Bird hunter & author on the spirit of hunting ... and access to more hunting ground

Upland Nation

He's been through the wringer, but came out the other side stronger, more resilient and committed to the therapeutic value of hunting. Avid pheasant hunter and theologian Tony Jones outlines it all in his new book The God of Wild Places, and in this fascinating interview from the floor of Pheasant Fest. Starting late in life, Tony's outdoor journey began during a low point, and along with the love of a loyal dog he lifted himself from rock bottom to a point of grace.

Spiritual, religious, or just plain grateful to be worshipping the great outdoors, you will learn something about the psychological and emotional payoffs of spending time in the field in this wide-ranging interview that also touches on practical matters including getting access to private ground, and better utilizing public land.

"Handle It" offers a hack that might help your dog become a better retriever, and listeners debate the "best" clay target game for bird hunters.

And it's all brought to you by: Sage & Braker Mercantile, LandTrust.com, HiVizSights.com, Pointer shotguns, @midwayusa, #midwayusa, Midway USA, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, ESPAmerica, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

And don't miss the first reprise episode of Wingshooting USA TV starting July 1 on local stations, sports networks and national TV networks. Learn more here.