Podcast
Nine Finger Chronicles - Deer Hunting Podcast
Hosted by Dan Johnson, Sportsmen's Empire · EN
Going strong for over a decade with real relatable podcasts, The Nine Finger Chronicles covers in-depth hunting strategy, individual hunter profiles, hunting success stories, and current events surrounding hunting rules, regulations and conservation practices. Host Dan Johnson is a passionate sportsman whose year revolves around the outdoors, his crazy family, and his overall love for Mother Nature. This podcast is brought to you by the Sportsmen's Empire Podcast Network.
12episodes
Episodes
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Bonus Episode: Have You Best Season Yet
4d ago00:28:23Tap to summarizeMost hunters are their own worst enemy—overthinking, pressure, and unrealistic expectations can turn a fun hobby into stress. What if you could have your best season yet by simply shifting your mindset and approach?In this episode, Dan Johnson shares practical, no-nonsense strategies to make hunting more enjoyable and successful. From redefining your goals for better focus to recognizing and adjusting your mistakes, you'll discover how small mindset shifts can have a massive impact on your results. Dan breaks down how early and calm entrance times, setting realistic expectations, and finding a hunting buddy can transform your experience. Instead of chasing perfection, he emphasizes embracing the moment, having fun, and respecting the process.You'll explore:Why fun should be your top priority and how to keep hunting enjoyable regardless of outcomesConcrete tactics for setting achievable goals—like filling the freezer early or targeting specific deer behaviorsThe importance of acknowledging mistakes and making proactive adjustments, such as moving stands or refining scent controlWhy hunting early and patiently waiting for the right moment can boost successThe value of camaraderie—finding a hunting buddy to keep motivation high and share the ups and downsHunting isn't just about killing game—it's a journey of patience, learning, and connection with nature. Missing out on this perspective risks turning your passion into frustration.Perfect for hunters of all experience levels, especially those seeking to rediscover the fun and fulfillment in the sport. If you want to hunt smarter, be more relaxed, and enjoy every moment afield, this episode is your blueprint. Tune in, rethink your approach, and get ready for your best season yet.Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/chronicles and enter NFC25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter NFC to have your service fees removed.Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code NFC25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/chroniclesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →2026 Listener Challenge: Thermals, Learning Your Property, & Getting Random
6d ago00:38:56Tap to summarizeMost hunters overlook the power of small changes that could unlock a giant buck—and in this episode, Dan Johnson reveals the simple yet game-changing tactics to transform your hunting season.Imagine flipping your entire approach—trying a completely new stand location, hunting on days you never would, or even setting up in spots you’ve dismissed as dead zones. Dan shares eye-opening stories from his own experiences, like finding mature bucks where you’d least expect and how understanding thermals and deer movement can make all the difference. Without giving away all his secrets, he offers practical, step-by-step challenges: take notes on thermal behavior, set up a stand in an unexpected spot, or hunt in conditions you usually avoid. These small but deliberate shifts can radically improve your success—and rekindle your passion for hunting.You’ll discover: how to use terrain and weather patterns, especially thermals, to outsmart deer; why hunting “dead areas” can sometimes lead to giant finds; and how to challenge your habits for better results. Dan also dives into innovative tactics like scent control with ozone technology, gear choices, and even a bold step toward a traditional bow hunt that might scare you... but could unlock a whole new level of skill and satisfaction.Why does this matter? Because many hunters get stuck in routines that limit their opportunities. The truth is, adjusting your mindset and experimenting with your approach can lead to more encounters, more meat in the freezer, and a renewed sense of adventure in the woods. You don’t need perfect conditions or endless time—just a willingness to try something different and observe the results.If you're serious about making this season your best yet, this episode is packed with simple challenges and fresh perspectives that will reset your approach and ignite your curiosity. Whether you hunt ten acres or a thousand, these insights will have you thinking differently before the leaves even start to turn.Get ready to reframe your hunting strategy, push your limits, and discover the hunter within you you never knew existed. Perfect for anyone looking to add excitement and success to their season—listen now and start making smarter, bolder moves in the woods.Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/chronicles and enter NFC25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter NFC to have your service fees removed.Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code NFC25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/chroniclesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Bonus Episode: Intensive Care Nurse Goes Elk Hunting
2w ago01:17:22Tap to summarizeMost nurses spend their careers avoiding the emotional toll of death — but Aaron Hepler has a different perspective. After 17 years in intensive care, he’s witnessed the unfiltered reality of tragedy, miracles, and faith, revealing stories that will challenge your understanding of life and death.In this gripping episode of the Hunting Gear Podcast, Aaron shares raw, behind-the-scenes insights from the hospital that will change how you view resilience, faith, and the human spirit. From the chaos of family conflicts in ICU to the quiet moments that feel like miracles, his stories expose the true cost — and beauty — of caring for others on their final journey. You’ll discover why some moments feel like miracles and how faith is often what keeps caregivers grounded in the darkest times. We break down:The emotional chaos families face in critical moments and the delicate art of handling conflict in the ICUWhat it’s really like to be present at the end of life, and the stories that stay with Aaron — including his close calls and profound reflections on faith and coincidencePractical lessons from the hospital that apply directly to outdoor adventures, like assessing risks and preparing for the unexpectedHow the trauma and heartbreak of nursing reveal powerful lessons about acceptance, gratitude, and the fleeting beauty of lifeThe surprising ways in which faith resurfaces in moments of crisis, even for those who’ve long questioned itThis isn’t just a conversation about medicine — it’s a profound exploration of what it means to face mortality and find hope amidst chaos. If you hunt, you know the importance of respecting nature’s power — this episode is a similar lesson about respecting life’s fragile balance.Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and anyone interested in the human condition, Aaron’s stories will deepen your appreciation for the moments that matter most — and how faith can provide strength where science cannot.Aaron Hepler is a registered nurse in intensive care, with nearly two decades of experience, known for his candid stories of survival, loss, and moments of grace that make every day meaningful. His unique perspective offers a rare window into the unseen battles of caregivers and the miracles they witness.This episode challenges you to look beyond the hunt and consider the true meaning of resilience, faith, and acceptance in life’s fiercest moments. Get ready to be inspired, moved, and reminded of the extraordinary stories hidden in everyday tragedy.Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code NFC25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/chroniclesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Crop Rotation, Bad Neighbors, & A Big Buck Stories
2w ago01:05:54Tap to summarizeMost hunters underestimate the true impact coons and overpopulation have on their food plots and cornfields — until they see 90% of their crop vanish in a season. Jesse shares how raccoon populations in Iowa reach staggering levels—sometimes exceeding one raccoon per acre—and how this overpopulation can devastate food sources crucial for big deer. He reveals the simple but often overlooked strategies to manage coon damage, emphasizing that trapping alone isn't enough unless all neighbors join the effort.You'll discover how wildlife biologists label raccoons as North America’s most overpopulated animal—and why just killing a handful won't change the game if your neighbors aren’t involved. Jesse breaks down real-world tactics: running targeted traps during season to avoid hunting disruption, the importance of neighborhood cooperation, and why some of the most effective control involves a community-wide approach. He discusses the importance of management—like eliminating raccoons and predators—and how habitat choices, such as crop rotation, influence deer movement and food availability.We also delve into the emotional side of deer hunting—navigating conflicts with neighbors over mature bucks and managing expectations for big antlered deer. If you're tired of lost crops, frustrated with neighbor disputes, or eager to understand how to boost your chances at harvesting mature deer, this episode is a must-listen. Jesse's expert insights can help you turn the tables on overpopulated wildlife and get back to quality hunting and land stewardship.Perfect for landowners, hunters, and anyone fighting raccoon damage, or interested in smarter wildlife management. Don't let your hard work go to nuisance animals—learn the community-minded, proven strategies to keep your land healthy and your buck herd growing. Whether you're managing a small food plot or a sprawling farm, these insights might just save your season.Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/chronicles and enter NFC25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter NFC to have your service fees removed.Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code NFC25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/chroniclesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Summer B.S. Session w/ Antler Up
3w ago01:09:06Tap to summarizeMost hunters can’t handle life’s curveballs—until they learn the secret weapon for staying calm, leading your family through hardship, and hunting bigger deer than ever before.In this candid episode, Dan Johnson and Jeremy cap off a year of resilience, sharing raw stories about managing life's unexpected setbacks—from knee surgeries and emotional storms to chasing 200-inch bucks in a chaotic world. Discover how building mental toughness, setting expectations, and practicing patience can transform not just your season but your entire outlook on life and hunting.You'll learn:The importance of high-pressure moments in shaping resilience, both in hunting and in life, with frameworks like Dan's "high-pressure mastery" approach.How maintaining composure during storms—literal and figurative—can help you lead your family and succeed in the field.Practical tactics for dealing with setbacks, from broken equipment to knee surgeries, that turn obstacles into opportunities for growth.The role of mental preparedness, from controlling emotions in critical moments to developing confidence in shooting and property selection.Why setting expectations and clear communication with your loved ones can create a smoother hunt, a calmer home, and a more joyful pursuit of those dream bucks.Whether you’re navigating family chaos, facing your own physical challenges, or simply striving to put consistent tags on the wall, this episode delivers proven mindset shifts and real-world strategies. Perfect for hunters itching to handle life's chaos with resilience or dads aiming to raise confident, unshakable kids.Jeremy is a seasoned deer hunter, coach, and mental toughener, known for his insights on high-pressure situations and guiding hunters to realize their full mental and physical potential.Step into the full spectrum of resilience—ready to tackle your season and life’s curveballs with confidence. Hit play now, and start transforming stress into your greatest strength.Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/chronicles and enter NFC25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter NFC to have your service fees removed.Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code NFC25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/chroniclesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →How Trail Cameras Transformed Our Deer Hunting Strategy
3w ago01:13:58Tap to summarizeMost hunters underestimate the power of trail camera strategies—Nate Krick shares how the right spots and timing can make or break your season. Whether you’re chasing giants on private land or trying to crack the code on public land, understanding the nuances of camera placement, water sources, and terrain can give you a decisive advantage. This episode is packed with practical tips and real stories about how long-term camera investment leads to big buck success.You'll discover:The secret to consistent deer movement patterns along creek banks, timber edges, and transition zones that are often overlookedWhy placing cameras over water isn't just bait but a reliable way to inventory your target bucks year-roundHow terrain features like creases, hills, and cover influence deer behavior and how to leverage this in your scoutingThe benefits of long-term camera setups, especially on private land, and how they help eliminate guesswork in a short time frameSimple tweaks like mock scrapes and scent-control tactics that can significantly boost your trail camera results and deer sightingsIn a world where perfect land access is rare, strategic camera placement and timing are your most valuable tools. Missing out on this knowledge means hunting blind in unfamiliar terrain, wasting time, and passing up opportunities. This episode is essential listening for serious hunters looking to elevate their season with smarter scouting and smarter technology. Guest Nate Krick is an experienced hunter and property manager who’s hunted across multiple states, leveraging trail cameras to find match-winning bucks. His insights about long-term planning, terrain tricks, and water source use will transform the way you approach your land and your season. Perfect for:Deer hunters aiming to maximize remote and private land scoutingSportsmen tired of wasting time on fruitless cell cams and looking for proven tacticsAnyone preparing for the fall or wanting to understand how to read deer movement through terrain and water sourcesTune in and unlock how a few simple camera tweaks can deliver a season-changing edge. Hit play now—your next giant is just a camera away.Character count: 1,974/4,000Why this works: The opening hooks the listener instantly by hinting at a secret to significant hunting success, creating urgency and curiosity. The body emphasizes specific, actionable insights about terrain, water sources, and long-term camera strategies that appeal directly to hunters seeking measurable results. The conclusion reinforces the value and prompts immediate engagement, making this an episode listeners will want to hear from start to finish.Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/chronicles and enter NFC25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter NFC to have your service fees removed.Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code NFC25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/chroniclesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Is Knocking For Hunting Permission Dead?
4w ago01:15:53Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Dan and Doug dive into the nuanced art of obtaining hunting permissions, the evolution of land access strategies, and how relationships, persistence, and good neighborliness can open doors—sometimes even in tough markets. They explore real-world stories, tactics for approaching landowners, and tips for staying respectful and effective in today's environment.Key topics:The importance of persistence and relationship-building in securing permissionStrategies for approaching landowners and what to say (including helping out on farms)How changing landowner attitudes impact access and the rise of lease agreementsThe role of social media and community groups in finding permissionTips for making a good impression: appearance, helpfulness, and follow-upThe significance of being respectful on the land and maintaining communicationHow to handle rejection and re-approach in subsequent yearsTips for hunting farms with multiple hunters and respecting existing permissionsThe growing popularity of archery hunting as an entry pointThe importance of helping neighbors and offering small gifts or servicesThe impact of the younger generation and out-of-state hunters on permission dynamicsUsing satellite and land sale websites to identify quality propertiesHow to build trust over time, like offering venison or fixing fencesThe advantages of hunting overlooked, less attractive propertiesCheck out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/chronicles and enter NFC25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter NFC to have your service fees removed.Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code NFC25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/chroniclesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Hunters For The Hungry: Tom Waters
4w ago00:38:23Tap to summarizeHunter, conservation, and community collide in this eye-opening conversation about Kentucky’s innovative venison donation program. Discover how hunters are not only filling their freezers but also transforming lives—turning surplus deer into hundreds of thousands of meals for food-insecure families. If you’ve ever wondered how your next hunt could do more than just fill the freezer, this episode reveals the inspiring details behind one of the most impactful wildlife programs in the country.Tom Waters, a seasoned hunter and volunteer with Kentucky Hunters for the Hungry, shares why more hunters need to donate their extra deer—and how simple steps like field dressing and dropping off at a participating processor can generate thousands of meals with zero cost to the hunter. You’ll learn how this grassroots effort has donated over 7 million meals since 2000, helping families battling food insecurity, seniors choosing between medicine and meals, and children receiving nutritious snacks. Tom dives into the logistics, federal regulations, and critical partnerships with wildlife agencies that make it all possible.We break down the key obstacles facing expansion—including declining hunter participation, the importance of educating the public about the good hunting does, and how hunters can play a role in community health and conservation. You'll discover specific strategies to encourage more donations, leverage hunting seasons, and build awareness through social media and outdoor events. Plus, hear how the program navigates USDA rules, state regulations, and the challenges of managing excess supply, ensuring quality meat reaches those in need safely and efficiently.This episode is perfect for hunters eager to give back, conservationists looking for scalable models, and anyone interested in the broader impact of hunting beyond the sport. Whether you’re in Iowa, Kentucky, or anywhere with deer hunting, the actionable insights shared here will inspire you to see your next deer in a whole new light—one that benefits society and strengthens the hunting community.Join us as we explore the powerful role of hunters as providers and community heroes. Every deer donated isn’t just meat—it’s a lifeline. Tune in to learn how small actions create monumental change and how you can be part of this impactful movement.Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/chronicles and enter NFC25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter NFC to have your service fees removed.Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code NFC25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/chroniclesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Hunting Swamp Bucks
Jun 2600:55:28Tap to summarizeMost hunters rely heavily on high-tech gear, but what if the secret to trophy deer lies in the raw, relentless effort of navigating the wildest, most unforgiving terrains? In this episode, seasoned Wisconsin hunter Aaron Berg pulls back the curtain on hunting in the swampy, waterlogged corners where few dare to go—and what it truly takes to succeed there.Aaron shares jaw-dropping stories of paddling miles into secluded marshes by canoe, battling water, wind, and rugged terrain—all in pursuit of the biggest bucks. Discover how he hunts those impenetrable cattail marshes, sneaks into secret bedding areas, and uses water-based access to outsmart pressured deer. We break down the strategies behind stalking near private fields, the surprising role of deer swimming across rivers daily, and how old-school perseverance often beats the latest tech.You'll uncover:The art of hunting from a canoe in Wisconsin’s toughest swamp environmentsWhy some of the most elusive deer are swimming across rivers every day—and how to target themThe importance of water currents and predictability in deer movementHow to adapt your hunt to water level changes and avoid the crowdsThe mental grit needed to drag a deer through a swamp for hours—stories that test the limits of endurance and patienceThis episode is perfect for hunters craving a gritty, outdoor adventure and those tired of relying solely on trail cams and food plots. Aaron’s stories highlight the unmatched satisfaction of chasing giant bucks through the most demanding landscapes—reminding us that sometimes, hard work and determination are the true keys to success.Aaron Berg is a veteran hunter from southeast Wisconsin, known for his expert water access hunting and relentless pursuit of mature deer in the swamp. His deep knowledge of Wisconsin’s wetlands and deer behavior offers invaluable insights for anyone looking to level up their hunting game.Get ready to be inspired: this isn’t about the easiest path, but the most rewarding one. Hit play to learn how to hunt smarter and tougher, and maybe even achieve that elusive, monster buck from the most extreme environments.Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/chronicles and enter NFC25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter NFC to have your service fees removed.Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code NFC25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/chroniclesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →Brain Injuries | Rules & Regulations
Jun 2401:14:13Tap to summarizeMost hunting regulations are about numbers — but what if the future of Michigan's deer herd depends on understanding the stories behind the stats? In this eye-opening episode, Dan Johnson sits down with Michigan hunter and outspoken advocate for change, Brian Meyring, to explore the wild side of deer management, personal stories, and the real impact of regulation shifts. From childhood adventures to high-stakes debates at NRC meetings, Brian shares behind-the-scenes insights that could reshape how you think about hunting in the Great Lakes State.You'll discover:How one buck rule and APR changes are fundamentally altering deer behavior and hunter mentality in MichiganThe surprising role of social science, emotion, and grassroots organizing in wildlife management decisionsWhy the mysterious UP exemption reveals tensions between local culture and statewide policyThe real story behind controversial regulations like "earn a buck" and the hidden politics influencing legislationAnd the raw, unfiltered reflections on head injuries, hunting mishaps, and the wild adventures that define a hunter's lifeThis episode matters for every Michigan hunter, wildlife enthusiast, or anyone interested in the tangled web of regulation, tradition, and conservation. As Brian highlights, these experiments in policy are temporary—they're a scientific test to see if the landscape and herd health can truly be improved. But the stakes are high: will we lower the deer numbers to prevent disease, or risk losing the very essence of the hunt?Perfect for hunters curious about the future, conservationists seeking truth, and anyone who loves stories that blend humor, honesty, and a touch of chaos. If you're ready to challenge assumptions, learn what's really going on behind the scenes, and maybe even laugh at the absurdity of it all, hit play.Guest Brian Meyring is a passionate Michigan hunter with a deep dive into the state's regulatory landscape, known for his advocacy and candid storytelling about deer hunting, regulation politics, and his own head injury stories.This is more than a podcast—it's a call to action for understanding, patience, and community-driven change in the Michigan hunting scene. Stay tuned, stay informed, and be part of the conversation that could shape the future of hunting in the Midwest.Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/chronicles and enter NFC25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter NFC to have your service fees removed.Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code NFC25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/chroniclesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Transcribe →