The HuntLeague Podcast

In Episode 5 of the HuntLeague Champions League Hunt, the crew faces their toughest stretch — two days packed with highs, heartbreak, and hard lessons. Day 4 begins with everyone returning to the spot where Josh had spotted two bulls the day before. After the morning hunt, the team decides to break camp and relocate, giving Wally a chance to head home to process his mule deer from opening day. But the mountain had other plans. Before Wally could leave, Jared and Brandon climbed 2,000 feet up to a remote plateau, and within minutes, Brandon dropped a beautiful bull elk — or so it seemed. As they hiked toward it, the unthinkable happened: the bull was back on its feet and vanished into the trees. With light fading, the guys made the tough call to back out and return at first light. Day 5 brings an exhausting search to recover the bull, joined by Wally and Josh. The day unfolds with a mix of emotions — from hope to frustration — and a few unexpected interactions, including a friendly visit from Colorado Parks & Wildlife and an odd encounter with a local outfitter. This episode is about resilience and the reality that even the best hunters face days that test everything — physically, mentally, and emotionally. 🎧 Episode Highlights: The 2,000-foot climb and Brandon’s shot The bull that got back up and disappeared Why the crew chose to let it sit overnight Perseverance & Changing Plans....again These were the hardest days of the hunt — and the ones that reveal what it truly means to be a champion. #HuntLeague #ElkHunting #WesternHunting #ColoradoHunting #RifleSeason #HuntingPodcast #ChampionsLeagueHunt #PublicLandHunting #BaseCampChronicles

In Episode 4 of the Champions League Hunt, the crew splits up and the day turns into one filled with lessons, long hikes, and last minute shot opportunity. Josh and Jared start their morning looking back towards the road where Josh spots two legal bulls. Instead of hunting toward them, Jared decides to chase new country — a 7.5-mile detour that ends with sore legs and a valuable reminder: never leave bulls to find bulls. Meanwhile, Brandon and Wally head out in search of the big bull from the day before. The morning comes up empty, but a mid-day text changes everything — the same bulls Josh spotted earlier are back on their feet. With just minutes of daylight left, they glass the bulls sparring in a small timber opening. The wind is swirling hard, and patience becomes the game. When the gusts finally settle, Brandon squeezes off a shot — but misses the mark. The day closes with a mix of disappointment, exhaustion, and gratitude for another wild day in the mountains. 🎧 Episode Highlights: Josh spots bulls near the road — and the decision that sent him hiking 7.5 miles instead Lessons learned about following your instincts Brandon and Wally’s tense final-light encounter with the bulls Wind, fatigue, and the heartbreak of a missed opportunity Reflections on teamwork, communication, and staying positive after setbacks This episode is all about trusting your gut, learning from every decision, and pushing through the grind that defines western hunting. #HuntLeague #ElkHunting #WesternHunting #MuleDeerHunting #HuntingPodcast #ChampionsLeagueHunt #RifleSeason #ColoradoHunting #BaseCampChronicles

In Episode 3 of the Champions League Hunt, Day 2 delivers both adrenaline and heartbreak. The crew starts the morning glassing a herd of roughly 30 elk before Brandon locks onto a Colorado giant — a bull in the mid-300s that instantly changes the tone of the day. Mistakes were made but with hearts still racing, the team commits to an evening ambush, hoping for another glimpse of the bull. As light fades, the plan shifts — instead of the big bull, Jared spots a bear across the canyon and takes a 960yd shot using Brandon’s rifle, adding a new twist to an already eventful day. Exhaustion from the previous day’s canyon hike sets in, and small communication breakdowns in the moment may have cost the crew a chance at Brandon’s once-in-a-lifetime bull. This episode captures the raw side of hunting — the fatigue, the teamwork, and the lessons that only long days in the field can teach. 🎧 Episode Highlights: Spotting a mid-300s Colorado bull elk The decision to stay on the bull through evening light Jared’s bear encounter across the canyon Physical fatigue meets mental pressure Communication breakdowns and reflection at camp This one’s about the highs and lows of a true backcountry pursuit — where every choice, every call, and every moment matters. #HuntLeague #ElkHunting #BearHunting #ColoradoHunting #WesternHunting #HuntingPodcast #ChampionsLeagueHunt #RifleSeason #BaseCampChronicles

In Episode 2 of the Champions League Hunt, the crew wraps up their final day of scouting and dives into a bold plan — dropping more than 2,000 vertical feet into a steep Colorado canyon after spotting several promising bulls and a trio of big muley bucks. With high hopes for opening morning, the team pushes deep into the backcountry, but soon faces the sobering reality of hunting pressure, brutal terrain, and the sheer logistics of packing an animal out of that canyon. After a long climb back to the truck, the day takes an unexpected turn — a quick stop on the way back to camp turns into a moment of success as Wally King fills his mule deer tag on opening day. 🎧 Episode Highlights: The 3.5-hour descent into the canyon Why the team chose to pull out after opening morning The mental and physical grind of extreme terrain How pressure from other hunters changed the plan Wally’s opportunistic mule deer harvest Reflections on adapting, teamwork, and gratitude in the field This episode captures the true spirit of the hunt — tough choices, teamwork, and finding success when you least expect it. #HuntLeague #HuntingPodcast #MuleDeerHunting #ColoradoHunting #ElkHunting #RifleSeason #WesternHunting #BaseCampChronicles #ChampionsLeagueHunt

In this first episode of the HuntLeague Champions League Hunt, we’re finally in camp — four hunters, four tags, and one shared goal: make the most of Colorado’s second rifle season. 2023 Outdoorsman of the Year Wally King, 2022-23 Western Hunt League Champion Josh Dishman, 2023 Deer of the Year & current Apex Predator Champion Brandon Anderson, and HuntLeague founder Jared Newman kick off their multi-species adventure with a base camp conversation before opening day. Josh and Brandon just made the long haul from Oregon, while Wally and Jared arrive at camp ready to put glass on animals. Together, the crew shares what it took to prepare for this hunt, the expectations heading into the mountains, and the excitement (and nerves) of chasing elk, deer, and bear with a camp full of champions. 🎯 Tags & Team Setup: Josh & Brandon: Colorado OTC Elk Tags Wally: Deer Tag Jared: Bear Tag 🔥 Episode Highlights: Arriving in camp and first impressions of the country Pre-hunt planning, scouting, and gear prep Expectations for opening day Team dynamics in a camp full of proven hunters The stories and laughs that always start around base camp 🏕 About the Series: This is Episode 1 of the HuntLeague Champions League Hunt — a real-time, day-by-day look into life at base camp with top hunters from across the HuntLeague community. Follow the daily podcast recaps, field updates, and join us for the unfiltered highs and lows of a true western rifle hunt. #HuntLeague #HuntingPodcast #ColoradoElkHunting #DeerHunting #BearHunt #WesternHunting #HuntingCommunity #RifleSeason #ElkCamp

In this Sweet September Series episode, we sit down with Keenan Molnar, an Oregon bowhunter whose pursuit of his first bull spanned nearly a decade. Keenan opens up about the long road of close calls, setbacks, lessons, and unwavering faith that kept him going year after year. When the moment finally came, it wasn’t just a harvest — it was a moment of personal triumph, gratitude, and answered prayer. This conversation is about patience, perseverance, and honoring the journey — not just the result.

In this Sweet September episode, David King reflects on one of his most meaningful seasons yet — not because of the bull he harvested, but because of the adventure he shared with his teenage son and nephew on their first archery elk hunt. With multiple herds, high-energy calling, and a morning filled with non-stop bugles, this season was an all-out mountain experience. David’s story is a reminder that sometimes the greatest trophy is simply the time spent together in the wild.

In this Sweet September episode, we sit down with Joel Yanke, a Colorado elk hunter whose story is one of heartbreak, humility, and redemption. After years of chasing success and enduring repeated failures, Joel faced a breaking point this season — losing his first bull and nearly walking away from the hunt entirely. What followed was a powerful moment of surrender. Leaving his bow behind for the first time in six years, Joel chose to focus on helping a friend instead — and in that selfless act, found a renewed sense of purpose and faith. Days later, against all odds, he recovered the bull he thought was lost forever. Joel’s journey reminds us that elk hunting is about far more than tags and trophies — it’s about perseverance, community, and the grace we find when we stop chasing success and start living the story. 🎯 Sweet September celebrates effort, passion, and the personal journeys that define every hunter. Host: Jared Newman Guest: Joel Yanke

In this episode of the Sweet September Series, we sit down with JP Gorham, a newcomer to Colorado who left the hardwoods of Alabama for the rugged peaks of the Rockies. With a bow in hand and a heart full of purpose, JP embarked on his first-ever archery elk hunt—a season defined not by success on the scorecard, but by the lessons, friendships, and faith found along the way. JP shares how a promise to his grandfather inspired his pursuit, how he learned to embrace both humility and perseverance in the face of challenges, and what it felt like to hear that first bugle echo through the mountains. His story captures the spirit of Sweet September—where the true trophy is found in the experience itself. This is the first of four stories from the 2025 Sweet September League inside the HuntLeague mobile app.  JP is new to the app and elk hunting but has found himself in the mix for the league title as one of four finalists.  🎯 Sweet September celebrates effort, passion, and the stories that shape us as hunters. Host: Jared Newman Guest: JP Gorham

In this HuntLeague Podcast, we sit down with Tony Smotherman — the “TravelinHunter” from CVA and Bergara. Tony shares the story behind his nickname, his journey from outdoor writer to one of the most recognized voices in the muzzleloading community. Just before recording the podcast, Tony helped me order my first Muzzleloader (Accura MR-X) opening up an entirely new world of hunting opportunities. I learned a ton from Tony about the history of muzzleloaders and how they have evolved over time. This is the beginning of a new era of muzzleloaders as CVA launches their new muzzleloader that changes the game once again! We dive into: -How Tony became known as the TravelinHunter -The evolution of muzzleloading technology from the 1970s to today -The groundbreaking Paramount & NEW Endura line of muzzleloaders -Why bolt-action muzzleloaders have changed the game for consistency & accuracy -The history and legacy of Bergara Rifles and CVA   Key Takeaways: -Modern muzzleloaders shoot how far??? -Cleaning and maintenance are easier than ever -One Cartridge for all North American big game? -Storytelling is at the heart of hunting and connecting generations of outdoorsmen Whether you’re new to muzzleloaders, a die-hard Bergara fan, or just love good hunting stories, this episode has something for you.   👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes in the HuntLeague Podcast series and join the conversation in the HuntLeague app.   #HuntLeague #HuntingPodcast #BergaraRifles #CVA #Muzzleloader #TravelinHunter #HuntingStories

Kolby Morehead, the man behind Bear Hunting Magazine joins the HuntLeague podcast. We take a deep dive into the world of bear hunting—its culture, challenges, and unmatched adventures. Kolby shares how his journey into bear hunting began in 2018 and how it quickly became more than a pursuit—it became a passion. From wild encounters in the backcountry to humbling moments in the field, Kolby’s stories are sure to inspire and entertain. We explore what sets bear hunting apart from other big game hunts, including the importance of camaraderie, close encounters baiting, and why storytelling and education are critical for the future of this misunderstood pursuit. Topics Covered: -Kolby’s start in bear hunting and evolution into a magazine owner -What makes bear hunting uniquely rewarding -Field stories: challenges, close calls, and hilarious moments -Common misconceptions about bear hunting -The role of Bear Hunting Magazine in preserving hunting heritage -How community and education fuel conservation efforts -Advice for hunters looking to begin their own bear hunting journey   Whether you're an experienced hunter or just bear-curious, this episode is packed with insight, laughs, and real talk about one of North America’s most compelling game animals. 🔗 Learn more at: bear-hunting.com 📬 Subscribe & follow HuntLeague for more hunting adventures!

In this episode of the HuntLeague Podcast, Tate Cunningham joins Jared Newman as they discuss the journey from college friends to passionate fathers and outdoor enthusiasts. They reflect on their shared history, Tate's transition from a music career to family life, and the legend of Smith Cunningham coming up clutch to finish out his Little League career. The conversation then shifts to their hobbies, including rock climbing and fly fishing, before diving into the world of precision rifle shooting and competitive matches like PRS and NRL Hunter. They share insights on the challenges and highlights of competitive shooting, the importance of community and resources, and the new Sportsman Division in PRS that makes the sport more accessible to hunters. The episode concludes with valuable tips for improving shooting skills and the impact of these experiences on hunting.

In this episode, we sit down with Brad Brooks, founder and CEO of Argali Outdoors, to delve into the world of backcountry hunting gear innovation. Brad shares his journey from avid hunter to gear designer, discussing the inception of Argali and the philosophy behind creating ultralight, durable equipment tailored for serious hunters. Topics Covered: The origins and mission of Argali Outdoors -Balancing entrepreneurship with a passion for the outdoors Argali films & storytelling How backcountry failure produced ultralight tents, game bags, trekking poles and knives Insights into the development of the Alpine sleeping bag and Skyline stove Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the backcountry scene, this conversation offers valuable insights into the gear that can make or break your hunting experience.   🔗 Connect with Brad Brooks and Argali Outdoors: Website: argalioutdoors.com Instagram: @argali_official   📌 Subscribe for more stories from the wild, expert interviews, gear reviews, & hunting insights.

Hunter Larson, owner of RYDR Industries joins the HuntLeague podcast! After meeting Hunter at the Mile High Expo, Jared sits down with him to hear more of the story behind RYDR Industries. Hunter, at only 27 years old, is an experienced guide and outfitter chasing some of the biggest deer found in North America. Since his early years, he has always been the type of person that likes to take things apart and figure out how they work. As his hunting pursuits continued to heat up he found himself starting to build products that served his needs in the field as a hunter and professional guide. The RYDR-6 and RYDR-9 are some of the absolute best bipods we have ever seen. Super functional for any terrain and the bipods will work great in both a match setting or in the field chasing game. https://www.rydrindustries.com/    @RYDRINDUSTRIES ​

HuntLeague sits down with KC Davies from SEVR Broadheads: what sets SEVR’s broadheads apart, real-world bowhunting stories, and the exciting news of SEVR joining the Sweet September league inside the HuntLeague mobile app. I was the hunter that never wanted to touch a mechanical broadhead. Then I saw with my own eyes how a Sevr performed on a once in a lifetime buck on a less than ideal shot. If you want field point accuracy, reliability, and minimal arrow deflection get your hands on a Sevr! They have several options to choose from and KC spills the secret that they are introducing some new products in June. Try one today and get FREE SHIPPING when you use the code "sevrfreeship" at checkout! The Sweet September League starts June 1st and runs through September 30th each year. The league takes into account training days, shooting at the range, scouting trips, and your archery elk season. The HuntLeague app captures the story of the hunt in detailed Hunt Logs. It's not about who shoots the biggest bull but rather the story and everything that goes into your season.   Download the app and join the Sweet September league today! Join the Sweet September League 📲 Download the HuntLeague app: https://onelink.to/6ftnv6 🛒 Check out SEVR Broadheads: https://www.sevrbroadheads.com/ Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you don’t miss future episodes! Watch this podcast on the HuntLeague YouTube Channel: https://youtu.be/_y3N1lv9Hn8 

Steve Green is traveling the West with the Skre Gear booth showing hunters what Skre has to offer.  No matter the season or conditions Skre has you covered.   Quality gear makes a HUGE difference in the field.  Staying comfortable and being able to push through tough conditions can often be the difference between success and eating tag soup. If you have ever hunted with me you will notice I mismatch all my gear almost on a daily basis.  I want gear that works!  I value function and performance over a camo pattern.  Over the years I have used gear from almost all of the major companies like Kuiu, Sitka, Under Armour, First Lite, Pnuma, Stone Glacier, Wuru Wool, and of course Skre.  I find more often than not I have Skre gear in the pack whether I am heading out on a scout, an archery elk hunt, or a spring bear hunt in northern Canada. Skre offers high quality gear at a more affordable price.  It is honestly some of the best gear I own.  I love the super versatile hardscrabble line, merino base layers, or the warmth and weight of the ptarmigan down jacket.  I have not tried their packs nor their rain gear so I can't give you any feedback from the field on those but if they are like the rest of the gear I have tried it should perform and hold up for years to come.  One other thing that sets Skre apart is their warranty.  They take care of their customers the way we would want to be treated.  That is a big deal inside the HuntLeague community and one of the things we look for in selecting partners inside our leagues.  You see this same commitment from companies like Vortex, Seekins Precision, Coast, and more.   Checkout the entire Skre lineup at https://skregear.com/ and be sure to take a peak in their outlet from time to time where you snag high quality gear at bargain prices.   #westernhunting #skregear #huntinggear

In this HuntLeague Podcast, we sit down with Armando Martinez, the owner of Bow Hitch. You have to watch the first few minutes to find out how you can win a fully guided New Mexico elk hunt! Every purchase from The Bow Hitch website between now and May (2025) gives you a chance to win this incredible experience. Armando shares his journey as a hunter, firefighter, and police officer, and how his diverse background shaped his business. We dive into the innovative products he's created, including the Bow Hitch, the Solution Rifle Sling, and the new Tripod Sling—simply savage solutions for hunters everywhere. The conversation wraps with a look at Armando’s "Random Acts of Kindness" campaign, where he spreads positivity each January. Hunters from all over share stories of kindness and inspire others to pass it on and make a change. Plus, Armando offers HuntLeague members a special 15% discount at www.TheBowHitch.com with the code "HL15." Don’t miss out on this inspiring conversation, exclusive offer, and opportunity to win this incredible New Mexico elk hunt!

The wait is over! The 2024 HuntLeague Outdoorsman of the Year has arrived, showcasing the best hunters in the game. This prestigious honor represents the highest achievement in the hunting world, celebrating those who embody skill, perseverance, conservation, and leadership in the outdoors. This year, three elite hunters have risen to the top: 🔥 Brandon Anderson – A relentless hunter with unmatched precision. He finished first on the leaderboard, logging the most activities, he helped several hunters find success, and drove the most conservation miles volunteering for the RMEF. Will Brandon's long awaited Oregon pronghorn hunt and conservation work win him the crown? 🔥 Joshua Katanik – A titan in the hunting world, the Apex Predator and 2023 Sweet September league champion, a new father, and volunteer firefighter in his community. Joshua is a returning finalist dedicated to ethical hunting and passing down the knowledge he has gained. Will his once in a lifetime Idaho moose be enough to propel him to the top? 🔥 Rich "Daddy" Mayes – A true outdoorsman and conservationist. A grinder who overcame extreme challenges and grueling tracking jobs. Will his archery Arizona bull and his San Diego buck be enough to win over the judges? A panel of expert judges from HUXWRX, Seekins Precision, and MtnTough has taken on the impossible task of selecting this year’s champion, alongside past Outdoorsman of the Year winners who have set the standard. Who will claim the crown? Watch now to see the 2024 HuntLeague Outdoorsman of the Year revealed!   🔔 Subscribe for more hunting stories, strategies, and epic outdoor adventures! #HuntLeague #OutdoorsmanOfTheYear #HuntingLegends

In this episode, I sit down with Steve Osterholzer, founder of Of Mountains and Men, a faith-based ministry that takes young men on life-changing wilderness adventures. Steve shares his incredible journey—from his 26-year career as a U.S. Army lieutenant colonel to his passion for mentoring young men through hunting, fishing, and backcountry expeditions. We dive into the origins of Of Mountains and Men, the powerful experiences they create, and how these trips are shaping the next generation of men. Whether it's pronghorn and elk hunts, gator hunting in Florida, or fly fishing near Yellowstone, each adventure is designed to challenge, equip, and inspire young men to embrace their God-given identity. If you believe in the importance of raising up strong, capable men of faith, this conversation is for you. Steve shares how you can get involved—whether as a mentor, guide, supporter, or by connecting young men with these transformative FREE experiences. Listen in to learn: ✔️ How Of Mountains and Men started and why it matters ✔️ The powerful impact of wilderness adventures on young men ✔️ How you can support or participate in this movement 🔗 Learn more and get involved: OfMountainsandMen.org 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it! 

In this episode, we chat with Rich Mayes from San Diego, California, a 2024 HuntLeague Outdoorsman of the Year finalist. Rich’s incredible year includes drawing a coveted Arizona archery elk tag and dominating the Sweet September league. After seven years of persistence, he finally harvested a San Diego buck with his bow and topped the leaderboard in daily challenges among the finalists. Rich also finished second overall on the HuntLeague leaderboard, showcasing his dedication and skill throughout the year. Will these remarkable achievements be enough to sway the live judges and crown Rich as the 2024 HuntLeague Outdoorsman of the Year? Join us as we dive into his story, his passion for hunting, and the drive it takes to compete at this level. 🎯 Subscribe for more inspiring hunting stories!