Live Wild with Remi Warren: Episode 171 | Live Q&A from Western Hunt Expo

Release Date: February 20, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 171 of Live Wild with Remi Warren, host Remi Warren conducts a live Q&A session from the Western Hunt Expo. This episode delves into a myriad of hunting-related topics, ranging from family hunting dynamics to advanced hunting tactics. Remi engages with an audience of avid hunters, providing insightful answers backed by his extensive experience as a professional guide and hunter.

Opening Remarks and Giveaways

[00:00] Remi Warren:

"Welcome back to Live Wild Podcast, everyone. This week we're doing our live Q and A... I love doing These Q&As because it's one of the ways that I can kind of answer everybody's asking dying burning questions."

Remi kicks off the session by expressing his enthusiasm for live Q&As, emphasizing their value in addressing listeners' pressing questions. He announces several giveaways, including an elkhorn Skinner, a Montana Knife Company knife, Live Wild socks, Live Wild spices, lens cleaners, water bottles, and more. Remi highlights his passion for sharing and values the interactive nature of the expo.

1. Parenting and Introducing Children to Hunting

Question: A listener with a 2-year-old daughter seeks advice on fostering her interest in hunting without overwhelming her.

Remi's Response:

"I think outdoor stuff doesn't have to necessarily just be hunting... introducing them to other outdoor pursuits like fishing and then eating wild game can create a logical progression into hunting."

Remi shares personal anecdotes about introducing his children to the outdoors through fishing and gradually incorporating hunting. He stresses the importance of tailoring the hunting experience to the child's comfort level and ensuring that the activities remain enjoyable. Emphasizing patience and adaptability, Remi notes:

"Every day my daughter's like, can we go hunting?... It seems to be okay so far."

2. Building a Versatile Hunting Wardrobe for Variable Temperatures

Question: Advice on constructing a hunting wardrobe suitable for temperatures ranging from 90°F summer days to sub-zero winter conditions.

Remi's Response:

"It's more about adding layers rather than completely changing your kit... I use a lighter pant with thermal underneath during cooler months."

Remi recommends layering as the key strategy for adapting to varying temperatures. He discusses selecting versatile garments like first light shirts for early seasons and transitioning to wool hoodies and additional insulation layers as temperatures drop. He also advises on choosing pants that can accommodate liners, enabling flexibility:

"I'd rather have a lined pant because when I'm hiking I get hot and I'd rather be able to dump heat out."

3. Guiding Opportunities in New Zealand

Question: Considering a guiding opportunity in New Zealand, what are the pros and cons?

Remi's Response:

"It was one of the coolest experiences of my life... definitely something I would do again."

Remi reflects on his past experience guiding in New Zealand, highlighting the unique hunting opportunities and the allure of exploring a new country. He encourages taking such opportunities when available, noting the blend of guided hunts and independent hunting adventures as significant benefits.

4. Trail Cameras: Recommendations and Experiences

Question: Recommendations for trail cameras that offer phone notifications.

Remi's Response:

"I've been looking into some tacticam ones... The quality really makes a difference."

Remi discusses his evolving approach to trail cameras, moving from inexpensive models to mid-range and more reliable options like tacticam. He shares insights from field experiences, emphasizing that higher-quality cameras yield more dependable results:

"We had hundreds of pictures of pronghorn, and he had zero pictures of any animals... Quality matters."

5. Understanding Resident Deer Patterns

Question: Why are resident deer not present during the rut, and how far might they travel?

Remi's Response:

"They're probably in a seclusion pattern, more localized, spending time bedding... they'd likely move into thicker terrain."

Remi explains that resident deer often retreat to secluded areas to bed up and minimize energy expenditure during the rut. He suggests that these deer don't travel long distances but seek refuge in areas with ample cover:

"They're probably being more localized, spending more time bedding... thicker terrain, deeper pockets."

6. Tips for Cow Elk Hunting on Public Lands Adjacent to Private Property

Question: How to effectively hunt cow elk that venturing onto private land from public areas.

Remi's Response:

"Sometimes cows can be easy to call in, especially those with lost calves... understanding their patterns is crucial."

Remi advises using specific calling techniques, such as a lost calf sound, to attract cow elk. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing elk movement patterns and suggests focusing efforts on areas where cows traverse between public and private lands.

7. Transitioning to Backcountry Bow Hunting

Question: Advice for someone starting bow hunting and transitioning to backcountry hunting.

Remi's Response:

"Start with short backpacking trips in the summer... practice camping, scouting, and familiarizing yourself with the area."

Remi recommends acclimating to backcountry hunting by undertaking short, manageable trips that combine backpacking with hunting activities. This approach allows hunters to develop essential skills without the pressure of high-stakes hunting:

"It's a good way to ease into it... Scout out an area and stay overnight a couple of days."

8. Dealing with Hunter Pressure on Public Lands

Question: Strategies for managing areas with high hunter pressure on public lands.

Remi's Response:

"Assess how others are hunting... sometimes going to less trafficked areas can be more effective."

Remi discusses the balance between leveraging existing hunter pressure, which can drive elk into predictable patterns, and seeking out less pressured areas where animals might be more accessible. He underscores the importance of understanding animal behavior and adapting strategies accordingly:

"If I know an area really well... I probably hunt to the pressure."

9. Bow Setup and Sighting Preferences

Question: Details about Remi's bow setup, specifically his preference for single-pin sights with two indicators.

Remi's Response:

"I use a single pin with two indicators... keeps it simple and effective for quick adjustments."

Remi elaborates on his setup, favoring single-pin sights with additional markers to facilitate precise shooting at varying distances. He emphasizes simplicity and reliability in his equipment choice:

"I like to keep it simple... I've made some thread the needle shots."

10. Hunting with a Partner or Spouse: Tips and Golden Rules

Question: Golden rules or tips for hunting together, especially with a spouse.

Remi's Response:

"Good communication is key... establish clear expectations and strategies beforehand."

Remi highlights the significance of effective communication when hunting with a partner. He suggests pre-hunt discussions to align hunting goals and methods, reducing potential frustrations in the field:

"Getting that stuff dialed... go into it with the expectation that things go wrong and it's okay."

11. Footwear for Late-Season Hunting in Snowy Conditions

Question: Best practices for keeping boots dry and managing footwear during extended late-season hunts.

Remi's Response:

"I prefer Schnay's boots... pairing them with wool socks and toe warmers keeps my feet warm and dry."

Remi shares his preferred footwear strategy, emphasizing the importance of quality boots, moisture management, and using accessories like toe warmers to enhance comfort in cold conditions:

"Dry socks are key... having a backup pair makes a big difference."

12. Hunting in Un-Glassing Areas: Tips for Timber Hunting

Question: Strategies for hunting mule deer in areas with limited visibility and heavy timber.

Remi's Response:

"Move around a lot and focus on game trails in steep areas... use topographical features to pinpoint deer locations."

Remi advises hunters to employ active movement and trail tracking in dense timber regions. He recommends leveraging topographical knowledge to identify likely deer pathways and feeding areas:

"Finding those steep places, hiking up the middle... it's easier to pinpoint where they might be traveling."

Conclusion and Closing Remarks

As the Q&A session wraps up, Remi expresses gratitude to the attendees and listeners for their participation and support. He encourages those who couldn't attend the expo to connect via social media or the podcast's YouTube channel. Remi also promotes the Live Wild merchandise and offers special discounts through partnerships with brands like Stone Glacier.

Remi's Closing Statement:

"I really appreciate everybody and all the support that you guys have done... Until next week, I'm just going to say Live Wild. Catch you guys later."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• On Introducing Kids to Hunting:

  "Every day my daughter's like, can we go hunting?... It seems to be okay so far." — [20:45]

• On Building a Hunting Wardrobe:

  "I'd rather have a lined pant because when I'm hiking I get hot and I'd rather be able to dump heat out." — [15:30]

• On Trail Camera Quality:

  "We had hundreds of pictures of pronghorn, and he had zero pictures of any animals... Quality matters." — [35:10]

• On Communication with Hunting Partners:

  "Good communication is key... establish clear expectations and strategies beforehand." — [50:05]

• On Footwear for Cold Hunts:

  "Dry socks are key... having a backup pair makes a big difference." — [55:20]

Insights and Takeaways

• Layering Over Equipment Changes: Adapting to varying climates is more about layering clothing rather than overhauling gear.

• Quality Over Quantity: Investing in higher-quality trail cameras and boots can significantly enhance hunting effectiveness and comfort.

• Active Hunting Strategies: Moving and actively tracking, especially in dense timber, yields better results than passive waiting.

• Family Integration: Gradual and enjoyable introduction of hunting to children fosters a lasting interest without causing burnout.

• Communication is Crucial: Clear and pre-established communication strategies with hunting partners prevent misunderstandings and enhance the hunting experience.

Conclusion

Episode 171 of Live Wild with Remi Warren offers a treasure trove of hunting wisdom, blending practical tips with personal experiences. Remi's interactive approach and willingness to share detailed strategies make this episode invaluable for both novice and seasoned hunters seeking to refine their craft and deepen their connection with the wild.