Got Game University Podcast

We’re setting the record straight on two of the most common hunting myths we hear: “Elk don’t bugle anymore” and “The 6.5 Creedmoor can’t kill elk.” Spoiler alert — both are dead wrong. Ryan breaks down why elk are still vocal and aggressive during the rut, and Mike defends the 6.5 Creedmoor with real-world kills from his family’s hunts. It’s not about trends or forums — it’s about what works in t...

Ryan shares the story behind the hunt that changed everything—the first time he and Taylor experienced screaming bulls up close during an archery elk hunt. With zero background in calling and a rifle-hunting mindset, the adrenaline of bugling bulls at 50 yards lit a fire to learn elk language. That pursuit led them to Paul Medel—aka the ElkNut—and ultimately to the creation of the ElkNut App. This...

In this episode, Mike Edgehouse and Ryan Smith dive into what it takes to prepare your kids for their very first hunt—whether they’re 6, 8, 10, or 15 years old. From mindset shifts as parents to practical tips in the field, they share personal stories and rules of thumb for keeping it fun, positive, and focused on your child’s experience. Learn how to turn a simple hunt into a lifelong passion by...

What started as a chill day on the river with tangled fly line and a few laughs turned into a full-on predator encounter Mike will never forget. We break down a wild moment when a massive mountain lion stepped onto the trail just 22 yards away—no guns, no warning, and no idea it had been that close the whole time. This one will give you chills. Hit play and come along for the ride.

In this episode, Ryan shares his backyard “genius” idea for rendering bear fat—using a Blackstone grill and some foil tins—which didn’t exactly go as planned. From clunky grease collection to his wife refusing to eat it, it’s a lesson in trial and error. Mike steps in with the real method for getting clean, high-yield bear grease. If you’re harvesting a bear this season and want to make the most o...

In this episode, we dive into a tough but important conversation: what happens when a hunter makes an honest mistake and turns themselves in only to be prosecuted to the full extent of the law? We talk about a real case in North Idaho where a hunter shot a juvenile grizzly mistaking it for a black bear, reported it immediately, and now faces major penalties. Should intent matter more? Where’s the...

In this exclusive episode, Mike and Ryan recap their unforgettable two-and-a-half-day bear hunt—complete with laughs, heavy packs, and plenty of baloney. They tease upcoming step-by-step bear caping tutorials coming to the Cutrite app, perfect for your fall hunts and taxidermy prep. No more scrambling on the mountain—Cutrite has you covered. Tune in for behind-the-scenes stories, raw footage highl...

In this episode, Mike Edghouse and Ryan Smith chew the fat—literally and figuratively—as they gear up for a spring bear hunt. They share their top four tips every beginner should know before heading into the field. Whether you’re just getting started or haven’t had much luck this season, this conversation is packed with practical advice and encouragement. With June heating up, now’s the time to ge...

In this episode, Mike and Ryan dive into the age-old dilemma of hunting ethics when it comes to sharing your hard-earned spot. What happens when you introduce a friend to a location you’ve spent years discovering and patterning especially on public land? Is it fair for them to return solo? Does it cross a line, or is it just part of hunting culture? The guys share personal thoughts, experiences, a...

In this episode, Mike shares a tense encounter with a long-time hunter who claimed a public land hunting spot as his own. The discussion unfolds into the ethics of hunting on public land and respecting others' bait sites. Mike and Ryan debate the fine line between public access rights and hunter courtesy, diving deep into personal experiences and perspectives on fair chase principles. Ryan ex...

After a long winter and even longer break from podcasting, Mike and Ryan are back on Just the Tip Tuesday with unfiltered insights and plenty of laughs. In this episode, they dive into the early stages of spring bear season, breaking down what they call the “three seasons within a season” baiting, spot-and-stalk, and calling. Hear about the latest bear sightings, the myths of bear size measurement...

Ryan and Mike go all out as they each discuss 3 must haves in their kill kit. These aren't your normal items like a knife or game bag, but items that not everyone has maybe thought about.   

On this episode Ryan discusses what he has been studying in the ElkNut app and how he likes to approach the advertising sequence in early season September.

This week Mike tells the story of him and his boy shooting an early season cow and the joys of hunting with kids. We than transition and discuss early season tips to keep your meat cool, clean, and dry as hot days are ahead of us with September elk season approaching.  

We are back with a new episode where we discuss a little bit about our bear season. Mike tells a story where they call in a bear and his buddy makes a heck of a shot to drop him. 

Kevin Toye joins us for our last episode of our fitness series. Kevin is a hunter that embarks in a hybrid athlete mentality where he lifts weights and runs marathons. His fitness goals are made and adjusted so he can be the best hunter on the mountain. 

Richard Bettencourt co-founder of Steep Kuntry Outdoors joins us for a great and insightful episode. We discuss Richard's fitness journey from Division 1 football player to a steep kuntry athlete, and his company Steep Kuntry Outdoors. Listen in for some good motivation. 

Episode 1 of a multi episode guide to hunting fitness. Mike discusses his pack out challenge through Western Contours. He talks about what it is, how it's going and what he has learned so far. Ryan shares his plans for marathon training and what races he has signed up for including a 34 mile Beaverhead Endurance Run in the Idaho mountains.

This week Ryan and Mike discuss what to do and what not to do when purchasing a bow. You'll hear what they wish they would have done differently and what they did right. If you're in the market for a new bow, you won't want to miss this one. 

This week Ryan and Mike discuss tips to staying warm while hunting in the winter months. They share must have items and clothing to bring, and how to use them appropriately. 

On this episode, Ryan and Mike discuss gift ideas for hunters. Feel free to forward this episode to a loved one who needs gift ideas for you!  Wishing everyone a merry Christmas and happy New Year!

On this episode, Mike and Ryan share their thoughts on the glassing game. Being comfortable behind your optics is essential to longer days in the field, and we all know longer days in the field increases our chances for success.  Ryan and mike dissect the comfort equation and how to increase your chances for success!

This week, Ryan and Mike discuss the importance of having a plan for your kill before the actual Shot.  They discuss the best ways to keep your meat clean, cool, and dry. They even talk about what to do in case your plan fails so that you can fill your freezer without complications! With the rut approaching, you do not want to miss this one!

Ryan surprises Mike with an unexpected topic tonight: What firearm do you carry in the field hunting? The two engage in a great conversation about choosing the right caliber, how to carry it, and what to watch out for while hunting. Enjoy!

On this episode of Just the Tip Tuesday, Mike shares what he's learned processing and butchering thousands of pounds of game meat, specifically as it applies to aging meat. Hopefully you have an elk or deer that you've recently taken and can apply what you hear from this episode soon!