On this EatWild Podcast, I connected with Tanner Dannish of Frontiersmen Gear to talk about a life built around adventure, craftsmanship, and a relentless drive to explore wild places. Tanner shares the story of a remote mountain goat hunt that ended with a brutal lake crossing in a tiny overloaded boat, battling towering waves, screaming wind, and conditions that turned a successful hunt into a genuine survival story.

But this episode is about much more than one incredible adventure. We dive into Tanner’s upbringing in the North, how a childhood obsession with making knives evolved into a proudly Canadian-made business, and why hunting, conservation, and building quality gear by hand are all deeply connected. From military lessons and years spent chasing sheep and goats in some of BC’s toughest country, Tanner shares the mindset that helps you stay calm when the mountains throw everything they have at you.

We also get into the practical side of backcountry hunting—knife steels, sharpening, what makes a dependable hunting blade, and the gear decisions that matter when you’re days from the nearest road. It’s a conversation full of hard-earned knowledge, authentic storytelling, and the kind of adventure that reminds us why we keep going back into the wild.

If you’re passionate about hunting, wilderness travel, craftsmanship, and the pursuit of a life lived outdoors, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Learn more about Tanner and check out his handcrafted Canadian-made knives and gear at Frontiersmen Gear. 

Follow Frontiersmen and Tanner here!

 You can help me and the podcast by checking out our sponsors and telling them you heard about it on the EatWild Podcast. Thanks!

CWDBC.ca is an initiative by Hunters for BC to help educate Hunters on their role in limiting the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease in BC. Visit huntersforbc.ca today to join the conservation circle.

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for the hunt. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are all packed into it to provide you with the information you need for your next adventure.

Stikine Packrafts are heavy on adventure and light on your back.  These versatile rafte are ideal for hunters, foragers and fishers to open up a world of adventures.

In this episode, we dig into Justin’s journey as a hunter, outdoors enthusiast, and storyteller, exploring how his connection to wild places has shaped the way he feeds himself and his family.  That foundation now shows up in his film and web series Subsistence, a raw look at the reality of providing food from the land alongside his family.

This conversation goes beyond tactics. It’s about responsibility, respect for wildlife, and the deeper purpose behind hunting. Justin shares his perspective on being a modern hunter—balancing tradition with today’s world, and staying rooted in values that matter.

If you’re on your own path to becoming more connected to your food, your environment, and your role in it all, this episode will resonate.

Follow Griz here!

Watch Subsistence here!

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for the hunt. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are all packed into it to provide you with the information you need for your next adventure.

Stikine Packrafts are heavy on adventure and light on your back.  These versatile rafte are ideal for hunters, foragers and fishers to open up a world of adventures.

Find out more about the good work that Hunters For BC is doing to protect wildlife in BC. 

Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

If you need game bags, knives or lightweight gear from a Canadian company, check out HUTO LIFESTYLE – HUTO Lifestyle Clothing & Apparel

Seek Outside makes unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code WILD5 on your next purchase. Please use this Seek Outside Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. 

Larry’s journey started in the U.S. Coast Guard, where he trained as a chef before turning his passion toward wild game and the culinary traditions of hunters. From the foothills of North Carolina to the swamps and low country of South Carolina, Larry shares how different ecosystems shape the way we hunt and the strategies needed to succeed in diverse landscapes.

We dig into practical hunting knowledge—from ambush setups and tree-stand heights to navigating jungles, swamps, and clear-cuts. Larry also shares some of the gear that helps him stay mobile and stealthy in the woods, including saddle hunting systems and climbing sticks.

Of course, the conversation turns to the kitchen. Larry walks us through his approach to properly cooking wild game, emphasizing temperature control, muscle-specific preparation, and respect for the animal. We dive into techniques like brining, curing, and smoking venison, along with creative recipes such as cured venison loin, layered meatloaf, and bright green chimichurri sauces that elevate the natural flavour of wild meat.

One of the big takeaways from this conversation is the importance of using the whole animal. Larry shares tips on working with underappreciated cuts like top round, bottom round, neck, and shanks—perfect for slow cooking, braising, and turning tough cuts into incredible meals.

We also talk about the stories that make hunting meaningful—challenging recoveries, memorable hunts, and the joy of gathering friends and community around wild food, whether it’s a backyard cookout or a classic sausage-making party.

This episode is a celebration of the full wild food journey—from the hunt to the table—and the people who make it special.

• Instagram
• Google Search for Blog or Website

• • Larry White’s Wild Game Gourmet Blog
  • Follow Chef Larry White on Instagram
  • Lone Wolf Custom Gear Climbing Sticks
  • Stikine Packrafts for Adventure
  • iHunter App for Hunting Maps

00:00 - Welcome and episode overview—from wild hunting to gourmet cooking 02:17 - Introduction of sponsor: Stikine Packrafts—adventure-ready gear 03:14 - Larry White’s background: from North Carolina roots to Coast Guard chef 04:09 - Hunting locales: from North Carolina foothills to South Carolina estuaries 05:20 - Ecosystem insights: jungles, swamps, and pine stands—finding success 06:34 - Hunting strategies: ambush setups, tree stand heights, and terrain tips 08:08 - Challenges of hunting thick habitats and the gear that helps navigate them 09:03 - Hunting feral pigs—approach and personal insights 10:34 - Wild game as cuisine: wild boar, venison, and culinary myths 11:35 - Comparing wild boar and farm pork—marbling,flavourr, and texture 12:27 - Chef Larry’s culinary journey: from military to food trucks to wild game 14:52 - Essential skills for cooking venison: muscle-specific techniques and temperature control 17:36 - Crafting cured venison loin: process, benefits, anflavouror infusion 18:54 - The science of brining: moisture retention aflavourvor enhancement 20:25 - Slicing and serving cured meats—pflavouravor and texture considerations 21:19 - Smoking venison: techniques, timing, and unique approaches for game meats 22:22 - Dual-step cooking: braising then smoking for tender, flavorful wild game 25:34 - Creative holiday meals: curing, smoking, and innovative preparations for large groups 26:57 - Green sauces and chimichurri: enhancing venflavoursavors with fresh, vibrant toppings 27:52 - Ingredients for killer chimichurri and pairing ideas with wild meats 29:01 - Adventures in hunting: recoveries, field stories, and emotional moments 52:54 - Celebratory beverages after successful hunts—beer, stout, or other favourites 54:34 - Memorable harvest moments: field recoveries and the rewards of persistence 57:43 - Practical tips for managing meat after a tough recovery and field care 59:11 - Handling gut shot deer: ethical considerations and creative solutions 60:36 - The future of Larry’s wild game culinaryendeavourss, podcasts, and projects 61:10 - Connect with Larry: website, Instagram, and where to follow his culinary journey 62:28 - Closing remarks and farewell to listeners

• • Larry White’s Wild Game Gourmet Blog
  • Follow Chef Larry White on Instagram
  • Lone Wolf Custom Gear Climbing Sticks
  • Stikine Packrafts for Adventure
  • iHunter App for Hunting Maps

• Instagram
• Google Search for Blog or Website

Feel free to reach out to Larry for cooking questions; he’s available for tips, recipes, and advice on wild game culinary adventures.

I am curious about Casey's approach to planning adventure hunts and the role of research in ensuring successful hunting experiences. We discuss the Yukon Unguided project, the challenges of finding the right hunting partners, and the importance of using proper gear. The conversation also explores the art of capturing hunting experiences through content creation, the joys of cooking game meat, and Casey’s future aspirations in hunting and conservation.

Yukon Unguided webpage

Yukon Unguided Instagram

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for the hunt. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are all packed into it to provide you with the information you need for your next adventure.

If you need game bags, knives or lightweight gear from a Canadian company, check out HUTO LIFESTYLE – HUTO Lifestyle Clothing & Apparel

Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

Seek Outside makes unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code WILD5 on your next purchase. Please use this Seek Outside Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. 

In this episode of the EatWild Podcast, I am sitting down with Axel Lubeck. Axel learned how to jump out of airplanes while serving in the Canadian military. He continued to develop his skills and passion for skydiving, working as a smoke jumper for Alberta Wildfire.

Axels take us on the ultimate adventure hunt to one of the most remote areas in British Columbia, best reached by parachute. What started as a love for hunting in Alberta evolved into an 18-month plan to skydive into remote mountain country, pack raft out, and hunt sheep far beyond roads and trails.

Axel breaks down the reality behind airborne expeditions: the preparation, the risk management, the teamwork, and the hard decisions that matter when you’re fully committed in wild places. We talk gear that actually changes what’s possible, how pack rafts are reshaping backcountry access, and why ethics and conservation matter even more when adventure gets extreme.

This isn’t about shortcuts or adrenaline. It’s about earning access, respecting wild places, and pushing personal limits with intention.

If you’ve ever wondered how far is too far — or what’s possible when preparation meets purpose — this one’s for you.

You need to watch the Airborne Ram 

Check out Airborne Expeditions 

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for the hunt. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are all packed into it to provide you with the information you need for your next adventure.

If you need game bags, knives or lightweight gear from a Canadian company, check out HUTO LIFESTYLE – HUTO Lifestyle Clothing & Apparel

Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

Seek Outside makes unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Seek Outside Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. 

Every hunter dreams of one day hunting with their kid. I’ve had a front-row seat watching Ryan support and nurture Wyatt’s love and enthusiasm for hunting, and the two of them have become remarkably successful along the way. I was curious how they built that shared passion, how they hunt together, and what’s contributed to their success in the field. After a successful hunt, they joined me around the fire to share their approach, along with practical tips for parents and young hunters navigating the journey together.

We also talk about the importance of teamwork, patience, and the emotional connections formed through shared hunts, as well as balancing time in the woods with family life. The conversation looks ahead to future aspirations — from dream moose hunts to big adventures still on the horizon — and dives into the gear, shooting techniques, and mindset that can be game-changers for young hunters.

This episode is a reflection on a great season, strong partnerships, and the lessons passed down along the way — told the way they’re meant to be shared: around the campfire.

You can find last-minute gifts on our website - www.eatwild.ca

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are all packed into it to provide you with the information you need for your next adventure. 

As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Seek Outside Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. 

Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

Find out more about the good work by Hunters For BC here cwdbc.ca

• Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a fatal infectious disease affecting cervids.
• CWD is caused by prions, which are misfolded proteins that accumulate in the brain.
• Most infected animals appear normal, making detection challenging.
• CWD can contaminate the environment and persist for years.
• The disease has spread from the U.S. to Canada, with BC being proactive in surveillance.
• Recent cases of CWD were detected in BC, prompting immediate response measures.
• Hunters play a crucial role in CWD management through testing and reporting.
• Effective management requires community involvement and education.
• CWD will remain in BC, but it can be managed to minimize impact.
• The establishment of a local testing facility in BC will expedite results for hunters.

Here's the link to the iHunter App Field Guide Course: https://eatwild.ca/products/3187654

We could probably call this episode “How to Find and See Deer on the Hunt."

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are all packed into it to provide you with the information you need for your next adventure. 

As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Seek Outside Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. 

Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

Dave found me on his journey to become a hunter, and we’ve since become great friends. Last weekend, I was looking for a hunting partner to explore some new zones, and Dave was keen to join. As we headed out, Dave fired question after question about how I research and find deer habitat — so I decided to turn on the podcast mic.

This turned into a great conversation (and a great hunt!) about how to find and see deer. You’ll learn how I scout and hunt target areas to maximize the chances of success.

Here's the link to the iHunter App Field Guide Course: https://eatwild.ca/products/3187654

We could probably call this episode “How to Find and See Deer on the Hunt."

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are all packed into it to provide you with the information you need for your next adventure. 

As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Seek Outside Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. 

Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

Focusing on camaraderie and shared experiences, this episode captures the essence of being an elk hunter. Jordan shares his insights on tracking, shot placement, and the importance of patience and strategy. He talks about the challenges of tracking wounded elk, lessons learned from missed shots, and the necessity of understanding elk behavior. Additionally, we discuss bullet performance and the value of documenting hunting experiences for future reference.

You can keep up with Jordan @BCBackcountry on Instagram.

Here's a link to the EatWild Elk Hunting Online Course and the iHunter Field Guide to help you get ready for the season. 

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are all packed into it to provide you with the information you need for your next adventure. 

As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Seek Outside Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. 

Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

In our conversation, Julie discusses her research on cougars in central British Columbia, focusing on their predator-prey relationship with caribou. She explains how changes in the landscape impact cougar behaviour, their hunting techniques, and their adaptability to various environments. We also delve into field research methods, including the process of capturing and collaring cougars, as well as the complexities of human-cougar interactions, especially in areas where cougars have been sighted near popular trails. Julie shares insights from her experiences and emphasizes the importance of understanding these magnificent creatures in the context of conservation and wildlife management.

I also share a couple of my close brushes with cougars in the wild.  

You can follow Julie here for more on her research and catch amazing cougar footage @wild_juliethomas on Instagram. 

Check out the latest EatWild Online Course - iHunter App Field Guide: Tools and tactics for successful hunts

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are packed into it to give you the information you need on your next adventure. 

Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

In this conversation, Eric Warner discusses his passion for seaweed and the project Self Kelp, which aims to educate the public about the importance of seaweed and its culinary uses. The discussion covers the decline of kelp forests, the benefits of kelp farming, and the ecological significance of kelp ecosystems. Eric shares insights on harvesting and storing seaweed, as well as its nutritional value. The conversation also explores the cultural significance of foraging and hunting, highlighting the connection between food sources and the natural world.

You can learn more about Eric and  Self Kelp on Instagram

Be sure to catch a screening of Seaweed Chronicles: From Tide to Table in your community. 

Check out the latest EatWild Online Course - iHunter App Field Guide: Tools and tactics for successful hunts

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are packed into it to give you the information you need on your next adventure. 

Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are packed into it to give you the information you need on your next adventure. 

As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Seek Outside Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. 

Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

Travelling away from home to hunt has been a foreign concept for me. Hunting in a place without connection to the place, the people, and the animals raises many questions about how this can fit together and align with our hunting ethic. Miki and I spent the months leading up and the days on the hunt processing these questions.  And now we have answers! We are excited to share what we learned from the mind-blowing experiences of this Adventure. 

While on the hunt, I interviewed Drian Laas, the professional hunter who guides and facilitates the hunting experience. I caught up with Riaan Jacobs, owner of the Boshveld Jocobs Safaris, who donated the hunt to the fundraiser at this year's Wild Sheep Society of BC fundraiser in Penticton.

I hope you enjoy this podcast as we dive into the complexities of hunting in a foreign country, touching on the ethics of sport versus sustenance, strategies used in guided hunts, and the emotional highs and lows that come with the experience.

I am excited about returning to Africa and will plan a trip in the next few years. I will be organizing a trip for folks who are part of the EatWild community.  If you are curious about Africa or may want to join our Adventure, please reach out! 

If you listen to this podcast ahead of April 7th, there is still time for you to join Spike Camp and enter for a chance to win a trip to Africa. 

I want to thank Bosveld Jacobs Safaris for the generous donations to help fund wild sheep conservation in BC, and for taking such good care of Miki and me and truly facilitating a trip of a lifetime.

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are packed into it to give you the information you need on your next adventure. 

As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. https://seekoutside.com?aff=15

Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections 03:23 The Adventure Begins: Hunting in South Africa 11:17 Exploring the Landscape and Wildlife 19:16 The Guided Hunting Experience 29:48 Reflections on Ethics and Experience 38:52 Setting the Scene: A Day in the Wild 40:15 Meet the Professional Hunter: Insights from Triane 41:39 The Role of a Professional Hunter: More Than Just a Job 43:07 Exploring the Landscape: The Beauty of Limpopo 45:57 Diverse Wildlife: The Spectrum of Animals in South Africa 49:32 Hunting Strategies: The Approach to a Successful Hunt 53:19 The Art of the Stalk: Techniques for Success 56:44 Ethics in Hunting: Choosing the Right Animal 01:00:01 Passion for the Job: What Drives a Professional Hunter 01:02:51 Dream Hunts: Aspirations Beyond Borders 01:04:08 The Afternoon Hunt: Bush Buck Adventures 01:07:02 Understanding the Hunting Industry: Insights from Rhian 01:14:25 Utilizing the Harvest: Meat Distribution and Community Impact 01:16:46 Conservation and Community Impact 01:20:12 Tourism and Wildlife Management 01:22:04 Entry-Level Hunting Opportunities 01:24:37 The Experience of African Hunting 01:30:15 Reflections on the African Adventure 01:51:13 Diversity of Wildlife and Hunting Techniques 01:54:50 The Kudu Hunt Experience 02:01:26 Lessons from a Challenging Hunt 02:06:28 Value of Hunting in Conservation 02:14:10 Experiencing Kruger National Park 02:24:43 Reflections and Future Adventures

In this episode, Dylan, Adam, and Spencer dive into the deep connections between hunting, personal growth, and cultural traditions. They explore the balance between family responsibilities and outdoor adventures, the spiritual and ethical dimensions of hunting, and the significance of mountain goats in Indigenous traditions.

Through their experiences in bow hunting and navigating rugged mountain terrain, they highlight the importance of patience, mental resilience, and traditional knowledge. The conversation also touches on the role of storytelling in preserving Indigenous hunting perspectives and ecological wisdom.

Find La'goot here!

Find Adam here!

Key Takeaways:

• Hunting is as much about the experience as the harvest.
• Mountain goats hold deep cultural and spiritual significance.
• Success in hunting is shaped by knowledge, preparation, and respect for nature.
• Ethical considerations and conservation must include Indigenous perspectives.
• Storytelling plays a crucial role in passing down hunting traditions and wisdom.

Tune in for an insightful discussion on the challenges, lessons, and connections that make hunting more than just a pursuit—it's a journey of growth, respect, and heritage.

Chapters

Podcast summary: 

We reflect on the importance of mentorship, community, and the generational knowledge passed down through hunting traditions. The conversation highlights the evolving dynamics of the hunting community, including the breaking of gender barriers and the significance of storytelling. The gang share their personal journeys and the skills learned through their experiences, emphasizing the value of ethical hunting practices and the bonds formed in the outdoors. In this engaging conversation, the participants share their experiences and insights from a recent hunting trip, emphasizing the importance of hands-on learning, adapting strategies, and unexpected encounters with wildlife. We reflect on the lessons learned from various incidents, the significance of community support, and the growth that comes from mentorship and shared experiences in the outdoors.

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are packed into it to give you the information you need on your next adventure. 

As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. https://seekoutside.com?aff=15

Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to Whitetail Camp 03:01 The Importance of Mentorship in Hunting 06:05 Breaking Barriers: Gender in Hunting 08:56 Generational Knowledge and Storytelling 12:10 Learning Ethical Hunting Practices 15:05 The New Generation of Hunters 18:06 Reflections on the Past and Future of Camp 21:02 Experiences and Lessons from the Hunt 31:31 Hands-On Learning in Hunting 34:57 Adapting Hunting Strategies 37:48 Unexpected Encounters with Wildlife 44:48 Lessons from Hunting Incidents 46:47 The Importance of Community and Support 52:07 Reflections on Growth and Mentorship

While sitting in the truck blind, we explore what it’s like to hunt large, open fields—where spotting animals is easy, but closing the distance can be tough due to the lack of cover. Jody shares insights on building relationships with landowners to gain and maintain access to private land. We also discuss shooting at longer distances, meat care, and butchering, with Jody sharing her favourite cuts and techniques.

I also highlight the iHunter app, which helped us navigate property boundaries and track the wind—key tools for a successful hunt.

Lastly, I want to dedicate this episode to my friend Lew Bates, a legendary mountain hunter, skilled gunsmith, and absolute rock of a human to his family, friends, and community. He passed away this summer. He will be missed.

Here are the key topics covered in the episode:

1. Hunting on Private Land: The episode covers practical advice on how to gain and maintain access to private land and how to nurture relationships with landowners to ensure continued access.

2. Hunting Strategies: The episode delves into the logistics of hunting on large, open fields where wildlife is visible from a distance, but closing that distance can be difficult due to the lack of cover.

3. Shooting and Meat Care: The podcast touches on techniques for shooting at longer distances and the importance of proper meat care and butchering. 

4. Tools and Technology: Dylan highlights the use of the iHunter app for navigation and planning, especially its features like identifying private property boundaries and wind direction—critical tools for a successful hunt in such vast areas.

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are packed into it to give you the information you need on your next adventure. 

As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. https://seekoutside.com?aff=15

Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

https://www.youtube.com/@MikeMorash

instagram.com/mike.morash

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are packed into it to give you the information you need on your next adventure. 

As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. https://seekoutside.com?aff=15

Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background 03:46 Creating Knowledge Mobilization Resources 06:25 Traveling for Work and Hunting 08:25 Building Rapport through Hunting 10:45 Navigating Hunting in Traditional Territories 12:26 Balancing Access to Hunting Areas 14:57 The Land Provides Project 18:17 Food Security and the Importance of Food 20:10 Understanding the True Cost of Food 22:30 The Value of Cooking and Sharing Food 26:14 The Benefits of Hunting for Food 28:52 Emotional Reactions to Harvesting Animals 33:16 The Influence of Hunting Media and the Journey of Becoming a Hunter 41:56 The Importance of Mental Health and Deep Connections in the Hunting Community 47:10 Essential Gear for Hunting in Challenging Environments 49:50 Memorable Backcountry Meals and the Emotional Connection to Food 53:54 The Physical Exertion and Reward of Challenging Packouts 56:18 Dream Hunts and the Desire for New Experiences

Frankie emphasizes the value of high-quality ingredients and the satisfaction of knowing where your food comes from. We also discuss the challenges of overpacking and the balance between simplicity and variety in meal planning. In this conversation, we discuss our experiences with backcountry meals and the importance of maintaining a healthy gut while on outdoor adventures. We share their go-to meals and snacks, including nuts, dried fruit, and soups.  The conversation concludes with a discussion on meal planning, organization for extended trips, and our upcoming hunting adventures.

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are packed into it to give you the information you need on your next adventure. 

As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Affiliate link to let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. https://seekoutside.com?aff=15

Stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on your purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase. Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

00:00 - Introduction and Motivation for Podcasting 03:13 - Frankie's Role in the Foss Media Machine 04:58 - Food Planning and Staying Nourished on Backcountry Adventures 11:07 - Challenges of Eating in Bug-Infested Areas 13:15 - Approach to Backcountry Food and Philosophy of Enjoying Meals 18:30 - Favorite Meals and Brands 23:55 - The Importance of Enjoying and Nourishing Meals in the Backcountry 26:02 - Choosing High-Quality Ingredients and Supporting Local Brands 29:06 - Finding the Balance Between Simplicity and Variety in Meal Planning 35:52 - Considering Sodium Content in Pre-Packaged Meals 38:27 - Maintaining a Healthy Gut 41:11 - Challenges of Finding Delicious Bars 44:53 - Sausage as a Tasty Treat 46:59 - Importance of Rain Gear 52:46 - Game-Changing Gear: Synthetic Sleeping Bags 01:01:26 - Persistence in Bison Hunting 01:03:18 - Finding Bison on the Side of a Mountain 01:06:05 - Choosing the Right Hunt 01:10:40 - Setting Up a Blind Close to Home

Here is my Adventure Hunt Planning List.  Feel free to follow along on this podcast as I share how I organize, plan, and pack for my hunt.  This is a general list. There is no guarantee this is has everything you need for a hunt, but it's a good starting point. Download and save a copy and add it to it for you. Please let me know if I missed anything too! 

This podcast is about planning a hunting trip, explicitly focusing on the initial concept or plan, choosing hunting partners, coordinating logistics, and organizing gear and food. I share my comprehensive gear list and considerations for food planning, including the trade-offs between freeze-dried meals and cooking real food. I share my theory for a detailed packing list, including food, a day hunting kit, a spike camp kit, a base camp kit, a clothing kit, a meat care kit, a personal kit, a tech kit, and elk hunting gear. 

Dylan’s gear list. 

Join me at the Spike Camp community at 7 pm, on August 27th, 2024. I’ll be conducting an online presentation on early-season elk hunting. 

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. It is an essential tool for making you more comfortable in the woods. The app's mapping layers, navigation tools, and hunting regulations are packed into it to give you the information you need on your next adventure. 

As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase. Please use this Affiliate link, as it will let them know you heard about Seek Outside from our podcast. https://seekoutside.com?aff=15

You can stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on the purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase.  Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

Takeaways

1. Start the hunt planning process with a concept or plan that excites you.
2. Choose hunting partners who are committed, compatible, and have hunting confidence.
3. Coordinate logistics through group chats and online meetings.
4. Use technology like radios and inReach devices for communication and navigation.
5. Create a comprehensive gear list and consider the trade-offs between freeze-dried meals and cooking real food.
6. Prioritize vehicle maintenance and leave a trip plan with someone. Having a well-equipped truck kit is essential for roadside emergencies, including spare tire, tire repair kit, compressor, axe, saw, shovel, and tow strap.
7. Regularly review and organize all gear before the trip to ensure everything is functional and clean.
8. Take care of your boots by greasing them with beeswax or boot grease, and avoid overheating them.
9. Consider using paper maps in addition to digital maps for a better overview of the hunting area.
10. Create a detailed packing list that includes food, day hunting kit, spike camp kit, base camp kit, clothing kit, meat care kit, personal kit, tech kit, and elk hunting gear.
11. Leave a trip plan with a responsible person who can take action if you don't check in.
12. Use the Splitwise app to track expenses and split costs among the hunting group.

Chapters

Introduction and Starting Point

02:26

Choosing Hunting Partners

06:13

Coordinating Logistics

08:06

Utilizing Technology

09:29

Organizing Gear and Food

26:25

Vehicle Maintenance and Trip Planning

26:54

Essential Gear for Roadside Emergencies

31:08

Tips for Gear Organization and Maintenance

33:29

The Importance of Boot Care

36:24

The Benefits of Using Paper Maps

39:28

A Comprehensive Packing List for Hunting Trips

51:13

Leaving a Trip Plan and Tracking Expenses

Join us on our 2023 Cassiar Mountain hunting adventure. Miki, Ashley, and Jay will guide us through this epic hunting adventure while on the hunt taking refuge from the storm in the tipi tent.  Stick around to the end, and you'll know why we are celebrating Ashley and Jason today. Also, you can bet that there will be another adventure with this crew next year! 

Please note that this hunt happened in 2023 when the Caribou hunt was still managed as a general open season. In 2024, Caribou will be managed under the Limited Entry Hunting Program. 

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. The app is an essential tool to make you more comfortable in the woods. The mapping layers, navigation tools and hunting regulations are all packed into the app to give you the info you need on your next adventure. 

This episode is supported by BC Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BCBHA). The BCBHA is a young conservation organization dedicated to protecting wild places and critters that live in these wild places. Come out to a local event and get to know the BCBHA community. 

As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase.

We also get support from our friends at West Coast Kitchen Canada. So stock up for the adventure season and use the discount code EATWILD.

You can stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on the purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase.  Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

 They talk about the benefits of stability and how it can enhance the hunting experience. They also discuss the different factors to consider when choosing binoculars, such as magnification, field of view, and light-gathering capabilities. They also provide tips for spotting game, including finding a good vantage point, moving around to different positions, and having a positive mindset. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of preparation, patience, and observation in successful hunting.

Check out Aziak Equipement here: https://www.aziakequipment.com/

Chapters

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. The app is an essential tool to make you more comfortable in the woods. The mapping layers, navigation tools and hunting regulations are all packed into the app to give you the info you need on your next adventure. 

This episode is supported by BC Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BCBHA). The BCBHA is a young conservation organization dedicated to protecting wild places and critters that live in these wild places. Come out to a local event and get to know the BCBHA community. 

As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase.

We also get support from our friends at West Coast Kitchen Canada. So stock up for the adventure season and use the discount code EATWILD.

You can stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on the purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase.  Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

Podcast photo by Anna Machowicz. 

• Becoming a good wildlife tracker requires knowledge, experience, and a deep understanding of animal behavior.
• Tracking involves observing and interpreting tracks, signs, and patterns in the landscape to understand the story of animals.
• Characteristics such as track size, shape, and depth can provide valuable information about the animal being tracked.
• Having a process for tracking and recovering shot animals is crucial for ethical hunting and efficient recovery.
• Camera traps are a valuable tool for capturing wildlife behavior and telling powerful stories through photos.
• Citizen science programs play a vital role in wildlife management and conservation.
• Quality gear, including footwear, can greatly enhance the tracking experience and ensure safety in the outdoors.
• Memorable meals in the wilderness can enhance the overall adventure and provide nourishment during outdoor pursuits.
• Building community around conservation and hunting is essential for fostering a deeper connection with nature and promoting sustainable practices.
• British Columbia offers a wide range of dream adventures for wildlife tracking and hunting enthusiasts.

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. The app is an essential tool to make you more comfortable in the woods. The mapping layers, navigation tools and hunting regulations are all packed into the app to give you the info you need on your next adventure. 

This episode is supported by BC Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BCBHA). The BCBHA is a young conservation organization dedicated to protecting wild places and critters that live in these wild places. Come out to a local event and get to know the BCBHA community. 

As always, Seek Outside brought this podcast to you. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase.

We also get support from our friends at West Coast Kitchen Canada. So stock up for the adventure season and use the discount code EATWILD.

You can stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on the purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase.  Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

I'll be presenting at the Mountain Hunting Expo at 2 pm on Friday, so stop by and learn about meat care in the mountains. Find out more about the Wild Sheep Society Event. 

Here is a link to our Bear Hunting course.  If you want to learn more about how to hunt me and the EatWild team, join us for a workshop or course. We have recently released a series of online hunting courses for you to deepen your knowledge and hone your strategies for the hunt. 

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. The app is an essential tool to make you more comfortable in the woods. The mapping layers, navigation tools and hunting regulations are all packed into the app to give you the info you need on your next adventure. 

This episode is supported by BC Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BCBHA). The BCBHA is a young conservation organization dedicated to protecting wild places and critters that live in these wild places. Come out to a local event and get to know the BCBHA community. 

As always, this podcast is brought to you by Seek Outside. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase.

We also get support from our friends at West Coast Kitchen Canada. So stock up for the adventure season and use the discount code EATWILD.

You can stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on the purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase.  Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

If you want to learn more about how to hunt me and the EatWild team, join us for a workshop or course. We have recently released a series of online hunting courses for you to deepen your knowledge and hone your strategies for the hunt. For example, you can learn to still hunt, with over three hours of videos, strategies, and storytelling that will help you build your skills to be a better hunter. EatWild Still Hunting Techniques.

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. The app is an essential tool to make you more comfortable in the woods. The mapping layers, navigation tools and hunting regulations are all packed into the app to give you the info you need on your next adventure. 

This episode is supported by BC Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BCBHA). The BCBHA is a young conservation organization dedicated to protecting wild places and critters that live in these wild places. Come out to a local event and get to know the BCBHA community. 

As always, this podcast is brought to you by Seek Outside. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase.

We also get support from our friends at West Coast Kitchen Canada. So stock up for the adventure season and use the discount code EATWILD.

You can stop in at Beere Brewing and take advantage of a 10% discount on the purchase. Use the code EATWILD10 on your next purchase.  Beere makes a great selection of bright, crisp beers perfect for the patio or around the campfire.

Podcast Summary: Maya Blackburn, an experienced hunter since childhood, shares her passion for hunting and working with kids. She discusses the challenges of being a female hunter and the importance of sharing hunting knowledge. Maya also talks about growing up with a sheep hunting father and the life lessons she has learned from hunting. She reveals her favorite species to hunt and the lessons she has taken away from duck hunting. Maya recounts her first sheep hunting experience and the excitement and challenges she faced. 03:01 Passion for Hunting and Working with Kids 05:08 Identity as a Hunter 06:01 Reactions to Being a Hunter 07:16 Hunting Community and Friends 08:51 Sharing Hunting Knowledge 10:20 Growing Up with a Sheep Hunting Father 11:10 Lessons Learned from Hunting 15:08 Life Lessons from Hunting 19:08 Favorite Species to Hunt 20:00 Lessons from Duck Hunting 24:25 Father's Sheep Hunting Background 26:59 Preparing for First Sheep Hunt 33:31 First Sheep Hunt Experience 36:28 Missed Shot and Second Chance

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. The app is an essential tool to make you more comfortable in the woods. The mapping layers, navigation tools and hunting regulations are all packed into the app to give you the info you need on your next adventure. 

This episode is supported by BC Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BCBHA). The BCBHA is a young conservation organization dedicated to protecting wild places and critters that live in these wild places. Come out to a local event and get to know the BCBHA community. 

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. The app is an essential tool to make you more comfortable in the woods. The mapping layers, navigation tools and hunting regulations are all packed into the app to give you the info you need on your next adventure. 

We discuss the pros and cons of hunting the three-point season versus the six-point season here in British Columbia.

Our evaluation and decision-making paid off, and we share a fantastic story of elk hunting on our pack raft adventure this year.

Please support this podcast by using our partner discount codes. 

If you're interested in learning the foundations of how to hunt elk, you should check out the EatWild Learn to Hunt Elk program - you can find that on our website or on our EatWild Thinkific platform. It's pretty cool and you will learn a ton.

This episode is supported by BC Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BCBHA). The BCBHA is a young conservation organization dedicated to protecting wild places and critters that live in these wild places. Come out to a local event and get to know the BCBHA community. 

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. The app is an essential tool to make you more comfortable in the woods. The mapping layers, navigation tools and hunting regulations are all packed into the app to give you the info you need on your next adventure. 

We talk about habitat, hunt timing, strategies, processes for finding mature deer and strategies for hunting.  I learned a ton in my conversation with Jordan, and I can't wait to get out on the hunt. 

If you like this type of podcast, let me know, and I will do more "how-to-hunt" topics.  Good luck in the Mule Deer woods this season! 

Please support this podcast by using our partner discount codes. 

If you're interested in learning the foundations of how to hunt elk, you should check out the EatWild Learn to Hunt Elk program - you can find that on our website or on our EatWild Thinkific platform. It's pretty cool and you will learn a ton.

This episode is supported by BC Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BCBHA). The BCBHA is a young conservation organization dedicated to protecting wild places and critters that live in these wild places. Come out to a local event and get to know the BCBHA community. 

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. The app is an essential tool to make you more comfortable in the woods. The mapping layers, navigation tools and hunting regulations are all packed into the app to give you the info you need on your next adventure. 

I found Slayer calls because I was looking for an alternative to help me improve my elk callling technique. I have always opted to go with external tube and handheld calls that produce consistent elk sounds, and I rely more on my setup for my success than my calling prowess. I have always struggled to get consistant result from a reed call.

Bill shares the benifits and challenges of using a mouth reed call to get the full range of elk sounds. We discuss the tools that are available for folks like me who are looking for alternatives to a mouth reed, but want the vocabulary you can get from a mouth reed call.

So you'll enjoy this episode if you want to learn about elk hunting and elk calling.

If you're interested in learning the foundations of how to hunt elk, you should check out the EatWild Learn to Hunt Elk program - you can find that on our website or on our EatWild Thinkific platform. It's pretty cool and you will learn a ton.

This episode is supported by BC Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BCBHA). The BCBHA is a young conservation organization dedicated to protecting wild places and critters that live in these wild places. Come out to a local event and get to know the BCBHA community. 

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. The app is an essential tool to make you more comfortable in the woods. The mapping layers, navigation tools and hunting regulations are all packed into the app to give you the info you need on your next adventure. 

I feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to talk goats with Bill. Bill is a great storyteller, and he is generous in sharing his knowledge about goats.  In the conversation, he helps us better understand this tough, magnificent animal that lives in some of the most unforgiving wilderness areas. Bill talked about studying goats,  mountain goat behaviour, habitat requirement, hunting regulations, and so much more. 

Miki and I are heading goat hunting in August so we will listen to this on our drive up North. Don't miss this one! 

This episode is supported by BC Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BCBHA). The BCBHA is a young conservation organization dedicated to protecting wild places and critters that live in these wild places. Come out to a local event and get to know the BCBHA community. 

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. The app is an essential tool to make you more comfortable in the woods. The mapping layers, navigation tools and hunting regulations are all packed into the app to give you the info you need on your next adventure. 

I wanted to talk to Dan about connecting people to hunting through food. How do we tell better hunting stories through food? How do we connect more folks to hunting?  

As a relative newcomer to Canada, Dan offers a unique perspective on hunting opportunities, cooking wild food, and connecting with indigenous communities. 

This episode is supported by BC Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BCBHA). The BCBHA is a young conservation organization dedicated to protecting wild places like the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area and the critters that live in these wild places. Come out to a local event and get to know the BCBHA community. 

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. The app is an essential tool to make you more comfortable in the woods. The mapping layers, navigation tools and hunting regulations are all packed into the app to give you the info you need on your next adventure. 

Wayne led the initiative to protect a vast wilderness area in the Northern Rockies, now protected under the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area. I’m excited to talk to him about what wilderness means and what it takes to have an authentic wilderness experience. 

The Muskwa-Kechika Management Area is managed and protected under a unique resource management structure. Wayne tells us how the model was developed and how the model can be applied for future landscape protection efforts. 

Find In The Land Of Dreamers here: https://gem.cbc.ca/documentaries

Find Wayne’s new book, Crossing the Divide, here:

This episode is supported by BC Backcountry Hunters and Anglers (BCBHA). The BCBHA is a young conservation organization dedicated to protecting wild places like the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area and the critters that live in these wild places. Come out to a local event and get to know the BCBHA community. 

The iHunter App supports the Eatwild Podcast and other programs. The app is an essential tool to make you more comfortable in the woods. The mapping layers, navigation tools and hunting regulations are all packed into the app to give you the info you need on your next adventure. 

I am very fortunate to have heard the story and to share it with the EatWild community.

Thank you, Stephanie. You are an inspiration, and I am happy you sorted things out with Mother Nature. 

As always, this podcast is brought to you by Seek Outside. They make unique ultralight tents and packs for your next adventure. Use the discount code EATWILD on your next purchase.

In this episode, I am on a late-season Mule Deer hunting with my friend Adam Pospischil. Adam is one of those hunters that is consistently successful in his hunts. He is a self-thought hunter and his success is built on his pre-hunt research, reliance on data interpretation, use of technology, and lots of committed hard work. Adam shares what tools he uses to make him a better hunter, and some of the lessons learned on his hunting journey. 

We are hunting the grasslands and looking for a mature Mule Deer buck and using the apps and tips discussed on on this episode on the hunt. 

Stick around to the end to find out how the hunt worked out. 

Link to BC 1:20,000 maps link.

IHunter App link 

Gaia Map Link

As always this podcast is brought to you by our friends at West Coast Kitchen Canada. They offer a 10% discount code on all of their nourishing backcountry food. Use the discount code EATWILD.

And our friends at Seek Outside sponsor this podcast. We’ve been using their tents all season to stay warm and dry on our adventures. Use EATWILD on your order for a deal. 

In this episode, I got a chance to catch up with my friend Travis Kayes. Travis is a relatively new hunter that came through the EatWild program.  He is dedicated and passionate about chasing Blacktail deer near his home. He has been the most consistently successful blacktail hunter in my community.

  I know how hard blacktail hunting is, so I was curious to talk with Travis about his journey to becoming a successful Blacktail hunter. This is podcast is a ton of fun as Travis and I trade notes on what we learned about Blacktail hunting.

I would argue that the Blacktail deer is the most challenging of the deer species to harvest here in BC. They typically maintain low-density populations throughout their habitat, they don't leave a lot of sign, so they are hard to find.  They live in thick, noisy habitats so it's almost impossible to keep from bumping them.  

I hope you enjoy this podcast. And good luck finding your Blacktail secret spot!

As always this podcast is brought to you by our friends at West Coast Kitchen Canada. They offer a 10% discount code on all of their nourishing backcountry food. Use the discount code EATWILD.   And our friends at Seek Outside sponsor this podcast. We’ve been using their tents all season to stay warm and dry on our adventures. Use EATWILD on your order for a deal. 

Before you saddle up on adventures like this, there’s lots to learn. Horses are a lot of work and it’s a huge commitment. But what a special way to travel and hunt! So it’s worth a listen to find out what horse hunting is all about. 

I’ve been invited by my friend and colleague, Steve Hodgson, on a horse-hunting adventure into a remote wilderness area in British Columbia. Steve is a keen hunter and an experienced horseman with a ton of knowledge. I’m stoked to get the invite and have the opportunity to learn about what it takes to hang out with these amazing animals on the trail and in the mountains. 

Horses are a commitment! In this podcast, we talk about what it takes to own and care for horses throughout the year, logistics of planning and executing a hunt with horses in the field.

All along, we’re looking for mule deer and enjoying some spectacular October weather in one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever had the chance to hang out in. Also, with some great company from the horses and my old pal Steve.

This podcast was brought to you with the support of Seek Outside. @Seekoutside specializes in building ultralight reliable gear for adventures. Use the discount code to EATWILD at seekoutside.com

For nourishing food on your next adventure be sure to check out West Coast Kitchen. Use the EATWILD discount code on your next order. 

Hunting is a high-risk activity that takes place in remote wilderness settings.  How can we reduce the risk and be prepared to respond in a first aid emergency? 

In this episode, I am talking to Cam Fenton about the most common injuries and life-threatening medical emergencies that hunters can encounter. He provides detailed information on how to treat them, what you should add to your kit to ensure you’re prepared, and what you may already carry in your pack that could be used in these situations.

We talk about diagnosing and treating hypothermia, breaks and sprains, and cuts and bleeds. 

We discuss the importance of having a satellite emergency communication device  (like an inReach device) and being prepared to activate it and seek help if the situation requires it. We break down the question of "when should I call for help?"

Based in Squamish, BC, Cam Fenton is a guide, BC paramedic, first aid instructor and educator. Whether by ski, foot, bike or boat, he loves to explore deep into wild places all across BC and beyond. What he likes most is connecting with his guests and students while sharing his passion for safety and emergency preparedness.

This podcast was brought to you with the support of Seek Outside. @Seekoutside specializes in building ultralight reliable gear for adventures. Use the discount code to EATWILD at seekoutside.com

For nourishing food on your next adventure be sure to check out West Coast Kitchen.

Use the EATWILD discount code on your next order. 

This podcast was brought to you with the support of Seek Outside. @Seekoutside specializes in building ultralight reliable gear for adventures. Use the discount code to EATWILD at seekoutside.com

For nourishing food on your next adventure be sure to check out West Coast Kitchen.

Use the EATWILD discount code on your next order. 

We talk about perspectives on taking the life of an animal and focusing on doing it humanely and ethically. Our thoughts meander to the topic of wild cocktails and our passion for all things wild. 

This is a great chat with a really engaging conversationalist. Hope you enjoy it! 

Be sure to catch Jeff and his partner-in-wilderness Kevin Kossovan in Season 8 of From the Wild here.

The news of restrictions for resident hunters as a result of the BC Government losing the Yahey vs. British Columbia court case has the potential to cause polarizing views. Pitting resident hunters against Indigenous Nations in a perceived competition for “the right to hunt and conducting one’s way of life” is not only dangerous in its potential for hindering reconciliation efforts, but it effectively takes the focus off the main issue: habitat loss.

My guests provide the context of this court decision, share important insight into how it was interpreted by the BC Government when implementing the measures that were just announced, and together we explore alternative strategies to support reconciliation.

The proposal from the BC Government is open for feedback until March 23 at midnight.

Find out more:

BC Government’s plan to address the Yahey vs. British Columbia court ruling

BC Government proposal

The Inconvenient Indian – if you needed ONE book to help you understand the context and the need for reconciliation

For more context on Indigenous wildlife stewardship with La'goot, check out Episodes 27 and 28 of the EatWild Podcast.

This podcast was brought to you with the support of Seek Outside. @Seekoutside specializes in building ultralight reliable gear for adventures. Use the discount code to EATWILD at seekoutside.com  

This is the perfect episode if you're starting to think about brighter days ahead and what your hunting season is going to look like. Joe recaps his past year of hunting adventures - and what a year he had! As he tells stories about his last hunting season, Joe reveals what were his most challenging, and memorable hunts.

In this conversation, I learned that Joe is an excellent hunter, and got to find out about his techniques and decision-making processes that have to lead to success.

After this uplifting conversation, I am now super pumped about bow hunting and planning to practice this skill in 2022. 

You find Joe here @joe_eppele  or on the EDGE TV show @theedgetvshow

Hope you enjoy this one! 

Find our EatWild webinars and classes here www.eatwild.ca

This podcast is brought to you by West Coast Kitchen. Use the EATWILD discount code on your next order. 

This was an extra special hunt and fun adventure. I hope you enjoy the episode. Be sure to share this podcast and leave a review. 

Find our EatWild webinars and classes here www.eatwild.ca

This podcast is brought to you by West Coast Kitchen. Use the EATWILD discount code on your next order. 

This adventure was fuelled by West Coast Kitchen gourmet freeze-dried meals, and heavy loads were supported by the Seek Outside ultralight rugged packs. 

Joined by great friends Jenny P, La'goot, and Scott, we set out on a fly-in, hike-up, paddle-out sheep hunt. In part 1 of the Ramtastic Adventure you get to meet the team, hear about our hunt plan, and then join us on the hunt as we navigate our way into sheep country, try to survive the elements, and experience the hunt of a lifetime. 

This adventure was fuelled by West Coast Kitchen gourmet freeze-dried meals, and heavy loads were supported by the Seek Outside ultralight rugged packs. 

So why are we making mistakes? I’m joined by Adam Janke of the Journal of Mountain Hunting and Kyle Stelter of the Wild Sheep Society of British Columbia to look at the reasons that could be fueling this problem.

We talk about the growing interest in sheep hunting, and how tools and technology are making sheep hunting more accessible. Being exposed to an abundance of information gives a false impression of knowledge accumulation, however, this does not and cannot replace experience and true skill building in the field – sheep hunters will relate to our discussion about the challenges of ageing sheep in the field.

Is sheep hunting attracting more inexperienced hunters? Are the motivations changing for this type of hunt? Why are we making the wrong call on these sheep? And most importantly, what are the implications to sheep conservation and our privilege to continue hunting sheep in BC?

Lots to be discussed here. This is a challenging conversation, but one we need to have in the hunting community. I hope you enjoy it.

Thanks to Adam Janke and Kyle Stelter for making the time for this important discussion. 

Photo credit: Fort Nelson Conservation Officer Service

Thanks to West Coast Kitchen for their support! 

The discount code is EATWILD

In the first episode, I am pleased to welcome wildlife biologist Conrad Thiessen.  Conrad has a very cool job in the Northwest corner of BC (Region 6). This is an area of relatively low road density and high wilderness and wildlife values, so he spends his workdays flying around in a helicopter, in spectacular wilderness areas, counting wildlife. 

Conrad's work is focused on caribou management, so we dive into the topic of caribou, discuss ecotypes, their range, habitat, migration patterns, population status in BC, and methods to assess herd health and numbers. Conrad describes survey and calculation methods, as well as the opportunity to work with First Nations on research projects.

He introduces and explains concepts like “calf recruitment”, the ideal calf/cow ratio, and shares details about the delicate and exciting process of “netting caribou” for the purpose of fitting them with research collars.

Of course, we get to talk about caribou behaviour, hunting experiences and the ideal time to hunt caribou for optimal taste. 

We reflect on the impacts of human activity, climate change and predation on caribou population dynamics and Conrad reveals an unlikely, yet successful caribou predator, besides wolves and bears.

Give this episode a listen if you are interested in caribou biology, conservation or hunting and you will find a few other exciting details about the life of caribou and wildlife biologists in Region 6.

To keep an eye on Conrad and his adventures in an “unbelievably, indescribably” beautiful place, follow him on Instagram @conrad_thiessen.

Poster photo credit: Clint Walker 

This episode is dedicated to Dr. Valerius Geist, wildlife biologist, conservationist, great storyteller, and kind human. You will be missed by the conservation community.  

This episode is brought to you by West Coast Kitchen. Check out their stuff and use the EATWILD discount code for 10% off 

Show note: 

At some point in the podcast I mention that Jody, the hunting camp cook, will not use cook with caribou meat that is harvested in late September.  The intention was to suggest that the meat may have a gamey taste, and may not be as pleasant as the other meat options.  In Jody's case, she may choose to use the moose or sheep meat that would also be available in a hunting camp to make dinner. The caribou hunters are required to take all edible portions of the meat home and it will be consumed, just with a bit more spice if it happens to be gamey. 

With over a year of Covid living, my body is feeling the effects. I need to get in shape... FAST. Fortunately, my hunting partner Jenny P has been working with Emilie Whittemore to get her body ready for the sheep mountains. Emilie is a physiotherapist and strength and conditioning specialist, who believes in an integrated practice that is focused on injury prevention by building strength and conditioning the body to ready for the adventures ahead. 

I am a little late to the party, but it’s time to get on it. We’ve invited Emilie on the podcast to talk about what it is going to take for us to get our bodies ready for the long hard days and strain of the sheep hunting season.

If you’re coming off some idle time and want to get back in shape and doing the things you love to do in the mountains, then you’ll love this podcast.

Thanks for doing this Emilie! 

Emilie on LinkedIn

Emilie @ Evolve Physiotherapy - emilie@evolvept.ca

This episode is supported by West Coast Kitchen backpack food.  Fuel your passion on your next adventure with West Coast Kitchen food.  Enter EATWILD into the promo code for a 10% discount! 

Thanks for listening!

In August 2019, I set out with my hunting crew on a caribou hunting adventure in the mountains of the Tahltan Traditional Territory in Northern British Columbia. Idyllic summer days strolling across the mountain tundra spotting caribou and goats, everything was going according to plan.  But our plan took an unfortunate turn, and an unseasonably harsh arctic storm front blasted our camp with hurricane-force winds and 3 feet of snow. We went from hunting to surviving. Taking shelter in the tipi tent, we took turns keeping the center pole from snapping as we held down the tent praying for the storm to let up. Join us for this three-part series on the Pole Bender Adventure. These are great episodes if you're planning an adventure trip in the wilderness. We talk about the logistics of planning a fly-in trip, trip safety plans, emergency communications, and a little bit about sneaking up on goats. I hope you enjoy this.  

You can find the article by Cleston Lee in the 02/2021 BC Outdoors Magazine. 

In August 2019, I set out with my hunting crew on a caribou hunting adventure in the mountains of the Tahltan Traditional Territory in Northern British Columbia. Idyllic summer days strolling across the mountain tundra spotting caribou and goats, everything was going according to plan.  But our plan took an unfortunate turn, and an unseasonably harsh arctic storm front blasted our camp with hurricane-force winds and 3 feet of snow. We went from hunting to surviving. Taking shelter in the tipi tent, we took turns keeping the center pole from snapping as we held down the tent praying for the storm to let up. Join us for this three-part series on the Pole Bender Adventure. These are great episodes if you're planning an adventure trip in the wilderness. We talk about the logistics of planning a fly-in trip, trip safety plans, emergency communications, and a little bit about sneaking up on goats. I hope you enjoy this.  

You can find the article by Cleston Lee in the 02/2021 BC Outdoors Magazine. 

Reading recommendations:

1. Tsawalk: A Nuu-chah-nulth Worldview - by Eugene Richard Atleo
2. Spirits of our Whaling Ancestors - Revitalizing Makah and Nuu-chah-nulth Traditions - by Charlotte Coté
3. Ecologies of the Heart: Emotion, Belief, and the Environment Hardcover – by E. N. Anderson (Author)

In this episode, I’m hanging out with Travis Bader from Silvercore. We’re breaking down the things to consider when buying your first firearm for big game. We get into some common misconceptions about firearms. We talk recoil and how to reduce the shock to the body. We discuss pros and cons of calibers for the new hunter who wants a rifle that can do it all.

Travis is an expert in all things firearms. He is a gunsmith and a leader in the firearms training industry. Silvercore provides a range of training opportunities from firearms safety to bear safety and much more. Check them out.

You can find the Silvercore podcast here.

Find Travis and Silvercore on Instagram here.

As we get caught up on our respective hunting seasons, we get into sheep hunting and the challenges of ageing legal rams, and we talk about the pressure on a guide to ensure success on a once-in-a-lifetime hunt. It’s always a good time when I get to hang out with Nolan. He’s a super modest and knowledgeable mountain hunter. I hope you enjoy this one.

You can find Nolan at the Journal of Mountain Hunting or on Instagram @nmo.  

Please share and review! 

Thanks for listening, 

In some parts of BC, we have an open moose season, but you can only harvest immature bulls that have 2 points or less, or mature bulls that have 3 points on their brow palm or a total of 10 points on one antler. Confusing? Absolutely! Then try and count those points while a moose popping in and out of view in the willows and thick timber.  In this episode, I talk about counting points in the field and building the confidence to pull the trigger. 

We used Alpacka Forager rafts on this trip. 

Jenny P, Celina and I are in the process of putting together what will be an adventure of a lifetime. We are planning to fly packrafts into the Northern Rockies and drift down 100 kms of river through spectacular sheep, elk and moose country.

Join us for the next series of podcasts as we put together our plan for a safe and successful hunt. We will be inviting experts on packrafting, wildlife biologists, and safety and gear experts as we research and get equipped for this adventure. 

And we will have a bit of fun too.

https://www.alpackaraft.com/rafting/

Thank you Jenny P and Celina for doing this! 

Please share and enjoy the podcast.

Dylan 

To many of us, hunting is essential to our way of life, but this announcement does not mean that we can travel to go hunting.  The small communities throughout BC are extremely vulnerable to the COVID 19 virus.  All it would take is for one hunter who is unknowingly carrying the virus to pass it on at a gas station, a Tim Hortons, or picking up a 6 pack at the cold beer store. These communities do not have the health infrastructure deal with an outbreak.  The BC hunting community must not put rural communities at risk.  In the podcast, we discuss our interpretations of the recent essential service announcement, the PHO travel restrictions and COVID hunting guidelines.  

Be patient with everyone. 

Provincial Hunting and Fishing COVID 19 Updates

BC LEH COVID Recommendations

Kai Negata on Potential Impacts of Hunting on Rural Communities 

Mark Hall - Hunter Conservationist Podcast 

Jesse Zieman - The BC Wildlife Federation 

Thanks for listening.

Dylan Eyers

www.eatwild.ca

Please share and review this podcast!

Thanks for making this happen @rookie_hunter_podcast, @chasingfoodclub, and @the_hunter_conservationist

Thanks for listening! 

Dylan www.eatwild.ca

https://www.therookiehunter.com/

https://thehunterconservationist.com/podcast/

https://www.chasingfood.club/

Thanks to the crew for putting up with the podcast machine! The crew: @seanbadart @devontaylorstewart @taylor.j.e.woodcock @jennyp403

If you like this podcast and the raw format, please let me know, and share your review! 

Background: 

Follow along with our rookie Bison hunting crew as we figure out how to hunt this majestic animal. Our hunting group drew a "once-in-a-lifetime" tag to hunt Bison in Northern B.C. At one time there were over 60 million Bison roaming the plains of North America. Market hunting and habitat destruction reduced the herd to less than a thousand animals by 1900. Since then, numerous conservation efforts have helped Bison recover to over 500,000 animals. It's estimated that there is a population of over 2000 Bison living in B.C. The Bison herd is expanding and they are competing with threatened wild sheep for limited winter range habitat. Wildlife managers have encouraged a limited hunt to manage the Bison population growth and herd expansion.

Our group was lucky enough to get drawn for two tags for Bison on this hunt. The tags allow us to shoot a bull, cow, or calf bison. This hunt took place in late January in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. It was - 38 degrees Celcius when we arrived at our cabin and all of our beer was frozen. We had a lot to learn about this animal, its habitat, and how to hunt them. Come join us on the hunt! --

At one time there were over 60 million Bison roaming the plains of North America.  Market hunting and habitat destruction reduced the herd to less than a thousand animals by 1900.  Since then, numerous conservation efforts have helped Bison recover to over 500,000 animals.  It's estimated that there is a population of over 2000 Bison living in B.C.  The Bison herd is expanding and they are competing with threatened wild sheep for limited winter range habitat. Wildlife managers have encouraged a limited hunt to manage the Bison population growth and herd expansion. 

Our group was lucky enough to get drawn for two tags for Bison on this hunt.  The tags allow us to shoot a bull, cow, or calf bison. This hunt took place in late January in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. It was - 38 degrees Celcius when we arrived at our cabin and all of our beer was frozen.  We had a lot to learn about this animal, its habitat, and how to hunt them.  Come join us on the hunt!  

Nolan Osborne is hunting guide, outdoor writer, and the editor of the Journal of Mountian Hunting - @nmo

Mark Perrier is a Chef and restauranteur based in Vancouver - @thechefwhohunts

Join us for one of our workshops www.eatwild.ca 

Download the EatWild Hunter App 

Jody, Mark, and Dylan are launching EatWild Cooks in January 2020.  We will be hosting a series of wild game cooking classes over the next few months.  Join us to learn the fundamental of cooking wild game and a truly unique dining experience. www.eatwild.ca. 

Mark Perrier is one of Vancouver’s best chefs, and he is the proprietor and chef of the acclaimed Osteria Savio Volpe. A passionate hunter, he has been perfecting his hunting skills over the past three years while developing and adapting his favourite recipes to be used with game meat. @thechefwhohunts

Jody Peck grew up in the Peace River Valley in Northeastern BC and, from a young age, learned how to butcher and cook game meat as a bush cook (camp cook at hunting outfits). Jody has serious wild chef cred, as she has only ever cooked wild meat for her community, family, and clients.  Her passion lies in ethically harvesting, butchering, imagining and creating delicious meals that nourish anyone lucky enough to be at her dinner table.  Jody creates wild food experiences for crews, workshops and backcountry events @wildnorthernway. http://www.wildnorthernway.com/

Hope to see you at EatWild Cooks! 

Enjoy the podcast. 

Dylan 

Jesse and I sat down to chat about deer population dynamics to better understand how that impacts hunting success and opportunities in BC.  Jesse is the Director of the Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program with BCWF and provides an excellent overview of deer population dynamics, and management efforts in BC.  We touch on the importance of citizen science wildlife monitoring and get into a few tips on deer hunting.  I hope you enjoy it, and please share and review this episode! 

Follow Jesse Zeman @JZ.thinair 

Find me in Instagram @Eatwild 

Thanks for listening, 

Dylan 

Please tell us what you think and share this podcast! 

Here in British Columbia, Indigenous communities have lived, hunted, and manage resources on these lands for time immemorial (a really long time!).  For many of us whose families have settled on these lands, we are now unravelling an uncomfortable history of colonization.  We are just starting to understand the implications of this history and the responsibility that we share to work towards reconciliation with the peoples who lived here before settlers showed up a couple of hundred years ago (not very long ago).  In BC, 95% of lands are described as crown lands. The courts in Canada have acknowledged that these lands were managed by indigenous communities for thousands of years before settlers showed up, and the courts have ruled that the Indigenous communities have never legally given those land rights away to the crown.  As a hunting community, we need to start a respectful conversation with Indigenous communities about how this will impact our ability to hunt and gather food on unceded First Nations traditional territories.    

To find out more about Jody Peck and what she’s up to, check out her out here: www.wildnorthernway.com