The Huntavore

As summer draws to a close, many of us face the annual task of managing our freezers, especially if you have a stockpile of venison from last hunting season. If you’re wondering how to use that venison and make room for new stock, you’re in the right place. In this post, I’ll share five practical methods to utilize your venison effectively, helping you clear out your freezer while enjoying delicio...

Join Nick as he shares his summer adventures, land management insights, and culinary experiments, all while navigating storm damage and preparing for deer season. This episode offers practical tips for landowners, hunters, and food enthusiasts alike. Key Points: Storm damage and land management strategies Deer stand site adjustments and wildlife activity Culinary experiments with cured meats and p...

Celebrating 200 episodes of Huntavore, this episode reflects on the journey, passion for wild game, and culinary adventures, including tips on outdoor cooking, processing, and sharing the love of hunting and eating wild game.  Nick also opens up discussion about his favorite open fire meal, Foil Dinners. Attribution Code "Slow Burn" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons:...

Join Huntavore as he shares his passion for outdoor cooking, tailgating, and grilling with the Blackstone griddle. Discover tips on setup, menu ideas, and how to elevate your tailgate experience with creative hot dog and taco recipes.  This episode explores innovative cooking techniques, focusing on taco preparation, wild game utilization, and a French mustard cream sauce.  Nick shares practical t...

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...

Ep197 Road Trip Home with Nate Roseveld   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...

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...

On this episode of the Huntavore Podcast, we sit down with author Christie Green to explore the deeper meaning behind hunting, food, and our connection to the natural world. Broadcasting from the frozen banks of Alaska’s Kenai River, Christie shares the story behind her book Moonlight Elk and her journey into hunting later in life. This conversation goes far beyond tags and trophies—it’s about ide...

In this episode, Nick shares a personal journey of freezer organization, the lessons learned from a recent organizational failure, and a plan to improve storage and meal prep efficiency. The discussion highlights practical tips for optimizing freezer space, labeling, and meal planning, along with a heartwarming story of family cooking confidence. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.a...

In this episode, Nick recount their thrilling ice fishing adventure targeting trophy lake trout. They share their journey from the marina to the fishing spot, detailing their setup, techniques, and the excitement of catching their first lake trout. The conversation highlights the camaraderie among friends, the challenges of fishing, and the joy of experiencing nature together. Nick reflects on the...

As winter blankets Michigan with snow and ice, ice fishing enthusiasts eagerly await the opportunity to cast their lines onto frozen lakes. In this episode, we’ll explore the thrilling experiences shared in a recent episode of the Huntavore Podcast, where the joys of fishing, family bonding, and learning new skills come together in the great outdoors. A highlight of the podcast is the host’s exper...

In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss the challenges of balancing family life with sports commitments, the unpredictable nature of winter weather and ice conditions, and the journey of writing and publishing in the outdoor genre. They explore the motivations behind writing, the impact of podcasting on outdoor culture, and the ethical considerations surrounding sponsorships and conservat...

In part two of this conversation, Nick and Chris of Okayest Cook, explore various themes surrounding hunting, cooking, and self-sufficiency. They share personal experiences from the hunting season, discuss the joys of cooking with wild game, and delve into the importance of creativity in the kitchen. The discussion also touches on the challenges of breaking out of cooking ruts, the art of making s...

Nick was given a huge opportunity to acquire a reindeer carcass.  He lays out the events that lead to this, how it wasn't a hunt, but a dispatch of an animal.  How he will go about salvaging as much as he can, from skull and antlers, to meat and hide.  It is a glaring look at the relationship we have with livestock, the relationship we have as farmers and butchers, and a parallel of how a years en...

Nick Otto reflects on the recently concluded deer season and shares his excitement for the upcoming ice fishing season. He discusses the joys of ice fishing with family, the importance of preparing equipment, and the thrill of catching and cooking fish. Nick also emphasizes the need for proper management of outdoor gear and the anticipation of new adventures in the outdoors. Wrapped up deer season...

On this episode of Huntavore, Kriss Abigail and Nick Otto explore the world of hunting and cooking, focusing on the importance of utilizing underutilized cuts of venison. They discuss various cooking techniques, the value of patience in the kitchen, and the joy of creative meal prep. The conversation also touches on the significance of stewardship and conservation in hunting, encouraging listeners...

In this episode of Huntavore, Nick sits down with Cate Meade, a Chicago native whose love for the outdoors began with family traditions and time spent in nature. Her passion for cooking started early — sparked by a childhood moment making a simple cherry pie that set her on a lifelong culinary path. Today, Cate works full-time as a personal chef, cooking across a variety of kitchens, events, and p...

In this episode, Nick recounts a thrilling hunting experience, detailing the build-up of tension as he waits for the perfect moment to take a shot at a deer. The narrative captures the emotional rollercoaster of the hunt, from the initial sighting of the buck to the moment of the shot and the subsequent celebration with family. The host emphasizes the importance of patience, control, and the joy o...

In this episode, The Troy Fowler discusses the critical elements of hunting, focusing on the roles of arrows and bows in the process of taking down deer. The discussion delves into the technical aspects of hunting equipment, particularly the importance of broadheads and inserts, and challenges common misconceptions about what truly contributes to a successful hunt. Troy also informs Nick of why th...

In this episode, Nick Otto discusses five essential steps to ensure the best quality venison after a successful hunt. He emphasizes the importance of shot placement, quick recovery, thorough field dressing, proper cleaning and chilling, and effective packing and freezing methods. Each step is crucial for maintaining the quality of the meat and ensuring a successful outcome from the hunt. The harde...

Nick tracks down Dr. Brent Race, a lead scientist from NIH (National Institutes of Health) who worked on the study; Inactivation of chronic wasting disease prions using sodium hypochlorite. The findings are exciting and promising for home or commercial processors who could be butchering infected deer. Using a solution of 40% bleach and a soak of 5 minutes, CWD prions can be inactivated, saving you...

In this all over style of conversation, Dan and Nick explore various themes ranging from coaching youth sports to the culinary arts. They discuss the importance of side dishes, innovative cooking techniques, and the joy of simple discoveries like the spork. The conversation also delves into the future of AI in hunting, the versatility of potatoes, and the art of flavor pairing, all while sharing p...

Join us as we delve into the inspiring story of Jacob Fether, founder of Feather Archery. Discover how a passion for archery transformed into a thriving business in Hillsdale County, Michigan. From humble beginnings in a pole barn to a bustling pro shop, Jacob shares insights on the challenges and triumphs of building a community-focused archery hub. Whether you're an archery enthusiast or an aspi...

In this engaging conversation, Nick Otto and Bradley Joyce explore the journey of hunting, conservation, and culinary adventures. Bradley shares his transition from a tech career to becoming an adult onset hunter, emphasizing the importance of wild game in his life. They discuss the Coast Range Collective's mission to promote conservation and community engagement, as well as the culinary technique...

In this episode, Adam Berkelmans and Justin Townsend join Nick on the show to discuss the intricacies of sausage making, focusing on the newly released book 'The Art of Venison Sausage Making.' They explore the science behind sausage making, essential tips for novices, and the social aspects of the craft. The conversation also delves into various types of sausages, the importance of casings, and t...