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Habitat Podcast #334 - In today's episode of The Habitat Podcast, Andy sits down on the.deercamp.podcast with Beau Martonik of the East Meets West Podcast. We discuss: The Ins & Outs of Outdoor Podcasting Reviving the Legacy of Deer Camps Building a Brand in the Hunting Industry Struggles and triumphs of elk hunting Celebrating the “Make Deer Camp Great Again” spirit The joyous grind of Timber Ninja's revival And So Much More! PATREON - Patreon - Habitat Podcast Brand new HP Patreon for those who want to support the Habitat Podcast. Good luck this Fall and if you have a question yourself, just email us @ info@habitatpodcast.com -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Patreon - Habitat Podcast Latitude Outdoors - Saddle Hunting: https://bit.ly/hplatitude Stealth Strips - Stealth Outdoors: Use code Habitat10 at checkout https://bit.ly/stealthstripsHP Midwest Lifestyle Properties - https://bit.ly/3OeFhrm Vitalize Seed Food Plot Seed - https://bit.ly/vitalizeseed Down Burst Seeders - https://bit.ly/downburstseeders 10% code: HP10 Morse Nursery - http://bit.ly/MorseTrees 10% off w/code: HABITAT10 Packer Maxx - http://bit.ly/PACKERMAXX $25 off with code: HPC25 First Lite --> https://bit.ly/3EDbG6P LAND PLAN Property Consultations – HP Land Plans: LAND PLANS Leave us a review for a FREE DECAL - https://apple.co/2uhoqOO Morse Nursery Tree Dealer Pricing – info@habitatpodcast.com Habitat Podcast YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmAUuvU9t25FOSstoFiaNdg Email us: info@habitatpodcast.com habitat management / deer habitat / food plots / hinge cut / food plot Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch is joined by friend Clayton Good to discuss Clayton's remarkable hunting season, where he achieved the coveted triple trophy. They delve into the challenges faced during the season, the importance of scouting and understanding food sources, and the emotional highs and lows of hunting. The discussion also covers strategies for success in bear hunting and the significance of collaboration among hunters. The guys delve into their recent hunting experiences, sharing insights on strategies, the thrill of the hunt, and the importance of patience and scouting. They discuss the dynamics of group hunting, the significance of food sources in attracting game, and the emotional reflections that come with successful hunts. Clayton's achievement of a triple trophy is highlighted as a testament to perseverance and strategic planning in the face of hunting pressures. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The last time the talented husband and wife appeared on screen together was in 2004's Cavedweller and The Woodsman
The last time the talented husband and wife appeared on screen together was in 2004's Cavedweller and The Woodsman
In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman Mitch is joined by Chris Romano, host of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast. Chris shares his experiences in archery, including his recent participation in the TAC event. The discussion delves into the importance of mental preparation, the balance between equipment and shooter skills, and the intricacies of arrow mechanics. The archery industry has done an excellent job of marketing to consumers without consumers truly understanding arrow flight. Chris shares his knowledge behind the physics of arrow flight and penetration, emphasizing the significance of understanding kinetic energy and momentum in archery. He also shares insights on building the perfect hunting arrow and the impact of noise on hunting success. Further navigating the top, Chris breaks down more intricacies of archery, focusing on arrow dynamics, the importance of speed, and the evolution of bow technology. They discuss the journey of improvement in archery, emphasizing the significance of long-distance shooting and debunking common myths surrounding arrow design. The conversation also touches on the contradictions in archery science, the personal experiences of an archer, and the need for education in the archery community. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman Mitch is joined by Chris Romano, host of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast. Chris shares his experiences in archery, including his recent participation in the TAC event. The discussion delves into the importance of mental preparation, the balance between equipment and shooter skills, and the intricacies of arrow mechanics. The archery industry has done an excellent job of marketing to consumers without consumers truly understanding arrow flight. Chris shares his knowledge behind the physics of arrow flight and penetration, emphasizing the significance of understanding kinetic energy and momentum in archery. He also shares insights on building the perfect hunting arrow and the impact of noise on hunting success. Further navigating the top, Chris breaks down more intricacies of archery, focusing on arrow dynamics, the importance of speed, and the evolution of bow technology. They discuss the journey of improvement in archery, emphasizing the significance of long-distance shooting and debunking common myths surrounding arrow design. The conversation also touches on the contradictions in archery science, the personal experiences of an archer, and the need for education in the archery community.
In this week's episode, Liam and Ben must
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Each week, Paul Foster & Simon Alexander catch up for coffee at Paul's Restaurant - Salt, in the centre of Stratford Upon Avon. This week: The Royal Oak at Whatcote, Lily, The Woodsman, The World Food Photography Awards, basic bitch dishes, changing your menus and chewing the industry fat. We are delighted to be in partnership with Unilever Food Solutions. You can download and read through their comprehensive Future Menus report here, just go to ufs.com/NightcapFutureMenus Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Vince, a HAM Radio Enthusiast, inventor, brainstormer, and all around creative spirit, dives DEEP into the world of HAM Radio. Frequencies, channels, crystals, Amateur Radio laws, and a whole lot more intricacies are revealed! A perfect Inspirado Projecto episode for anyone desiring knowledge about HAM radio, and also for those who've been actively engaged with this fascinating world for a long time already! Also featured in this episode are Richard Wilson, Stew Strauss, a word from PSY-CORPS, and singer/songwriter Blythe Baines! Here are some HAM radio resources: National Association for Amateur Radio... https://www.arrl.org/ HAMsphere - Amateur Radio for your computer or smart device... https://hamsphere.com/ Boy Scouts Merit Badge Handbook... https://filestore.scouting.org/filestore/Merit_Badge_ReqandRes/Pamphlets/Radio_2025.pdf Richard Wilson's Halloween girl comic book series... https://www.amazon.com/stores/Richard-Wilson/author/B09FRG9Q22?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true Stew Strauss, the Woodsman... https://soundcloud.com/stewstrauss Blythe Baines music... https://open.spotify.com/artist/11T5aPjQHiRbtqpvnKDg9p My "Andy Kaufman Is Alive" mini-album... https://open.spotify.com/album/42b2IphQfNi1vMXDlLIfuU Yachtley Crew yacht rock band tour schedule... http://yachtleycrew.com Stay tuned for part 2 with Vince!
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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.
This week we have Jay Miklavcic in studio talking about his early hunting lifestyle and eventual connection to Siman Brothers Outdoors. Uncle Jay is known on social media as the Harvest Moon Outdoorsman, he is launching a new video series "Season Left" which can be found on our YouTube channel in the future, and is simply an all around great guy living the life most outdoorsman can only dream about! We are honored to call him our friend.
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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Erica gets into some new YA graphic novels that she's excited about, and Kelly interviews YA author Ava Reid about her latest release, the art of homage, and being a life-long Hunger Games fan. Subscribe to the podcast via RSS, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. To get even more YA news and recommendations, sign up for our What's Up in YA newsletter! A new year means a new Read Harder Challenge! Join us as we make our way through 24 tasks meant to expand our reading horizons. To get recommendations for each task, sign up for the Read Harder newsletter. All Access subscribers get even more recommendations plus community features, where you can connect with like-minded readers in a cozy and supportive corner of the internet. You can become an All Access member starting at $6 per month or $60 per year to get unlimited access to all members-only content in 20+ newsletters, community features, and the warm fuzzies of knowing you are supporting independent media. To join, visit bookriot.com/readharder. This content contains affiliate links. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Article discussed Graphic novels are booming in popularity. It's changing children's relationship with books Books Discussed Raised By Ghosts by Briana Loewinsohn Brielle and Bear: Volume 1 Salomey Doku Strange Bedfellows by Ariel Slamet Ries Huda F Wants to Know? By Huda Fahmy Renegade Girls: A Queer Tale of Romance and Rabble-Rousing by Nora Neus, illustrated by Julie Robine Fable at the End of the World by Ava Reid Juniper and Thorn by Ava Reid The Wolf and the Woodsman by Ava Reid A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid Shatter Me series by Tahereh Mafi Legend series by Marie Lu Hell Followed With Us by Andrew Joseph White The Fever King series by Victoria Lee Tender Morsels by Margo Lanagan The Scorpio Races by Maggie Steifvater An Ember in the Ashes series by Sabaa Tahir Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The use of technology and tactics that create a perceived advantage, or shortcut, is one of the most divisive things in the hunting community. It's in every aspect of it whether it is baiting for deer or reaping turkeys. Technology such as cellular enabled game cameras and thermal drones have brought it another level. The use of live scopes for crappie fishing is a great example of that. These tools, in my opinion, make it even more important for us outdoorsmen and conservationists to self regulate in the best interest of the resource. Our good friend and the giver of Woodsman badges, Lennis Crimm joined us to talk about this. He is a lifelong and very accomplished fisherman. 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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices