Episodes

  • What To Do When Things Go Wrong

    What To Do When Things Go Wrong
    Oct 10 2024
    In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer podcast, hosts Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau share their personal hunting experiences, focusing on a recent successful mule deer hunt. They discuss the emotional aspects of hunting, the differences between hunting mule deer and whitetail, and strategies for dealing with unexpected situations in the field. The conversation also covers the importance of learning from failures and the significance of preparation and safety while hunting. Takeaways: Hunting can evoke feelings of nostalgia and longing for home. Successful hunts require patience and persistence. Mule deer hunting presents unique challenges compared to whitetail hunting. Understanding deer behavior is crucial for successful hunting. Preparation and organization are key to a successful hunting experience. Learning from past mistakes is essential for improvement. The rut can change deer behavior and hunting strategies. Calling techniques can significantly impact hunting success. Unexpected encounters in the field require quick thinking and adaptability. Safety should always be a priority when hunting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 20 mins
  • Heroin & Shoplifting with Tony Peterson

    Heroin & Shoplifting with Tony Peterson
    Oct 2 2024
    In this conversation, Dan Johnson and Tony Peterson discuss their personal struggles with aging, physical limitations, and the impact of THC on their lives. They explore the realities of hunting, the importance of coaching and mentorship, and the challenges of parenting in the outdoors. The conversation highlights the emotional complexities of hunting, particularly when it comes to teaching children about the realities of life and death in nature. Takeaways: Aging brings physical challenges that affect activities. THC can provide relaxation and aid in sleep. Coaching youth sports can be more fulfilling than hunting. Injuries can change how one approaches outdoor activities. The emotional impact of hunting can be profound. Teaching kids about hunting requires sensitivity and care. Confidence levels in children can vary significantly. The importance of mentorship in outdoor activities. Hunting can be a way to bond with children. The realities of hunting often include difficult lessons. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 31 mins
  • Big Buck, Small Parcel

    Big Buck, Small Parcel
    Sep 27 2024
    In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson and guest Michael Ward discuss the challenges of balancing family life with hunting commitments, the importance of deer population control in suburban areas, and the emotional connections that come with hunting. They delve into the dynamics of hunting big bucks, the joy of harvesting deer, and the future hunting plans that lie ahead. The conversation highlights the camaraderie among hunters and the shared experiences that make hunting a cherished activity. Takeaways: Balancing family commitments with hunting can be challenging. Population control is crucial in suburban hunting areas. Emotional connections to children can impact hunting decisions. The dynamics of hunting big bucks involve competition among hunters. Shooting a buck brings a heightened sense of accomplishment. Camaraderie among hunters enhances the experience of hunting. Hunting in suburban areas requires navigating property access issues. The joy of harvesting deer is a significant part of hunting culture. Future hunting plans can include multiple tags and opportunities. The health of deer populations is affected by overpopulation and nutrition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Don't Take Shortcuts During Hunts

    Don't Take Shortcuts During Hunts
    Sep 25 2024
    On this episode, we barrow an episode form the How To Hunt Deer podcast that where the guys discuss their hunting strategy and what traps to avoid as the season gets rolling. In this episode of the How to Hunt Deer Podcast, hosts Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau discuss various aspects of deer hunting, including the importance of coffee and energy drinks for stamina, the challenges of hunting on small properties, the dangers of overhunting, and the effective use of trail cameras. They emphasize the significance of understanding deer behavior, the pitfalls of social media influence, and the necessity of scent control and weapon maintenance. The conversation wraps up with a strong reminder about safety in the field, particularly the importance of using harnesses while hunting. Takeaways: Coffee and energy drinks are essential for stamina during hunts. Small properties can be effective hunting spots if approached correctly. Overhunting can lead to educated deer and reduced success. Trail cameras provide valuable insights but can also lead to overhunting. Understanding deer behavior is crucial for successful hunting. Social media can create unrealistic expectations for hunters. Scent control is important, but not foolproof. Regular weapon maintenance is essential for accuracy. Safety harnesses are a must for tree stand hunting. Patience and strategy are key to successful hunting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 15 mins
  • Troubleshooting Your Bow

    Troubleshooting Your Bow
    Sep 20 2024
    In this episode of the Hunting Gear podcast, Dan Johnson speaks with Nate Sellers from Average Jack Archery about troubleshooting archery equipment. They discuss the mechanics of bows, the importance of proper measurements, and the significance of shooting through paper for accuracy. Nate shares insights on grip pressure, structural issues in bows, and the tuning of arrows and broadheads. The conversation also covers the impact of fletching and arrow weight on performance, the challenges of tuning different broadhead types, and the importance of understanding the third axis for accurate shooting. Finally, Nate offers practical tips for archers to improve their skills and confidence before the hunting season. Takeaways: A bow is a simple machine that can be easily understood. Shooting through paper helps ensure arrows fly straight. Grip pressure can significantly affect shooting accuracy. Mechanical broadheads can be a reliable option for hunters. Parachuting occurs when an arrow slows down too much in flight. Proper measurements are essential for bow tuning. Structural issues in bows can lead to persistent tuning problems. The third axis is important for accurate shots at different angles. Fletching size and type can impact arrow flight. Understanding arrow spine and weight is crucial for tuning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • Understanding Thermals, Terrain, and Wind

    Understanding Thermals, Terrain, and Wind
    Sep 18 2024
    In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson and guest Alex Gyllstrom discuss the challenges and strategies of bow hunting, particularly in relation to family responsibilities, scouting, and understanding the role of thermals in hunting success. They share personal experiences and insights on navigating the complexities of hunting in states like Kansas and Iowa, the importance of observation, and adapting plans in the field. The conversation emphasizes the need for efficiency and the joy of the hunting process. Takeaways: Preparation for hunting seasons can be influenced by family responsibilities. Efficiency in scouting and hunting is crucial for balancing family life. Thermals can significantly affect deer movement and hunting success. Understanding terrain features is essential for effective hunting strategies. Baiting can be a useful strategy, but it's not the only option. Adapting plans based on real-time observations is key to success. Scouting and understanding deer behavior are fundamental to hunting. Thermals can change based on weather conditions and vegetation loss. Observation and asking 'why' can lead to better hunting outcomes. Enjoying the process of hunting is as important as the outcome. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • 150 In Velvet

    150 In Velvet
    Sep 13 2024
    In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson is joined by Tom Waters to discuss Tom's recent Kentucky Velvet Buck hunt. They start by reminiscing about the music they listened to growing up, including classic rock, country, and rap. Then, they dive into the details of Tom's hunt, including how he discovered the buck and his baiting strategy. Tom explains that he had been scouting the area for years but only saw the buck for the first time this summer. He also shares his feeder schedule and how he uses it to slow down the deer movement. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the buck's movement patterns and Tom's setup distance from the feeder. Tom Waters shares his experience of harvesting a velvet buck on his property. He explains that he was hunting from a blind near a feeder when the buck showed up. Tom discusses how the deer behavior changes when they shed their velvet and become more aware. He also talks about the deer population in his area, the influence of agriculture on deer movement, and the low hunting pressure on his property. Tom shares his shot placement and tracking experience, as well as his choice of broadheads. He mentions his plans to hunt on public land and donate deer to Kentucky Hunters for the Hungry. Takeaways: Music preferences can change over time and be influenced by personal experiences and exposure to different genres. Baiting can be an effective strategy for attracting deer, but its effectiveness may vary depending on the availability of natural food sources. Feeder schedules can be adjusted based on hunting regulations and the deer's feeding patterns. Understanding deer movement patterns and setting up at an appropriate distance from the feeder can increase the chances of a successful hunt. Deer behavior changes when they shed their velvet and become more aware. Agriculture, such as beans and corn, influences deer movement more than acorns or bait. Low hunting pressure on Tom's property allows for successful hunting. Tracking deer in tall grass or CRP can be challenging. Tom prefers using Rage Hypodermic broadheads. Tom plans to hunt on public land and donate deer to Kentucky Hunters for the Hungry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • 30 Minutes with Andy May

    30 Minutes with Andy May
    Sep 11 2024
    In this conversation, Andy May discusses his hunting strategies and experiences, as well as his approach to balancing hunting with other responsibilities. He emphasizes the importance of analyzing the wind, thermals, and terrain when scouting for deer and setting up tree stands. Andy also shares his perspective on parenting and motivating children in sports. He recounts a story of hunting a buck that frequently crossed onto a neighboring property and how he used a decoy to try to lure the buck within range. The conversation covers various topics related to hunting and parenting. The main themes include the struggle of balancing sports and family, the importance of finding a passion, and the approach to scouting and hunting on unfamiliar properties. The conversation also touches on the significance of fresh sign and the tactics for hunting a bumped deer. Takeaways: Analyzing wind, thermals, and terrain is crucial when scouting for deer and setting up tree stands. Balancing hunting with other responsibilities can be challenging, but it's important to prioritize family and make time for other activities. Motivating children in sports requires finding a balance between pushing them to work hard and allowing them to find their own path. Using decoys can be an effective strategy for luring deer within range, especially when hunting on properties with limited access. Balancing sports and family can be challenging, and it's important to support children in finding their own passions. Having a passion or hobby can provide direction and motivation in life. When scouting on unfamiliar properties, look for areas that could be food sources or good bedding opportunities. Pay attention to fresh sign, such as tracks, droppings, and rubs, when deciding where to hunt. If you bump a deer, analyze the lay of the land and set up in a strategic location to potentially intercept the deer when it returns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 1 min