
Hosted by Sportsmen's Empire Outdoor Network · EN

Most 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 SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.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.Our 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 Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.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, I sit down with Zakk Plocica of Extreme Outfitters for an in-depth conversation about everything happening right now in the archery industry. We dive into the latest trends, shifting customer demands, gear innovations, and what’s really driving growth in today’s market.Zakk also shares the story behind the rapid expansion of Extreme Outfitters—what’s worked, what hasn’t, and the key decisions that have helped turn his shop into a major player. From navigating industry changes to building a loyal customer base, this episode is packed with insight for archers, business owners, and anyone interested in the future of the sport.Whether you’re a seasoned bowhunter or just getting into archery, you’ll walk away with a better understanding of where things are headed—and what it takes to succeed in a competitive space. 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.comScrape 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 Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.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 Our 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 Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.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 overlook a simple but crucial detail that can make or break your shot, and it isn't what you think. In this episode, Dorge Huang of Fire Knock reveals the secrets about crossbow knocks, arrow tuning, and what truly impacts your accuracy. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting started, you'll discover why understanding the subtle nuances of your equipment can elevate your game, prevent costly mistakes, and give you the confidence to hunt effectively at longer ranges. We break down myths about crossbow arrow sizes, reveal the importance of proper knock fit, and explore the surprising effects of high-speed cams on arrow flight. Dorge shares practical insights on how manufacturing changes, proprietary components, and even the material of your knocks influence your consistency.This episode dives into preventing common errors, such as improper string tension or using incompatible knocks, that can cause equipment failure or inaccurate shots. Dorge emphasizes the importance of precision and responsibility, and how investing in the right tools, like digital calipers or understanding your string's diameter, can save you time and money. Plus, you'll get a sneak peek into innovative lighted knock systems and the fascinating technology behind them. Whether you're aiming to upgrade your gear, troubleshoot inconsistent performance, or simply want to understand the science behind your equipment, this episode is your must-listen. Dorge Huang’s expert advice is packed with real-world experiences and proven tactics designed to help you hunt smarter, safer, and more accurately.Show Our Supporters Some Love!!NestedTreestands.com Code: WT10ToothOfTheArrow.Com Code: WT10VitalizeSeed.ComIntegratedHabitatSolutions.ComTruth-stiX Custom Arrows - WingAndTailOutdoors.ComFirenock.coma3archery.com Code: Romano15RackGetterScents.NetHuntArsenal.ComSilver Birch Archery - Milford, PAHunters Gallery - Hamlin, PACheck out Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.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 never see a buck that lives to 14 — let alone one that’s 14.5 years old and still roaming Wisconsin’s thick public lands. Imagine the stories this giant could tell, yet most only learn of him after he’s been gone for years. When Zach stumbled upon this legendary old-timer, a whole new dimension of whitetail mastery was revealed—how some bucks quietly outsmart the odds, avoiding hunters’ sights for more than a decade.In this episode, Zach shares the incredible journey of discovering and hunting a buck who defied age and odds, living long enough to be estimated at 14.5 years—and maybe even older. We dive into how trail cameras, shed hunting, and constant patience helped piece together his pattern, revealing secrets about old bucks that most would never notice. You’ll discover the unique physical signs that tell the age of a deer—like swollen ankles, worn hooves, and the elusive movement patterns that make certain bucks nearly invisible to hunters.We also break down the harsh realities of hunting pressure—more than 54 vehicles at a single public access point during gun season—yet this giant buck thrived, always a step ahead. You’ll learn why education, patience, and understanding whitetail behavior are the keys to hanging on in heavily hunted country. From the challenges of aging deer visually and through genetics, to unraveling the mystery of how an aging, sometimes injured buck can survive beyond expectations, this episode redefines what you think you know about mature whitetails.Why does this story matter? Because recognizing old bucks—and understanding how they do it—can change your entire approach to hunting. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this tale of resilience and hunter ingenuity offers fresh hope and inspiring lessons about longevity in the wild.Perfect for anyone passionate about deer hunting, aging deer, or just fascinated by the sheer resilience of wildlife, this episode is a deep dive into one of the most remarkable stories in whitetail history. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the biggest trophies are the stories told after the hunt, and that patience and persistence can unveil legends that outlive the season. Tune in and get inspired to think differently about old deer—because they might just be smarter than us.Why this works: This description uses a captivating hook that sparks curiosity about a legendary deer’s age and survival story, appealing directly to hunters and wildlife enthusiasts. It highlights concrete details—like the 14.5-year-old age, trail camera insights, and the challenges of high hunting pressure—making the story feel real and compelling. The emotional angle of awe and admiration for wild resilience encourages clicks, while emphasizing practical lessons that can transform how listeners approach their own hunts.Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.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

On this episode, we go bak in time for an awesome conversation with Ryan Muckenhirn of Vortex Optics about their glass and accessories. Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.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

If you want to build a better program from the ground up. Bart Rogers with Auburn University breeding program walks us through things to look at when breeding how to add traits or get rid of unwanted ones. This is a great episode with lots of data to back up which crosses work and which ones don’t. Join us on Creekside Chronicles. 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 Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.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 "Deep in the Hunt of Texas" podcast, host Connor Little and his buddies Jeffro, James, and Curtis catch up with some good old-fashioned banter. They chat about everything from wild UFC fights to their latest golf adventures, sharing funny stories and taking playful jabs at each other. It's a laid-back conversation filled with laughs, personal anecdotes, and a bit of sports talk, all wrapped up in a fun and casual vibe.Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.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

From The Vault: On this episode, Dan has a great conversation with his long time friend, Adam Parr, about hunting elk and mule deer in Colorado.Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.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, Mitchell is joined by Alex Grosso for a wide-ranging conversation that goes far beyond deer hunting tactics. The two podcast hosts discuss how their perspectives have evolved through years of hunting, podcasting, marriage, and fatherhood, exploring the challenge of balancing a passion for whitetails with the realities of family life and responsibility. Along the way, they dive into the concept of discipline, what it truly means to stay committed to personal goals, and how the lessons learned in hunting often carry over into everyday life.The conversation then shifts into summer scouting, trail cameras, woodsmanship, and preparing for the upcoming deer season. Alex shares how he's approaching a mature buck that has reappeared after several years, while Mitchell and Alex debate the role of trail cameras in modern hunting and how technology can both help and hinder hunters. From identifying productive sign and understanding seasonal deer movement to discussing public land pressure and learning from past mistakes, this episode offers a practical look at how serious deer hunters prepare for fall while never losing sight of the bigger picture. Whether you're hanging cameras, scouting new ground, or simply counting down the days until opening season, this conversation is packed with relatable insights and lessons from the deer woods. Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.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 overlook the true magic of deer camp—the camaraderie, traditions, and brotherhood that turn a hunting trip into a lifelong legacy. In this episode, Doug Green shares how his 10-year-old deer camp culture isn't just about chasing big bucks, but about passing down stories, building bonds, and keeping the spirit of hunting alive for generations.Imagine a weekend filled with stories around campfires, homemade venison meals nicknamed "Doug's Meat," and years of shared experiences that create lifelong memories. Doug dives into how these traditions started small and grew into a tight-knit community that values selflessness, mentorship, and passing the torch to younger hunters. You'll discover the importance of choosing quality over quantity—whether passing on mature bucks or teaching young kids about respect and responsibility in the woods.We break down: how to start your own camp culture from scratch, the role of shared access and land management in fostering community, and why the future of hunting depends on these bonds more than ever. You'll hear about the threats to this way of life—like individualism and closed-door secrecy—and why embracing a selfless, inclusive attitude can preserve this vital tradition. Doug emphasizes that beyond the big bucks, it’s the stories, the good times, and the legacy that truly matter.This episode is perfect for hunters longing to revive or build a lasting camp culture, those passionate about mentoring the next generation, and anyone who believes hunting is about more than just the harvest—it’s about connection. Get inspired to foster your own traditions, strengthen your community, and keep the heart of the hunt beating strong for generations to come.Why this works: This compelling narrative taps into emotional nostalgia and the universal desire for community, creating curiosity about how to build or preserve a meaningful hunting tradition. It appeals to the core values of brotherhood and legacy, prompting listeners to hit play and get inspired to create their own camp stories.Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.Our Sponsors:* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.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