Iowa Sportsman - Sportsmen's Nation

On this episode of the Iowa Hunt & Fish podcast, Dan is Joined by Returning guest Noel Gandy of Southwest Iowa to talk about how the work they put in during the summer months translates to success in the fall. Noel share information about trimming out and  hanging treestands, his trail camera strategy, habitat and food plot strategy, as well as a conversation about how he like to stay out of his hunting properties as much as possible leading up to the season.Dan and Noel agree that the more time you dedicate to preparing  for the upcoming season, both in and out of the woods, the better. Be sure to subscribe to the Iowa Hunt & Fish podcast on Apple Podcast or wherever you download your podcasts. Iowa Hunt & Fish is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Hunt & Fish podcast, Dan is once again joined by Tom Peplinski to talk about food plots and other habitat management projects. The guys kick things off by discussing Tom's food plot strategy along with how he makes his finial decision on when he will actually plant his seed.  They talk about other food plots tasks like applying fertilizer, spraying for weeds, and other maintenance. They also break down a couple other habitat management projects Tom feels are necessary along with a conversation about what he recommends to his habitat management consulting clients. If you are new to food plotting or need a little refresher before the fall plot planting season, this is the perfect episode. Iowa Hunt & Fish is Powered by Simplecast 

It's spring time here in Iowa and beside those who are chasing gobbling toms, there's a different group of people scouring the country side looking for delicious edible mushrooms. On the phone with Dan is mushroom expert  Mike Krebill of Southeast Iowa to discuss his passion in fungus. Mike explains the condition that are needed to grow mushrooms, where you might be able to find them, and other interesting facts about mushrooms. Iowa Hunt & Fish is Powered by Simplecast

Turkey season is here for us Iowans and this means it's time to get in the timber and play a game of cat and mouse with one of the dumbest or smartest birds in North America.  On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan is  joined by Jonathan Payne to discuss several turkey hunting strategies. The guys discuss everything from roosting birds, calling strategies in different scenarios, when to move vs. when to wait it out, and much more.This episode is packed with information that may give you the upper hand when those stubborn toms seem to be getting the best of you. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan talks with long time friend Brent Rich about the upcoming Iowa turkey seasons. Several years ago on some public land in Northern  Iowa was the kick off of both Dan and Brent turkey hunting carriers. The guys break down some simple hunting strategies that they implement throughout the season as well as what they do when the hunting gets tough or they are dealing with unresponsive toms. With the turkey seasons just around the corner, this is a perfect refresher course for those excited to get in the timber and start chasing gobbles. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by SImplecast  

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan is joined by Adam Janke of Iowa State University to discuss the impacts of farming practices on wildlife. The guys discuss topics like the loss of wetlands and grass habitat, the impacts of fertilizer and insecticides, the footprint that agriculture and livestock leaves on the ecosystem, and much more. This is a very informative episode with an educated guest that drops a ton of knowledge on us. Enjoy! Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast 

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan is joined by John Mulligan to talk about his North America Turkey Hunting Grand Slam  from 2020. John kicks off the episode by explaining why he loves turkey hunting and why the launch of a new turkey call business led to him taking on the task of completing the Grand Slam. The North American Grand Slam consists of four different turkey species that include the Eastern, Merriam's, Rio Grande, and Osceola. This is an impressive task considering that he shot all of the birds with a bow and captured it all on film. The guys also discuss the strategy John used and if there were any similarities between the different species. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan is joined by Drake Lamb to talk about he excitement of shed hunting. The guys talk about what makes shed hunting so much fun, what finding  a shed could mean for your hunting strategy, and using that information to see how deer use terrain throughout the landscape. Shed hunting can be an awesome opportunity to get new hunters interested in the outdoors as well as the kids. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast 

Just take a peek out your window or look a the thermometer and you will realize very quickly that the current weather conditions Iowa are not very pleasing to even the toughest of outdoorsmen. On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman Podcast, Dan has an informative discussion with Iowa DNR wildlife biologist Jim Coffey about how bad winter weather affects wildlife. They guys talk about how conditions like deep snow, ice, and cold temperatures can affect a variety of animals from deer, turkey, rabbits, quail, waterfowl, and even song birds.  Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan is joined by Ryan Graden to have a conversation about things we can being doing right now that will help lead to success in the deer woods come October 1st. They get in to the details of how scouting while snow is on the ground can be a roadmap to deer movement, refining their archery skills, and using this opportunity to get their family more involved in the outdoors. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

If you're a Snow Goose hunter, it's time to start getting excited and getting prepared for the upcoming migration. On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan discusses Snow Goose hunting strategy with Jake Mittag. The guys discuss the loosened regulations, decoy configuration, hitting the migration at the right time, and so much more. If you are an avid Snow Goose hunter then this is the episode for you. Enjoy! Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

It's doesn't take a rocket scientist to know that a predator like a coyote can have a huge impact on the ecosystem including the deer herd. On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan is joined by avid deer hunter and trapper Casey Shoopman to discuss the impact of coyotes on the landscape. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

It's official, it's ice fishing season. Todays guest, Steve Weisman hops on the podcast to discuss the current  ice conditions on the major Iowa lakes. He relives his past couple trips to the lake and talks about the strategies that he used to to get on the pan fish a perch. He also talks about the process he goes through when the fish are not biting and how he changes his presentation. Steve also touches on some current ice fishing events happening throughout the state as well as some walleye slot regulation changes proposed from 2022.  Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan is once again joined by Tom Peplinski to talk about late season deer hunting. They discuss how deer behavior changes after the breeding is over and again once gun hunting pressure is introduced. Tom talks about how keeping pressure on your property as low as possible during the first shotgun season can make it an oasis for deer and increasing your odds for the second season. He also talks about how food and cover become the priority for the deer herd and how hunters can take advantage of that type of movement. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

Here we are over half way through November and many of us have either tagged out or have put family and work back on the top of the priority list. With the shotgun season coming fast, there is still plenty of time to get out in the treestand or blind with your bow and experience the tail end of the rut. On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan talks about the strategies that he has used in the past to finish out the rut. Dan covers topics like locating buck who have been off radar during the rut, specific terrain features worth hunting, the transition back to bed to feed patterns, and much more. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

The first week of the rut is over, and although there are still a couple weeks left, the second week of the rut is a little different. Depending on when does come in to heat on the properties you hunt, the deer movement could start to slow down. But, don't get worried, this is the time of the rut where big mature bucks are on their feet and looking for their next breeding opportunity.On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan shares his thoughts on the strategies he uses during the November rut. He talks about hunting down wind of doe bedding areas, setting up in pinch points, and looking for those not-so-obvious stand locations. If you are struggling to locate a shooter, this episode will give you a couple ideas that might get you closer to your goal. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this previously aired episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan and Tom discuss hunting strategy for the rut. The guys talk about locating doe bedding areas, looking for fresh sign, checking trail cameras, and much more. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

Even in a state like Iowa, some of us may never seven see a buck over 170" let alone over 200". On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan talks to Tom Peplinski about his recent 207" monster buck. The guys discuss when Tom first connected with this buck and the strategy he put in place in order to get a chot at killing him. Tom explains that how he identified the buck in mid August and watched him maintain a consistent bed to feed pattern through September leading in to the first couple days of the season. This is an awesome episode about a guy who has put in a ton of time refining his property to make the habitat perfect for whitetails. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

It's that time of year where we are all getting ready to head to the woods and waterways of Iowa to trap and chase wild game. This means that it's very important to get a friendly reminder about any updates to the rules and regulations we all need to follow while out in the field. On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan is joined by Dan Henderson with the Iowa DNR to talk about hunting rules and regulations. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

As the temperatures start to drop the fishing across the state of Iowa begins to heat up. Whether you are throwing crank bates for smallmouth bass in deeper water or a spinner bait for largemouth bass in the last remaining weeds off shore, it's the perfect time of year to get on the boat and get your line wet. On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan is joined by avid Bass Fisherman, Chancy Walters, to discuss fall fishing strategies. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

It's that time of year again where many of us start making plans to get in to the woods and start bowhunting. On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan connects with Noel Gandy about early October bowhunting strategies. Noel shares his experiences over the last 5 years tagging out on mature bucks in the first part of October. The guys run through a variety of scenarios to increase your success and the importance of weather patterns. If you are looking to tag out this early season, this is the episode you need to listen to. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast   

Some outdoorsmen think that just because they buy a hunting license, tags and stamps, this means that they are automatically a conservationist. While that may be true in a round about way, there is way more that goes in to supporting conservation efforts then just being a hunter or fisherman. On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman Podcast, Dan talks with Kent Boucher about the true meaning of being a Conservationist. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan chats with Troy Hoepker about the pheasant heritage of Iowa. Troy shares with us the timeline of how Pheasants were introduces to not only the United States but the state of Iowa. Troy also talks to Dan about the glory days of pheasant hunting as well as the downfall due to habitat loss across the state. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast 

Regardless of the topic, it's always a great conversation when I get to chat with my fellow outdoorsman, Steve Weisman. We start this episode off by catching up on how the fishing is for Steve and even get in to a discussion about our favorite side dishes to accompany a fish fry. The second half of the episode is dedicated to the upcoming Teal and Dove season that start in early September. They guys discuss strategy, tactics, and how the weather plays a huge role in the movement of these birds. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast 

For those of us who have been hunting for a long time, we may not even think of the basic hunting strategy that kicked off our hunting careers.  On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan is once again joined Tom Peplinski to discuss the basics of deer hunting. The guys discuss simple hunting tactics such as how to play the wind, how to identify deer sign, and how to learn more about deer movement and deer behavior. Iowa Sportsmen is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman podcast, Dan is joined by Joel Johnson to have a lighthearted discussion about things that drive sportsmen crazy. The guys kick things off talking about how much they hate squirrels during the hunting season, how mad they get when the forget a piece of hunting gear back at the house or truck, and big buck encounters that went horribly wrong because of overgrown shooting lanes. They also talk about fishing edict, or lack there of, on public water ways, poorly trained bird dogs, and share several funny stories from the field. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, we are replaying an old episode with Noel Gandy about summer deer patterns. The guys share their opinions on what impact a trail camera picture or sightings from your truck during the summer month means come the hunting season. Noel also shares what he is doing this time of year to prepare for the season via glassing fields and scouting missions. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

Whether you're a weekend warrior or basically live in your boat, right now is the best time of year to have your line in the water looking for bites. Dan talks with returning guest Steve Weisman about what the fish are doing this time of year. Steve breaks down his recent blue gill and walleye success on Okoboji and Spirit Lake as well as where the fish were located and what bait he was using to catch them.Dan picks Steve's brain about what his fishing strategy is when the fish won't bite and if he would rather change up the bait or move to a new location. Lastly, Steven talks about the importance of electronic fish finders and tells a unique story about cane poles. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

For those of you who pheasant hunt or waterfowl hunt with a dog, you know how much focus you need to have on your dog while in the field.  On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan is joined by Kent Boucher to discuss certain disasters to avoid when using and training your gundog. The guys discuss injuries in the field, their paws, keeping them hydrated, and most of all gun safety. If have ever thought about owning or training a gundog, you will find tons of information on this episode. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan connects with Top Peplinski to discuss food plot preparations for the fall. Tom and Dan chat about common food plot problems that people often run in to like over-seeding, abundance of weeds, over-browsing, and food plot location. Tom shares some of his past food plot failures and explains his access route strategy. Whether you are new to plating food plots or have years of experience, this episode has a ton of great information. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast 

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman podcast, Dan is joined by Troy Hoepker to discuss the history of the Iowa fur trade. Troy lays down a timeline about big events, key individuals and groups, and locations that played an impact on establishing the fur trade in Iowa and the entire United States.  Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

If you haven't been to Kent State Park west of Iowa City, IA you need to put it on your schedule. It's a beautiful park that offers camping, swimming, hiking, and fishing.  On today's episode, Dan talks with Jerry Gullett from the Johnson County Conservation Board about a lake restoration project that recently took place at the park. Dan and Larry talk about the project timeline, how it was funded, and how the main focus of the entire project revolved around water quality. Similar projects have taken place throughout the entire state and the results have been outstanding. Give this episode a listen to learn how county and state agencies worked together to make a huge impact to wards conservation. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan is joined by Joel Johnson to talk about the some of the best fishing locations in Iowa. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan talks with returning guest Rod Woten about fishing for trout. Rod talks about the three different species that can be found in the spring fed streams in northeast Iowa, including a rare hybrid species.Rod talks about the waterways that you can find them in and where within those streams the fish tend to hang out.  Rod goes in to detail about what tackle works the best as well as the proper presentation. If you have ever been interested in trout fishing, specifically in Iowa, then this is the episode for you. Enjoy! Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan talks with returning guest Tom Peplinski to discuss the spring habitat improvement projects taking place on his farm.  Tom explains that the neighboring farm has put more acres in to row crop and clearing out bedding and cover.Once he found that out he knew that there was going to be less cover in the area and this was an opportunity to increase the cover on his farm. He decided to take some of his acres out of food plots and plant a variety of trees and warm season grasses to hopefully hold deer on his property. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

If you are passionate about the outdoors and you have kids, I'm sure you have thought about how you're going to introduce them to hunting. The obvious answer is fishing, camping, and hiking, but next progression could be turkey hunting.On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan connects with long time friend Brent Rich about turkey hunting and introducing it to your kids hunting. The guys discuss the steps they have taken and their future plans to not only get them in the woods but keep them excited about the outdoors as they age.  Brent explains the differences between his two sons and one does not respond well with pressure while the other doesn't need any motivation. If you are having trouble getting your kids excited about the outdoors, this is the episode for you. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan talks with Jackson County Naturalist Jen Meyer about mushrooms and plants that you can eat. First off, Jen explains her position as a naturalist and why she loves he job.They start off the conversation talking about all the different types of mushrooms in Iowa.  Then Jen shares information on a variety of roots, plants, berries, and trees that are edible. But before up jump in to the woods and start picking and eating random plants, be sure to purchase a guide or reference book. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman podcast, Dan talks with Brad Durick of Red River Catfish about his spring catfishing strategies. The guys discuss what the fish are doing once they leave their wintering holes in search of food and what baits seem to get the most bites. As the water get warmer and the spawn approaches, Brad explains a variety of scenarios that work for him including how he fishes low and high water, slow and fast currents, and where he focuses his attention during the spawn.Whether you are a novice angler or have several year of casting under your belt, you will learn something from this episode.  Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan is joined by returning guest Billy Pryor to talk about turkey hunting. Billy and Dan discuss what you can do before the season even starts to increase your odds of getting a big tom within shooting range.Then, the guys throw out a variety of scenarios like when a tom is henned up or the birds are not responding to you calling and what you can do to beat the odds. They also discuss different strategies  between hunting from a ground blind being mobile and going to where the action is. This episode is full of tips, tricks and tactics that should help you in the upcoming months. It's turkey season! Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan talks with the CEO of the National Deer Alliance, Nick Pinizzotto,  about Iowa House File 2458 and how it will help manage the spread of CWD in the state of Iowa. "HF 2458 authorizes the Committee on Natural Resources to "establish a wild animal disease management zone and take such actions within the zone as are necessary to protect wild animal health and conserve biological balance." Actions include: establishing special seasons, preventing the artificial movement of wild animals, wild animal carcasses, or parts thereof, and requiring disease sample collection from harvested wild animals. Additionally, a state biologist or conservation officer may "approach a private landowner or tenant to provide information regarding the wild animal disease prevention, containment, and eradication efforts underway in the area." Similarly, a state biologist or conservation officer may approach a landowner to obtain permission to collect wildlife samples from the landowner's property." - Nick PinizzottoFor all of you who think this is a doom and gloom scenario, it's not.  This is attempt to  gather more data, to learn more about where CWD is in our state, and will allow us to manage it using the necessary steps. Long story short, this is legislation to help keep Iowa deer herds happy and healthy. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast 

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan interviews kirk Hansen from the Iowa DNR about his job as the Mississippi River Habitat Coordinator. Kirk talks about his role and the habitat projects that he and his team oversee throughout the year. Not only do the projects help several fish species, but they also help waterfowl populations and other woodland animals.Along with the Corps of Engineers, Kirk talks in detail about dredging lakes and rivers, building islands, and planting trees and vegetation for waterfowl and other animals. Lastly, with Kirk's experience on the river and him also being an avid fisherman, Dan gets him to give some insight on where fish species are located and how to catch them. If you find the Mississippi River interesting, this is the episode for you. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan talks with Jim Coffey of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources about all things wild turkey. Jim talks about the current population decline as well as the factors that are at play.Jim then discusses topics like breeding cycle, their habitat, their biology and cleas up some popular misconceptions. Last but not least, Dan and Jim talk a little bit about hunting strategy and some of their favorite wild turkey related experiences. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman podcast, Dan talks about how he gains permission to hunt on private property.  Dan discusses how he researches the property and landowner before he contacts them, his appearance during the introduction, and his reaction if the landowner tells him no.Dan also talks about what his responsibilities are as a hunter who hunts on private property like helping around the farm, staying in constant communication with he land owner, and building a positive relationship. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast 

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan talks with Biologist Dillan Laaker of the Army Corps of Engineers about the Mississippi River and its industrial and sporting uses.Dillan talks about his role with the Corps of Engineers managing the water flow through the lock and dam systems throughout the rive as well as the various habitats and ecosystems. Topics discussed include river navigation, wing dams, habitat project, and much more.If you have every thought about what the Corps of Engineers does, this is the episode for you. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast 

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan talks with Dan Henderson, a Conservation Officer with the stater of Iowa. Dan talks about what got him interested in becoming a Game Warden and the schooling, training and experience necessary to get that position. Dan also talks about duties as a Game Warden that include helping with hunter education classes, conservation efforts, boat and snowmobile checks, and of course upholding game rules regulations.If you have ever wanted to know what your average Conservation Officer does throughout a week / month /  year, this episode of for you. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

The Iowa deer hunting season is now over, but that does't mean that we need to stop thinking about our whitetail obsession. On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan talks with repeat guest and whitetail nut Tom Peplinski about post season habitat work and scouting. Tom walks us through his plan to plant grasses, hinge cuts, and alter some of his food plots to keep more deer on his property throughout the entire year. Then, Dan walks talks about his plan to scout public and private property closer to his house for more hunting options during the month of October. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast 

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan talks with Wildlife Biologist Todd Bogenschutz of the Iowa DNR. Todd talks about the history of the CRP program and it's importance to the ecosystem. The guys discuss some of the specific species like pheasants and quail and some of the biggest challenges they face throughout the year, like predation and weather. If you love hunting upland game, this is the episode for you! Enjoy!  Bear Hunting Magazine is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman podcast, Dan talks with wildlife biologist Vince Evelsizer from the Iowa DNR about furbearers. Vince talks about his role within the Department of Natural Resources and the research and projects he works on throughout the year. The guys discuss the habitat these animals live in and the role they play within the Iowa ecosystem. If you are trapper, this episode is a must listen. Enjoy and share! Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast

On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman podcast, Dan talks with Orrin Jones from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources about his role as a Waterfowl Biologist. Orrin covers a variety of topics including the "State Of The Union" regarding waterfowl in Iowa, research projects he leads with help from Iowa State University, and how the data they collect turns in to rules, regulations, and hunting zone boundaries. If you love waterfowl hunting or are curious about the habitat theses animals call home, this is the episode for you. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast 

The rut is over and we are in the middle of the Iowa shotgun seasons. The weather has gone from cold to colder but the deer season is far from over. On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman podcast, Dan talks with the publisher of the Iowa Sportsman Magazine, Patrick McKinney, about late season deer hunting.The two discuss tips, tricks, and tactics for getting the job done as well as staying warm during those freezing cold hunts.  Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast 

It's that time of year again to dust off the ice shelters, get out the augers, and start thinking about ice fishing. On this episode of the Iowa Sportsman, Dan talks with Rod Woten a bout the details of ice fishing. They kick off the show by discussing the ice itself, when it's safe to get on and what to look for when it's time to get off. Then the conversation turns to strategy and the two talk about wether patterns that are the best conditions to find success as well as locations within a body of water to be focusing on. Lastly, Rod shares his opinions about what lures he drops below the ice that get him the best bite as well as what he does if the fish are not biting.if you are interested in finding out more about ice fishing, this is the episode for you. Iowa Sportsman is Powered by Simplecast