
Hosted by Sportsmen's Empire Outdoor Network · EN

This episode dives deep into the 70 Rule with Brandon Barlow, breaking down how fawning data can reveal the right time to hunt your specific property instead of relying on broad rut forecasts. If you’ve ever wished you could stop guessing and start timing your hunts with more confidence, this conversation shows how close observation, historical data, and a smarter approach to deer behavior can tighten your window and increase your odds.Chris and Brandon also share real-world examples from the field, including how early-season patterns, fawn development, and site-specific breeding windows can completely change the way you think about hunting pressure, access, and strategy. It’s a laid-back but highly practical conversation packed with insight for hunters who want to make every sit count.Show Our Supporters Some Love!!NestedTreestands.com Code: WT10https://www.toothofthearrowbroadheads.com?ref=wto26 Code: WT10VitalizeSeed.ComIntegratedHabitatSolutions.ComTruth-stiX Custom Arrows - WingAndTailOutdoors.ComFirenock.coma3archery.com Code: Romano15RackGetterScents.NetHuntArsenal.ComSilver Birch Archery - Milford, PAHunters Gallery - Hamlin, PACheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter EMPIRE to have your service fees removed.Underbrush Remineralizing Gum from Nathan and Sons https://nathanandsons.com/products/remineralizing-gumOur Sponsors:* Check out Nathan and Sons at https://nathanandsons.com* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code EMPIRE25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/huntingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Most 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 Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter EMPIRE to have your service fees removed.Underbrush Remineralizing Gum from Nathan and Sons https://nathanandsons.com/products/remineralizing-gumOur Sponsors:* Check out Nathan and Sons at https://nathanandsons.com* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code EMPIRE25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/huntingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Most Western hunters get their priorities wrong — they chase small windows of opportunity with limited time and underestimating how pressure has reshaped elk behavior. Bryan Broderick of Day Six Arrows lays bare why one week is no longer enough to hunt true success in the West, revealing the real secrets behind elk movement, pressure, and the relentless grind it takes to get close. If you're hunting public land and dreaming of a big bull, this episode is your must-listen for the reality check you didn't know you needed.Bryan shares decades of firsthand experience living and hunting where the pressure’s transformed elk from predictable daytime grazers to almost nocturnal ghosts. He discusses why hunting pressure — not just seasons or tags — has made elk smarter, more cautious, and much harder to hunt than ever before. You’ll discover why a single week isn't enough: seasoned hunters now need two full weeks of dedication, with the most effective tactics shifting from calling to stealth, patience, and understanding the animals’ altered routines.We break down practical strategies for success in high-pressure areas, including Bryan’s tips on spotting elk in the dark, moving undetected, and setting up for success without relying on calls or decoys. You’ll learn the importance of terrain, water sources, and pressure points that can make or break your hunt. Bryan explains how the best hunters have adapted their approach — covering ground, staying mobile, and hunting smart rather than loud. The stakes are high, but so is the opportunity: mastering these methods could dramatically increase your chances of that once-in-a-lifetime bull.This episode is perfect for serious western hunters, especially those who put in the effort but struggle with elusive elk and intense pressure. If you’re ready to upgrade your game, avoid the rookie mistakes, and truly understand what it takes to succeed in today’s pressured public land environments, don’t miss this conversation. Bryan’s insights will shift your perspective from frustration to strategic mastery, giving you the edge in the challenging pursuit of big game.Bryan Broderick is a seasoned elk hunter and the owner of Day Six Arrows, known for his deep understanding of elk behavior and craftsmanship in archery and broadheads. With over 35 years in the industry, Bryan’s real-world experience on public lands across the West makes his advice invaluable for hunters who want to turn pressure — and long shots — into trophies.Whether you’re planning your next hunt or seeking to refine your tactics, this episode delivers proven techniques and honest truths that could be the difference between coming home empty-handed and filling the freezer with the bull you want.Check out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter EMPIRE to have your service fees removed.Underbrush Remineralizing Gum from Nathan and Sons https://nathanandsons.com/products/remineralizing-gumOur Sponsors:* Check out Nathan and Sons at https://nathanandsons.com* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code EMPIRE25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/huntingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

As summer draws to a close, many of us face the annual task of managing our freezers, especially if you have a stockpile of venison from last hunting season. If you’re wondering how to use that venison and make room for new stock, you’re in the right place. In this post, I’ll share five practical methods to utilize your venison effectively, helping you clear out your freezer while enjoying delicious meals.## Why Use Your Venison?Utilizing your venison is not just about clearing space; it’s about making the most of the hard work you put into hunting and processing your meat. Here are a few reasons to prioritize using your venison:- **Quality Control**: Freshly used venison ensures that you maintain the flavor and quality of your meat.- **Space Management**: Freezer space is valuable, and clearing out older stock can prevent you from losing good meat due to power outages or freezer malfunctions.- **Creative Cooking**: Using venison can inspire new recipes and cooking techniques, broadening your culinary skills.## 1. Grind Your Venison for BurgerOne of the best and easiest ways to use your venison is to grind it into burger meat. This is a fantastic way to make use of various cuts that might not be as desirable as steaks or roasts. Here’s how to do it:- **Why This Matters**: Ground venison is versatile and can be used in countless recipes from burgers to meatballs.- **How to Do It**: Pull out your grinder and process 5-10 pounds of venison at a time. This smaller batch allows for easier handling and quicker cooking.- **Example**: If you have a few cuts that you know you won’t use soon, grind those up and mix them into your burger stash. - **Common Mistake**: Many people try to grind too much at once, which can be overwhelming. Stick to smaller batches for better results.## 2. Make Shredded VenisonAnother excellent method for using up venison is to prepare shredded meat. This can be done using a pressure cooker or slow cooker, making it easy and convenient.- **Why This Matters**: Shredded venison can be used in a variety of dishes, from tacos to sandwiches, and it can be frozen in portions for later use.- **How to Do It**: Fill your slow cooker or pressure cooker with chunks of venison, some broth, and your favorite spices. Cook until tender, then shred with forks.- **Example**: Use your Instapot to efficiently prepare shanks or other tougher cuts of meat.- **Common Mistake**: Don’t skip the seasoning! Properly seasoning your meat while cooking will enhance the flavor.## 3. Create Venison StewsStews are a comforting way to use venison, especially as the weather cools down. They allow you to combine your venison with vegetables, making a hearty meal.- **Why This Matters**: Stews not only utilize your meat but also allow you to incorporate seasonal vegetables that may be on hand.- **How to Do It**: Cut your venison into chunks, brown it, and then combine it with broth, herbs, and vegetables in a slow cooker.- **Example**: Try adding potatoes, carrots, and onions for a classic venison stew. - **Common Mistake**: Avoid overcrowding the pot; this can lead to uneven cooking.## 4. Venison JerkyIf you’re looking for a long-lasting way to preserve your venison, making jerky is a fantastic option. This not only helps use up meat but also provides a great snack.- **Why This Matters**: Jerky is portable, making it perfect for hikes and road trips.- **How to Do It**: Slice your venison thin, marinate it with your favorite spices, and then use a dehydrator or oven to dry it out.- **Example**: Experiment with different marinades, such as teriyaki or spicy pepper, to create unique flavors.- **Common Mistake**: Make sure to slice the meat against the grain for more tender jerky.## 5. Venison SausageMaking sausage is another excellent way to utilize your venison and can be a fun project for those who enjoy cooking.- **Why This Matters**: Sausage can be flavored in many ways and can incorporate other meats if you want to stretch your venison.- **How to Do It**: Combine ground venison with spices and casings or use it loose in your recipes.- **Example**: Try a breakfast sausage mix or a spicy Italian sausage blend.- **Common Mistake**: Don’t forget to add fat! Venison is lean, and adding some pork fat will enhance the flavor and texture.## ConclusionUsing up your venison before the new hunting season is essential for maintaining a well-stocked freezer and enjoying the fruits of your labor. Whether you choose to grind, shred, stew, make jerky, or whip up some sausage, these methods will not only help clear space but will also allow you to savor the delicious flavors of your hard-earned meat. So, what are you waiting for? Roll up your sleeves, get creative in the kitchen, and make the most of your venison!Frequently Asked Questions**How long can I keep venison in the freezer?** Venison can typically be stored in the freezer for 6 to 12 months if properly packaged. To maintain the best quality, use airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags.**What's the best way to thaw venison?** The best way to thaw venison is in the refrigerator, allowing it to slowly come to temperature. This method helps to preserve the meat's quality.**Can I use venison in any recipe that calls for beef?** Yes! Venison can be used in most recipes that call for beef, though you may need to adjust the cooking times due to its lean nature.Attribution Code"Slow Burn" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Check out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter EMPIRE to have your service fees removed.Underbrush Remineralizing Gum from Nathan and Sons https://nathanandsons.com/products/remineralizing-gumOur Sponsors:* Check out Nathan and Sons at https://nathanandsons.com* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code EMPIRE25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/huntingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This episode is a laid-back catch-up between longtime friends Connor and Parker, centered on hilarious, chaotic stories from their days working at a rough public golf course, plus their shared love of hunting, fishing, and the outdoors. It also dives into Parker’s western hunting experiences, fly fishing, and how both of them have evolved from college-era chaos into older, more selective outdoor enthusiasts.Check out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter EMPIRE to have your service fees removed.Underbrush Remineralizing Gum from Nathan and Sons https://nathanandsons.com/products/remineralizing-gumOur Sponsors:* Check out Nathan and Sons at https://nathanandsons.com* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code EMPIRE25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/huntingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

As we celebrated America’s 250 anniversary, we salute the hound and its deep rooted heritage that’s woven into the fabric of America. Hope everyone had a great 4th. IG - heathhyatt147FB Heath HyattYoutube - Heath Hyatt Send your stories or questions to: creeksidechroniclespodcast@gmail.comFollow our Sponsors:Inukshuk DarkenergyOnX Double U Hunting SupplyQuick-track.comMuddy River Transport Inukshuk:Inukshukpro.comCorey.caDarkenergy: best-charging banks on market. Discount code is CODE4darkenergy.comFrontline Optics- Duty sunglassesPolarizedNo questions asked replacementCharitable Donation with every pairFree shippingFrontline-Optics.com use promo code - CODE4https://frontline-optics.com?sca_ref=5672409.03I05MEwyySubscribe to: Full Cry MagazineBear Hunting MagazineAmerican Bear FoundationFor the best lights in the businessCheck out: Cajunlights.com Double U Hunting Supply: Get all your hound hunting gear at Double U. Products every hound hunter trusts to keep up with their pack. Double U Hunting Supply.comWe would like to thank those who support this podcast. Special thanks to Double U Hunting Supply for sponsoring this episode. www.dusupply.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@DoubleUHuntingSupply/podcastsOur Sponsors:* Check out Nathan and Sons at https://nathanandsons.com* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code EMPIRE25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/huntingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Most hunters underestimate the power of trail camera strategies—Nate Crick 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 Crick 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.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.Underbrush Remineralizing Gum from Nathan and Sons https://nathanandsons.com/products/remineralizing-gumOur Sponsors:* Check out Nathan and Sons at https://nathanandsons.com* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code EMPIRE25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/huntingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Rich Yoder joins the show for an honest conversation about something every hunter knows they should be doing this time of year—but too often neglects: preparing their shooting skills before hunting season arrives. Drawing from years of competitive shooting, firearms instruction, and countless hours in the field, Rich explains how consistent practice, understanding your equipment, and developing a repeatable shot process can make the difference when the moment of truth finally comes.Along the way, we also discuss the realities of balancing hunting with work and family, the pressures of today's outdoor industry, and why confidence comes from preparation—not luck. Whether you shoot a bow, rifle, shotgun, or muzzleloader, this episode is filled with practical advice on overcoming target panic, practicing with purpose, handling pressure, and building the kind of shooting habits that lead to ethical, successful hunts. If you're looking to sharpen your skills before opening day, this conversation will give you plenty to think about before your next trip to the range.Check out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter EMPIRE to have your service fees removed.Underbrush Remineralizing Gum from Nathan and Sons https://nathanandsons.com/products/remineralizing-gumOur Sponsors:* Check out Nathan and Sons at https://nathanandsons.com* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code EMPIRE25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/huntingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we sit down with Cody Idol to dive into his new documentary Antler Craze, a film centered around one of the most legendary whitetails ever known — “The General,” the largest typical shed buck ever found.Cody shares the story behind the film, what drew him to this once-in-a-lifetime deer, and the deeper meaning behind the obsession with antlers that continues to shape hunting culture today. We explore the history and mystique surrounding The General, as well as the impact stories like this have on hunters across generations.Beyond the documentary, the conversation shifts into the future of deer storytelling — where it’s headed, how it’s evolving, and why these stories matter more than ever. From tradition to modern media, we break down how chasing deer and sharing those experiences has influenced who we are and continues to shape the hunting community.This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about whitetails, storytelling, and the legacy behind the chase. Podcast brought to you by:Sportsmen’s empire LWCG https://www.lonewolfcustomgear.comAsio : SEBH for 15% off https://asiogear.com/Bowtique: SEBHP https://thebowtiquellc.com/G5 Outdoors https://www.g5outdoors.com/Prime Archery https://www.g5prime.com/Dialed Archery https://dialedarchery.com/Moultrie https://www.moultrie.com/BHL https://bowhuntingleague.comWhitetail Champion Whitetail Champion | Join the Bowhunting Challenge TodayScrape doctor SEBH15 for 15% https://scrapedoctor.com/Victory Archery https://www.victoryarchery.com/Catalyst archery https://catalystarchery.com SEBH10Unbound Archery SEBH10 for 10% off https://www.unboundarchery.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter EMPIRE to have your service fees removed.Underbrush Remineralizing Gum from Nathan and Sons https://nathanandsons.com/products/remineralizing-gumOur Sponsors:* Check out Nathan and Sons at https://nathanandsons.com* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code EMPIRE25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/huntingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Most hunters chase multiple bucks each season—but what if dedicating an entire season to just one deer could transform your understanding of deer behavior and significantly boost your odds? Jason Thibodeau reveals the unfiltered truth behind long-term buck hunting, exposing both the incredible rewards and the gritty challenges—like public pressure, shifting property dynamics, and the mental toll of waiting years for that one shot.In this episode, we break down the mental and tactical game of hunting a single high-caliber buck across multiple seasons. Jason shares stories of iconic bucks he's chased for five, six, and even ten years—how he patterned their movements, used trail cameras to triangulate their routes, and adjusted his strategies to stay in the game. You'll discover: the pros of laser-focused pursuit—like learning real deer patterns and developing patience—and the surprising cons, such as increased pressure from other hunters and the risk of chasing shadows.We dive into specific tactics: from selecting properties based on terrain and sign, to the importance of wind, season timing, and trail camera data. Jason emphasizes how hunting one buck sharpens your woodsmanship, forces you to observe subtle details, and teaches patience in a way that general hunting can't. You'll explore the critical importance of documenting every sighting and pattern, and how to leverage that intel to put yourself in position when the moment finally arrives.Why does it matter? Because chasing a single buck over years—and doing it smartly—can turn the chase into a rewarding journey, not just another missed opportunity. Whether you're hunting on public or private land, this approach refines your skills, builds knowledge, and ultimately increases your odds of success at the highest level. Plus, we discuss how shifting techniques—like focusing on doe groups or using the right wind—can make all the difference.If you've ever wondered how to develop a focused, patient, and strategic approach to hunting your dream buck—this episode is packed with insights to elevate your game. Perfect for hunters aiming to step beyond the quick kill and embrace the long-term chase that makes deer hunting unforgettable. Tune in, learn, and get ready to think bigger about your next season.Check out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter EMPIRE to have your service fees removed.Underbrush Remineralizing Gum from Nathan and Sons https://nathanandsons.com/products/remineralizing-gumOur Sponsors:* Check out Nathan and Sons at https://nathanandsons.com* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code EMPIRE25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/huntingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy