The Mindful Hunter Podcast

This week I've got my hunting partner Vance on the show, and we're digging into last year's goat hunt that didn't go as planned. We talk about what went wrong, the key lessons we took away from the experience, and how we're changing things up for this season. We also walk through our updated gear lists — what worked, what didn't, and what's getting replaced. From layering systems to optics and boots, we break down what we're packing and why. It's a raw, honest chat about failure in the mountains, learning the hard way, and dialing things in for a better shot at success this year. Vance Johnson https://www.instagram.com/aim_for_the_alpine/ https://www.youtube.com/@aimforthealpine   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools  

In this episode, I sit down with Ben and Anthony, two recent clients of Mindful Hunter Outfitting, to walk through their successful spring bear hunt in the mountains of British Columbia. We talk about how the hunt played out — covering the tough terrain, the glassing strategy, some key decision points, and what it took to get it done in rugged country. It was a classic mountain hunt with a good mix of hard work, quiet moments, and a few unexpected twists along the way. If you're interested in the realities of guided hunts, hunting BC's backcountry, or just want to hear a couple of guys share their experience without the fluff, this one's worth a listen. No fluff. No hype. Just an honest conversation about what matters in the mountains.   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools  

In this episode, I sit down with Blake, who succeeded on his bear hunt with Mindful Hunter Outfitting this week.  We dive deep into the full story—how we planned the hunt, the gear we relied on, and the moment it all came together with a mature black bear. This isn't just a hunt recap. It's a candid conversation about mindset, learning curves, and what it's like to put trust in a guide for the first time. We also break down the specific strategies we used to locate bears in remote country, the calling setup that brought him in, and how the whole experience shaped both of us. If you're into raw, real hunting stories with a focus on skill, ethics, and challenge—this one's for you.     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools  

In this no-holds-barred Q&A episode, I dive into your hunting-related questions straight from Instagram. I give my unfiltered take on the worst supplement brand in the hunting industry and why I think it's time we stop falling for influencer-driven hype. I also share an update on my latest tattoo—what it means and why I got it. And yes, we get into the weeds on the always controversial topic of shot placement on black bears, especially under real-world hunting conditions. No fluff, no BS—just honest answers, thoughtful critique, and a mindful perspective on all things hunting. Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Avery — founder of Rokslide and Shoot2Hunt — for a candid conversation about the evolution of hunting media, rifle culture, and how gear reviews have changed over the past decade. Ryan shares his journey from building one of the most trusted backcountry hunting forums on the internet to launching Shoot2Hunt, a platform built to cut through marketing noise and focus on real-world rifle performance. We dig into the rise of gear-centric hunting content, the pitfalls of influencer hype, and why community trust still matters. If you're into precision shooting, backcountry gear, or just want to hear how one hunter built two of the most respected platforms in the space — this is a conversation you don't want to miss. Ryan Avery https://www.instagram.com/avery_adventures/ https://shoot2hunt.com/ https://www.rokslide.com/     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools    

In this episode, we sit down with Tanner Danish, founder of Frontiersmen Gear, to talk about what it really takes to build a hunting business with integrity. From navigating the hype-driven world of outdoor marketing to staying grounded in craftsmanship and customer trust, Tanner shares hard-won insights from his journey creating gear that stands up to real backcountry use. We dig into the early challenges of launching a brand, the importance of saying “no” to shortcuts, and how staying true to your values can actually be a competitive edge. If you're someone who's tired of the gimmicks and wants to hear what building something real in the hunting space looks like—this one's for you. Topics Covered: – The origin story of Frontiersmen Gear – Lessons learned from bootstrapping a brand – How to earn trust in a skeptical market – Avoiding the BS in gear design and marketing – Advice for aspiring creators and entrepreneurs in the hunting industry Tanner Danish https://frontiersmengear.ca/ https://www.instagram.com/frontiersmengear/     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

In this episode, we sit down with Monte Clarke for a raw and reflective conversation on the deep self-awareness forged through solo hunting, the quiet rhythm of fly fishing, and the ongoing challenge of fatherhood. Monte shares stories from the backcountry and the riverbank, weaving in lessons learned from time spent in solitude and the parallels between being a mindful hunter and a present father. It's a grounded, no-BS look at how nature sharpens not just our skills, but our character. Monte Clarke https://www.instagram.com/monteclarke/   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools  

My good buddy Brandon had the opportunity to go down to Argentina and hunt Red Stag, so I had him on the podcast to share the story of his trip.   Brandon Roth https://www.instagram.com/brandon.roth.hnh.bc/   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools  

I met Sean 15 years ago when I was the sales manager for a high-end health club, and he was a full-time MMA fighter. It's safe to say we have both lived a lot of life since then. We went deep on this one. I thoroughly enjoyed the conversation, and I hope you do too. Sean Zubor https://www.instagram.com/seanzubor/   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools  

This week, I sat down with the founders of Oryx Outdoors, a new apparel company focused on designing durable, technical training gear for hunters. We dive into their personal hunting stories, what pushed them to start an apparel company in a saturated market, and the real challenges of designing clothing that works when it matters most. Oryx Outdoors https://oryx-outdoors.com/ https://www.instagram.com/oryxoutdoors_official/     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools  

Time for another Q&A episode. This week I answer questions about both my archery and rifle setups for 2025.

Time for another Q&A episode. This week I answer questions about sleep systems, archery setups, new packs and much more!

The Wild Sheep Society of BC asked me to speak at their Sheep Hunter University again this year at the Mountain Hunter Expo in Penticton. I absolutely love this event. It's the only true conference solely focused on mountain hunters here in BC and is growing every year. I spoke about how to have an integrated approach to gear systems and more specifically how that applies to a couple of sleep systems I have put together lately. WSSBC https://www.wildsheepsociety.com/   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools  

In this episode, we sit down with Hunter McWaters—host of a popular hunting show on the Sportsman Channel, podcast creator, and a man deeply rooted in faith. Hunter shares his journey from the outdoors to the screen, discussing how his passion for hunting, storytelling, and personal growth has shaped his career. We dive into the highs and lows of producing a hunting show, the lessons he's learned along the way, and how his faith keeps him grounded in an industry that's always evolving. Hunter McWaters https://www.thehuntersquest.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thehuntersquest/ https://www.youtube.com/@thehuntersquest   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

If you want something done right, sometimes you have to do it yourself—and that's exactly why I created the Forged Base Series. A complete redesign from the ground up, this next-to-skin base layer system was built for unmatched comfort, durability, and performance in the backcountry.

Aziak Equipment has been making waves in the hunting industry with their innovative, lightweight designs that are built for hardcore backcountry hunters. Rydell's approach to gear isn't just about cutting weight—it's about maximizing efficiency without sacrificing durability. Today, we'll get into the story behind Aziak Equipment, the challenges of designing high-performance hunting gear, and what's next for the brand. Plus, we'll pick Rydell's brain on his own hunting experiences and the lessons he's learned along the way.   Aziak Equipment https://www.aziakequipment.com/ https://www.instagram.com/aziakequipment/   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Timmy has spent years guiding hunters through some of the most extreme conditions Alaska has to offer—chasing giant moose, Dall sheep, and brown bear in remote backcountry that few ever get to experience. We'll talk about what it takes to be a successful Alaskan outfitter, the toughest hunts he's been on, and what hunters need to know before stepping into the last frontier. Plus, we'll get into my archery brown bear hunt planned for spring of 2026 and the mindset, gear, and preparation required to make an Alaskan hunt a success.   Timmy Winslow https://www.instagram.com/timmy.winslow/ https://arizonatrophyoutfitters.com/ https://bushwhackalaska.com/   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

It's no secret I am a big fan of small innovative companies that produce great products and MTN Gear is definitely one of those. Matt made a big splash with his ultralight bipods a few years ago and has continued to improve their design until recently selling the rights to MDT. We had a great chat covering ground from his humble beginnings to what he plans to do with the new found funding from the sale of the bipod.   MTN Gear https://www.mtngear.nz/ https://www.instagram.com/mtngear.nz/   Nick https://www.instagram.com/b1isters/   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Winter goat hunting isn't for the faint of heart, and this trip proved why. From 60mm of freezing rain to failed sleep systems and broken snowshoes, this hunt was a brutal test of both gear and grit. As miserable as it was, I learned a ton and put some new gear through its paces—some of it held up, and some didn't. In this episode, I break down the highs and lows of the trip, share what worked (and what didn't), and offer tips for planning your own winter hunt. Tune in for hard-earned insights and a look at what it takes to chase goats in the harshest conditions.     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Dylan is well-known in the hunting community in Vancouver for his generous spirit and endless drive to help foster growth in the newer hunter community. We had a great chat about Dylan's history, how Eat Wild got started and even squeezed in a few good hunting stories.   Dylan Eyers https://eatwild.ca/ https://www.instagram.com/eatwild/     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

I was able to get in two late season hunts before the close of 2024 for mule deer and whitetails. In this podcast I go over the gear I took with me on those two hunts and share the results of testing the new Sevr 1.5 Ti Hybrid out in the field.     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

I am always on the lookout for better boots. For years I have been unable to find a replacement for my Schnees Beartooth's as my go-to all-purpose mountain boot. Well, I think I finally found an upgrade. I have been running the Scarpa Ribelle HD all season and am very impressed with their performance in various hunting scenarios. I review all the features that impressed me about this boot and share who I think it might be a great fit for.   Chapters: 0:00 – Intro 1:15 – Testing Process 2:43 – My Previous Favorite 3:55 – Tech Specs 5:53 – Mindful Hunter Outfitting 8:02 – What I Love About These Boots 12:51 – Water Resistance 16:12 - Takeaways     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

I've been eager to have Connor on the podcast for some time now. Not only is he an incredibly talented photographer and videographer, but he also leads a fascinating life. His content stands out as some of the best in highlighting the reflective side of hunting and the importance of being fully present in the outdoors.   Connor Gabbott https://www.instagram.com/connorgabbott.photo/     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

There has been significant innovation in tripod technology over the last few years and both Aziak and Outdoorsmans have updated their carbon fiber offerings. I have considerable experience testing gear from both companies and have always been impressed. Unfortunately, I had a catastrophic failure on this recent trip with one of these tripods. Watch the video for a detailed comparison of these tripods and hear the story of why I will never bring one of these tripods to the field again. Chapters: 0:00 – Intro 0:21 – Technical Specs 2:17 – Filed Testing Protocol 2:52 – Mindful Hunter Outfitting 4:32 – Pros and Cons of The Aziak 9:50 – Pros and Cons of The Outdoorsmans 17:34 – Catastrophic Field Failure 22:22 – Standing Tripods In The Backcountry 23:42 – Follow-Up Review With RRS Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/ Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/ Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/ Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

After seeing the latest GoHunt original One Good Chance starring Trail Kreitzer I knew I had to have Luke on the podcast. We spent almost two hours nerding out on what goes into making gear hunt films.   Luke Dusenbury https://www.instagram.com/luke.dusenbury/     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Discover my top backcountry food hacks to prep your meals for the wilderness effectively. Learn how to save weight, cut costs, and increase the caloric density of your meals with these simple tricks. Get your free meal planning PDF and watch the detailed breakdown of each hack: Backcountry Meal Planning Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools   0:00 – Intro 0:39 – Free Meal Planning PDF https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools 1:14 – Field Strip Meals 3:20 – Avoid Overpriced Backcountry Foods 6:56 – DIY Breakfast Ideas 9:17 – Dual Dry Bag Food Storage Technique 12:43 – Don't Cut Calories – Add Fats!

In this video, I give you my initial impressions of the new Kowa TSN-55A Spotting Scope. Known for its compact size and superior optics, the Kowa TSN-55A promises exceptional performance for bird watchers, hunters, and nature enthusiasts. Join us as we explore its features, performance, and explore whether it lives up to the hype!

Last week was my daughter Esme's 9th birthday and one of the things she asked for was to come on my podcast. I put a Q&A post on my IG story to get some questions from my audience and was shocked at how great the response was. Not only did we get a ton of questions, but they were super high quality. So, I would like to officially introduce you to my daughter Esme. I hope you enjoy this conversation.     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

I have had the opportunity to test a lot of Argali gear over the last few years, and I always love getting to sit down and chat with Brad. Not only is he a great product designer, but he's an absolute stud in the woods. We dove into some of the lessons learned from our hunting trips this year, and then we got into one of the products I have been testing for them this season, and Brad shared an exclusive product announcement.     Brad Brooks https://www.instagram.com/bradabrooks/ https://argalioutdoors.com/     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

After wearing the Garmin Fenix 7X Pro Solar every day for the last 10 months, I'm finally sharing my full review. This episode dives into the features, performance, and whether it's worth the investment. Watch to find out if this smartwatch lives up to the hype! Chapters: 0:00 – Intro 1:02 – Testing Process 3:40 – My 5 Smartwatch Priorities 6:22 – Training Tracking 11:36 – Sleep Tracking 14:12 – Navigation 16:37 – Battery Life 18:33 – Phone Integration 22:10 – Conclusion In This Episode: Detailed analysis of the Garmin Fenix 7X Pro Solar Real-world usage and performance insights Pros and cons after 10 months of daily use Key features including training tracking, sleep monitoring, navigation, battery life, and phone integration Who Should Listen: Outdoor enthusiasts Fitness buffs Tech gadget lovers Anyone considering the Garmin Fenix 7X Pro Solar Don't Miss: My honest opinion on whether this smartwatch is worth your money Practical tips for maximizing the use of your Garmin Fenix 7X Pro Solar Subscribe for More: If you found this review helpful, don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more reviews and tech insights! #GarminFenix7XPro #SmartwatchReview #OutdoorGear #FitnessTech #TechReview Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

I always enjoy talking with Trail—his honesty and unique way of sharing hunting experiences never fail to resonate with and inspire me. In this episode, we dive into the universal truth that everyone makes mistakes, but what truly matters is how we move forward and grow from them. From missing critical archery shots to navigating life as an introvert working at GoHunt, Trail shares meaningful insights and valuable lessons that we can all take to heart. This conversation covers a lot of ground and is packed with inspiration for hunters and anyone looking to grow from their challenges.     Trail Kreitzer https://www.instagram.com/trailk11/     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Are you curious about the Sig Zulu 6 Binoculars and their performance in the field? In this podcast, I share my experiences after three months of extensive use, including multiple hunts. Are these image-stabilizing binoculars truly a game-changer for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts?   0:00 – Intro 0:28 – Sig Sauer Storytime 4:25 – Testing Process 7:13 – The Pros 11:00 – The Cons 18:37 – Final Thoughts  

Jake is one of my favorite people. What you see is what you get; he doesn't pull punches, and you never have to wonder what he thinks on any given subject or individual. On this one, we rambled and chased several squirrels with no real agenda other than two dudes sitting down to catch up.   Jake Downs https://www.instagram.com/jake_d_downs     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

One of the most challenging things about finding the right boot is that reviews are almost no help whatsoever. Our feet are so personal that it seems you can find just as many people who love a specific boot as hate it. At the end of the day, the only true way to find a boot that works for you is to try it on. However, I think I can help narrow down the selection and find boots that will fit your needs more effectively.   0:00 – Intro 6:07 – Boot selection framework 6:25 – Stiffness 10:40 – Materials 13:22 – Insulation 16:07 – Fit 20:00 – Testing process 27:12 – Example recommendations 28:13 – Other good online retailers 29:58 – Q&A 36:59 – Wrap-up           Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

I met these two guys at last year's WSSBC Expo here in BC and was immediately impressed with their enthusiasm and sincerity for hunting. They have had a stellar season this year and I had them on to talk about how they got into hunting and what they're doing to stcak up so many wins.   Borderland Hunting https://www.instagram.com/borderland_hunting/     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

This week's episode is a Q&A focused on winter hunting gear.  I answered questions such as how to thaw your boots, the best hot tent combo, down vs. synthetic sleep systems and much more   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Want a chance to win the Frontiersmen Vulpes field dressing knife? Follow the simple steps below to enter our exclusive giveaway! After years of using disposable hunting knives, I switched to fixed blades, and ever since I've been on the hunt for the ultimate field dressing knife. In this video, I put two of the best knives to the test: the Frontiersmen Vulpes and the Argali Sawtooth. I'll break down what I liked and didn't like about each knife, and in the end, you'll find out which one came out on top as my favorite for field dressing big game. Knife Giveaway Instructions: Each task earns you one entry! YouTube:  1. Like this video  2. Comment below  3. Subscribe to my channel (if you haven't already) Instagram (Go to my latest post featuring these knives):  1. Follow @mindful_hunter  2. Follow @frontiersmengear  3. Like the post  4. Comment on the post  5. Tag friends for extra entries (1 entry per tag)  6. Share the post to your story

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This week I sat down to record a solo Q&A episode. Touched on things like my biggest gear improvement this year, my hunt plans for next year and how the lessons learned this year changed my plans, and my thoughts on whether the hunting industry is over-saturated with influencers.     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

I am going to do my best to document this year's guiding season through the podcast. First up is a combo moose/elk hunt at Primitive Outfitting. I go over the first hunt of the season in this episode. I had two great hunters who busted their ass and we were able to kill a great elk.     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Argali Absaroka Tipi Review: Is it the Best Shelter for Mountain Hunts? Looking for a spacious, lightweight, and durable shelter for your alpine adventures? In this in-depth field test, we put the Argali Absaroka tipi through its paces during a 12-day mountain goat hunt in Northern B.C. We explore whether this floorless tipi is the right choice for sheep and goat hunters who are used to freestanding shelters. Watch the full review to see how it holds up in harsh weather conditions, its weight, setup ease, stove compatibility, and more! https://argalioutdoors.com/en-ca/products/absaroka-4p-tent ⏰ Chapters:  • 0:00 – Intro  • 1:35 – Freestanding Shelter Disclaimer  • 2:13 – Potato  • 2:35 – Price & Weight  • 4:11 – Additional Pole  • 5:05 – Materials  • 9:19 – Setup  • 10:39 – Weather Resistance & Durability  • 11:53 – Win a Prime RVX 34 Bow  • 13:08 – Space & Measurements  • 15:43 – Ventilation  • 17:22 – Stove Compatibility  • 18:17 – Mindful Hunter Outfitting  • 20:43 – Conclusion

This one is a hard one to record. Sometimes no matter how hard you work or how much you plan things just fall apart. I have always prided myself on being as authentic and transparent as possible and I will continue to shard my hard-earned lessons with anyone who wants to listen.     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Adam is one of those legit BC killers that quietly gets it done every year on great animals. Last time he was on the podcast we discussed his phenomenal blacktail record and this time we chatted about his similar streak with Stone's Sheep.   Adam Sarich https://www.instagram.com/4pointoutdoors/     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast  

Start of a new live series with the crew.   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

After the frustrations I experienced during my recent Mountain Goat hunt, I decided on my way home that I needed to completely overhaul my long-range hunting system. I reached out to Caylen from Modern Day Sniper and we agreed to collaborate together on some content detailing my journey. Here is part 1 with much more on the way   Caylen Wojcik https://www.instagram.com/caylen8541/ https://www.instagram.com/moderndaysniper/ https://moderndaysniper.com/ https://www.moderndayrifleman.com/spaces/10747476/content     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Welcome to Mindful Hunter Outfitting, where we bring you the ultimate Canadian hunting experience! Whether you're an aspiring hunter looking to sharpen your skills or a seasoned veteran in search of trophy game, we've got something for you. Our Alberta Archery Mule Deer hunts and BC Spring Bear hunts offer a unique blend of adventure, challenge, and opportunity for growth.   At Mindful Hunter, our mission is to guide you through the wilderness, helping you gain the knowledge and confidence to tackle the toughest hunts. Join us and elevate your hunting experience to new heights!   Chapters: 0:00 – Introduction to Mindful Hunter Outfitting 5:26 – Alberta Archery Mule Deer Hunts 10:14 – BC Spring Bear Hunts (Any Weapon) 14:54 – Why We Do This: The Story Behind MHO  

Well folks here is the second and possibly last part of my 2024 goat hunt. There are many lessons learned on this one and much room for improvement. I hope you enjoy.   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

Well folks I am back from my goat hunt, and this is the first episode in a two-part series detail the adventure we had. I am joined on part 1 by Vance Johnson as we recount the first half of our hunt. Stay tuned for more   Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

I have spent a lifetime hiking in the mountains, and I also have Morton's Neuroma which has led me to be very particular about both my boot choice and the insoles I use inside them. I have tried multiple custom orthotics and was always intrigued but skeptical about Sheepfeet. I have now run my custom insoles from Sheepfeet for the last two years and felt compelled to post a review. I hope this review is helpful. 0:00 – Intro 2:05 – Purpose of insoles 5:41 – Scoring system  5:55 - Price 7:00 – Weight 7:39 – Customization 13:02 – Materials & construction 15:33 – Support & comfort 17:23 – Durability 19:17 – Conclusion    https://sheepfeetoutdoors.com/ https://yoursole.com/ Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/ Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/ Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/ Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

I love doing head-to-head product reviews but sometimes it's hard to capture all the nuance of the underlying technologies or materials. So, I wanted to take a first principles approach to gear reviews in this new series and start to look at individual variables separate from the products themselves. I have wanted to do a backcountry stove review for a while but have been challenged by what systems to include. With that in mind, I backed up a step and derived some tests to look at how important heating fins were on the pots themselves. I was quite surprised at the results. 0:00 – Intro 5:47 – Testing Methodology 9:01 – Results 11:23 – Conclusions 15:21 – My Favourite Setup Olicamp Kinetic Ti + XTS Pot Combo https://a.co/d/gnO9LXM Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/ Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/ Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/ Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools

I only met Tyler a few months ago when he invited me on his podcast, but I instantly knew he was my people. He is an ex-cop turned private physical performance coach with a deep passion for hunting and the outdoors. We had a great chat, and I hope you enjoy it.   Tyler Geiger http://www.nockperformance.com/ https://www.instagram.com/nockperformance/ http://www.nockperformance.com/podcast/     Jay Nichol jay@mindfulhunter.com https://www.mindful-reviews.com/ https://www.mindfulhunter.com/   Forged In The Backcountry https://forgedinthebackcountry.com/   Merch https://www.mindfulhunter.com/shop   Newsletter https://www.mindfulhunter.com/contact   IG https://www.instagram.com/mindful_hunter/   Podcast https://www.mindfulhunter.com/podcast   Free Backcountry Nutrition Guide https://www.mindfulhunter.com/tools