Maine Outdoor Enthusiast

This week, avid outdoorsman and Aroostook County native, Matthew Kamm, joins us on the podcast. In this episode, we discuss a plethora of topics ranging from trolling big Maine waters with methods adopted from the Great Lakes, deer hunting big woods and conservation issues plaguing sportsmen today. You won't want to miss this one! Matt was a fantastic guess with thoughtful insight on many outdoor topics. Enjoy!#maineoutdoorenthusiast #getoutsideitsgoodforthesoul #deerhunting #fishing Check us out on the web at:https://www.maineoutdoorenthusiast.comContact:maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

Is hunting and fishing just a tradition...or a constitutional right? Join us as we explore the growing movement to protect the right to hunt and fish through state constitutions. 24 states currently have the constitutional provision for the right to hunt and fish and Maine may join that growing list. Additionally, we discuss some additional legislation that may impact sportsmen, such a a rise in license fees and Sunday hunting for youth, as well as the controversial techniques used to control a spruce budworm infestation in northern Maine. Enjoy!Check us out on the web at:https://www.maineoutdoorenthusiast.com

This week, we're joined by Joe Osgood of FBM Maine Outdoor Journal. We spent the past few days fishing some of Maine's iconic lakes and took a little time to chat with Joe about Maine ice-out fishing and his plans for the year going forward. Joe brings a great deal of diverse knowledge and experience to the Maine outdoors. He shared some insightful techniques and tricks to catching early season fish and kept us in stitches the entire trip...he's a great guy to share a fishing boat with! Be sure to check out his YouTube channel  @FBMMaineOutdoorJournal  Enjoy! #springfishing #mainefishing #maineoutdoorenthusiast #fbmmaineoutdoorjournalCheck out FBM Maine Outdoor Journal on YouTube here:https://youtube.com/@fbmmaineoutdoorjournal?si=1VqPOhPBdAp70pDS

In this episode, we follow one Scott Gaillard's real-world journey from curious beginner to accomplished deer tracker. Through raw stories, hard lessons, and insights from seasoned hunters, this episode dives into the diverse journey by which hunters find their ways to the big woods. Whether you're a seasoned outdoorsman or just setting out, join the adventure one story at a time! Enjoy!#deertracking #deerhunting #getoutsideitsgoodforthesoul

In this episode, we dive into the ever-changing world of outdoor fads—those trends that explode onto the scene with big promises but quietly fade away when the seasons change. From gimmicky gear to viral fishing lures like the legendary Banjo Minnow, we explore some of the biggest trends and how they have changed with time. If you've ever been tempted by the latest and greatest—or laughed at it—this one's for you. Get outside. It's good for the soul.#MaineOutdoorEnthusiast #GetOutsideItsGoodForTheSoul #OutdoorFadsCheck us out on the web at:https://www.maineoutdoorenthusiast.comContact:maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

In today's fast-paced world, we often forget the simple, powerful medicine that surrounds us—nature. In this episode, we are joined by my sister, Dr. Brittney Guiou. Dr. Brit (AKA Sister MOE) is a double board certified Family & Obesity medicine physician. With her, we explore the therapeutic benefits of the great outdoors, from the calming effects of hunting on the mind to the deep sense of connection found in the stillness of the woods. Through personal stories, expert insights, and real-world experiences, we dive into how time spent outside can reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and strengthen our emotional well-being. Whether you're a seasoned outdoorsman or just beginning to embrace nature's gifts, this podcast will inspire you to step outside, breathe deeply, and rediscover the healing power of the wild.Get outside—it's good for the soul.#hunting #getoutsideitsgoodforthesoul #maineoutdoorenthusiastFollow Dr. Brit on Instagram and YouTube @yourevidencedoc  https://www.instagram.com/yourevidencedoc?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://youtube.com/@yourevidencedoc?si=9bf7SKdNLk4Uzq1K

n a fast-paced digital world, we often overlook the simple practices that ground us. In this episode, Lacey Guiou, OTR/L, joins us to share the benefits of slowing down, embracing time-honored traditions, and rediscovering the value of handwriting. From improving memory and creativity to reducing stress, we'll dive into why putting pen to paper is more than just nostalgia—it's a powerful tool for clarity and connection. Join us as we discuss how returning to life's basics can bring balance, mindfulness, and a deeper appreciation for the world around us. And don't forget—getting outside is good for the soul!#simplicity #backtobasics #enjoynature Check us out on the web at:https://www.maineoutdoorenthusiast.comContact:maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

These days, finding quality gear at a reasonable price is becoming harder and harder. The right outdoor gear can make or break your experience in the field. In this episode of "Built to Last", we break down our approach to finding high-quality hunting, fishing, and outdoor equipment. When we invest in gear that won't let us down, we are always searching for value that will meet our specific needs. By taking a customized approach- by first identifying our needs, how a new piece of gear can meet that need over a long period of time, what we can afford- creates a litmus test for identifying gear that will provide value for years to come. Enjoy!#gear #hunting #maineoutdoors Check us out on the web at:https://www.maineoutdoorenthusiast.comContact:maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

In part 2 with Robbie Kilcollins, we continue on with our discussion about his stellar Maine 2024 buck. We share more stories and compare and contrast our different styles of hunting. We had great time and could have talked with Robbie for hours more. Enjoy!#maineoutdoors #mainehunting #hunting #deerhuntingCheck us out on the web at:https://www.maineoutdoorenthusiast.comContact:maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

This week, Robbie Kilcollins joins us to tell his story of harvesting Maine's 2024 heaviest buck at 540 yards. Just as important, he explains how he prepares so he has the ability to make those shots consistently. It was a great conversation with lots of stories and laughs. Enjoy!#maineoutdoors #mainehunting #hunting #deerhuntingCheck us out on the web at:https://www.maineoutdoorenthusiast.comContact:maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

What does it take to become a better deer hunter in Maine? Or how about life in general? People don't become better by accident. In this episode, we break down how intentionality—through humility, patience, consistency and preparation—leads to growth both in the woods and in life. From simply being curious to learn or how well we manage bad experiences- these play a vital roll in how we grow and become better everyday. Join us as we embrace getting comfortable with the uncomfortable and understanding that failure can be our friend. Enjoy! #Hunting #MaineBuck #DeerHunting #HuntingTradition #GetOutside Check us out on the web at: https://www.maineoutdoorenthusiast.com Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

This week, we sit down and discuss a few stories, share some recent happenings and our views on calling bucks while tracking deer. 20-30 years ago, not many deer trackers used calls all that often. However, in recent years, calling while tracking has become more common. In fact, nowadays I'd think it's safe to say, most...if not every deer hunter in the northeast carries a call. So, we share our thoughts on calling while deer hunting in the big woods and if it really makes much difference. Enjoy! Oh and don't forget to check out the new website linked below! Check us out on the web at: https://www.maineoutdoorenthusiast.com Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

With the holiday season over and deer season but a recent memory, winter is a time of reflection for a deer hunter. It may start with a review of the season but for me, it always turns down this path of various life lessons, experiences and what I have for near-term goals. Join us as we discuss some of everyday life lessons that always seem to be applicable to the deer hunter. From having an "attitude of gratitude" to handling the ups and downs of life...one thing is for certain...a deer hunter never gives up! Enjoy! #winter #deerhunting #reflection Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

In this episode, we dive into the emotional and ethical complexities of hunting, exploring why many real deer hunters feel conflicted about harvesting deer. While hunting is often viewed as a tradition or a sport, for seasoned hunters, the act of harvesting a deer is never taken lightly. Join us as we uncover the deeper reasons why we feel a sense of regret, respect, or even sadness after making a successful harvest. From the connection to nature, to the responsibility of wildlife conservation, we discuss the unspoken truths behind what it means to be a true hunter and why, for many, the act of harvesting a deer is never as simple as it seems. Whether you're a hunter yourself or just curious about the realities behind the sport, this episode offers a raw and honest look at the emotional side of hunting. Enjoy! #deerhunting #theharvest #bittersweet Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

All good things eventually come to an end. It's always sad when deer season in Maine comes to a close because it's a long 11 months until next year. In this episode, we discuss the end of our season, what went well and what we would have done differently. We also discuss various things we enjoyed over the season such as our reunion deer camp trip, meat processing and our desire to keep our deer hunting as simple as possible. We hope you enjoy the latest episode and wish each all of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Enjoy! #deerhunting #deercamp #deerseason Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

What started out as a slow season (as far as deer sightings), things turned on a dime. You never know when your big buck will be right in front of you. Mark capitalized on the first buck he saw of the season and it was a dandy. We definitely had an eventful end to our second week of Maine's deer season. With rifle season half over, we are now consistently seeing bucks and are optimistic about what the second half of the season holds. Enjoy! #deerhunting #bigbucks #buckdown Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

Week 1 of Maine's Deer season is in the books. Many hunters found success during that first week. It's shaping up to be a fantastic deer season! (We just need some snow

Deer season eve is here! Such a magical time for a deer hunter. A deer hunter has the same excitement as a child on Christmas Eve. The camp is filled with anticipation of the weeks to come in hopes of putting that tag on a buck of a lifetime and a year supply of the best meat known to man! Join us at camp as we sit back and relax the night before Maine's opener of the 2024 deer season. We discuss our plans for the following day and what we plan to accomplish this season! Enjoy! #deerseason #deerhunting #openingday2024  Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

Fall is a period of transition. Trees are shedding their leaves, birds are flying south and many other living things are preparing for a period of dormancy in which they prepare for new growth in the spring. For people, fall can be a period of new beginnings, with new goals and ventures in store for the future. For me, this fall is a season of change. I have decided to step back from my career for a few months, hit a hard reset, enjoy the deer season ahead with family and begin with a clean canvas. I can't think of a better way to reset the body and mind than with a little deer hunting. It's always been my therapy

In this episode of the MOE podcast we are at the tent! Heavy rains and wind picked up one afternoon while bird hunting so we seized the opportunity to do a podcast at the tent. In this episode, we discuss how the fear of failure can be crippling to both ones hunt and life in general. We also discuss some of our recent bird hunting adventures and how Maine's second moose season is shaping up. Enjoy! Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

It's been an action packed Maine 2024 hunting season this far and that action seems to be the trend going into Maine's bird (grouse) season. Now that we are into bird season with bird numbers being much healthier than last year as a whole (However we have observed regional differences in bird numbers). In this episode we discuss a little more of our moose hunt and how we made out bird hunting halfway through Maine's opening week. Enjoy!#grousehunting #birdhunting #hunting Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

Welcome to our Maine moose camp 2024. Sit back with us by the fire on our first night at camp. We've been preparing for the Maine 2024 moose hunt and it kicks off Monday morning. We did a little nosing around the woods prior to filming this podcast and we discuss what we saw and what our plans are for the week ahead. It's going to be a fun week! Enjoy! #mainemoosehunt #hunting #maineoutdoors Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

Welcome to the MOE podcast. This week we discuss some new gear in preparation for Maine's 2024 hunting season. Due to all of the excellent suggestions from viewers over the past few weeks, we finalized some of our last minute purchases before we kick off the 2024 Maine hunting season with our Maine moose hunt. We also talk about our recent experiences fine-tuning our rifles and our plans for the season ahead. I hope everyone has a fun and successful fall! Enjoy! #deerseason #preseason #preseasonplanning #Huntinggear #deerhunting #moosehunting Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

What's your internal narrative? Is it positive? Encouraging?... I can do anything sort of self-talk? Or is it negative? Pessimistic? Do you feel defeated before you start...Like the cards are stacked against you? Your mindset in the deer woods (and life in general) can make or break your success. Our attitude and our approach to challenges directly influences the outcomes. Don't believe me, ask any elite person in their field. They may not be able to control a lot of variables, but they can control their mindset and attitude. This week we discuss the importance of having a positive internal narrative and how it contributes to success in and out of the deer woods. Oh...we also talk about some gear upgrades, the upcoming moose hunt, bear season, bird season and wall tenting

This week we sit down with Keith Bernier (AKA Father-in-law)- Avid stand hunter and long distance shooter- and discuss the varying methods to hunting deer in northern Maine. We compare and contrast deer tracking to deer stalking to stand hunting and some of the characteristics that make an individual good at any of those methods. And of course, we share some deer stories to boot! Enjoy!#deerhunting #deerstand #deertracking Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

This week we discuss the plethora of information available to beginner deer hunters and how to tease through the tangle of "stuff" available on the internet. There is so much good information at our finger tips these days and I, as much as the next person, love to get lost in the hours of literature and videos presented. However, if you want to get better...you have to get out and do it! We all have characteristics...things that we excel at better than others. I think one of the key elements that separates the good deer hunters from the great deer hunters is the ability for one to be aware of their own strengths, honing those strengths and using them. Practice makes perfect! Enjoy! #deerhunting #deer #podcast Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

After a 3 week hiatus (hey, we've been on vacation

I recently spent a good deal of time digitizing a lot of our old hunting photos and while I was doing that (and cross referencing with corresponding journal entries) I noticed a common theme. Most successful hunts involved committed determination and the unwillingness to give up. Regardless of the modality that was used to harvest the deer, the greatest influence on success (in my opinion) is to never give up. So this week, we decided to sit down and discuss some past hunts and why never giving up is the single most important (and easiest- it takes no special talent) thing that contributes to a successful hunt. Enjoy! #mainedeerhunting #hunting #deerhunting Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

When right is wrong and wrong is right…tends to be the way of the world these days. When it comes to fishing and hunting, much of the same can be observed. As we gain experience via the methods we choose to pursue our query, it can be easy to start thinking our way of doing things is the “right” way. While yes, there are definitely absolute rights in this world, the methods by which we choose to hunt or fish are not confined to such “laws” as long as they are both ethical and legal. When someone questions my way of hunting or fishing, I always ask myself these two questions: Is my approach logical (does it make sense, is it effective)? Is my approach pleasurable (Am I enjoying myself)? Beyond that, it really doesn't matter what others opinions are of my methods. As the old saying goes, there is more than one way to skin a cat! Enjoy! #fishing #hunting #outdoors Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

The results are in! congratulations to all the winners of the Maine 2024 moose lottery! A lot to discuss in this episode. We have just returned from a wonderful fly fishing trip fishing the remote ponds of northern Maine. We saw tons of wildlife, plentiful deer sign and the fishing was good to boot. Sit back, relax and enjoy Father's Day with a little MOE podcast. Oh, and listen closely…someone may have been drawn for a Maine moose permit

This week we sit down and discuss some recent fishing trips and some of the factors that influence success both on the water and in the deer woods. Have you ever heard of the solunar theory? Or how about those calendars that indicate the “good days” to be out fishing are hunting. Yes, most of us have seen them. However, I've personally never given much thought to charts that “predict” good hunting and fishing. I feel any day I have a chance to get out hunting or fishing is a good time to go

This week we piggyback off of our last episode in regard to the growing effects of FoMO (fear of missing out), how it has been amplified by social media and its effects on the outdoorsman. FoMO has always been a thing (we just didn't have a term for it years ago) and while a little bit of FoMO might be a good motivator for some; too much can have negative effects on our health. As the saying goes, a little bit goes a long way

This week we sit down and discuss the implications social media has on hunting, fishing...all outdoor activities for that matter. We get into the good, the bad and the ugly. I share my approach to using social media both as a consumer and producer. Enjoy! #socialmedia #outdoorlife #deerhunting Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

In this episode, we finally get my wife, Lacey, to join us. We discuss a wife's perspective on hunting and the interplay between spouses. Hunting season can be strenuous on our "other half". But with good communication and a little give and take, deer season can be successful both in the deer woods and at home. Enjoy! #deerhunting #wifeandhusbandrelationship #outdoors Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

In this weeks episode, we discuss the inner drive that pushes us to get out there and hunt, even on days when we may not feel like it. We also touch upon societal shifts that are reshaping local/small communities and what those implications are for the future of outdoorsmen. Enjoy!#outdoors #hunting #hunter

This week we sit down with Dan Dyer to talk archery. Dan is an accomplished archer both competitively and in the deer woods. He has won numerous awards in the realm of competitive archery- including 3 Maine Archer Association state championships- and taken many big game species with a bow. We talk beginner bow setup, competition, hunting and the future of archery as a whole. Enjoy! #archery #archer #bowhunting

The mild winter continues. This is great for the deer herd, but not so great for the winter sports enthusiast. Little snow and poor ice conditions are frustrating a lot of those who enjoy the outdoors. In this episode, we discuss northern Maine's ice conditions, how the ice fishing has been and then we delve into Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). Of interest to us, we compare and contrast CWD to some common human diseases which helps characterize exactly what CWD is. Enjoy! Dawn of American Deer Hunting: A Photographic Odyssey of Whitetail Hunting History https://amzn.to/49KdLu9 Dawn of American Deer Hunting Volume II https://amzn.to/3T63S4u Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

This week we discuss our recent trip to the Long Lake Ice Fishing Derby and our thoughts on a deer management issue in northern Wisconsin. Years ago, northern Maine was confronted with a decimated deer herd due to a multitude of factors. Wisconsin appears to have a very similar situation to Maine's with Wisconsin IFW responding in much of the same way Maine did. The question is...will it work? Will Wisconsin correct the course or are their hands tied with limited effective solutions at their disposal? Enjoy! #deerhunting #hunting #whitetaildeer Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

Feeding deer in northern Maine is becoming common place. Winters are long and hard, coupled with predation and loss of wintering habitat...sometimes the herd needs all the help they can get. However, if supplemental feeding is done incorrectly, it can actually cause more harm than good. Follow along as we discuss when, where, why and how you should go about feeding deer in the winter and why sometimes not feeding them at all may be the better option. Enjoy! #deer #winter #feeding For more information head over to the MDIFW website: Winter Feeding of Deer: What You Should Know. https://www.maine.gov/ifw/docs/deer_winter_feeding.pdf Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

Deer hunters secret to success: Is it experience, age, knowledge, dedication, hard work, perseverance or time spent? Well...yes! Follow along as we discuss some of the key characteristics to hunter success and the one single factor that stands head and shoulders above the rest. In the episode we also share an epic deer deer story of one young mans challenge and his response to that challenge that led him to bagging the biggest buck of his life! Enjoy!#hunting #perseverance #challenge References Rowland, M. M., R. M. Nielson, M. J. Wisdom, D. A. Clark, G. T. DiDonato, J. M. Hafer, B. J. Naylor, and B. K. Johnson. 2023. Success is dependent on effort: unraveling characteristics of successful deer and elk hunters. Wildlife Society Bulletin 47:e1414. https://doi.org/10.1002/wsb.1414 Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

Riley Lizotte joins us this week to discuss the outdoors, reminisce about past hunts and tell some deer stories. Riley has become a very accomplished hunter and fisherman. In recent years, his passion for hunting the western United States has influenced his approach to hunting the east. Riley details how the challenges of bow hunting out west have drastically improved his approach to hunting Maine bucks. Enjoy!#deerhunting #bowhunting #hunting Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

In this episode we reflect on Maine's 2023 deer season, look at the published data on the deer harvest in the state and talk about Remington's decision to close its New York based plant (that has been in operation for more than 200 yrs) and merge with it's Georgia facility. It was a great deer season here in Maine (I can't think of a bad one!) and we are already looking forward to next year. We hope every on has a safe and very merry Christmas! Enjoy! #hunting #remington #deerhunting

The last week of the Maine 2023 rifle season for deer was our annual deer camp week. The snow finally flew the second half of the week and we were into some good bucks! Listen as we describe the events that unfolded during our annual deer camp week and just how close we came to filling another tag! Enjoy! #deerhunting #deercamp #deertracking

In this weeks episode we discuss the previous 2 weeks of Maine deer season; What we saw, and what's going on. We also discuss some of the decision making processes that occur in the deer woods and the unexpected events that can unfold when bringing a kid deer hunting. Enjoy! #deerhunting #hunting #hunter

While the first week of Maine's 2023 deer season got off to a warm start, snow was soon to be found just a couple days into the season. One thing I like to say is snow is a game changer...and the game definitely changed Wednesday. Listen to how we managed to locate a nice buck which allowed me to bag one of the largest bucks I've shot to date. It turned into a tumultuous 3 day hunt but was worth it in the end. Enjoy!#deerhunting #whitetaildeer #maine

In anticipation for the upcoming 2023 Maine deer season, we sit down with John Carroll - Superintendent of Kenai Fjords National Park -in this 2 part series and discuss the importance of Maine deer camp, the commonalities among deer camps, the traditions involved and how they leave a lasting impression on a young outdoorsman or women. We share some deer stories and discuss our passion for the outdoors. So, whether you or preparing for deer season, or heading to your favorite hunting spot or deer camp, sit back, relax and listen and help ease the suspense as we all wait on opening day. Enjoy! Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

In anticipation for the upcoming 2023 Maine deer season, we sit down with John Carroll - Superintendent of Kenai Fjords National Park -in this 2 part series and discuss the importance of Maine deer camp, the commonalities among deer camps, the traditions involved and how they leave a lasting impression on a young outdoorsman or women. We share some deer stories and discuss our passion for the outdoors. So, whether you or preparing for deer season, or heading to your favorite hunting spot or deer camp, sit back, relax and listen and help ease the suspense as we all wait on opening day. Enjoy!#deerhunting #deercamp #hunting

In this episode we discuss the completion of the second Maine moose hunt, an update on Maine's grouse season this far and some of the more complex questions that many hunters are asked but hard to explain to non-hunters. We all have many reasons why we hunt...but many non-hunters will never fully understand with out experiencing it firsthand. Enjoy! Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

The first week of the Maine moose hunt and first week of bird season are now in the books. In this episode we discuss how those hunts have faired so far and some of our experiences bird hunting opening week. We also take a moment to talk deer hunting and preparing our rifles for the upcoming deer season. Enjoy!

In this episode we discuss current events that could impact the future of hunting and methods we use to locate game during years when game such as deer and grouse are hard to come by. Good Luck to all the moose hunters this week, as Maine's moose season gets underway and good luck to all the bird hunters hitting the woods next week!Enjoy!#deerhunting #moosehunting #partridgehunting Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com

In this weeks episode, we discuss the push to remove hunter education from our public schools and the future outlook for Sunday hunting in Maine. Both are important, hot-button topics that have recently been getting a lot of attention. We'll discuss how these issues hit us at a personal level and the impact they may have on the future of the sport. Enjoy! #hunter #outdoors #hunting Contact: maineoutdoorenthusiast@gmail.com