Sportsmen's Empire - Western Big Game Hunting

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitchell sits down with returning guest Bryan Hale from Elk County Outfitters to break down the major changes coming to Pennsylvania elk hunting for the 2026 season and beyond. The conversation dives deep into the new elk application process, the removal of the fallback option, bonus point consolidation, updated zone structures, and the addition of a b...

Unlock the secrets of successful western hunting with a service that could change your entire season. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by Colorado's vast public lands or wondered how to get insider intel without the endless scout trips, this episode is your game-changer. Josh Sears, a Colorado-based scouting expert and founder of Boots on the Ground, shares how his personalized service helps hunter...

This week on Creekside Chronicles , I’m telling the story of how spending every free minute chasing fish on the river finally caught up with me. After running the same line upriver I’d been running all summer, one bad hit on a hidden rock left me with a hole in my boat and a whole lot of time to think. What started as a rough day on the water turned into a reminder about balance, priorities, and w...

Most Western hunters underestimate how critical simple logistics—like fuel, access, and gear—are to their success. Dan Johnson reveals the hard lessons he's learned from close calls with gas tanks, private roads, and hidden property boundaries—lessons that could save your hunt from disaster. If you're planning your first backcountry adventure or looking to sharpen your skills, this episode will ch...

In this episode, we break down the difference between visually stimulated hounds and those that rely on their nose to work out a track. We look at  what it really means when a young pup doesn’t bark at live game but shows no fear—and instead chooses to trail what’s left behind. We talk about how different dogs process game, common mistakes handlers make (especially trying to force excitement), and...

Not every good hound comes out of the gate bold. Some take time, patience, and the right kind of handling to find their confidence—and if you push too hard, you can set them back just as fast as you move them forward. In this episode, we break down what a timid or hesitant hound really needs. We talk about reading your dog, knowing when to step in and when to step back, and how to build confidence...

Unlock the future of hunting with groundbreaking technology that turns data into deer movements and land management strategies—before you even step into the woods. Gregg Farrell from Reveal Trail Cameras and Tacticam reveals how their latest innovations could transform the way you understand and improve your property, whether you're a seasoned landowner or a weekend warrior. In this episode, you’l...

Most of us underestimate the power of media in shaping the future of conservation—until now. In this eye-opening episode, Mark Kenyon, Director of Conservation at MeatEater, reveals how leveraging storytelling and strategic advocacy can tilt the scales in favor of public lands, wildlife, and hunters’ rights. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the seemingly endless challenges facing our natural resou...

In this episode, Nick shares personal experiences with injuries, outdoor adventures, and the evolving role of campers in outdoor recreation. Discover insights on outdoor gear, camper setups, and how to enhance your outdoor lifestyle with practical tips and reflections. Personal injury and recovery stories The role of campers in outdoor recreation Different types of camping setups and gear Using ca...

Join us for an insightful discussion with Wyoming wildlife expert Justin Binfett, who sheds light on how droughts, weather fluctuations, and policy influence wildlife populations and hunting regulations in Wyoming. Whether you’re a hunter, conservation enthusiast, or interested in state-level wildlife management, this episode is packed with valuable knowledge and behind-the-scenes insights. Key to...

Planning My 5-7 Year Western Hunting Strategy and Goals In this episode, Dan Johnson shares his detailed hunting plan for the next five to seven years, covering everything from preference points and unit selections to physical preparation and gear. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting to plan your own adventure, get insights on long-term strategy, resource management, and hunting logi...

From the Appalachian mountains in mid Dec to the rolling hills of the bluegrass St. We recap hunts from each place. Jerry joins Heath to tell stories and relive those hunts. Navigating snow cover terrain and slipping down the Kentucky creek bottoms join us on Creekside Chronicles to hear if the turkeys got the best of us.    IG - heathhyatt147 FB Heath Hyatt Youtube - Heath Hyatt  creeksidechronic...

Buckle in and get set for this long episode between Nick Otto and Nate Roseveld as they share insights on wildlife management, hunting strategies, the evolving regulations in Michigan, and the thrill of hog hunting in Oklahoma. This episode provides practical perspectives on conservation efforts, hunting ethics, and the logistical realities of outdoor life, all wrapped in the stories from the road...

This week’s episode recaps a stretch of hard-earned lessons in the outdoors—from finally breaking a tough streak on the river, to a close but unsuccessful opening day in the turkey woods, to working through the ups and downs of training a young hound. The common thread? You can’t force results. Whether it’s fishing, hunting, or dog training, progress shows up on its own timeline. Some days test yo...

Most hunters overlook a massive obstacle that can turn a dream hunt into a logistical nightmare — but not anymore. In this eye-opening episode, Matt Pletzer reveals how he built Tag Compass , a platform designed to simplify the complex world of big game hunting logistics, application strategies, and long-term planning. Whether you're fishing in Newfoundland or chasing elk in Wyoming, Matt's insigh...

Good handlers know when to step in. Great handlers know when to stay quiet. In this episode, we break down one of the biggest mistakes handlers make—overhandling. When do you step in, and when do you step back? We talk about how too much interference can limit a dog’s natural ability, and why letting them work things out builds better, more confident hounds in the long run.   IG - heathhyatt147 FB...

This episode features Steve and Randy Fielder talking about the manly arts of barbecuing, coon hunting and being better to their fellow men and women. It’s good ole boy talk from Yea to Amen and will leave you with a good taste in your mouth like a big swig of Grandma’s sweet tea from a mason jar. Dog talk at its finest, from the Gone To The Dogs Podcast boys. Enjoy! We would like to thank those w...

In this episode, Dr. Peter Hackett—an expert on high-altitude medicine—shares insights into how our bodies respond to elevation changes, the risks involved, and practical tips for hunters and adventurers planning to spend time in high altitudes. If you're heading to mountains for hunting, climbing, or adventure, this conversation will prepare you to recognize symptoms and stay safe . Key topics: D...

Sometimes it only takes an hour down the road to feel like you’ve stepped into a different world. In this episode, I talk about a recent trip back to where I grew up—spending time fishing, reconnecting with old friends, and being reminded of what “home” really means. Not just a place you live, but a place that shaped you. That trip sparked a deeper thought—about hounds, and how even the best dogs...

The prior week’s show featuring current PKC World Championship winner Willy’s Little Ann generated quite a stir across the podcast sphere as the guests, including host Steve Fielder, allowed that Little Ann may be the best coon dog of all time. Coon hunting entrepreneur Bruce Conkey posted his opinion of the matter on the Coon Hunting Conversations group page in social media drawing more than sixt...

Nick is challenged on his adventures of saltwater fishing in Gulf Shores, Alabama, including gear setups, bait strategies, and the unexpected wildlife encounter with an osprey. Plus, insights into upcoming hog hunting trips in Oklahoma and the camaraderie built through shared outdoor experiences. Highlights: Saltwater fishing gear setup and modifications Challenges of saltwater fishing in Alabama...

There’s a different kind of bond between a handler and a police K9—one built on long hours, shared risk, and a level of trust you don’t fully understand until you’ve lived it. In this episode, we’re not talking about deployments or war stories. We’re talking about the lessons that stick with you long after the dog retires. How our dogs can read us before you even make a move. How they pick up on t...

This episode features the owners of the current PKC World Coonhound Champion Willy’s Little Ann.  Fresh off her latest in an amazing string of major wins including the UKC World Championship and the Tournament of Champions, Little Ann is writing a chapter in the coonhound record book that may never be duplicated. In this episode John Strickland, Ashley Oxendine and Randy Smith, three of the four p...

Spring is finally showing up and it’s a great time to be in the woods. In this episode we talk about working hounds during the offseason, getting dogs back in shape, and keeping young dogs learning even after hunting season ends. We also discuss ** Turkey season right around the corner and what to look for while scouting the woods this time of year. Plus, a little fishing talk — the river has been...

Join us for a fun and insightful episode where we explore the World Association of Sofa Based Archers (WASBA) Chuck Norris Challenge. In this challenge, the hosts must shoot a 300 Vegas Round with 3 completely different arrows. We discuss archery tactics, gear, scoring, and share laughs over Chuck Norris jokes, all while swapping arrows and shooting for fun. Takeaways WASBA Chuck Norris Challenge...