The Hunters Campfire is a special place. It’s where we connect, we share, we learn and laugh. The Hunters Campfire Podcast is all that and more as we bring together new hunters, old hands, industry experts and those who advocate for the Australian hunting lifestyle to our digital campfire. If you’re a new hunter starting out, you’re looking for your next challenge or want to understand the politics of public land hunting we’ve got something for you. You’ll find our podcasts on Podbean, Apple, Google, Spotify, Amazon and plenty of other platforms and if you want more, head on over to our YouTube Channel, The Hunters Campfire for our how to and hunting videos along with the full video productions of every podcast. Don’t forget to like and subscribe. Good hunting, Mark, Ian and Jono
Tonight, around the campfire the guys wrap part 2 of their April Deer hunt – with a focus on Fallow Deer. Make sure to stick around for the special announcement about Hunt Camp 2026, we're taking it on the road!
This one has it all, from a wrap up of Jono's Fallow Deer Hunt, his fishing trip for monster GTs, Mark's podcast appearance on The Australian Hunting Connection podcast, and the importance of introduction kids to the hunting lifestyle. Of course, we reflect on the recent Federal Election results and even put Ian to the Citizenship test!
Tonight, around the campfire the crew relive their recent Red Deer Hunts. For Ian it's his first fully guided hunt, for Jono a club hunt on an allocated block while Mark returns to his private blocks just outside Kilcoy. With everyone experiencing a successful hunt there's lot to talk about. Enjoy
With Jono away, Ian and Mark break down their Red Deer approach, talk about the very new, and very cool Hunters Campfire Outdoor Edge knives and a give a shout out a special fan of ‘the Poddy'. The conversation then moves onto technology in the field including the power of Starlink, staying in touch with ZOLEO and will Hybrid EV utes, like the New Ford Ranger be the end of 12 volt power in camp. Enjoy!
In this Hunters Campfire special, we share the campfire with Lawson White, owner of Nature's Perks, a service offering guided hunts and educational courses. The wide-ranging conversation focuses on red deer hunting strategies, public vs. private land hunting, the importance of building relationships for access and even touch on the latest corner crossing rulings from the USA. The crew also emphasize hearing and skin protection, explore hunting competitions, membership benefits, and community engagement. They highlight the stunning hunting property, support services, and encourage listeners to explore membership options and book adventures.
With Hunt Camp just around the corner the guys talk about getting through Cyclone Alfred and reflect on what gear worked, what didn't and how they can improve for both emergency situations and camping, with Mark dropping a controversial call on certain Yeti products. The conversation moves to the new hybrid Ford Ranger and its potential hunting and camping applications. To wrap things up the crew then turn their attention to the current political landscape, the upcoming Federal election, that all important community support, cooking adventures, game meat, hunting regulations, drone technology.
Tonight around the campfire the guys kick things off with an impromptu visit that causes just a little bit of pandemonium at Jono's place. With that settled, the conversation then moves to the Perun series of torches from Olight, as well as gear for hunting Red Deer. There is also a discussion about firearm laws, ammunition trends, and even some camp cooking tips along the way. Enjoy
Tonight, around the campfire Mark and Jono are waiting for Alfred, while Ian dials in from Sydney. Unless of course it's all a "hoax"! Talk turns to Cyclone prep, wet weather gear, ammo, the difference between .30-06 and .308 as well as answering some questions from you, our listeners. So, keep them coming. Enjoy
Tonight, around the campfire Mark, Ian, and Jono discuss the new gear from OLIGHT, along with Tatonka packs, and butchering game. The conversation then moves to engaging with the community, the upcoming kayak fishing trip, eye dominance in shotgunnning, pre-scouting, hunt camp prep, the Huntfit program, and a long range look at the weather for the Roar, and Rut.
Tonight around the campfire we speak with Kate Fantinel. Kate is a passionate activist for shooters who is leading a legal challenge to the soon to be implemented WA gun laws. Over two nights (we had internet issues) we speak with Kate about her journey from hunting with her Dad in country South Australia, to competitive universality pistol shooter to running for a Senate ticket in Western Australia as Lady Liberty AND a whole lot more! Enjoy
Tonight around the campfire, Mark, Ian, and Jono discuss hunting plans, gear preparation, a kayak fishing adventure in the making, Huntfit success stories, hunting tech, animal behaviour and dynamics, environmental impacts, camping comforts, and an update on our new clothing range. Enjoy
It's a busy start to 2025 as we kick off the New Year and dive into upcoming hunting plans and gear preparation. From shotgun to rifle recommendations for new hunters, we cover off on what you need to prepare for the season ahead. There's some fun stuff too, along with hunting experiences, and answers to listener questions on choosing the best gear and training methods. Enjoy
Tonight, around the campfire its Christmas Time - well it was a couple of weeks ago. Anyway, here it is, the Better Late Than Never Hunters Campfire Christmas special. Enjoy!
With Jono missing in action, tonight around the campfire Ian and Mark discuss the launch of the Hunt Fit Program, and the new - very portable – Starlink system. They also review some of their favourite books, chat about the Lithgow Arms production issue, WA firearms regulations, what's happening for the rest of 2024 and what's planned for 2025. Enjoy
Tonight, around the campfire Ian gives the guys an update on his personal health and fitness journey and how he wants to build a dedicated hunters approach to getting, and staying healthy, so stay tuned for more updates. In between the guys share their preparations for Brisbane Valley Reds and finalise the dates for Hunt Camp 2025. Enjoy
Tonight, around the campfire we speak with Ian Head from World Safari Xpeditions. An Australian hunting and shooting industry stalwart, Ian has a wealth of knowledge and experience in hunting around the world. Through his company, World Safari Xpeditions he shares that experience with hunters looking for adventure. Enjoy
Tonight, around the campfire it's Q and A time for Jono and Mark. The topic, what's your favourite, most memorable, sentimental or just best... Rifle, Calibre, Projectile, Scope, Binos, Bino rig, Camo, Boots, Pack, Knife, Bipod, tripod, sticks, Hunt (you've been on), Hunt (you've witnessed), Camp/camping adventure, Boating adventure and accessory. We even have time to answer an audience question as well!
Tonight, around the campfire the crew kick things off with a continuing conversation about the new Queensland State Parliament, and the importance, or otherwise of voting. Like always food is on the menu with Mark and Jono praising the eating qualities of Buffalo Biltong and Jerky. While it might seem far away the guys talk give a rundown on their planned scouting trips in preparation for 2025 followed by a discussion about the not so deadly Platypus and people getting attacked by Otters! To top it all off, there is even some exciting news about soon to be released The Hunters Campfire merch! Enjoy
Tonight, around the campfire the guys discuss the upcoming Qld State Election, The Hunters Campfire's participation in a NSW Forest users study, getting ready for Deer season, Summertime shot gunning and turning Buffalo into burgers, biltong and trophy mounts.
What, huh, Marsupial Gear isn't Australian, but there is a Kangaroo on it? Ian makes a startling discovery about his new, favourite bino harness. The guys talk about the importance of quality gear. Mark gives an update of his Buffalo burgers, his Buff skull trophy preparation and the benefits of maceration. Jono shows off his Biltong machine. The guys debate the value of a good sous vide. Together they figure out what exactly is a gaucho, and of course talk about what's next on the hunting and fishing calendar… Welcome to Blah, Blah, Blah Round 4
6 hunters, 1 armed with the struggle sticks, 2 vehicles, 2 trailers, a mountain of gear, 7 Buffalo, 10 pigs, about 100kg of meat, 1 bushfire, +6,500 kilometres and 75 hours of driving. The Hunters Campfire NT Buffalo Express for 2024 is done and dusted, and tonight around the campfire Ian, Jono and Mark are joined by Adam, Trevor and Michael to relive, rehash, remember and rejoice in this year's BIG, BIG, BIG event! A very special thanks to Beretta Australia, Valhalla Tactical, ZOLEO, Athena Spatial, Bush Edge, Tatonka and Hunt tech for all your support. Yes, we are going back next year…
Welcome to our first dedicated Q&A podcast with Errol Mason, author of Secrets of the Sambar and the Hunt Smart System. Tonight, we ask Errol, should hunters consider taking more Hinds to help control deer numbers?
To answer all your questions about buying your first, or next rifle tonight around the campfire we lay it out, from first thoughts to opening your wallet. Along the way we take you through a step-by-step approach to make your next purchase, your best purchase.
This is the one you've been waiting for. It's time to celebrate hitting the ton with podcast friends Zach Williams, Matt Mc, The Frank, and Cody Gearon. There's some sledging, some more sledging and in between a little bit of serious stuff about the future of hunting and how we can all play our part in keeping it alive and thriving in Australia.
Tonight, the campfire crew are joined by Tom Auger, Managing Director of Pro Tactical and the official agent for John Rigby & Co (Australia and New Zealand). With a long connection to the gun trade, Tom shares with us his journey from working behind the gun shop counter, to becoming the lead agent for the famous Rigby rifle brand here in Australia. The guys cover off on a wide range of topics from shooting, travel and the importance of positioning hunting in a positive light now and for the future. Of course, the guys get caught up in the history of Rigby and what it's really like to own one of arguably the world best hunting rifles. Enjoy
Tonight, the Campfire Crew chat about their early September return to the Northern Territory to hunt Asiatic Water Buffalo. Whilst their first trip in 2022 was a real fly in, fly out gig, this time around the crew are road tripping it - with plenty of gear, plenty of tech and a little more experience on board. They are even planning on bringing some of the Buffalo back for the freezer. Enjoy
Tonight we have a two for one deal around the campfire. We kick things off with a chat to campfire friend Rhys Bosley, the Independent Candidate for Algester. Rhys is a strong and dedicated public land advocate and has taken the next step by throwing his hat in the ring by running as an Independent in the forthcoming Qld State Election. After saying goodbye to Rhys, the campfire conversation turns to shotgunning and Ian's recent, and ongoing success as a sporting shooter. Enjoy The Campfire Crew
So much to talk about! Ammo, scopes, the principles of gunpowder design, ancient shot towers, fighting the good fight against bureaucracy, skull preparation and plenty more in between. Welcome to Blah, Blah, Blah Part 3!
Tonight, we experience the strategies, the tactics, the tension, the controversy, the scoring, the judging, the ecstasy of triumph, and the agony of defeat that was 2024 Weekend Grand Slam. Well, that's what we reckon anyway!
Tonight, the campfire crew are joined by Roy Butler MP, member for Barwon in the NSW Parliament. With a patch covering over 44% of the State, Roy spends most of his time cross crossing the district to meet with constituents about the issues, challenges and opportunities affecting Barwon. Around the campfire the guys cover off on a wide range of topics from politics, the supposed extinction of kangaroos, the genius of rewilding dairy cattle, hunting, shooting, rifle and gun collections. Though for Mark there is a whole lot of reminiscing about road tripping with the family through far west New South Wales…
Tonight, around the campfire with speak with Ned Makim about the Australian Pig Dog Hunters Association (APDHA), The Great Australian Pig Hunt and the 10,000 Ears Project. Both the Hunt and Ear projects are examples of real hunter advocacy in action. They promote and position recreational hunters as citizen scientists and environmentalists. It's all about hunters collecting data that can be used to gain a better understanding of the numbers, location and movement of wild pigs in Australia and most importantly the efforts, and effectiveness of recreational hunters as a part of the solution. Enjoy
Tonight, around the campfire we speak with Clemente Scribani Rossi and Scott Allen from Beretta Australia about their recent African hunting adventures in Namibia. With lots of information to share, including a game animal price list - if you've ever wondered about hunting Africa, then this is the podcast for you. As an added bonus Clem and Scott give us a run down on some of the new products from Steiner and Burris they put to the test in the African bush. Enjoy
Tonight, round the campfire, Rohan Kelly gives us the low down on his recent SUCCESSFUL hunting adventure to Stewart Island in pursuit of the elusive South Pacific White Tail. From inspiration, to making it happen, Rohan walks us through what you need to do to make the long trip to Stewart Island, and back a success
Tonight, the Campfire crew discuss what worked, what didn't and what they want to upgrade following this year's Fallow Deer Rut and Red Deer Roar…
Hunt Camp, Hunt Camp, Hunt Camp - it's time to talk about Hunt Camp 2024.
Tonight around the campfire Ian, Jono and Mark discuss nutrition, hydration, the challenges of eating well during long days in the field as well as some of their favourite hunt camp, and backpack feeds.
Tonight, around the campfire we speak with Josh Haines about his recent success in completing the Australian Deer Grand slam. In finally taking a Hoggie, Hainesy has now successfully hunted all six Australian species of Deer including Fallow, Red, Sambar, Rusa, Chital and Hog Deer. Enjoy
It's often said the real work begins when you have game on the ground. With Deer Camp just around the corner the crew are focused on getting ready and getting going. After a quick report on a recent Brisbane Valley Red Deer hunt the conversation turns to pack choices and some of the new packs they'll be testing out during the 2024 Rut, including gear from Mystery Ranch and Tatonka. And as always there is talk about ZOLEO, this time what happens when you press the SOS button...
If you're looking for some pre-season inspiration to help you achieve your hunting goals in 2024, well pull up a chair, get comfortable and follow along as Michael Granger retells his story of a bow hunter with a dream, the dream of taking a public land Buck!
It's a 6am start for the crew as they connect with Canada to share a conversation with Chelsey Harasym from Avenza Systems. Just like the previous Google Earth podcast, the guys quickly realise just how much free mapping and navigation power they've have been carrying around on our phones without even knowing it!
Tonight, around the campfire we are joined by Jason. After reaching out to the Campfire crew with a lot questions about names, numbers, inches, millimetres, twist rates, ammo, gauges, bores and a whole lot more – we decided the best way to help Jason out was to invite him around for a chat. So, it you're new to speaking gun, this one is for you!
With the Red and Fallow Rut, and Hunt Camp 2024 fast approaching, the Campfire Crew talk trail camera selection and set-up, individual rifle and ammo choices for the year, and all the other stuff they need to get ready for April. Enjoy!
Tonight, it's a true campfire chat with the guys chopping and changing from one topic to another, with the odd thoughtful pause thrown in for good measure. Now, there is some gold amongst it all, so get comfortable, and get ready for Blah, Blah, Blah Round 2.
OK here it is, some dudes talking about guns for 92 minutes. Enjoy
Big data hunting! If you're wondering what all the clicking is, that's the sound of the Campfire crew busily exploring Google Earth Pro as Rob from Athena Spatial opens our eyes to the power of open access geospatial tools and big data. Taking e-scouting to a whole new level - Rob wows us with what's on offer and shows us, through adjusting just a couple of settings, State Forest maps from a whole different perspective. Enjoy!
Tonight around the campfire we talk with Lawson White from Wild Game on Open Flame and Up North Adventures. Lawson is a true hunting all rounder: rifle and L Plate Bowman, butcher, cook, hunting and fishing outfitter and now hunting and outdoor educator through his Hunting and Butchery Beginners courses. If that isn't enough for you, Episode 80 features our new intro, and there is even some controversy in the new Q&A section. Enjoy
Welcome to the Campfire crew's first (recorded) podcast for 2024. Tonight, around the campfire the guys discuss the new Polaris side-by-side, camper trailers, commentative action hero watches, burr proof pants, thermal optics, new ammo and a whole lot more. Of course, they also tackle the really big question, how do we manage to tow it all? Enjoy
This week's campfire opens with an in depth wrap up of the new Steiner Predator LRF 10x42 binoculars. The conversion then moves onto Ian's recent trip to Nundle and the challenges, and opportunities of hunting through Summer. Enjoy
This week the guys talk about gear, pools, brown alerts, deer, butchering in the heat, setting up trail cameras, thinking about the 2024 Rut and Roar and Ian's upcoming trip to Nundle. Oh yeah, and one not so great joke...
With Jono missing in action, Ian and Mark discuss their camera and audio set ups. Along the way the guys talk about the gear that works for them, the gear that hasn't lived up to expectations and their current go to kits. Enjoy
It's out 75th Episode and man do we talk about a lot of stuff! Enjoy