The Hunter Conservationist Podcast

Join Mark, Curtis and Dr. Ray Hilborn for this griping episode. Dr. Hilborn sets the record straight on the narrative of ocean depletion, revealing a nuanced and surprisingly positive outlook on marine ecosystems. Discover the truth behind fish farms, salmon stocks, and the socio-economic value of recreational fishing. This episode dives into the complex dance between science, policy, and public p...

In this episode, I sit down with Breann Billey to talk about her journey into firearms ownership — how it started, what surprised her, and how it’s shaped her confidence along the way. We get into first impressions, stepping onto the range for the first time, and the realities that don’t always match public perception. Breann shares what it’s like navigating the firearms community as a woman, the...

Discover the intricate world of migratory waterfowl regulations in Canada. This episode uncovers the international treaties and policies shaping hunting seasons, with insights from Jim Fisher, Vice President of Canadian Policy for Delta Waterfowl. Learn how decisions are made at the highest levels, affecting everything from dove and crane seasons to swan harvests. Explore the science behind popula...

This episode explores the journey of introducing children to hunting from a family perspective, discussing the importance of teaching kids about nature, responsibility, and the ethics of hunting. The conversation highlights the balance between outdoor activities and technology, the significance of making hunting fun, and the role of community and conservation in shaping young hunters. Jennifer and...

In this episode, Mark and Doug discuss the current state of the fur industry, highlighting a wave of optimism driven by increased demand for sables and positive trends in Russian auctions. They delve into the importance of advocacy through events like Fur Day on the Hill, emphasizing the need for trappers to build strong community relations to mitigate conflicts with pet owners. Recent incidents i...

Firearms are one of those subjects where opinions often form long before understanding does. For many Canadians, guns don’t play a role in everyday life. They appear briefly in headlines, political debates, or moments of crisis, and then disappear again. When that happens, it’s easy for assumptions to settle in without ever being examined. This episode takes a step back from conclusions and asks a...

Accurate wildlife counts shape everything from conservation strategies to sustainable hunting regulations. But what happens when aerial survey numbers don’t match what people see on the ground? In this episode, host Mark Hall digs into the messy, fascinating world of wildlife inventory methods and the growing push to modernize them. Featuring insights from Dan Melody of Owyhee Air Research and Sco...

Crossing the Line is a Canadian podcast about firearms, people, and policy. This introductory episode explains why the show exists and what it aims to do differently. Crossing the Line isn’t about telling you what to think, pushing politics, or debating headlines. It’s about slowing the conversation down and examining how firearms ownership actually works in Canada—beyond assumptions, fear, and su...

Join Mark and Curtis as they learn from the powerful stories of women who are making an impact in the hunting, fishing and conservation industries. Despite facing social media backlash and discrimination, these leaders turn adversity into empowerment. Hear from Jen, Lisa, Sali, and Chris as they share their journeys, strategies for handling negativity, and the importance of community. This episode...

Join host Mark Hall as he dives deep into the complexities of wildlife management with Matt Besko, Executive Director of Alberta's Hunting, Trapping, and Angling Branch. In this episode, we challenge the conventional wisdom of science-based management and explore the intricate balance between peer-reviewed studies, local knowledge, and real-world observations. Discover how decisions are made in th...

Is it moral to kill an animal without eating it? Dive into the complex world of hunting ethics with Mark Hall as he challenges the 'eat what you kill' doctrine. Explore how intent, method, outcome, and relationships shape the morality of hunting beyond mere consumption. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that questions cultural norms and embraces moral pluralism. Learn more about your ad c...

Jaden French joins Mark and Curtis to share his perspectives on the story behind the new film documentary: Takla. Talka is a film about Guide-Outfitter Michael Schneider and the Takla community who, together, are building an apprenticeship program for youth. This episode highlights the importance of community engagement, trust-building, and the integration of Indigenous knowledge into the program....

Welcome to 2026 at The Hunter Conservationist Podcast. Mark and Curtis Hall sit down with Dr. Todd Zimmerling, President of the Alberta Conservation Association to explore the amazing work and people at the Alberta Conservation Association and the future of conservation funding. This episode asks: who should pay for conservation—hunters, outdoor users, or everyone—and considers if increased contri...

In this episode, Mark and Doug discuss the current state of the fur trade, focusing on recent changes in fashion magazine policies regarding fur, the implications of biodiversity and sustainable trapping practices, and the ongoing legal battles faced by mink farmers in British Columbia. They emphasize the importance of community engagement and the need for the fur industry to adapt and respond to...

Explore the intricate history of grizzly bears and humans in North America. Dive into the science and stories that challenge the notion of that grizzly bears were here first. Discover how understanding this complex past can foster empathy and reshape conservation efforts for a harmonious future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Hunter Conservationist Podcast, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of black bear management in Ontario with Mark Ryckman from the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters. Join us as we explore the proposed changes to hunting regulations and the critical role hunters play in shaping sustainable wildlife policies. With decades of advocacy and a commitment to conservati...

In this captivating episode of the Alberta Conservationist Podcast, join host Mark Hall as he delves into the fascinating world of genetics and wildlife conservation with Dr. Alfred Roca from the University of Illinois. Discover how Illinois' white-tailed deer population carries genetic variants that offer significant protection against chronic wasting disease (CWD). Explore the implications of th...

In this episode, Peter Gutsche from the Wild Sheep Society of BC discusses the Okanagan Bighorn Sheep Project. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that highlights the passion and commitment driving sheep conservation efforts in British Columbia including the tireless efforts of volunteers and hunters who tackle the less glamorous side of conservation—disease management. Discover the groundbreaki...

Dive into the intricate world of grizzly bear conservation with Dr. Clayton Lamb as we explore the delicate balance of coexistence between humans and grizzly bears. In this episode, we unravel the complexities of living with grizzly bears in human-dominated landscapes, discussing the challenges and ethical considerations of lethal management. Join us for a compelling conversation that challenges c...

In this episode, Michael Bodenchuk, Wildlife Biologist from San Antonio TX joins Mark and Curtis to delve into the complex world of predator management, exploring the delicate balance between conservation and control. Join us as we tackle key questions: What is predation? Is a general open predator hunting season truly the same as structured predator management? What is predator management? Do all...

In this episode, Mark Hall and Shawn Wasel delve into the fascinating world of mule deer in Alberta. They discuss the new hunter-supported mule deer collaring project, the facets of the ongoing research and conservation efforts, the challenges faced by these iconic animals, and the innovative use of technology in wildlife management. The conversation highlights the importance of data-driven decisi...

Join Doug and Mark as they embark on a global journey exploring the intricate world of fur trade and wildlife management. From the bustling streets of Bucharest to the serene landscapes of Nebraska, discover the challenges and triumphs of trappers and furriers across continents. This episode delves into the recent regulatory changes in PEI, the impact of Poland's fur farming ban, and the dynamics...

In this episode of the Hunter Conservationist Podcast, join hosts Mark and Curtis Hall as they delve into the intricate world of deer management with expert insights from Lindsay Thomas Jr. of the National Deer Association. Discover the delicate balance between hunting and conservation, and explore the controversial yet crucial role hunters play in maintaining ecological harmony. From the challeng...

In this gripping episode, we delve into the complex and evolving relationship between humans and bears in Canada. Join Mark Hall as he explores the tragic story of Joe Pendry, whose encounter with a grizzly bear highlights the urgent need for understanding and adapting to the shifting dynamics of wildlife interactions. Through a detailed examination of data spanning decades, we uncover the alarmin...

Claw your way into the wild world of bear conservation with us! In this episode, we explore the complex dynamics of bear management across North America, from the controversial politics of hunting to the science behind sustainable practices. Join Mark, Curtis and Dr. Mark Boyce as they unravel gripping stories and insights on bear populations, public perceptions, and the future of bear management....