Birdshot Podcast

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson discusses the world of grouse research, wildlife conservation, and the use of pointing dogs in citizen science. We explore how upland bird hunters and scientists can work together to collect data, and how David has been at the forefront of using dogs and technology to study sage grouse and other upland birds David Dahlgren is an Associate P...

The Birdshot Podcast explores the upland hunting lifestyle through stories, interviews, and insights from bird hunters, dog trainers, and conservationists across the country. Join us each week as we dive into the traditions, gear, and stories that connect us to the uplands. Subscribe today and join us for the hunt." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson welcomes Randy Shepard, lifelong upland hunter and host of the My Dog Hunts podcast. With over five decades of bird hunting experience, Randy shares stories that span from the pheasant fields of Iowa to the sage country of the Intermountain West. Randy Shepard grew up pheasant hunting in Iowa, eventually expanding his pursuits to ruffed gro...

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson welcomes Kirby Hoyt and Travis Shivel from Vintage Doubles to explore the world of vintage shotguns, bird hunting, and the craftsmanship behind classic double-barrel guns. Kirby and Travis discuss their passion for restoring and selling English shotguns, particularly side-by-sides, and discuss the nuances of gun fit, barrel thickness, and g...

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson sits down with Mark Dinsmore, an experienced bird dog trainer and upland hunting enthusiast. Mark shares his story of becoming an adult-onset hunter, transitioning from no prior bird dog experience to developing a very accomplished French Brittany in the country. They discuss Mark’s journey with his bird dogs, particularly Vern, and explore...

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson is joined by Mark Payton, a renowned bird dog trainer, author, and YouTube content creator. Mark shares his extensive experience in training bird dogs, emphasizing the importance of patience, timing, and consistency. He discusses key training methods like the Fun Whoa and Chase Method, and offers practical tips for those starting out with t...

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson is joined by Del Whitman, an expert in gun fittings, upland hunting, and training bird dogs. Del shares his experiences working with hunters on gun fittings, his journey with various breeds of bird dogs, and his insights into how training and foundational work are crucial for both dogs and shotguns. They discuss gun maintenance, dog trainin...

In this episode of the Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson welcomes Andy Wayment, a passionate upland bird hunter, fly fisherman, and bibliophile, to discuss some of the best books in the world of upland hunting and fly fishing. Their conversation spans timeless authors like Burton Spiller and Tom Davis, plus a special look at books like Irish Red and Big Red. Whether you're a bird hunter, fly fish...

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson is joined by Mike Amman, a County Forester in Wisconsin, to discuss the evolving landscapes of the state's upland habitats, with a particular focus on sharp-tailed grouse populations, habitat management, and conservation efforts. Mike shares his extensive experience working with county forests, overseeing land management practices that supp...

In this episode of the Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson speaks with Lars Anderson from Crispi USA about what sets their hunting boots apart. They discuss everything from Italian craftsmanship and innovation to outdoor functionality, sizing, and real-world hunting stories. A must-listen for hunters, gear nerds, and anyone curious about high-performance footwear for the field. Lars Anderson is the...

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson is joined by Cliff Hawkins, an avid bird hunter and camping enthusiast, to discuss his journey in upland hunting and camping. Cliff shares how he has optimized his hunting trips with a teardrop trailer and efficient camping gear, allowing for a more time-efficient and comfortable experience in the uplands. From hunting ruffed grouse in Oreg...

In this action-packed episode of the Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson sits down with two of the biggest names in the world of wing shooting: Will Primos, hunting legend and the voice behind Primos Hunting Calls, and Anthony Matarese, world-renowned competitive shooter. Together, they discuss their new book Straight Shooting for Hunters: A Champion’s Guide to Using Shotguns in the Field, sharing...

In this episode of the Birdshot Podcast, Nick gives updates on upcoming events and ongoing activities, including a survey and a giveaway. He emphasizes the importance of public lands, discussing recent legislative attempts to sell them off and urging listeners to take action through advocacy groups like TRCP and Backcountry Hunters and Anglers. Nick also highlights two upcoming events: Shotgun Fes...

In this episode of the Birdshot Podcast, host Nick welcomes author Mark Parman and illustrator Jay Dowd to discuss their collaborative work, 'Upland Matters.' The conversation delves into themes explored in the book, including the connection to nature, the ethics and motivations behind hunting, and the evolution of a hunter's journey. Mark and Jay share personal stories and experiences from their...

On this episode of the Birdshot Podcast with chat Jared Elm of the Ruffed Grouse Society. Jared discusses his new role as state coordinator with the NRCS offices and shares insights into the expanding conservation delivery staff. The conversation dives deep into the impact of recent wildfires in Northern Minnesota, particularly in grouse habitats, and their containment efforts. Jared speaks about...

In this episode, Jake Hofer shares his vast knowledge of the land real estate market, offering tips and strategies for aspiring landowners. He discusses the importance of having a strong relationship with a knowledgeable real estate agent, obtaining financial pre-approval, and understanding different land improvement programs. Jake also dives into his own experiences as a landowner, the emotional...

In this episode of the Birdshot podcast, host Nick Larson welcomes Lars Jacob, a seasoned hunter and shotgun fitting expert. They discuss hunting conditions in Vermont, the impacts of weather on grouse populations, and the challenges of grouse hunting. They also delve into the intricacies of shotgun fitting, the importance of practice for instinctive shooting, and the allure of vintage guns, parti...

In this episode, the host and guest Levi Day discuss turkey hunting plans, and his extensive experiences in hunting, outdoor traditions, and conservation. They delve into Levi’s current role at Pheasants Forever, where he manages the Journey to Conservation Careers program, and talk about the importance of creating conservation career pathways. 00:00 Heading to the Cabin 02:20 Fishing and Turkey H...

In this episode, Nick is joined by Steve Gould, host of the Target Focus Life YouTube channel. They discuss Steve's background, and some spring turkey hunting strategies. They dive into turkey shotgun specifics, the importance of optics, and the different options available. Steve shares insights on quality shotguns for various uses, experiences with youth hunting, and upcoming events, including a...

In this episode of the Birdshot Podcast, Nick Larson talks with Kenneth Witt—host of the Gun Dog Nation podcast—about his unconventional journey from small-town attorney to landman in West Texas, and ultimately, to upland hunter and podcast creator. Kenneth shares how his love for dogs, passion for the outdoors, and curiosity for training led him to start a show that highlights voices across the d...

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson talks with Logan Clark, a graduate researcher, about his extensive study on dusky grouse migrations and behavior. They discuss the challenges and innovations in monitoring wildlife, including the use of autonomous recording units (ARUs) and GPS tracking. Logan shares insights from his fieldwork, the modeling techniques applied for abundance...

In this episode of the Birdshot Podcast, the host welcomes Ryan Linton to discuss his journey from a novice hunter to an avid upland bird enthusiast and writer. Ryan shares how a serendipitous trip to Colorado sparked his love for hunting, eventually leading him to pursue upland birds and acquire his first bird dog, Creek, a Brittany. He talks about the joys and challenges of training his dog and...

Insights into Shotgun Shooting and Gun Fitting with Keith Coyle In this episode of the podcast, the host is joined by longtime friend and shooting instructor Keith Coyle. Keith shares his journey and recent move to start an independent shooting school on a farm near Pontiac, closer to the outer suburbs of Chicago. The episode delves deeply into the intricacies of gun fitting, the history and techn...

Joined by Jerry Kolter of Northwoods Bird Dogs we discuss his methods for developing wild bird dogs with a focus on young pups and early training tactics. Show Highlights: Breeding and training wild bird dogs What Jerry looks for in a grouse dog “You shouldn’t have to be a great dog trainer to have a good bird dog.” What is considered “too much point” in a bird dog What are super puppy exercises a...

Joined by bird hunter and bird watcher, Zachary Adams we discuss commonalities and differences between the two groups, bird field guides and much more. Show Highlights: A part time gig throwing clays for Orvis The ins and outs of land trusts A passion for bird hunting and bird watching Birds of New England: A Timber Press Field Guide What goes into writing a field guide on birds? A rescue bird dog...