you're desperate and have a few hours or days, there may be a ringneck in your future in some of these western U.S. public-access locales. At the 30,000 foot level, I'll give you starting points in all the western states that harbor ringnecks. Whether you find any is up to you and your dog! Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems and the gun room at Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School. [Take 10% off your next order at CableGangz.com with the promo code CG10.)

Just like a chukar hunt ... long and covering a lot of ground. That's today's interview with avid devil-bird chaser and pro dog trainer Jeff Funke of Three Devils Kennel. We'll take a deep dive into a wide variety of topics from breeding German Wirehaired Pointers, to the Versatile Hunting Dog Federation's testing program, to the reasons conformation is critical in a hunting situation. We'll cover chukar hunting scenarios from dropping the tailgate to where birds hang out, their food sources to behavior under pressure. Jeff shares some of the most common dog training and chukar hunting mistakes he sees, key habitat and terrain features he looks for on a hunt, surprising finds while in pursuit of chukars, and critical gear he takes on every hunt. "Fix It" suggests we train our dog to drink differently; and listeners offer their shooting tips. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

You'll need a moment after all the wisdom coming from this Pheasant Fest interview. First, Ronnie and Susanna Smith on puppy development, behavioral tips and tricks to maximize performance for your bird dog. Then, Tom Dokken explains control, solves your training problems and discusses praise in all its dimensions. "Fix It" helps keep your dog's boredom at bay, and listeners tell us what they're changing among their gear. It's your last chance to win a four-pack of Pointer shotguns or HiViz sight in our furfeathersfriends.com sweepstakes, but only if you listen and know the Word of the Week. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Because I need all the help I can get, I've studied shotgun shooting with some of the best. Their wisdom is best consumed in a lesson with them, but until then I've distilled it into a series of check lists - a flow chart - with basic steps you can take to connect on more shots. Somewhere in these dozens of suggestions may be one that puts another bird in the bag for you this coming season. Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems and Pointer Shotguns' FurFeathersFriends sweepstakes - win a four-pack of shotguns. [Take 10% off your next order at CableGangz.com with the promo code CG10.)

From Reno, Nevada to Kansas City, we venture into the minds of two industry leaders: Brent Pike, founder of Pyke Gear, and Andy McCormick, president of Legacy Sports and Pointer Shotguns. We'll learn why and how Pyke Gear is designed and what's coming in the future. McCormick will give us a tour of the new FT12 semi-auto shotgun and relate some hunting stories as well as gun care tips. Listeners offer hunting tips and tactics and "Fix It" suggests limiting your shots for more success. You get a chance to win a four-pack of Pointer shotguns or HiViz sight in our furfeathersfriends.com sweepstakes, but only if you listen and know the Word of the Week. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Yep, a two-fer! A bird-hunting power couple if you ever saw one, president Marilyn provides insights and news from Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever, conservation advice and some hunting tips. Clyde, probably the winningest NAVHDA trainer, offers advice on everything from picking a pup to steadiness training and everything in between. He shares hunting tactics too. "Fix It" has some surrogates for live birds when training steadiness; listeners offer their single-sentence advice for new (and seasoned) dog trainers. You get a chance to win a four-pack of Pointer shotguns and a HivViz sight in our furfeathersfriends.com sweepstakes, but only if you listen and know the Word of the Week. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, @midwayusa, #midwayusa, MidwayUSA, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Come along on a journey, with input from many listeners and readers, on the lessons we've learned. Sometimes later than sooner, but all apply this coming season. We'll also touch on a few practical aspects you'll want to consider, lessons learned the hard way so you don't have to. Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems (10% off use promo code CG10) and Sage & Braker.

"High intensity" is how author and passionate chukar hunter describes his chosen sport. He should know, he's been doing it long enough to acquire a unique perspective and plenty of wisdom which he shares with us all. He's the author of A Chukar Hunter's Companion, the definitive book on the topic, and roams the high desert all season in search of, well, listen for yourself if you're in need of motivation or inspiration. We'll explore his past season, the reasons for strong bird populations, and his "Laws of Chukar Physics," rules to live - and hunt - by. We'll talk best habitat, strategy for handling dogs and birds, and where snow fits into the equation. Pat offers how-to tips and tactics on dog care and training, what birds do on the flush, and more. "Fix It" covers an old-school data source for wild bird hunters in search of more access; and listeners have a spirited debate on the merits and downsides of "force training" a dog to retrieve ... with some fascinating viewpoints that could change your mind. You get a chance to win a HiViz sight or four-pack of Pointer shotguns in our furfeathersfriends.com sweepstakes, but only if you listen and know the Word of the Week. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, @midwayusa, #midwayusa, MidwayUSA, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

My friend Eric Thompson moved to Montana for one thing: bird hunting. We benefit from his experiences since, with advice on finding new places to hunt, and a few strategies and tactics for the field. We learn about the highs and lows of owning - and losing - dogs, and how to help newcomers explore our sport. We'll debrief Eric's past season in multiple states, with some highlights and a few stories. "Fix It" has an unusual source of new hunting spots, and readers thank their bird-hunting and dog-training mentors. You get a chance to win a four-pack of Pointer shotguns or HiViz sight and a range bag from Sage & Braker (value over $200 total) in our furfeathersfriends.com sweepstakes, but only if you listen and know the Word of the Week. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

"It ain't over 'til it's over" ... so said baseball player-philosopher Yogi Berra. It's true in bird hunting, too. Once your dog stands a bird, there are a lot of things you can do right - or wrong - to conclude the transaction successfully with a bird on the ground. It's what you want, but just as important, it's what your dog wants, isn't it? I'll cover five places in the hunt (okay, one is before the hunt) when doing something differently - better - ups your odds. From hardware, to human software, handling to shooting, these lessons I learned the hard way may help you. Insider editions are brought to you by CableGangz tie-out systems and Purina Pro Plan Sport dog food. [Take 10% off your next order at CableGangz.com with the promo code CG10.)

The talented team of Tom and Tina Dokken is well-known for dog training expertise and the iconic Dead Fowl Trainer, but Tina has an additional calling: bringing more women into bird hunting. She offers advice on everything from how women learn differently than men, and what we can do as spouses or partners to motivate and educate newcomers. We'll get tips and tactics on everything from dog training to shooting, some resources for new hunters, along with insights on what NOT to do when helping a newcomer. "Fix It" suggests using stealth to become better shooters, and listeners offer one-sentence's-worth of advice to new dog trainers. You get a chance to win a four-pack of Pointer shotguns, or a HiViz sight and Sage & Braker range bag, valued at over $200 total in our furfeathersfriends.com sweepstakes, but only if you listen and know the Word of the Week. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer Shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Ruth Weiss is a senior judge in the NAVHDA testing system as well as an active handler with 74 dogs tested including two versatile champions. She's seen it all and will share her insights on everything from steadiness to retrieving (advice for all levels), introducing a pup to water, and how and when to use praise. She's also an avid bird hunter and offers insights on handling a dog in the field as well as a peek into the world of Mearns quail. Her upbeat attitude is contagious and springs from a love of dogs and how they think. "Fix It" suggests one time when praise is the wrong thing to provide, and listeners chip in with the bird species they hunted most last season. You get a chance to win a free day of private land hunting from LandTrust.com, value $150 in our furfeathersfriends.com sweepstakes, but only if you listen and know the Word of the Week. And it's all brought to you by: HiVizSights.com, RuffLand Kennels, @midwayusa, #midwayusa, MidwayUSA, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, Pointer shotguns, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.