Podcast Summary: Live Wild with Remi Warren - Ep. 169 | Up in Smoke
Release Date: February 6, 2025
Introduction
In Episode 169 of Live Wild with Remi Warren, host Remi delves into his recent Utah muzzleloader deer hunt, aptly titled "Up in Smoke." This episode not only recounts the challenges and unexpected turns of the hunt but also provides valuable hunting strategies and insights for both novice and seasoned hunters.
The Utah Muzzleloader Deer Hunt
Preparing for the Hunt
Remi begins by emphasizing the complexity and allure of mule deer hunting, describing it as "the ultimate game of hunting chess." He underscores the difficulty of targeting a big, mature mule deer buck, particularly with a bow or muzzleloader. For this hunt, Remi secured a late muzzleloader tag in Utah, a region known for its elusive and high-quality bucks.
"A big mature mule deer in my opinion is the hardest animal in North America to take." [05:30]
To maximize his chances, Remi assembled a team of eight friends, leveraging the concept of a time multiplier—where each additional hunter effectively multiplies the search effort. This collaborative approach was intended to cover more ground and increase the likelihood of locating a prime buck within the limited hunting window.
Execution: Spreading Out and Initial Challenges
The hunt commenced with the team dispersing into various groups to cover different areas. The initial days were met with limited success, as they primarily encountered young bucks and does rather than the mature bucks they sought.
"We realized we were turning up a lot of deer, tons of does and very young bucks... nothing I would say not even medium bucks." [15:45]
Despite extensive coverage, the team struggled to locate the desired mature bucks. Weather conditions further complicated their efforts, with unseasonably warm temperatures and strong winds hindering effective glassing and deer movement.
The Turning Point: Focusing on a Hot Tip
Mid-season, the team received a promising tip about a significant buck that had moved into a specific area. Remi decided to concentrate their efforts on this lead, hoping to secure a successful shot.
"It's props to a friend who said there was a big buck moving into this area—we decided to converge and see if we could turn up this big buck." [27:10]
However, after diligently tracking and glassing the area for several days, the elusive buck remained unfound, and the team continued to encounter only smaller, less impressive deer.
The Final Day: A Near Miss
As the hunt neared its end, conditions worsened with icy mornings and persistent winds. On the last day, Remi and his filming partner, Zach, detected signs of a promising buck. They meticulously stalked and positioned themselves for a final attempt.
"I'm lined up. He stops. I've got this one little opportunity. I shoot." [92:15]
Remi took a shot that appeared to strike the buck, but Zach later reviewed the footage and concluded that the shot was likely too low, causing the buck to escape unharmed. This heartbreaking moment underscored the unpredictable nature of hunting and the fine margins between success and failure.
"I think he's like, super tall. Not great back forks, but on one side, he's got this extra point in his back fork... I missed the shot and buckets away." [95:40]
Lessons Learned and Hunting Tips
Despite the disappointment of not filling the tag, Remi shares several key takeaways from the hunt:
1. Importance of Research and E-Scouting
Thorough research and e-scouting are fundamental to a successful hunt. Remi advocates for utilizing tools like the Onyx Hunt app to gather information on deer behavior, harvest statistics, and optimal hunting spots.
"The pre-season stuff, so much goes into it that allows for that success later." [102:55]
2. Strategic Planning and Execution
Remi outlines a six-step approach to organizing and executing a hunt:
- Research: Gather information from online resources, hunting forums, and local contacts.
- E-Scout: Use mapping tools to identify potential hunting areas, water sources, bedding spots, and access points.
- Pin Plan: Mark key locations with color-coded pins for easy reference.
- Execute: Implement the hunting strategy, whether spreading out in teams or focusing on specific areas.
- Adapt: Be prepared to adjust the plan based on real-time observations and developments.
- Get Out: Efficiently cover the hunting area and maximize field time.
"These are the ways that I utilize to find that consistent success." [128:30]
3. Leveraging Technology
Modern tools like the Onyx Hunt app revolutionize hunting by providing detailed maps, tracking capabilities, and strategic planning features. Remi emphasizes the necessity of integrating such technology to enhance hunting efficiency and success rates.
"It's probably the most beneficial tool hunters have now and definitely game changer." [136:20]
4. Team Coordination and Communication
Effective communication among team members is crucial. Remi highlights the importance of sharing information through shared maps, real-time updates, and coordinated efforts to cover more ground.
"Sharing those pins in the field and, like, work that plan and execute it, it all went right." [142:10]
5. Flexibility and Adaptability
Hunting often involves unforeseen circumstances. Remi advises hunters to remain flexible and ready to pivot their strategies when plans don't unfold as expected.
"Sometimes that's hunting... anything can go wrong." [150:00]
Conclusion
Remi concludes the episode by reiterating the significance of meticulous planning, research, and adaptability in hunting. He encourages listeners to invest time in pre-season preparation to increase their chances of a successful hunt.
"The odds are in your favor for that... putting in some time, doing some research, e-scouting, you know, dropping those pins and having a plan in place." [165:45]
Additionally, Remi promotes the Onyx Hunt app, offering listeners a discount code to enhance their hunting preparations. He also mentions upcoming appearances at hunting expos, where he will engage with the community and share further insights.
"Don't let your hunt go up in smoke." [170:10]
Key Takeaways
- Thorough Preparation: Invest significant time in researching and e-scouting hunting areas.
- Strategic Teamwork: Utilize a group to multiply search efforts and share valuable intel.
- Embrace Technology: Leverage modern hunting tools like mapping apps for better planning and execution.
- Stay Adaptable: Be ready to alter strategies based on real-time conditions and observations.
- Continuous Learning: Reflect on each hunting experience to refine tactics and improve future outcomes.
This episode serves as both an engaging storytelling session and a practical guide, offering listeners a blend of Remi's personal hunting experiences and actionable strategies to enhance their own pursuits in the wild.