Joined by dog trainer, writer and upland hunter Jeremy Moore of Dog Bone Hunter we discuss a fishing trip to the U.P., ruffed grouse drumming counts and more. Show Highlights: A fishing trip to the U.P Well mannered bird dogs and place training Setters on the loose at the cabin E-collar use or lack thereof Ruffed grouse drumming counts Hotspots wit…

In this episode we are joined by grouse project leader for the Minnesota DNR, Charlotte Roy, to discuss the results of the 2024 ruffed grouse drumming survey. Show Highlights: Understanding the Drumming Survey Process Impact of Weather on Grouse Population Historical Context and Current Trends The Grouse Population Cycle Winter Conditions and Grous…

In this episode we welcome freelance filmmaker and avid upland hunter Kevin Erdvig back to the show to discuss updates to his gun safe, bird dog string and more. Show Highlights: Sorting out eye dominance issues The Instinctive Shot by Chris Batha and other book mentions Phantom 2.0 shooting glasses by Ranger Eyewear A gun fitting with Lars Jacob J…

In this episode we welcome wingshooting instructor and gun fitter Lars Jacob back to the show to discuss instinctive shooting. Show Highlights: Spring foraging: morel mushrooms A family history of turkey hunting and call making Lars’ definition of Instinctive shooting Pull away vs swing through vs sustained lead “Don’t spill the scotch!” The import…

In this episode we share a conversation from the recently launched Ugly Dog Podcast with host Mike Neiduski and guest Nick Larson on upland hunting, bird dogs, shotguns and more. Show Highlights: About the Birdshot Podcast The spark aka the ruffed grouse Rituals, hunting trips and hunting close to home Hartley’s cruciate ligament injury - out for t…

In this episode we are joined by Scott Trulock of Trulock Chokes to discuss all things choke tubes, constriction, patterning and more. Show Highlights: Trulock Chokes: where it all began What is a choke tube and what does it do? What characteristics does a quality choke tube have? Variations in choke tubes and method of constriction How to pattern …

In this episode we welcome Craig Doherty, author of Building a Grouse Dog, back to the show to discuss choosing the right bird dog for you, developing bird dogs and more. Show Highlights: Craig’s column in Pointing Dog Journal Wild Apple Kennel Bob Wehle and Elhew Pointers Beech trees and other New England Grouse cover notes First year puppy expect…

In this episode we take a walk through some woodcock cover in hopes of banding spring chicks with Lindsey Shartell, board member of Woodcock Minnesota. Show Highlights: Meeting Lindsey Shartell of Woodcock Minnesota What makes a good woodcock banding dog? Where do we find woodcock broods? Turkey hunt updates from Lindsey Guess the age of this clear…

In this episode we catch up with the editor of the Quail Forever Journal to discuss his passion for upland birds and the outdoors along with some spring turkey hunting as well. Show Highlights: Meet editor of the Quail Forever Journal Ryan Sparks An early introduction to quail Fishing, hunting and traveling far and wide Ryan’s thesis paper on quail…

In this episode we continue our basic turkey hunting tips and tactics conversation with Jacob Myers of the Southern Outdoorsman Podcast. Show Highlights: “Run and gun” versus setting up and blind calling? Gobblers coming in silent What about when he’s gobbling his head off? Soft calling and watching the bird’s behavior Calling jakes to pull in the …

In this episode we talk basic turkey hunting tips and tactics with Alabama turkey hunter Jacob Myers of the Southern Outdoorsman Podcast. Show Highlights: How to miss a turkey Should I use a red dot sight? Turkey hunting safety precautions Where to hunt turkeys Understanding turkey behavior What is “covert calling”? Scratching leaves, going silent …

Keenan Wind, owner of Windy Fishing Guide Service, discusses his passion for fishing and guiding on Mille Lacs Lake in Minnesota. He shares his experience growing up on the water and the legendary status of Mille Lacs as a walleye and smallmouth bass fishery. Keenan also talks about the challenges and changes in the fishing industry, including the …

In this episode we catch up with Jim Gerchy, grouse hunting guide at Pineridge Grouse Camp, to talk grouse hunting, bird dogs, shotguns and more. We also preview the Midwest Double Gun Classic at Horse and Hunt Club in Prior Lake, MN. Show Highlights: Jim's Perfect Margarita Recipe Fishing Adventures and Spring Pursuits Jim's Journey into Bird Hunt…

In this episode we cover more upland bird hunting and dog training as well as overcoming shooting challenges with seasoned hunting guide and dog trainer, Matty Rawlinson. Additionally, we cover the significance of gun fitting for wing shooting success, sharing insights into how a custom-fitted gun can enhance shooting accuracy. The episode also det…

Summary Matt Russell, owner and operator of Double Aero Guides in southern Arizona, discusses bird hunting and the unique bird species found in the Southwest. He highlights the diverse landscapes and weather conditions in Arizona, from desert and cactus to mountains and grasslands. Matt talks about the different types of quail, including Gambel's q…

An in-depth discussion with Matty Rawlinson of Heritage Gundogs and Outfitters, a dog trainer, hunting guide, and upland hunter from California, covering his extensive experience in bird hunting and dog training across challenging environments, notably South Texas. The conversation spans the importance of field trials, adaptation strategies for dog…

Bruce Ross, the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association (WWA), discusses the organization's mission and initiatives. WWA focuses on wetland restoration, education, and advocacy for waterfowl hunters in Wisconsin. They work on both private and public lands to restore wetlands and create habitat for waterfowl. The organization also …

This podcast episode features an in-depth discussion with Craig Koshyk, a bird hunter, lover of hunting dogs and the author of 'Pointing Dogs Volume 1 and 2'. The conversation covers the origins, evolution, and nuances of pointing dogs, shedding light on the differences between European and North American practices. Craig recounts his extensive res…

Joined by Bailey Petersen of the MN DNR and Jerry Havel of Pineridge Grouse Camp and Upland Gun company, on this episode we explore the multifaceted practice of woodcock banding with pointing dogs. Learn about the challenges, and logistics of woodcock banding, including the impact of weather on migrations, the importance of choosing suitable sites,…

In this episode of the Birdshot Podcast, host Nick and Dr. Erik Blomberg discuss the intricacies of the American Woodcock migration, based on recent research and GPS tracking. Dr. Blomberg shares insights into the Woodcock's migration patterns, stopover habitats, altitude during flights, and the impact of weather conditions on their migration. The …

Joined by Gabe Stone and Kevin Sterling of the American Woodcock Society we discuss woodcock migration reports, woodcock hunting, favorite woodcock recipes and much more. Show Highlights: Local woodcock reports It all started with turkeys for Kevin… MOU between Ruffed Grouse Society and Pheasants Forever Overlapping quail and woodcock habitat RGS’ …

Summary In this episode, Brian Maze interviews Trevor Hubbs, who is involved in various conservation initiatives. They discuss the upcoming BHA Rendezvous event, where volunteers are celebrated and awards are given to individuals who have contributed to public lands and waters. They also talk about a proposed bill in Wisconsin that would allow runn…

Mike, the owner of Ugly Dog Hunting Company, discusses the risks and challenges of bird dog hunting, including injuries and accidents that can occur in the field. He shares personal stories of his dogs encountering porcupines and other hazards. Mike also provides insight into the history of Ugly Dog Hunting Company and its evolution as a supply sho…

Joined by Tyler Burton and Dan Hornbaker we discuss their chance meeting on New Jersey public lands and their now mentor / mentee relationship. Show Highlights: Trap shooting and sporting clays A chance meeting in the woods New Jersey public lands Rookie mistakes and first hunts Famous last words, “if I buy another SxS…” Barrel length and shotguns …

In this episode, Brian Maze interviews Thomas Heidenwirth of the Setters Tales podcast. They discuss their experiences in hunting and podcasting, as well as their love for setters. They talk about the challenges of grooming setters and the importance of having a good podcast setup. They also share stories from their hunting adventures and discuss t…

Joined by Utah State grad student and upland hunter Logan Clark, we discuss an ongoing forest grouse research project. Show Highlights: Logan’s grouse hunting grandmother An interest and passion for birds A brief stint with bobwhite quail VHF versus GPS technology for gamebird research Forest Grouse Project at Utah State Dusky and sooty grouse Buil…

In this episode of the Amazing Outdoors Podcast, host Brian Maze interviews JD Roberts, owner of Finstincts, a fly fishing outfit in Texas. They discuss JD's background in fly fishing and his experiences fishing on the Brazos River, Pecos River, and Devils River. JD shares the unique challenges and rewards of fishing in remote areas and the incredi…

Joined by author and avid upland hunter Mark Parman, we continue our conversation on grouse, upland literature, shotguns and more. Show Highlights: Did you say “Bong Bridge” and “High Bridge” ? The amazing capabilities of feller bunchers What about the grouse cycle? A third book from Parman in the works… New England Grouse Shooting audio book from …

Joined by author and avid upland hunter Mark Parman, we discuss unusual winter conditions, late season grouse hunting and more. Show Highlights: El nino conditions in the grouse woods When the grouse woods fight back Do you ever remember a late season like that? Scouting with onX Hunt Smart ass tendencies Cross country skiing and biathlon LISTEN | …

Joined by vagabond upland hunter Mike Sheffer, we discuss his history as a bird hunter, bobwhite quail, bird dogs and more. Show Highlights: Rattlesnakes and snake avoidance The Northern Bobwhite quail Quail hunting Shooting the covey rise versus singles A Brittany man for life Jack the dog of a lifetime Turkeys over pointing dogs! On Bobwhite - Fr…

Joined by Bob Owens of Lone Duck Outfitters, we discuss Bob’s journey into the world of gun dogs, training techniques, grouse hunting and more. Show Highlights: Lone Duck Outfitters & Kennels Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches! Bob’s love for gun dogs Common stumbling blocks for bird dog owners Setters and grouse Range, GPS, bells and more Southeas…

In this episode, Brian and Dave discuss their hunting season experiences, including their travels to Montana and hunting for sharp-tailed grouse and huns. They also talk about the impact of ice and snow on grouse covers in the Northwoods. Dave shares insights into his YouTube channel, Under 40 Yards, and the challenges of the YouTube algorithm. The…

Joined once again by author Doug Stewart, we recap hunting seasons and dive into side by side shotgun conversation. Show Highlights: Hunting a variety of upland species What about damascus barrels? A perfect upland shotgun varies by individual Vintage Doubles - Kirby Hoyt What makes a Churchill side by side unique? Ammo availability for vintage gun…

A solo episode with host Nick Larson answers some listener questions from the Birdshot Podcast inbox along with pondering winter conditions for ruffed grouse and more. Show Highlights: Pondering snow roosting conditions in sub zero temps Grouse of the North Shore - Gordon Gullion Do sharp-tailed grouse snow roost? Hunting grouse without dogs New En…

Show Highlights: Using lighter payloads for upland hunting Getting into shotshell reloading Building and RFM Zeus shotgun Enjoying the 28 gauge Cold weather shooting gloves Dressing for the conditions Cooking upland birds with skin on CONNECT | @codyasimons CONTRIBUTE | patreon.com/birdshot Follow us | @birdshot.podcast Use Promo Code | BSP20 to sa…

Joined by western upland hunter and staff member at Sitka Gear, Cody Simons, we discuss bird dogs, double guns and western upland hunting. Show Highlights: First bird dog trials and tribulations Running dogs together versus individually Cody’s first ruffed grouse An unusual use for 30” barrels… An interest in side by side shotguns A vintage Fox bar…

Brian and Chris share a little broubon and swap some stories about bird dogs and grouse hunting. Chris is from the south east and has a refined taste in old writing which has lead to him sharing his stories a field about his bird dog traveller. You can read his stories and love for bird dogs on his website www.thehuntingtraveller.com and make sure …

Joined by Kyle Warren of Paint River Setters, we dive deeper into the grouse dog component of the equation and the excitement of hunting ruffed grouse. Show Highlights: Bird tracking ability in grouse dogs Tracking versus relocating… Does the pace of the dog influence how much a bird runs? Ideally, you work a track as fast as the dog can work it Th…

Joined by Kyle Warren of Paint River Setters, we discuss some of the subtleties of hunting ruffed grouse and grouse cover as the season progresses. Show Highlights: El Nino late season conditions Cold weather scenting conditions Thoughts on grouse roosts and poop piles Exploring and scouting versus hunting known covers late season If you can see go…

Joined by Tate Abler and Rich Wong, we discuss a trap encounter Rich had with his bird dog and gain insights into trapping and trap safety from Tate Abler. Show Highlights: Negotiating for additional hunt time with your significant other The Minnesota Wild are heating up! Rich’s preferred pheasant and quail loads Tate Abler of Sustained Outdoors Tr…

Joined by the founders of Upland Gun Company, Dan LaFond and Jerry Havel, we discuss the concept of the business, the manufacturer (R.F.M Armi) and most importantly the handcrafted shotguns. Show Highlights: Meet the founders of Upland Gun Company A fortuitous meeting with R.F.M. Armi From your imagination to the field… Double guns for waterfowl hu…

On a segment from a recent Patreon bonus episode we discuss a grouse pointing and tracking sequence from a recent hunt. Show Highlights: A couple Black Friday deals Tracking and relocating ruffed grouse One negative of 30” barrels… Truck birds Relocating ability versus development? When one is enough… Two grouse and a snowshoe hare?! CONTRIBUTE | p…

Fritz Heller returns to the show for a grouse season update and a listener Q & A session on all things grouse hunting and grouse dogs. Show Highlights: Size and confirmation preference in Frtiz’s labs “You’ve got to park the truck in the right spot!” First scent to flush, reading the dog Hunting more than one dog at a time Patterning ruffed grouse …

Fritz Heller returns to the show for a grouse season update and a listener Q & A session on all things grouse hunting and grouse dogs. Show Highlights: Stick in the eye… ouch! Ranger shooting glasses (Phantom 2.0) Should I get off the trail with my dog? How do I keep my flushing dog from ranging too far Functionally steady and whistle sits Don’t ov…

We have all struggled with access to land to recreate at some point in our past. A new concept of playing offence in the defense of our hunting heritage - 4Progeny is a nonprofit whose mission is to create more land access for all. Brian chats with Skylar about his mission and idea of creating a nonprofit to create more access for us and our next o…

Brian invited good friend Todd Freeman up to Wisconsin to chase the king of the uplands, Ruffed Grouse. After two days of chasing grouse and woodcock in the northwoods, they sit down for a late night podcast reflecting on the last few days. Chasing ruffed grouse can be hard and its been said "its a young mans game." Todd found out why i venture sou…

Bill Calfee and Nick Adair join the show for part two of our round table conversation from grouse camp. Show Highlights: @gundogityourself ‘s camper set-up Hitting mid-season form Woodcock versus grouse cover Developing woodsmanship Hunt logs and journals - Day One Journal App Hand loads and nickel plating CONTRIBUTE | patreon.com/birdshot Follow u…

Brian gets a chance to chat with one of priemer fly tiers in the Midwest - August on the Fly https://www.instagram.com/augustonthefly/ They chat toothy critters and how August got into tying some of the sexiest preditor flies on the market. Musky, Pike and many other species of fish have eaten his flies. If you are not familier - you should follow …

Bill Calfee and Nick Adair join the show from grouse camp to discuss southern grouse hunting, grouse dogs and more. Show Highlights: A grouse hunting mentor “Old Timer Bill” Bill’s first grouse Learning the habitat Tennessee ruffed grouse Sliding through Mountain-laurel Bill’s thoughts on grouse dogs CONTRIBUTE | patreon.com/birdshot Follow us | @b…

Shotgun Editor at Field and Stream, Phil Bourjaily, joins the show to discuss shotgun and wingshooting technology, innovation, history and more. Show Highlights: Dove hunting 101 How Phil became a shotgun writer 28 gauges are neat! Magic or myth… The joys of a lightweight 12 gauge - R.F.M. Venus Value in vintage 12 bores Phil loves late season phea…