Pennsylvania Woodsman - Sportsmen's Empire

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman Podcast, Mitch reflects on the challenges faced during the turkey hunting season and transitions into discussing the complexities of food plot management. He emphasizes the importance of patience, the impact of weather on planting conditions, and the balance between tillage and no-till practices. Additionally, he shares his plans for transforming unused land into a more beneficial wildlife habitat, highlighting the role of herbicides and the significance of establishing switchgrass for wildlife. The conversation wraps up with thoughts on future plans and the excitement for the upcoming fall season.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch and Bryan Hale explore various  complexities of elk hunting regulations in Pennsylvania, discussing recent changes aimed at managing crop damage caused by elk and the implications of new tag regulations. The discussion highlights community feedback on these changes and the evolving landscape of hunting in the state. In this conversation, Bryan and Mitchell discuss allocation of bull tags, the impact of non-resident hunting licenses, and upcoming changes in elk management. They explore the implications of new regulations on hunting success rates and the overall experience for hunters, particularly in light of changes to tag allocation and elk zone boundaries. The discussion highlights the balance between providing hunting opportunities and maintaining the quality of the hunting experience.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman Mitch is joined by Kevin Creeley of the Mid Atlantic Outdoorsman Podcast.  In this conversation the guys delve into the intricacies of turkey hunting, discussing the seasonal variations across different states, the impact of weather and barometric pressure on turkey behavior, and the challenges hunters face due to hunting pressure. They share personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the importance of persistence and adaptability in the field.  Turkey hunting can be a mentally draining pheet when the 20 pound birds don't want to cooperate the way we think they should.  This episode highlights how pushing through it during the season can result in late season success!

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman Mitch is joined by Dan Johnson to explore the multifaceted world of podcasting, hunting, and fatherhood. They discuss the evolution of podcasting, the challenges of information overload, and the deeper meanings behind hunting as an outlet. Dan shares personal stories about how fatherhood has transformed his perspective on life, emphasizing the importance of communication and emotional expression in parenting. They also touch on the launch of Dan's new podcasts, 'Man Therapy' and 'Two D's One Podcast', which aim to provide relatable content for fathers navigating the complexities of family life.

On this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch and Paul Campbell delve into the world of turkey hunting, exploring the resurgence of camouflage styles, the mastery of mouth calls, and the insights gained from legendary turkey hunters. They discuss the importance of patience and understanding turkey behavior, as well as the impact of hunting pressure on turkey populations. The dialogue emphasizes the evolution of hunting techniques and the joy of interacting with the environment while pursuing turkeys. In this conversation, Mitch and Paul discuss various aspects of turkey hunting, emphasizing the importance of patience, understanding turkey behavior, and the effectiveness of different hunting strategies. They explore the nuances of roost hunting versus mid-morning hunts, the significance of calling techniques, and the commitment required to become a successful turkey hunter. The discussion also touches on personal experiences and future hunting plans, highlighting the evolving nature of their hunting practices.

On this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is riding solo sharing some turkey hunting experiences.  Most turkey hunters would agree that chasing gobbling turkeys and calling aggressive to a red hot gobbler is hard to beat.  However, the amount of times throughout a season that happens can be on the low end.  In reality, turkeys are creatures of habit that are seeking refuge from predators, feeding, and breeding is mixed in throughout the spring.  Patience is a virtue in the spring woods at times!Mitch shares two different hunting experiences from the past and draws his learning points from them.  While there are no concrete rules in hunting strategy and the words "always" or "never" don't come into play, Mitch's "style" of turkey hunting was molded by his own learning experiences.  He shares his style in slowing down, listening, planning moves accordingly, calling softly, and being patient to hunt a gobbler later in the morning or even on another day of season.  Lastly, he chats about a few other overlooked benefits of hunting slowly, ones you don't want to miss!

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Al Temechko of Vitalize Seed.  The two discuss the busy spring planting season, emphasizing the importance of soil health, plant physiology, and the role of diversity in food plots. They explore the debate between monoculture and diverse blends, highlighting the benefits of balanced planting for attracting deer and ensuring successful yields. The discussion also touches on the significance of soil testing and the misconceptions surrounding summer food plots in deer management. In this conversation, Al and Mitch delve into the intricacies of habitat management and hunting advice, emphasizing the importance of scientific data over anecdotal evidence. They discuss effective weed management strategies for food plots, the significance of soil health, and the role of diverse planting in attracting deer. The conversation wraps up with practical tips for preparing for the planting season, highlighting the value of soil tests and the benefits of using specific seed mixes.

This week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman is quite a bit different than normal.  Mitch had the opportunity to join Nick Otto (Huntavore podcast), Nate Rozeveld (Michigan Wild podcast), Andrew Muntz and John Hudspeth in Oklahoma at the end of March for a three day hog hunting experience.  John was gracious enough to invite some of us down for what has turned into an annual event to shoot wild pigs at his ranch.  This was a unique experience and one for the memories!During this hunt recap episode, the guys sit down after an action packed weekend with lots of sleep deprivation.  We discuss our travels, the hunting, equipment malfunctions, meat handling and more.  The best part of the entire trip is finally being able to put a face to a name with fellow podcasters and online friends.  One thing that will always stay true - friends are best made at hunting camp.  What a privilege this trip was, and we hope you enjoy the stories!

In this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Nathan Taylor of Higher Calling Custom Turkey Calls.  Nathan shares his journey from a young turkey hunter in West Virginia to a passionate call maker. He discusses the evolution of his skills, the art of building turkey calls, and the relationship between competition calling and real-life hunting. Nathan emphasizes the importance of understanding turkey sounds and the biases that hunters may have, while also highlighting the need for versatility in calls to adapt to different hunting situations. In this conversation, Mitch and Nathan discuss various aspects of turkey hunting, focusing on the role of ego, the impact of the environment on sound, and the influence of social media on hunting culture. They delve into the techniques and preferences for using pot calls, as well as the importance of call conditioning and maintenance. The discussion highlights the personal growth that comes with hunting experiences and the need for camaraderie among hunters.

In this special 200th episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, host Mitchell Shirk reflects on his journey through podcasting, sharing insights from the past episodes, the challenges faced, and the relationships built along the way. He discusses the unexpected beginnings of the podcast, the joy of connecting with guests, and the lessons learned about hunting and personal growth. The episode also covers future hunting aspirations, the complexities of hunting on public versus private land, and the value of consulting for land management. Mitch emphasizes the importance of understanding pressure and habitat in successful hunting strategies, while also addressing the ongoing debate about the start of the Pennsylvania rifle season. In this episode, Mitch discusses the pros and cons of the Saturday hunting opener, reflecting on how it impacts family time and hunting traditions. He also delves into the debate surrounding Sunday hunting, considering both personal beliefs and the broader implications for the hunting community. Additionally, he shares insights from his podcasting journey, emphasizing personal growth and the importance of community in hunting. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the deeper meanings of hunting and the role of faith in his life and work.

On this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman Mitch is joined by Steve Chilcote to discuss various aspects of forest management, funding opportunities for landowners, and the challenges faced in property renovation. They delve into the importance of forest management plans, the role of NRCS and EQIP in providing funding, and the significance of addressing invasive species. The discussion also highlights the need for reinvestment in land management and the potential for creating food plots and orchards. The conversation concludes with a focus on the importance of native plants and the ongoing challenges of deer pressure in agricultural settings. In this conversation, Mitch and Steve discuss the challenges faced by modern agriculture, particularly in relation to deer management and soil health. They explore the impact of invasive species, the importance of sustainable farming practices, and the role of fire in forest management. The discussion emphasizes the need for incremental changes in farming to maintain profitability while also considering wildlife and environmental conservation. Steve shares insights on managing natural resources beyond just food plots, highlighting the importance of understanding the ecosystem and making informed decisions for long-term sustainability.

This week on the Pennsylvania Woodsman Mitch catches up with Kurt Kissinger.  Kurt is a friend from the past that Mitch has recently connected with through their careers in agriculture.  Between farming and hunting, there are always lots of things to catch up on.  Kurt is a licensed drone operator and has his own company Pinnacle Agridrone.  Kurt specializes in applying nutrients and pesticides to agricultural crops but also aids in forestry practices as well.  The two discuss how drones flow into the workflow of managing forests in Pennsylvania, then delve off into other topics.  The conversation turns towards a question, "what are you hunting for?"  Both agree adventure is part of it.  This turns towards trips out west and goal setting for the future.  It also directs towards processing wild game for our families and how it can be an almost spiritual connection with family and friends.  Processing game with loved ones is a comradery event, which is somewhat lost in hunting culture today.  This episode is like a shotgun pattern - it's all over the place!  But it brings up some interesting philosophies... enjoy!

This week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, we are talking turkey.  Jason Miller of JMiller Custom Calls is back to discuss some details about mouth calls.  The types of cuts used, pressure and stretch of reeds, and material used all influence the sounds and volume of each call.  Jason discusses in more depth how you may want to influence your decisions in call choice based on these components.  Jason makes quality calls and has over 30 years experience turkey hunting.  Make sure you check out JMiller Custom Calls on Facebook and Instagram, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!

On this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman Mitch is hashing out a plan in his mind to improve one of his small hunting properties.  As usual, it starts with a vision and leads to lots of work.  After finding some success in the past on a 2 acre archery hunting property, new ideas have come into mind to make it better.  While hunting the property over the years, the deer have taught Mitch how to better manipulate his hunting strategy.  This involves changing a food plot shape and size, moving a stand location, modifying deer trails, and improving the cover and bedding.  These changes may not create large improvements, but we'll take anything possible in the hunter's favor.  And as always, these changes are catered to hopefully hunting the property smarter.  That means concentrating on specific times of year with good winds and fool-proof access!  Hopefully you can relate to some of these changes for your hunting season.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Nate Rozeveld from the Michigan Wild podcast to discuss their experiences in the hunting community, the evolution of hunting popularity, and the impact of technology on hunting practices. They explore the joys of small game hunting, the ethics surrounding the use of technology, and personal moral dilemmas faced by hunters. The discussion highlights the importance of networking within the podcasting community and the shared passion for the outdoors. In this conversation, Nate and Mitch explore the importance of being challenged in life and hunting, the reevaluation of personal goals, and the balance between family and outdoor pursuits. They discuss how experiences shape memories and the significance of enjoying the journey rather than focusing solely on outcomes. The conversation also touches on combating cabin fever during the off-season and the mental aspects of hunting and personal growth.

On this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is back in his element consulting on crops.  This week's crop is a hot topic in the wildlife habitat and management world - switchgrass.  Switchgrass use has grown in popularity for habitat improvement as well as food plot screening.  While it's extremely effective when established, it's slightly more difficult to get started when compared to your fast growing annual food plots.  Mitch breaks down a few details and experiences he has had that hopefully you can implement into your switchgrass planting.In addition to switchgrass, the use of annual screening such as egyptian wheat has increased.  While it's simpler to establish than switchgrass, there are a few things to consider when planting to ensure maximum potential.  In both crops, Mitch breaks down weed management, seed bed preparation, and timing of planting.  You'll hear information about herbicides that can be effective while aiding in your establishment, as well as the timing when they should be applied.  Start planning your successful plantings now - shooting from the hip this spring may result in frustration!

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Rich Yoder who shares his extensive experience in hunting, particularly focusing on predator hunting. He discusses the transition from traditional hunting to predator hunting, the impact of coyotes on deer populations, and the ethical considerations surrounding predator hunting. Rich emphasizes the importance of understanding animal behavior and the need for responsible hunting practices. The conversation also touches on the growing popularity of predator hunting and the implications it has for wildlife management. In this conversation, Mitch and Rich delve into the intricacies of coyote and fox hunting, exploring the behavioral differences between the two animals, the importance of hunting tactics, and the significance of proximity in successful hunts. Rich shares personal anecdotes from his hunting experiences, highlighting the challenges and triumphs faced in the field. The discussion emphasizes the need for serious preparation and understanding of wildlife behavior to enhance hunting success.

On this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch recounts his out-of-state hunting trip he took last week to Kansas.  This was like nothing he's ever experienced before, as he was invited as a guest to join a group of guys from North and South Carolina to participate in an outfitted 3-day wing hunt.  The group was hosted by Wing Chaser Outdoors guiding service who absolutely knocked the hunting experience out of the park.  During the 3 days of hunting, the group killed around 100 geese and a dozen mallard ducks.  Shoulders and cheeks are sore from all the shooting, but the excitement remains as he is still reminiscing about the trip.  The big takeaways were, 1) Wing Chaser Outdoors was an excellent guide service, 2) the comradery at the lodge was excellent and 3) it would be nice if the Keystone state had waterfowl hunting similar to this!  Thanks for tuning in!

On this week's episode Mitch is joined by friends and family Jacob Mengel and Neal Kerschner.  Neal was fortunate to draw the tag of a lifetime: a Pennsylvania bull elk tag.  Neal was joined by his dad and Jacob, and the crew was able to experience what most only dream about.  Neal punched his tag on a beautiful 6x6 on the second day of the season on public land. He was proud to have the hunt play out in a manner closely to what he envisioned: a hunt worth working for.  An added bonus is that Neal's bull may be the northernmost bull elk harvested in PA's history since the hunt began.  We discuss the emotional rollercoaster of drawing the tag, choosing an outfitter, then hurrying up to wait for the December 28th opener.  Sit back and enjoy!  

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Hunter Scott and Tyler Hanna from PA Boys Outdoors and H3 Game Calls. They discuss their hunting seasons and the growth of their brands, as a new brand has been developed in the world of food plot and habitat consulting. The conversation delves into food plot management, strategic land management, and setting realistic expectations for hunting properties. They emphasize the significance of access routes, wind direction, and habitat improvement for successful deer management. In this conversation, they discuss various strategies for enhancing deer hunting success through effective habitat management and food plot implementation. They share personal experiences and insights on the importance of water holes, equipment investment, and understanding deer density. The conversation also touches on the balance between agricultural practices and wildlife needs, as well as innovative techniques like hinge cutting to improve habitat. They emphasize their commitment to helping others achieve success in their hunting endeavors through their services.

This week on the Pennsylvania Woodsman Mitch is joined by good friend Aaron Hepler to reminisce on this past year's hunting season.  If you've followed along to the show this season, you know that life has gotten busy and Mitch took a while to get into deer hunting mode.  Fortunately for him, he was not alone, as Aaron didn't jump on the deer hunting bandwagon too quickly either this season.  For the last 15+ years, both of these guys have been diehard deer hunters, especially when it comes to bowhunting.  Turns out, there are other fun things to do too!Aaron discusses his new journey training a Brittany pup to be a bird dog.  A lot more effort went into working with his dog preseason and in season, then running cameras and scouting deer.  Aaron seems to think this hunting season was as fun as any he has had in the past.  And for the record, he still had an awesome deer season punching both buck and doe tags in PA!  We recount his deer hunting experiences and what he looks forward to doing more of in the future.  Thanks for listening, and remember to do what you love and not for likes!

On this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, it's story time as Mitch recounts the events of opening week of rifle season at camp.  Each season during rifle season, he along with family and friends join together for some old fashioned deer drives in the big woods of northern PA.  The events throughout this week led to exactly what you read in the title, a hematoma on Mitch's leg, how he lost his cell phone during a drive, and the events leading to recovering a 130" mountain buck.  During the course of this three day hunt, Mitch's leg injury worsened from a fall he had opening weekend.  But being the blockhead he is, continued to push on hunting!  Organizing drives with a group can be somewhat challenging to effectively communicate with a group.  However, this social event is a fun change in pace to the solo venture of buck hunting all season.  Sometimes things do not always work out as you plan.  Drives get messed up, shot opportunities get missed, and sometimes story endings don't follow the Hollywood script.  However, the journey over this three day hunt turned out to be one for the memory books!

On this week's episode Mitch is gearing up for Pennsylvania's late season deer hunting with his flintlock muzzleloader.  This unique weapon has a 3+week long season for deer each year that creates a fun opportunity to fill a tag.  Over the past few years, Mitch has become slightly more serious in his shooting and preparation to fill a tag with the ol' smoke pole.  This was not always the case, in fact, plenty of animals have been scared by his inaccurate shooting in the past.  This forced a change to buckle down and learn how to become more accurate with quality practice.  Mitch shares his experiences shooting after purchasing a book about black powder rifle accuracy.  He shares the process he installed into his routine for load development and practice to help alleviate flinching, and build a handload with the right powder charge and patch thickness.  There are a few other tricks he has picked up that have helped his success along the way.  If you're an experienced flintlock shooter, this may not be your episode.  However, if you're the fella that didn't fill a deer tag and is deciding to dust off the flintlock after a few years of not being engaged, this may help you get ready!

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman Podcast, Mitch welcomes DJ Hoshauer back to the podcast to share hunting stories from this season, including DJ's successful season filled with unique experiences across multiple states. The conversation delves into some challenges faced such as unanticipated health concerns, and also recaps some exciting highlights. In this conversation, DJ shares his extensive experiences and insights from years of hunting, focusing on the 4 year journey of pursuing a unique buck he tagged opening day of Pennsylvania rifle season. He discusses the importance of scouting, understanding deer behavior, and adapting strategies based on environmental pressures. The conversation also highlights the emotional aspects of hunting, including the thrill of the chase, the lessons learned from missed opportunities, and the significance of family involvement in the hunting experience. After catching up on DJ's season, the two share the story of their hunt together last week when Mitch filled his 2024 PA buck tag. They cover the planning stages, strategies employed during the hunt, the camaraderie shared between friends, and the reflections on the day's events. The conversation emphasizes the importance of enjoying the experience over simply filling a tag, highlighting the thrill of the chase and the value of teamwork in hunting.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman Podcast, Mitch is joined by his friend Dana Schreffler, who shares his journey into archery hunting.  Dana has deer hunted in the past but has just recently become more serious, and his off season preparation led to quickly filling all his tags this year.  As the two podcast while butchering some deer Dana shot on opening weekend, they delve into the journey that began for Dana a few short years ago and what evolved into his hunting plans for 2024. They discuss the importance of scouting, understanding property dynamics, and adapting to changing conditions in the field. In this conversation, the guys share their experiences and insights from a successful hunting season, discussing strategies for hunting deer, the importance of balancing family life with hunting, and reflections on personal growth as a hunter. They emphasize the significance of communication with your spouse, the lessons learned from hunting, and the satisfaction of achieving goals in the field.

On this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is flying solo by the seat of his pants.  With the holidays and hunting season, it's hard to get much of anything planned this time of year!  On the road home from opening weekend of deer camp, Mitch recaps the past 10 days of hunting season.  This includes a successful northwoods bear camp where the gang harvested 3 bears on the first 3 drives of opening day.  Mitch delves into the backstory of why he believes this hunt was so successful, as the hunt Captain and good friend Clayton Good did an excellent job of scouting and strategically placing standers.Next he dives into the opening weekend of deer season at his camp in north central PA.  With little scouting preparation going into this weekend, there needed to be a few cards in his favor for things to line up.  Spoiler alert - the cards were subpar at best.  Mitch discusses why the area he chose to sit on opening day was good, however it missed the spot by about 100 yards.  Still hunting with a gun was also on Mitch's mind to level his odds and cover ground, but with snow and rain followed by temps in the teens, the snow became so crunchy it was nearly impossible to still hunt successfully.  Moral of the story: there is plenty of season left, keep grinding, and be patient.  

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Aaron Pasquarette to discuss his successful trip to Ohio this fall.  They begin by elaborating on the challenges and joys of balancing hunting with family and work commitments. They delve into Aaron's  strategies for scouting, setting up, and connecting with deer in the Buckeye State. The conversation highlights the importance of preparation, adaptability, and understanding deer behavior in the pursuit of a successful hunt. In this conversation, Aaron shares his thrilling experiences and emotions during a recent hunting trip, reflecting on the challenges and rewards of hunting. He discusses the importance of preparation, the balance between family life and hunting, and the fulfillment he finds in the adventure of the hunt. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of communication in family dynamics during hunting seasons and the essence of woodsmanship in achieving success in the field.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Brian Melvin.  During the Segment A 2024 New Jersey Bear Season, Brian killed a 770 lb field dressed bear.  It's estimated live weight is around 900 pounds! He recounts the story of this record-breaking bear hunt, the challenges faced during retrieval, and the unique characteristics of the bear he hunted. Brian discusses the history of his pursuit of this particular bear, the pressures and patterns in bear hunting, and the importance of comfort and security in bear habitats. He also emphasizes the significance of baiting strategies and the balance between hunting pressure and bear comfort, culminating in valuable lessons learned from his experiences. Brian shares his insights on bear hunting, emphasizing the importance of patience, scouting, and understanding bear behavior. He discusses the strategies for baiting and the use of cameras in tracking bears, as well as the significance of e-scouting in modern hunting. The conversation highlights the need for hunters to adapt to seasonal shifts in food sources and bear patterns to improve their chances of success. Brian shares his extensive knowledge on bear hunting, focusing on understanding bear behavior, travel corridors, and late-season strategies. He discusses the importance of scouting, the nuances of hunting in different segments, and the challenges of navigating swamps. The conversation also touches on the ethical considerations of using firearms and the significance of wind patterns in successful bear hunting. Brian introduces his new venture, Timber Life Outdoors, where he aims to share his hunting experiences and insights with a broader audience.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Grant Forney of the Everyday Outdoorsman to discuss the nuances of hunting during the rut.  This conversation emphasizes the importance of weather conditions, historical knowledge and strategic planning. They share personal experiences and insights on deer behavior, hunting techniques, and the excitement of the rut during archery season, providing valuable tips for both novice and seasoned hunters. In this conversation, Mitch and Grant discuss various aspects of deer hunting in Pennsylvania, focusing on hunting patterns, communication tactics with deer, the significance of all-day sits during the rut, and the mental challenges hunters face. They also share personal experiences and advice for both novice and experienced hunters, emphasizing the importance of patience, persistence, and enjoyment in the hunting experience.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman Podcast, Mitch is joined by Cody Readinger, a successful bow hunter known for consistently harvesting big bucks in challenging terrains. The conversation delves into Cody's journey from a casual hunter to a dedicated bow hunter, the emotional experiences tied to hunting, and the importance of scouting and preparation. They discuss the balance between family life and hunting passion, Cody's hunting philosophy, and the story behind his latest big buck. The episode emphasizes the significance of understanding terrain features and the challenges of hunting in Pennsylvania's Ridge and Valley region. In this segment, Cody shares his insights on deer hunting, emphasizing the importance of fieldwork, understanding deer behavior, and utilizing technology like cameras for tracking. He discusses his strategic approach to hunting, particularly focusing on wind direction and the significance of patience and preparation. The conversation culminates in a profound moment of connection with a buck, leading to reflections on faith and the journey of growth in both hunting and life. They share their insights on the influence of podcasts in learning about hunting, the importance of embracing failure, and the need to find a personal 'why' in the hunting experience. Cody discusses the impact of social media on expectations and the significance of valuing experiences over mere success. The conversation also touches on personal reflections, life lessons, and the role of faith in guiding one's journey in hunting and life.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by PA native Chris Weist.  The two delve into the intricacies of deer hunting, discussing various strategies, mental challenges, and the impact of technology on the hunting experience.  This includes how Chris prioritizes his time throughout the fall, what challenges he is facing, how to navigate feed trees in monotonous timber, and much more. They explore the importance of patience, the significance of food sources, and the need for aggressive tactics in certain situations. The discussion also touches on setting realistic goals and expectations for the hunting season, as well as the balance between utilizing technology and maintaining the adventure of hunting.

On this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman Mitch is joined by returning guests and good friends Mike Lesher, Mark Lesher, Jason Miller and Jared Lesher.  The five sit down near the close of the 2024 New Jersey Segment A bear hunt, and discuss what a week it was!  Beginning in summer, the crew made multiple trips to scout and locate bears that would meet their season goals.  The Leshers and Jason hunted all week long and were able to have some cool encounters with archery tackle.  Mitch came to camp with his Lyman Flintlock muzzleloader in hand later in the week.  Tune in to hear the highs, lows, mishaps and successes of this DIY public land bear hunt!  This episode truly highlights the camaraderie and teamwork shared by this crew of guys!

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman Mitch is joined by Troy Fowler, known as the Ranch Fairy.  The two discuss a highly controversial topic: quartering towards shot angles with archery equipment.  Can you really shoot through the shoulder of a deer with a bow?  With most arrow set ups, no, not without luck or wounding the animal.  Arrows don't like bone, especially with lighter arrow setups that are commonly used.  Troy emphasizes the importance of understanding shot placement and the anatomy of deer. Troy also compares the toughness of deer and pigs, highlights the significance of arrow setup and flight, and encourages critical thinking in bowhunting. He shares valuable lessons from his experiences and stresses the need for discipline and understanding of equipment in order to be successful in hunting.  That means knowing what your arrow is capable of doing should it encounter a heavy bone like the humerus of a whitetail.  If it can't go through it, don't take the shot!  Or, listen to the 12 factors of arrow flight from the Ashby Bowhunting foundation to learn what setups have the highest chance of passthrough if you so decide to take this shot angle.  This episode revolves around making ethical choices in the world of bowhunting.  

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch interviews Cliff Bailey, a passionate hunter and creator of KEO Vlogs on YouTube. They discuss Cliff's background in hunting, the evolution of his family's hunting traditions, and the journey of creating his YouTube channel. The conversation delves into land management practices, the journey of targeting bigger bucks, and the lessons learned over the years. They also explore hunting strategies, the significance of wind, and how to manage pressure while hunting. Cliff shares insights on deer behavior, the role of food sources, and the impact of the rut on hunting success. The discussion emphasizes the importance of patience, knowledge, and adaptability in the pursuit of hunting big mature deer.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch interviews Ricky Brule, host of the Range Podcast and Creative Director for Vaportrails Bowstrings. They discuss Ricky's various roles in content creation, the balance between work and personal hobbies, and the impact of social media on the hunting community. The conversation delves into the controversies surrounding hunting practices, particularly the use of crossbows, and the importance of community and family in the hunting experience. Ricky shares insights on adapting hunting techniques across different regions and reflects on the changing priorities that come with fatherhood. The episode concludes with a reminder to enjoy the journey of hunting and the significance of building connections within the community.

On this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Jason Goe and Jere Preston from the Final Stand YouTube channel.  This episode discusses various aspects of hunting, beginning with a conversation focusing on modern muzzleloaders versus flintlocks.  The boys dive into Jere's recent trip back from bear hunting in Canada, then shift gears to whitetail hunting in Pennsylvania and Maryland. The conversation also delves into strategies for hunting on public land, the importance of monitoring ground scent and wind control, and the impact of technology on hunting practices. Throughout the discussion, the speakers share personal anecdotes and insights, emphasizing the challenges and rewards of being a dedicated hunter. Additional topics navigate the evolution of hunting strategies, emphasizing the importance of scouting over gimmicks and the nuanced role of trail cameras. The team shares insights on navigating public land hunting, the significance of timing in scouting, and the challenges of introducing children to hunting in a meaningful way. The discussion also touches on the importance of family traditions in hunting and the need for a supportive community that values both successes and failures in the sport.  This is a don't miss episode sure to fire you up for the start of 2024 deer season!

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitchell is joined by Jeremy Dinsmore of the Antler Up Podcast to discuss preparations for the upcoming hunting season. They talk about technical difficulties with recording podcasts, practicing shooting their bows, and managing their schedules. They also touch on the use of trail cameras and the importance of trusting their instincts while hunting. In this conversation, Jeremy and Mitchell discuss their scouting and hunting strategies for deer. They talk about the importance of scouting and gathering information through trail cameras, as well as the challenges of piecing together the puzzle of deer movement. They also discuss the timing of the hunting season and the importance of being patient and selective in choosing locations to sit and deer to pursue. Jeremy expresses his desire to improve his woodsmanship skills and become more proficient in different hunting scenarios. They emphasize the importance of enjoying the hunt and making memories, regardless of the size or caliber of the deer harvested.

This week on the Pennsylvania Woodsman we are back with part 2 of our conversation with Cole Seitzinger in what we are calling a "Dream Season".  If you missed last week, Cole shares his 2023 PA P&Y buck story and the obstacles experienced along the way.  It was 8 days later Cole was able to lay hands on his target 150 class buck in the Prairie State.  However, the theme of overcoming obstacles remains in place!Despite initial setbacks and doubts, Cole's wife encouraged him to go on his Illinois hunt after a 12-year hiatus, arriving a day late due to family obligations.  Cole bounced around the farm until landing in a tree that proved to be successful.  Initially, the wind kept him from hunting his primary target location.  The tree he picked was a good distance away but allowed him to observe from a distance.  The power of November had his target buck on his feet, which just happened to cruise by his tree in bow range mid-morning. Lots of lessons learned from stand selection and shot placement, to tracking, trusting your instincts, and sharing memories made in the field.

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by his buddy Cole Seitzinger, who talks about balancing family life with hunting and his transition to hunting with a saddle.  The balancing act requires Cole to be specific with his time to allow success; the saddle helps with his time efficiency.  The conversation begins with the pros and cons of saddle hunting and the impact of content creation on the hunting experience.  From here, Cole breaks down the hunt for his 2023 PA buck.Cole was able to harvest this buck on the first sit of the year at this property.  He had not hunted it for 3 seasons, in fact the previous sit he also arrowed his largest PA buck to date.  Cole shares the ins and outs of learning the timing of the properties he hunts, and how he had to make an adjustment after missing the best time at another property.  This is part one of two, tune in next week when Cole breaks down his trip to Illinois where he arrowed a bruiser!

In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch discusses his experience with bear scouting and hunting leading into the 2024 season.  After a successful 2023 season, he is back in New Jersey for bigger and better things.  There were many takeaways from last season, forcing Mitch to modify his preparation for an even better outcome this year.  This includes the importance of scouting and finding food sources, as well as the need for fallback options and scouting for people pressure.  Finding food in summer is a start, but it's also crucial to continue to monitor as the season start to close in. Mitch shares the scale of land he is scouting both with cameras and boots-on-ground, and how he plans to choose stand locations for wind direction and lay of the land.  The goals and outlook for this season are slightly different from normal: be patient, learn from your experiences, and set realistic expectations for the hunting season with the time that's available to prepare.

This week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman is bound to ruffle someone's feathers.  Take it with a grain of salt; it's two average Joe's having a conversation about their opinions of hunting in PA.  Our guest is John Kolb from Suffering Outdoors, and he and Mitch discuss five items that they believe if changed would improve the hunting opportunity in Pennsylvania.  Both John and Mitch are avid bowhunters, so the majority of this discussion revolves around improvements for our own self-interest.Before we start, let's make it known that we both believe the Pennsylvania state agency does an excellent job of collecting data and making well informed decisions for our hunting seasons.  This is not an episode of critique, rather expanding on what's already worked well in the Keystone state, with a dash of selfish-interest.  We start the episode by listing a few things the state has already implemented that have made hunting regulations easier or created better hunting opportunities.  From here we break down our five points of interest, leading up to our grand finale. Let's just say, the final point argues the use of a trigger during archery season...  What do you think would make hunting PA better?

On this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch introduces Shaun Trump from Northern Duck Calls to the show. Shaun is as passionate about duck hunting as Mitch is about deer. So much so, that he's turned a hobby of building ducks calls into a business. After our introduction, Shaun discusses how he first got into building calls and the complexities of using a lathe and combining it with reeds and cutouts. He also discusses his experiences of hunting ducks in Arkansas, and how the culture of waterfowl hunting is much different when compared to the northeast. You are able to sense a "homesick" feeling from Shaun when he talks about Arkansas, but he quickly changes the subject to building a network and culture here in the northeast around duck hunting. If you're looking to upgrade some duck calls for this season, shop local and check out Northern Duck Calls!

On this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, we dive deep into the Radix Hunting Monarch blind line up.  Our guest is none other than Clifford Martin, owner and operator of Radix hunting gear.  One thing to note about Radix is the attention to quality in their products.  That's because Clifford is a diehard successful deer and turkey hunter, and strives to provide the best possible equipment in the field for himself and also consumers.  If it doesn't pass his extensive testing, it gets modified before you can ever get your hands on it!We begin by breaking down the Monarch G1 ground blind, and work our way up the ladder towards hard shell blinds.  Along the way we discuss the differences in these blinds when compared to competitors you might find out on the market.  With each series of blind, we discuss the structural integrity behind each product, and how each has been modified over time for improvements.  Two main factors come into play with Monarch blinds: structural integrity to hold up to mother nature, and silent use when in close proximity to game.  We also break down each blind and how Clifford view's their purpose in his world of deer and turkey hunting.  Make sure to check them all out at Radixhunting.com!

Troy Dietterich is back on this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman for part two of his property conversion.  In addition to experimenting with different food plot practices, he is creating more usable cover and native browse on his property.  This includes converting a 3-acre crop field back into wildlife habitat.  In this episode we discuss: field layout, goals and objectives, vision of balance between cover and food plots, screening and plant establishment, maintenance and upkeep, and most of all - patience.  Enjoy the process and keep some of Troy's learning experiences in mind for your next habitat project!

Sometimes good things just take time.  This week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman is no exception, as this is a slightly longer conversation.  Our guest is Cory Gulvas and we dive into the world of traditional archery.  Cory's passion has driven him to competition level shooting, solely hunting with a recurve, and even bow building.  In that time, Cory has faced nearly any obstacle that a new stickbow shooter could possibly experience.  Take notes if you're a noob!Cory is often approached for advice, and typically finds people struggling with the same things repeatedly.  We discuss getting into traditional archery for the correct reasons, choosing the best equipment to start, aiming methods, shot execution, target panic, and much more.  If you've been struggling to figure out how to overcome many of these common issues when shooting a trad bow, your questions may be answered in this episode. 

Branching off from last week's episode, we discuss weed management and some key in-the-field observations.  Mitch mentioned that there are three common "modes of action" to control weeds including mechanical (tillage, hand pulling), chemical (herbicide), and biological (plant competition).  Is it possible to manage weeds with only one?  This week's guest on the Pennsylvania Woodsman is Troy Dietterich who shares some interesting observations from his personal hunting property.Troy and his wife prefer to limit the use of pesticides on their property.  This is something anyone can do successfully if they stay dedicated and work hard towards.  That's not to say it doesn't come a little more difficult and with a greater learning curve.  Troy has used a multitude of seed blends and management styles on his food plots; some successful and some not.  We dive into what worked, what didn't, and what key observations were made in order to make better decisions moving forward.  This episode is a great example of just because someone says you should do something a certain way (this includes recommendations from Mitch!), doesn't mean you can't modify tactics to better serve your property and personal goals!

No-till and soil health have almost become buzz words in the food plot world.  The practices themselves are sound and have a good purpose when it comes to wildlife use.  But does that mean you need to keep up with the Jones' just because someone else told you so?  This week Mitch shares his exposure to no-till food plotting, a few of the reasons why he adopted it, and shares a few hurdles you may face when making the transition.  This is all from the hip first hand experiences in Agriculture as well as food plots.  He discusses weed management, moisture management, and low budget planting equipment with practices to ensure you don't encounter the same challenges as he and many others.

On this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Nate Sellers of Average Jack archery.  The episode dives into opening the case and dusting off your bow from last season.  We discuss how to get back into shooting shape - this includes, reps, routine, gear checks, tuning, and more.  Practice makes perfect, but what about when you don't have a lot of time to practice?  Being intentional about what you are practicing, and practicing it the correct way goes a long way if reps are frequent but short.  Small steps build confidence for shooting at game this fall - start now!

On this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman we are kicking things off in a different style.  While we are cruising through summer, we still have a ways off before the fall.  Work, honey-do list, and summer time activities are still the bulk focus of our time.  Therefore, if success in fall is to happen, it needs to be done by maximizing the little time we have to prepare and staying focused.  Mitch and the guest will set a timer for 30 minutes and dive into a topic.  When the timer runs out, it's back to the real world.  Take the same logic with your summer preparation and be deliberate!This week's guest is Dan Johnson, host of the Nine Finger Chronicles and leader of Sportsmen's Empire Podcast Network.  Just because Dan works "in the industry," does not mean he is blessed with unlimited time to prepare each fall and kill tons of game.  He has a family and a business that requires his undivided attention all year.  Therefore, in order to stay sane in the hunting world, he has to be specific when setting goals and expectations.  This means being realistic and achievable, and yet also finding satisfaction.  Around this framework, we will discuss specifics of preparation for hunting at home and out-of-state trips with what little free time he has available.

On this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by good friend Ronnie Folk. Ronnie is retired and has enjoyed many wonderful hunting trips across North America and even abroad into Africa and New Zealand. However, annual hunting trips were not always the norm. Ronnie worked hard his whole life building a successful paving business as well as raising a family, so the time off which we discuss was earned through hard work. We begin by catching up on a recent Brown Bear hunting trip Ronnie had this spring in Alaska. While the trip did not result in any shots fired, we still strolled down memory lane as we sat amidst his trophy room of memories. We talk about Ronnie's favorite animal to hunt - elk, and how he transitioned in his early 40s to an avid archery hunter. Ronnie also tells stories of his trips to a camp he used to hunt at in northern PA for bear and deer. It's a fun conversation with a man who worked hard to live out the American dream!

On this week's episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by Al Tomechko of Vitalize Seed Company.  For much of the PA latitude, we are nearing the end of the desired planting window for vitalize's summer plot Nitroboost.  Whether you're late to the spring planting party or on the fence of adopting the 1-2 planting system, this episode revolves around potential hurdles or mistakes people commonly make this time of year.  After Al and Mitch decompress via soil biology and farming nerd talk, Al breaks down some common challenges people face adopting "soil health principles."  This episode covers things like when to terminate current vegetation for the next planting, how to wean off chemical use, best equipment for food plot planting on a budget, effective seed to soil contact for broadcasting, and more.  Check out vitalizeseed.com to learn more about the 1-2 planting system and order your seed soon!