In this episode of the HUNTXP Podcast, JD and Jonny break down their most-used hunting gear of 2025—and topping the list? The Nested Layering System, which crushed in comfort, versatility, and real-deal cold-weather performance. Whether you’re glassing muleys out West or posting up for rutting whitetails in the Midwest, this system flat-out works.We also get into gear that surprised us, held up through abuse, and a few that didn’t quite make the cut. From TrueDave boots that proved their grip on the ice, to heavy arrow setups from Easton, to saddle systems from Guard Pro, we’re giving you a year’s worth of field-tested feedback in under an hour.👊 Want to support the show? Click through our affiliate links below for every piece of gear we mention.🦌 Gear links: 1. Nested Layering System – Build-your-own layering kit: https://nestedtreestands.com/HUNT10 (10% off with code HUNT10) 2. TrueDave Boots – Slip-on, weatherproof boots with elite traction- Jonny's Deck boots - https://amzn.to/4qfseqy- JD's low-cut deck boots - https://amzn.to/3LvyivI- JD's Ankle cut hunting boots - https://amzn.to/4qAOACo- Waders - https://amzn.to/4qduVJh 3. Easton Full Metal Jacket Arrows (300 spine) – Built for heavy setups & ethical penetration: 4. VPA Broadheads – 3-blade design that hits like a hammer: - 3 blade: https://amzn.to/4swKFIK- Omega's: https://amzn.to/4bmbHMG 5. Gardepro Cameras: https://gardepro.com?utm_source=Affiliate+&utm_medium=KOL&utm_campaign=UpPromote+&sca_ref=8123869.ZMJqdIjuk7 --- Get 10% off with code HXP10 6. Barronett Blinds – Roomy, easy-to-pack-in ground blinds: 7. 10-Point Crossbows – High-performance accuracy for tight spots- Wicked Ridge Invader Decock : ⸻Episode Summary:JD and Jonny unpack a full season of gear testing in the 2025 HUNTXP Gear Review episode. Leading the way was the Nested Layering System, which proved itself across cold, wet, and active hunts. They also break down the top-performing boots, arrows, saddle setups, and blinds that earned a permanent spot in their gear room.Whether you’re gearing up for next fall or replacing cold-weather layers now, this is your insider look at what worked—and what didn’t—in the real world.Gear Covered • Nested Layering System • TrueDave Boots • Easton Arrows (300 spine) • VPA 3-Blade Broadheads • Guard Pro Tree Saddle System • Barronett Blinds • 10 Point Crossbow • KUIU Rain Gear & Western Apparel • Trail Cams • Bino Harnesses • Irish Setter Boots (briefly)Notable Quotes “If I could only wear one system from early season to deep cold—it’s Nested. It outperformed everything else in my pack.” — JD“The layering flexibility from Nested made it my go-to no matter what the forecast looked like.” — Jonny
Eric Clark of Okayest Hunter joins the HUNTXP Podcast for one of the most raw and real conversations we’ve had on modern hunting culture.
After catching hate online for posting a photo of his first bow-killed doe, Eric realized just how toxic parts of the hunting community had become — especially toward newer or “average” hunters. That backlash sparked the launch of Okayest Hunter, a countercultural brand built to give voice to the 95% of hunters who don’t measure success in inches of antler.
In this episode, we get into:
The true story behind Eric’s viral bowhunting backlash
How Okayest Hunter is challenging the hunting industry’s ego
The cultural pushback from Michigan hunters
Raising kids in a healthier deer camp culture
Why humility is strength in the woods
If you’ve ever been made to feel like your deer “wasn’t big enough,” or your hunt “didn’t count” — this episode is for you.
🎙️ Hosted by JD Larson & Jonny
🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube
🌐 HUNTXP.com | OkayestHunter.com
#OkayestHunter #HUNTXP #DeerHunting #WhitetailHunting #Bowhunting #PublicLandHunter #HuntingPodcast #HuntingCulture #MichiganHunting #EverymanHunter #HuntingCommunity #HuntingStories #DeerCamp #AuthenticHunting #ModernHunter #BlueCollarHunter #HuntingShaming #MidwestWhitetails #RealHunting #HumilityInHunting
We’re back from rutcation, and this one covers everything — from hunting new states to passing on the passion to our kids. JD had a close encounter with a mature buck… and busted it. That moment went viral — and so did the backlash. We unpack the miss, the fallout, and what it revealed about today’s internet hunting culture: quick to judge, slow to understand.
But it wasn’t all busts. Jonny’s dad tagged a nice buck from his stand, and Jude dropped a buzzer-beater buck in the final moments of rifle season. We reflect on the pressure of hunting with your kids, what we learned this season, and why failure can be one of the most valuable teachers in the woods.
🎯 Real hunts. Real failure. Real community.
Gear we recommend
Check out the nested tree stands
Use code HUNTXP10 for 10% off!
#HUNTXP #Rutcation #ViralFail #WhitetailHunting #HuntingPodcast #DeerSeason #HuntingCulture
Every hunter faces it sooner or later — that sinking feeling after the shot when the blood trail fades. In this episode, JD and Jonny sit down with Shane Simpson, co-creator of the TRAKR app and one of the most respected deer trackers in the country.Shane breaks down what really happens after the shot — from reading sign and understanding hit location, to how blood tracking dogs are changing recovery odds for hunters across the country. You’ll hear how the TRAKR app is connecting hunters and trackers faster than ever, what hunters should do (and not do) before calling a tracker, and how privacy and data are helping everyone become more ethical, successful hunters.Plus, the crew dives into mobile setups, off-season scouting, and how tools like the Nested Treestand system give hunters a serious edge in pressured states.This one’s packed with real talk, hard-earned lessons, and more than a few laughs.⸻🔗 Links & Resources🧭 Download the TRAKR App: https://www.gettrakr.com/▶️ Follow Shane Simpson on YouTube: @ShaneSimpsonHunting 🌲 Check out Nested Treestands: https://nestedtreestands.com/HUNT10📸 Follow HUNTXP: HUNTXP.com ⸻🦴 Key Takeaways • How to interpret blood trails and hit sign before calling a tracker. • Why blood tracking dogs are changing the game — and how to find one fast. • The biggest mistakes hunters make after the shot (and how to avoid them). • The power of privacy and how the TRAKR app protects your hunting spots. • Why early-season scouting and real data can make you a better hunter. • Bonus: JD and Jonny share their funniest close calls and bear run-ins.#HUNTXP #DeerTracking #ShaneSimpson #TRAKRApp #WhitetailHunting #BloodTrail #HuntingDogs #DeerRecovery #BowhuntingTips #PublicLandHunter #HuntingEthics #DeerHuntingPodcast #TrackingDeerAfterTheShot
Sometimes the best hunts aren’t about filling tags — they’re about the people, the stories, and the moments that shape who we are as hunters. In this episode, JD Larson sits down with Garrett Davis, a Kansas bowhunter with a passion for traditional archery and chasing experiences over trophies.From growing up in the whitetail-rich plains to honing his craft with a stick and string, Garrett brings a grounded, humble take on why the journey matters more than the outcome. Whether you’re deep into trad life or just trying to slow down and enjoy the process again, this one’s packed with stories, lessons, and that campfire feel that makes hunting what it is.Even though technical gremlins sidelined Johnny halfway through, the conversation still runs deep — covering everything from Western hunts to life balance, faith, and finding joy in the grind.⸻🧭 Episode Highlights • Garrett’s take on what it means to “chase experience, not just game.” • Lessons learned bowhunting Kansas whitetails. • Why traditional archery builds mental toughness and patience. • How Garrett balances hunting, family, and purpose. • The beauty of slowing down and letting the woods teach you.🏹Quote “If you’re only hunting to fill a tag, you’re missing what the woods are really offering you.” – Garrett Davis
This week, JD and Jonny catch up with one of our favorite returning guests—Joe Jones from Outdoors in Color. From his first gobbler and a son’s first dove, to punching tags in elk country and stacking coyotes—Joe’s 2025 season was anything but slow.📍 Topics We Cover: • His full DIY Idaho elk hunt recap • Lessons from calling and scouting solo • Turkey hunting mistakes that almost cost him his first bird • Raising kids who hunt and fish • Coyote control and helping the neighbor • Off-season elk prep, gear changes, and physical trainingIf you’re a dad juggling the chaos of kids and camo—or just dreaming of the mountains—this one hits home.🔗 FOLLOW JOE:Instagram: @OutdoorsInColor💥 Don’t forget to leave a review, share the episode, and subscribe to HUNTXP wherever you get your podcasts.
In this episode, we sit down with Derrick Dixon, founder of Whitetail Research, to dig into his groundbreaking thermal‑drone study of mature bucks. We unpack what drone footage reveals that GPS collar data often misses, explore why bucks move when they do (and when they don’t), and talk real tactics you can test this fall.
Derrick’s story: how quitting his job and tracking deer for a full season led to one of the most talked-about whitetail projects on YouTube
Why thermal drones expose movement patterns GPS collars can’t
What triggers a mature buck to stand up, and how wind, thermals, and light interact
How to hunt “movement windows” most hunters never realize are happening
Practical tactics for everyday hunters—no expensive gear required
How staging areas, terrain edges, and overlooked travel corridors can be decoded by thermal flight patterns
🔬 Whitetail Research Website: whitetailresearch.net
🎥 Whitetail Research on YouTube (Derrick Dixon): youtube.com/@WhitetailResearch
Featured video: What 1 YEAR of Thermal Whitetail Research Taught Me
Want more content like this? Gear breakdowns, strategy deep-dives, and real-talk about hunting in the modern world—it’s all happening at HUNTXP.com. Join the crew, level up your season, and get access to exclusive gear drops, giveaways, and member-only content.
This is deer camp for the digital age. Welcome to HUNTXP.
🎯 What You’ll Learn🔗 Links & Resources🧢 Join the HUNTXP Community
In this raw and real episode of the HUNTXP Podcast, JD and Jonny sit down with Melody, a fierce traditional archer and ground hunter, to unpack what it means to live the trad life. From overcoming neurological challenges to dropping does with a recurve, Melody's story hits deeper than most. She shares how shooting in her basement helped her win a Wisconsin state title, why she made the shift to ground hunting, and the mental and physical grit that traditional bowhunting demands.We also dig into gear talk—her go-to longbow (the Old Mountain Mesa), why repetition trumps range time, and how trad hunters can keep their edge year-round. If you’re into longbows, recurves, or just want to sharpen your woodsmanship, this one’s for you.Whether you're new to traditional archery or a seasoned stickbow hunter, you'll walk away challenged and encouraged.huntxp.com for more ➡️ Topics Covered:Winning a trad archery shoot with 9-yard basement practiceLiving with neurological conditions while staying in the huntTransitioning from treestand to ground huntingWhy off-season reps matter more than range timeBow setups, target habits, and muscle memoryBuilding a meaningful hunting lifestyle over hype📍Stay connected, stay consistent, and remember—traditional archery isn’t just a method. It’s a mindset.#TraditionalBowhunting#TraditionalArchery#LongbowLife#RecurveBow#GroundHunting#BowhuntingTips#BasementArchery#OldMountainMesa#WomenWhoHunt#StickbowChronicles#BowhuntingStories#OffSeasonTraining#MuscleMemoryMatters#TraditionalHunter#DIYBowhunting#Women in traditional archeryOld Mountain Mesa longbowBasement archeryReal-world bowhunting stories
In this episode of the HUNTXP Podcast, we sit down with Justin Gibbins, founder of Limitless Outdoors, to talk about his journey from Idaho to Alaska, building a hunting ministry, and how faith and the outdoors intersect in powerful ways. Justin shares his story of chasing moose in the Alaskan backcountry, launching Limitless Outdoors, and turning hunting into a platform for discipleship.We also touch on the origins of Sportsmen for God (S4G), balancing passion with faith, and the gear that makes tough hunts possible—including the Wicked Ridge M-1 with De-Cocking System, a crossbow designed for real-world hunters who need reliability and safety in the field.Whether you’re chasing whitetails in the Midwest, dreaming about Alaska, or looking to strengthen your walk with Christ while living the hunting lifestyle, this conversation will inspire and challenge you.Links Mentioned in This Episode: • HUNTXP.com → https://huntxp.com • Sportsmen for God → https://sportsmenforgod.org • Limitless Outdoors → https://limitlesshunting.com/ • Wicked Ridge M-1 Crossbow with De-Cocking → https://amzn.to/48u8fOIFollow HUNTXP: • Website: https://huntxp.com • Instagram: https://instagram.com/huntxpteam • YouTube: https://youtube.com/@huntxp
In this episode of the HuntXP Podcast, we sit down with Damon Wolfe, one of the fastest-rising filmmakers in the hunting industry. Damon has already built an impressive resume, filming with big names like Chris B. and Kaitlyn Maus, and telling hunting stories that stir emotion as much as they showcase the pursuit itself.From chasing whitetails and mule deer with a camera in hand to openly sharing his faith, Damon brings a fresh and inspiring voice to the hunting world. We talk about the grind of life on the road, the behind-the-scenes of outdoor storytelling, and what it takes to build a career as a hunting creative.Whether you’re here for gear talk, filmmaking insight, or the raw passion of someone who truly loves the hunt, this episode has it all.More at huntxp.com ⸻⏱️ Episode Breakdown • (00:00) Intro and catching up • (06:00) Damon’s start in filmmaking and early hunting influences • (15:00) Filming for Chris B. and Kaitlyn Maus • (22:00) Faith and perspective on the grind • (35:00) Behind the lens: the rush of filming hunts • (50:00) Gear, partnerships, and why Vapor Trail Archery is Damon’s go-to • (01:05:00) Closing thoughts and takeaways⸻🔗 Links and Gear from this EpisodeDamon Wolfe + All41 Creative • Follow Damon Wolfe on Instagram: @damonwolfe_ • Check out All41 Creative: all41creative.com • Follow All41 Creative on Instagram: @all41_creativeVapor Trail Archery: https://www.vaportrailarchery.com • Visit Vapor Trail Archery Pro Shop for tuning, bowstrings, and one-on-one service: Vapor Trail Archery Pro Shop👉 Shop the Gear: • VPA Three Blade Broadhead: https://amzn.to/4meSgbi • VPA Omegas: https://amzn.to/41xenld • Easton FMJ 500: https://amzn.to/47xjcyq • APEX GEAR Carbon Core Stabilizer: https://amzn.to/3JiGTAE • Apex Surge 3 Finger Release: https://amzn.to/45VA7cQ • APEX GEAR Covert 4 Pin Sight: https://amzn.to/3JBGysM • TruDave Waders: https://amzn.to/3V4DfwN - Trout waders: https://amzn.to/4lvp6U0 - Slip on water boots: https://amzn.to/3V3Y7Ej
In this episode, we sit down with Sam Soholt — hunter, conservationist, photographer, and one of the most creative voices in the outdoor space.
Sam grew up in South Dakota, cut his teeth with Midwest Whitetail and the Hunting Public crew, and then branched out on his own. He founded Public Land Tees, a T-shirt company where $5 from every sale goes directly to land conservation, and he built the legendary Public Land Bus with his brother to promote public lands across the country.
Sam’s work has reached all corners of the hunting world, including photographing hunts with Joe Rogan. His images and conservation message have helped bring public land advocacy to a wider audience, showing how hunting, storytelling, and culture intersect.
Today, Sam continues to lead through his conservation projects and as the host of the Field & Stream Podcast. We dive into his journey, his work with Rogan, the evolution of Public Land Tees, and the mindset it takes to create meaningful change in the hunting community.
🔗 Resources Mentioned in the Show Notes:
Public Land Tees: https://www.publiclandtees.com
The Public Land Bus Project: https://www.publiclandbus.com
Field & Stream Podcast (hosted by Sam): https://www.fieldandstream.com/podcast
👉 If you enjoy this conversation, hit subscribe and drop a comment with your favorite part of the episode.
#SamSoholt #JoeRogan #PublicLandOwner #PublicLandBus #PublicLandTees #HuntingPodcast #FieldAndStream #Conservation #PublicLandHunter #WhitetailHunting #DeerHunting #HuntersLife #HuntingCommunity
Episode 2 of Season 2 of the HUNTXP Podcast brings on Wisconsin native Gabe Denzine — a hunter, storyteller, and creative who’s carved his own path in the outdoor industry. From his wild 186-inch Minnesota public land buck story (yes, it involves American Eagle underwear and a broken nose) to his unfiltered insights on chasing big woods whitetails, Gabe keeps it real.We dig into: • Hunting whitetails in the vast Northern woods. • Life with Tourette’s and what it means in the deer stand. • How Gabe built a career through storytelling and networking. • Gear talk, early season prep, and plenty of laughs.If you want hunting stories with heart — and lessons you can take into your own season — this is a must-listen.🔗 Episode Links (Using these links helps support the channel): • Gabe’s YouTube Channel: @huntingwithtourettes • TruDave Deck Boots • TruDave Waders • VPA Omaga | VPA 3 blade Broadheads
Nick Andrews didn’t take the traditional path into the hunting industry. From growing up in Texas with a dream of hunting for a living, to serving in the Marine Corps, to stumbling into photography and videography, Nick’s story is anything but ordinary.
In this episode of the HUNTXP Podcast, we sit down with Nick to unpack his winding road into hunting media and how it eventually led him to a full-time spot with The Hunting Public. We dive into:
Nick’s background in the Marine Corps and how military discipline shaped his hunting approach
The coin-flip moment that sent him to art school and into photography
How stumbling onto The Hunting Public’s turkey tour on Amazon Prime lit the fire
Why he almost didn’t apply for the THP internship (and how a buddy convinced him)
The skillet story that may have sealed the deal for his full-time gig
My grandmother’s timeless advice: “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” — and how it surprisingly connects here
Nick’s perspective on creating hunting content and building community through storytelling
Whether you’re dreaming about breaking into the hunting industry, or just love hearing behind-the-scenes stories of The Hunting Public crew, this episode is full of real talk, lessons learned, and some laughs from camp.
🎧 Don’t miss this one. Subscribe to HUNTXP so you never miss a drop.
The HUNTXP Season One finale is here! JD & Jonny relive the best hunting stories and insights from a year of podcasting with legends like John Eberhart, Greg Godfrey, and Garrett Prahl. Expect epic advice, laughs, and real-world lessons from hunters who walk the walk. Subscribe to catch Season Two – it’s just getting started.Episode Overview:It’s the season one send-off, and JD & Jonny are back to catch up, share some laughs, and relive the best moments from the year. From epic hunts to life-changing advice, this highlight reel includes:Season One Guest Highlights: • Hayden Engle – Early season prep & mental game. • Jeremiah Stavne (Modern Day Mountain Man) – Filming hunts, chasing mountain bucks. • Ben Larson – Conservation and the hunting community. • Levi Illick – Real talk on modern whitetail pressure. • Greg Godfrey (Tethrd) – Mobile hunting & saddle hunting evolution. • Cole Booth (Gone All Season) – Life on the road chasing game all year long. • Roy Holdford – Wild stories from the Turkey Van Tour. • Mel Heage – Representing the renaissance woman in hunting. • Garrett Prahl (DIY Sportsman) – Technical scouting and public land mindset. • John Eberhart – Scent control, door knocking, and next-level strategy. • Cody Kraut (GrowingDeer.tv) – Land management tips that actually work.What You’ll Hear: • Behind-the-scenes moments from JD & Jonny • New gear talk: GuardPro X66 trail cam & Trudev boots • Why the MeatEater store is worth a visit • Reflections on building HUNTXP from scratch • A sneak peek at what’s to come in Season 2Affiliate Mentions: • GardePro Trail Cams – Tested in the field, JD & Jonny give honest feedback on performance. (https://www.huntxp.com/blog/guardpro-... ) • Trudave Boots – Rubber boots redesigned for the modern hunter. (https://www.huntxp.com/blog/trudave-l...)
What happens when a fan with the best handle on Instagram—Aggressively Average Outdoorsmen—joins the HUNTXP crew for a full episode? Turns out, he’s anything but average. We dive into Nate’s Texas hunting stories, his journey into saddle hunting, how a near-death hog encounter shaped his carry setup, and why he maxed out a PSE Mach 30DS bow just to crush it at Total Archery Challenge. This is raw hunting talk from a community member turned guest, complete with turkey failures, gear wins, and hard-earned XP.⸻🔗 Gear MentionsHere’s a list of gear explicitly mentioned or discussed during the episode. Add affiliate links where possible: 1. Tethered Saddle Hunting Gear– Mentioned as a potential partner. JD discusses pitching them. 2. Burley Co. Slate Turkey Call– Custom pot call with HUNTXP branding and a Ron Swanson quote on the back. 3. Stoger M3500 Shotgun– JD’s new semi-auto 12-gauge, chosen for turkey and slug versatility. 4. GunSkins Camouflage Wrap– Used to customize the Stoger M3500. 5. Carlson’s Turkey Choke– Mentioned as the choke JD is running for turkey season. 6. Vortex Red Dot Sight– Mounted on JD’s turkey shotgun. 7. PSE Mach 30 DS Bow (Bottomland Camo)– Nate’s high-performance bow upgrade from a Mission Switch. 8. Total Archery Challenge (Broken Bow, OK)– Experience-based gear testing, environmental challenge.
#HUNTXP #AggressivelyAverage #HuntingPodcast #DeerCampVibes #PublicLandHunter #TurkeySeason #WhitetailHunting #HuntingCommunity #SaddleHunting #BowHuntingLife#TetheredNation #StogerShotguns #GunSkins #PSEArchery #CarlsonsChokeTubes #VortexOptics #BurleyCo #ArcheryAddict #TACChallenge
In the third and final episode of our three-part series on wolves, JD and Jonny sit down without a guest to process everything we’ve learned — and ask the question many hunters in the Northwoods are thinking:
Should we have a wolf hunting season?
After deep dives with Steve Porter (wildlife advocate and elk farmer) and Dan Stark (MN DNR's top wolf biologist), this episode is all about real talk. It’s not just science or sentiment — it’s the intersection of boots-on-the-ground experience, ethical hunting, and wildlife management.
Expect raw takes, honest questions, and thoughtful reflections on:
What we learned from both guests
How media shapes the wolf narrative
What the data says (and doesn’t say)
The cultural tension between predator protection and deer camp reality
Why most hunters are stuck between frustration and apathy
We're not trying to win arguments. We're trying to grow understanding — and maybe help push the conversation forward.
🎯 If you hunt, manage land, or just care about conservation, this episode is for you.
⏱️ Episode Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro & Turkey Camp Banter
06:15 – Reflecting on Steve Porter’s Passion
09:30 – Inside the Mind of Dan Stark, DNR Biologist
14:40 – The Bar Talk vs. The Science
21:00 – Our Take: Is a Wolf Season Viable?
28:45 – Public Perception & Predator Politics
35:10 – Modeling a Better Hunting Conversation
42:00 – Outro: What’s Next for HUNTXP
#WolfHunting #HUNTXP #WhitetailConservation #MNOutdoors #PredatorControl #HuntingPodcast #ElkVsWolves #WolfDebate #MidwestHunters #ConservationMatters #OutdoorLife #FieldToTable #MeatEaterStyle #PublicLandHunting
What’s really stopping a wolf hunting season in Minnesota? 🐺 In this deep-dive episode of the Hunt XP Podcast, we sit down with Dan Stark, Large Carnivore Specialist for the MN DNR, to unpack the truth about wolves, whitetails, and policy gridlock. From moose calf mortality to cougar sightings and public land strategy, this is a must-watch for hunters, conservationists, and wildlife nerds alike.
🔥 Topics Covered:
Why wolves are still federally protected
Cougar populations in MN
Impact of wolves on moose calves
The legal framework behind predator control
The inside scoop on the future of wolf seasons
👊 Brought to you by the crew at HuntXP.com — your source for no-BS hunting gear reviews, tactics, and how-tos.
🧠 More from Dan Stark:
Minnesota DNR Wolf Management Plan: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/mammals/wolves/mgmt.html
📌 Follow us for more real talk from the field:
🔗 Website: https://www.huntxp.com
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/huntxpteam
📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@huntxp
#WolfHunting #MinnesotaDNR #PredatorManagement #HuntXP #DanStark #WhitetailHunting #PublicLandHunter #WolvesInMinnesota #MooseDecline #HuntingPodcast #HuntResponsibly #ConservationConversation #CarnivoreEcology
The wolf debate in Minnesota isn’t just a political issue — it’s a way of life issue for hunters, farmers, and rural communities. In this powerful episode of the HUNTXP Podcast, we sit down with Steve Porter, a longtime Minnesota deer farmer and retired law enforcement officer, to unpack the complex and emotional realities behind wolf management in the Northwoods.Drawing from decades of firsthand experience and community advocacy, Steve shares why wolves have become one of the hottest, most divisive topics in Minnesota hunting culture. This is not a theoretical debate — it’s impacting deer populations, family farms, livelihoods, and rural traditions across the state.This episode is Part 1 of a 3-part wolf hunting series from HUNTXP.In Part 2, we will hear from Dan Stark, Lead Carnivore Specialist for the Minnesota DNR, providing the state’s official perspective. Subscribe now so you don’t miss it.In this conversation: • Why wolves have become the lightning rod issue for hunters and landowners • The impact of wolves on deer herds and rural life in Minnesota • How over 20 town hall meetings galvanized grassroots action • The legal battles between farmers and state agencies • Real-world stories you won’t hear in the mainstream mediaDisclaimer:The views expressed by this guest do not necessarily reflect the views of HUNTXP or its hosts.Your Turn:We invite you to share your experiences and opinions about wolves and wolf hunting in the comments. We want to hear from hunters, farmers, conservationists, and anyone who lives this reality.Stay tuned for Part 2 next week with the Minnesota DNR.Subscribe to HUNTXP and join the conversation shaping the future of hunting and conservation.Links: GardePro X60 Pro Live Max: (check out the review on our channel!) Merch - huntxp.com/store Big Game Trained: biggametrained.com (use code HUNTXP for $100 off camps) Try Crockett: Huntxp.com #HUNTXP #WolfHunting #MinnesotaWolves #ConservationDebate #WolfHuntingMinnesota#WolfHuntingControversy#MinnesotaWolfHunting2025#StevePorterDeerFarm#WolvesInMinnesota#HuntingPodcast2025#DeerHuntingMinnesota#WolfManagementMinnesota#HUNTXPPodcast#DNRWolfHuntingMinnesota#WolfConservationDebate#HuntingWolvesInMinnesota#DeerFarmsAndCWD#PublicLandHuntingPodcast#RuralMinnesotaHuntingIssues
From tight-lipped toms to flocked-up frustrations, the HuntXP crew picks up where they left off in Part 1—talking turkey tactics that work when birds won’t play nice. Learn why toms group up, how to adjust calling strategies mid-hunt, and what makes the perfect late-season ambush. If you’re in the game for pressured birds, this is your playbook.💬 Show NotesEpisode Summary:In Part 2 of the HuntXP Turkey Deep Dive, the conversation shifts from prep and scouting to in-the-moment strategy. The crew shares lessons from messed-up hunts, explains how toms "brother up" and why understanding social dynamics is critical to your setup. Whether you're chasing birds on pressured public or slipping in on a quiet field edge at daybreak, this one brings the nuance.They break down calling cadence, when to stay quiet, and how decoys can either make or break your hunt—plus, some honest laughs about failures, fatherhood, and figuring it out as you go.🔗 Gear Mentioned (Insert affiliate links here)Tom Decoy (Avian-X, Dave Smith, etc.):Hen/Jake Decoy Combos:Vortex Binos or Rangefinder : Coyote & Crow Locator Calls🗂️ Chapters00:00 – Toms Stick Together: Understanding Turkey Group Dynamics04:15 – Why Roosted Doesn’t Always Mean Roasted09:30 – Morning Setup Timing Mistakes14:40 – Soundcheck: The Gobble Gauge18:00 – The "Bubble" Principle Revisited21:00 – Decoy Decisions: When to Use a Tom vs Hen26:30 – Silence Speaks: Letting the Hunt Breathe30:00 – Calling Cadence: What Most Hunters Get Wrong34:20 – Hunt Pressure & Behavioral Shifts39:00 – When to Move and When to Stay Put44:30 – Tactacam as a Scouting Tool49:00 – Turkey Hunting with Kids: The Ultimate Patience Test54:10 – Favorite Turkey Hunt Memories01:01:00 – Closing Tips: Patience, Playbook & Gut Feel🔥 Key Moments & Tactical TakeawaysTurkey Bro Code: Why toms stick together longer than you thinkCalling Mistakes: Overcalling vs the deadly pauseDecoy Logic: When that Jake + Hen combo stops workingSetup Refinement: How pressure and wind shift the bubblePublic Land Strategy: Why plan A rarely survives sunriseReal Talk: What it's like hunting with kids and learning to love the chaos🧭 Learn More About HUNTXP👉 linktr.ee/HUNTXP📈 Keywords:turkey group behavior, pressured turkey tactics, calling cadence turkey hunting, turkey decoy setup, public land turkey hunting, OnX turkey hunt, hunting with kids, late season turkey strategy, best turkey decoy combo, Tactacam turkey scouting, KUIU merino gear turkey season#TurkeyTactics #SpringGobbler #PublicLandHunter #HuntXP #CallingTips #OnXHunt #TurkeyDecoys #KUIU #LateSeasonTurkey #TactacamReveal #TurkeyHuntingWithKids #DiaphragmCall
Get ready for boots-on-the-ground strategies, real-deal gear talk, and all things spring gobbler. In this Part 1 deep dive, the HuntXP crew covers scouting, turkey roosting tactics, top gear picks, and wild stories from the woods. Whether you’re brand new or sharpening your edge, this is a must-listen for spring turkey hunters.🔍 Show NotesEpisode Summary:In Part 1 of this turkey hunting two-parter, JD, Travis, Jonny, Cody, Ben, and the rest of the HuntXP crew get raw and real about spring turkey hunting. They go deep into roosting strategies, calling tips, public vs private land tactics, and the gear that matters (and what doesn’t). Plus, a good dose of campfire-level storytelling, brotherly ribbing, and hard-earned lessons from chasing longbeards across Wisconsin and beyond.🔗 Gear Mentioned in this EpisodeIrish Setter Boots: Tethrd M2 Vest : North Mountain Gear Leafy Suit: Zink Calls : Woodhaven Calls: KUIU Pro G3 Harness :BogPod Carbon Fiber Tripod:OnX Hunt App : Tactacam Reveal Trail Cameras:Favorite Turkey Mouth and Box Calls :🗂️ Chapters03:45 – Family Intros & Years Chasing Birds12:00 – Why Turkey Hunting Hooks You17:00 – Breaking the Law (Lightly) in the Turkey Woods21:00 – Kids’ First Birds & New Generations of Hunters24:00 – The Evolution of Our Gear Loadouts27:00 – Shotgun & Choke Setups That Actually Work29:00 – Diaphragm Call Tips & Why They’re a Game-Changer32:00 – The Great Turkey Vest vs Backpack Debate37:00 – Scouting Basics: What Really Matters40:00 – Pine Trees, Ag Fields & Finding Roosts43:00 – Why OnX Isn’t Enough (Drive-Scouting Wins)47:00 – Onesie Gate & Packing for Mobile Hunts53:00 – Roosting Explained: What It Means & Why It Matters58:30 – How Close Is Too Close? Roosted Setup Strategies01:00:45 – Public vs Private Land Bird Behavior01:02:30 – Roost Tactics in the West vs the Midwest01:04:00 – Last Thoughts on Roosting & Patterning Birds📌 Key TakeawaysHow to scout turkey roosting spots using OnX and boots-on-the-groundWhy pine trees, ag fields, and sandbars matter more than you thinkThe difference in turkey behavior on public vs private landWhat gear matters most for run-and-gun style turkey huntingReal hunting stories that showcase both rookie mistakes and veteran wins🧭 Learn More About HuntXP👉 linktr.ee/HUNTXPturkey hunting tacticsspring turkey scoutinghow to roost turkeysbest diaphragm call for turkeyspublic land turkey huntingturkey vest vs backpackOnX for turkey huntingKUIU turkey setupCarlson choke tubeWinchester turkey shotgun setupleafy suit turkey concealment🏷️ #TurkeyHunting #SpringGobbler #PublicLandHunter #HuntXP #OnXHunt #DiaphragmCalls #KUIU #LeafySuit #TurkeyScouting #HuntingPodcast #GearTalk #RoostedNotRoasted