InCamp Podcast

Ep. 43In this episode of InCamp Podcast, I sit down with Nick Lindner to talk ice fishing — from walleyes to whatever else bites. We break down practical fishing techniques, how to use sonar technology effectively, and how bait selection changes depending on species, conditions, and local rules.Nick shares stories from fishing competitions, family trips, and memorable days chasing fish on the ice. We cover ice fishing safety, including spud bars, flotation suits, and reading ice conditions, plus the gear that actually makes a difference.Whether you’re chasing walleyes, panfish, or muskies, this episode is packed with insights on how to fish smarter, stay safe, and make time for family and tradition while on the ice.Takeaways:Fish behavior: walleyes, panfish, muskiesIce fishing safety: spud bars, flotation, reading iceSonar tech: speeds up finding fish, aids decisionsBait selection: species, conditions, local rulesFamily trips & traditionsCompetition fishing: sharpens skillsIce & weather conditions matterPatience and timing pay offhttps://www.youtube.com/c/NickLindnerhttps://www.instagram.com/nicklindnerfishing/

In this Field Notes conversation, I sit down with Megan Plete to talk beagles — why they’re built the way they are, what makes them special in the field, and what it actually takes to own and train one. We get into instinct vs training, patience, and the realities of running dogs that are bred to follow their nose. We also touch on rabbit hunting as the backdrop for why beagles do what they do, along with stories that show just how tough, quirky, and driven these dogs really are. If you’ve ever thought about owning a beagle or running dogs, this one gives a real look at the good, the challenging, and the rewarding parts.TakeAways:Beagles are small, dense, and tough — built to push through rough coverYou don’t train instinct into a dog, you learn how to work with itPatience matters more than perfection when starting beaglesEvery beagle has its own personality and quirksOwning and running dogs is a commitment, not a shortcut

Ep. 42In this episode of InCamp, I sit down with Nathan Endicott to talk about growing up in a hunting family and how those early camp experiences shaped the way he approaches the outdoors today. We get into the real differences between blacktail and whitetail hunting, what changes when you cross state lines, and how elk hunting forces you to level up—both mentally and physically.Nathan shares why fitness matters when hunts get steep, long, and unforgiving, and how preparation off the mountain shows up when it counts. We also talk about faith, community, and how hunting has a way of putting life into perspective. From family traditions to chasing elk and blacktails, this conversation is rooted in experience, lessons learned the hard way, and a genuine love for being outside.TakeAways:https://www.youtube.com/c/NathanEndicott_FilmsGrowing up in a hunting family builds long-term perspective and respect for camp lifeBlacktail and whitetail require very different approaches and expectationsElk hunting exposes gaps in preparation fast—fitness mattersTime in the mountains teaches discipline, patience, and humilityFaith and hunting often intersect when things get hardCommunity and shared hunts make the experiences last longer than the killConsistency and preparation are what turn opportunities into successhttps://www.youtube.com/c/NathanEndicott_Filmshttps://www.instagram.com/nathan4you/?hl=en

In this InCamp Field Notes episode, I break down a quick-hit conversation with fitness coach Chandler Marchman on how small, consistent daily habits can change your hunting season—and your life.Chandler shares how consistency builds discipline, how mobility keeps hunters effective, and why showing up—even on your busiest days—matters more than any perfect workout.https://www.instagram.com/coachmandler/?hl=enhttps://www.youtube.com/@CoachMANdlerhttps://marchmanstrength.com/

In this episode of the InCamp Podcast, Ben and I sit down and talk through what growing up in the outdoors really meant for us — the memories, the lessons, and the responsibility that comes with hunting. From childhood pheasant hunts to out-of-state adventures, we dig into how hunting shaped our values, our family bond, and our respect for wildlife.We talk honestly about the profound side of hunting — compassion for the animal, ethical decision-making, and why following the rules matters. We also get into the reality of planning big hunts: investing in tags, preparing physically for altitude, managing expectations, and handling frustration when things don’t go as planned.This conversation is about the full experience — preparation, food, butchering, storytelling, and the memories that stick long after the hunt ends. Hunting has always been our way of connecting to nature, our food, and each other — and that’s what this episode is really about.Takeaways:• Hunting played a major role in shaping our identity and family bond• Ethical hunting and compassion for wildlife matter• Preparation and research are critical for out-of-state hunts• Physical fitness impacts success at higher elevations• Managing expectations makes the experience more enjoyable• Hunting is about the process, not just the kill• Butchering and meat care deepen respect for the animal• The best hunting stories usually come from adversity

In this Christmas edition of the In Camp Podcast, I sit down with my wife Elizabeth for an honest conversation about marriage, hunting, family, and faith. We talk through what it’s really like balancing personal passions like hunting and outdoor activities with the responsibilities that come with marriage and family life.We also open up about the emotional weight of losing a pet, how that season tested us, and why creating new traditions helped us heal and move forward together. This episode isn’t about tactics or tags—it’s about support, communication, and understanding each other through every high and low.As the year comes to a close, this conversation is a reminder that time outdoors can recharge relationships, faith anchors us when life feels heavy, and the people who support us matter more than anything we chase in the woods.Takeaways:Communication is the foundation of a strong marriageSupport matters when balancing hunting and family lifePersonal passions and family responsibilities must coexistPet loss is real grief and deserves space to healCreating new traditions helps families move forwardShared moments—indoors or outdoors—build deeper connectionFaith brings perspective during life’s toughest seasons

As the season winds down and hunting pressure is at its peak, this conversation with Tyson Pottenger zooms out and looks at what it really means to hunt whitetails for an entire season. From postseason scouting to scrapes, pressure, and mindset, Tyson shares the kind of lessons that only come from years of paying attention after most hunters pack it in.We talk about tracking individual bucks, why scrapes and mock scrapes matter more than most hunters realize, and how deer behavior changes as pressure stacks up throughout the season. Tyson also shares what hunting Idaho’s rugged terrain has taught him about adaptability, resilience, and mental toughness when things don’t go as planned.This episode isn’t just about tactics — it’s about understanding deer, learning from failure, and using every season as a stepping stone toward becoming a better hunter. Whether you’re still grinding through late season or already thinking about next fall, this one will help you see the bigger picture.Takeaways:Postseason scouting should begin immediately after the season endsTracking specific bucks year to year reveals critical movement patternsScrapes are major communication hubs and deserve priority during scoutingMock scrapes are effective when placed in secure locations with natural movementHuman scent management is critical when creating and maintaining mock scrapesHunting pressure dramatically influences deer behavior and daylight movementLate October is often an overlooked but productive window for mature bucksMountain and Western-style hunting requires adaptability and resilienceEvery buck has its own personality and behavioral tendenciesMental toughness is essential when seasons don’t go as plannedLearning from failure is part of becoming a consistent hunterMentorship plays a major role in developing hunters and strengthening the communitySuccess in hunting is about the journey, not just the end resulthttps://www.instagram.com/tyson.pottenger/?hl=enhttps://www.lonewolfcustomgear.com/pages/whitetail-addictions?srsltid=AfmBOopZHeua3EiaRF2xKi0Jdm4DBXYgqo7Dx5l3ZW20LuRdkhNRbq2o

In this episode of InCamp, I sit down with Jared Larsen from OnX to break down practical whitetail hunting strategies that actually translate from the map to the woods. We dig into how OnX hunting tools help speed up scouting, identify killable terrain, and understand deer movement, especially during the late season.Jared shares how he uses topography, terrain analysis, and LIDAR to uncover overlooked features that most hunters walk right past. We talk about why postseason scouting is one of the most valuable times of year, how winter sign tells the real story, and how adapting your approach based on conditions is often the difference between hoping and consistently getting opportunities.If you’re serious about improving your whitetail hunting, learning how to scout smarter, and using hunting technology like OnX with purpose, this episode is packed with takeaways you can apply immediately.Takeaways:OnX simplifies scouting and terrain analysisTopography plays a major role in deer movementLate-season hunting means keying in on food and pressureLIDAR reveals hidden terrain features most hunters missWinter scouting exposes true deer travel routesKillable terrain matters more than deer numbersOrganized waypoints help build long-term hunting strategyhttps://www.onxmaps.com/https://www.instagram.com/jaredclarsen/?hl=en

Summary:In this episode of the InCamp Podcast, I'm talking with Travis Frank — host of The Flush TV and podcast. Travis opens up about how hunting shaped his life, from guiding fishing trips to telling the best stories in the uplands. We dig into what makes bird hunting so addicting — the dogs, the wild places, the challenges, and the payoffs.We break down out-of-state adventure hunts, late-season strategies, and why scouting and understanding the ecosystem matter more than fancy gear. We hit on building bird dogs the right way, lessons learned from the good dogs (and the stubborn ones), and making wild game meals that remind you why the work is worth it.This one’s packed with good stories, grit, and the heart behind conservation and mentorship — because we all have someone who showed us the way into the outdoors, and now it’s our turn.Takeaways:Mentorship keeps hunting alive — pass it onBird dogs aren’t just tools; they’re partnersOut-of-state success starts with e-scouting + habitat knowledgeConservation is our responsibility as huntersWild food connects the whole experiencehttps://www.theflush.tv/https://www.instagram.com/travis_t_frank/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/incamp_podcast/

SummaryIce season is almost here, and we’re diving in. In this episode of InCamp Field Notes, Drew Mininger and I talk through the gear we trust, the fish we chase, and how to keep the ice fishing camp vibe strong — especially when kids are along for the adventure. We hit the must-know safety checks, the simple setups that catch more fish, and why winter might be the most underrated time to be outdoors. If you’re fired up to drill holes, swap stories, and maybe sneak in a late-season hunt…this one’s for you.Takeaways:Ice safety first — spud bars, ice picks, smart decisionsKeep gear simple: rods, tackle, shelter basics that matterHow to find active fish under the iceMake it fun: snacks, heaters, and camp storytelling with buddies and kidsWhy winter hunting + fishing keeps the season alivehttps://www.instagram.com/incamp_podcast/

In this episode of the InCamp Podcast, I sit down with Autumn McEntee—trapper, predator hunter, and all-around outdoors advocate. We dig into the real fundamentals of trapping, from reading animal behavior to dialing in the right baits and lures. Autumn breaks down how mentorship shaped her journey, why the fur market still matters, and how tools like crossbows help make the outdoors more accessible.We also talk about the growing presence of women in hunting, the importance of good gear, and those moments in the field that remind us why we love being outside. It’s a conversation rooted in respect for wildlife, growth, and keeping our traditions alive. Takeaways:• Success in trapping starts with understanding animal habits and habitat.• The right baits and lures make or break your sets.• Mentorship accelerates learning and keeps traditions strong.• The fur market remains a renewable, usable resource.• Crossbows open doors for new hunters and those with physical limitations.• Women in hunting continue to push the culture forward.• Good gear = more time, comfort, and success in the field.• Appreciation for wildlife should guide every outdoorsman and woman.https://www.instagram.com/pa.trapper.girl/?hl=en

In this Field Notes episode, I break down some of the core fundamentals from my conversation with Autumn McEntee and tie them back to real-world takeaways you can put to use in the woods. From how she reads animal behavior to the way baits, lures, and trap placement come together, this recap highlights the things that actually move the needle for trappers and predator hunters.Takeaways:• Animal behavior dictates everything — from travel routes to trap set choices.• You don’t need fancy gear, but you do need the right baits and lures.• Good mentors save years of trial and error.• The fur market remains part of conservation and renewable use.• Crossbows and modern gear help more people access the outdoors.• Respect for wildlife should lead every set, shot, and decision.https://www.instagram.com/pa.trapper.girl/?hl=en

In this episode of the InCamp Podcast, I sit down with Brendon Paden of Camp Co., a guy who’s doing real work for conservation, Pennsylvania hunting traditions, and the next generation coming into the woods. We dig into everything from the slow comeback of grouse to raising bird dogs, the difference between bird camp and deer camp, and why community matters in keeping our hunting heritage strong.Brendon also opens up about his wife’s battle with cancer and how it inspired his now well-known pink shotgun project—every bird he shoots helps raise money and awareness. It’s the kind of personal journey that reminds you why the outdoors means so much more than just punching a tag.From pheasant hunting, duck hunting, and mentored youth hunts, to giving back and building something that lasts, this one’s full of the stories and the heart hunters everywhere will connect with.Takeaways:Camp Co. was built around giving back and supporting conservation.Grouse numbers show early signs of improvement in pockets of PA.Youth engagement and mentored hunting are shaping the next generation.The pink shotgun initiative raises awareness and funds for breast cancer.Bird camp, deer camp—both build the camaraderie that keeps hunting alive.Community involvement and small efforts add up in conservation.Early outdoor experiences spark lifelong huntershttps://www.campcogoods.com/collections/apparelhttps://www.instagram.com/camp__co/

Happy Thanksgiving on this week's episode of Whitetail Brief!Today I'm so thankful for the beautiful family and friends God has given me. I'm excited for the opening weekend of Pennsylvania Rifle season. Sharing traditions and making new ones is a past, present, and future past-time for many Pennsylvanians. There's nothing quite like deer camp.In other news, this is the last episode of the Whitetail Brief for the season. There will be new short episodes coming out in a slightly different format that you are sure to enjoy. They might even help you learn something new or keep you in the great outdoors longer!

In this episode of the In Camp Podcast, I sit down with the deer camp crew — Rich Yoder, Justin Eberly, and Tanner Kurtz — to talk Pennsylvania firearms season opener: stories from camp, the worst drags and packouts, gear we actually trust, and the traditions that keep us coming back every season.We get into how mentors shaped the hunters we became, the way hunting culture has changed (for better and worse), and why the PA rifle season opener still feels like Christmas morning for grown men. It’s real camp talk: the jokes, the memories, the stuff that sticks with you, and why spending time in the woods with good people matters more than any tag you fill.Hunting stories, hunting gear talk, PA rifle season excitement, camaraderie, game-dragging strategy, and a whole lot of tradition — this one is exactly what rifle camp feels like.Takeaways    •    Mentors and old-school hunting traditions still matter.    •    Rifle camp camaraderie is the glue that keeps hunters coming back.    •    The crew’s favorite (and most underrated) rifle-season gear.    •    Smarter ways to drag deer without breaking yourself.    •    Technology’s role in how hunting traditions evolve.    •    PA rifle season prep — what actually counts.    •    Storytelling, humor, and camp memories.

In this episode of the Whitetail Brief, I sit down with Dave Norman as he shares a raw, firsthand look into one of his most memorable hunts. From a tense morning in the woods to the sudden rush when deer behavior shifts on a dime, Dave walks us through every moment — the encounters, the lessons, and the final 26-yard shot.It’s a story about reading wildlife, staying patient, and trusting your shot when the time comes.Whether you live for the challenge of archery hunting, or you just appreciate a real outdoor adventure, this conversation is packed with insight and authenticity.

Summary:In this episode of the InCamp Podcast, I sit down with fitness coach Chandler Marchman to explore how hunting and fitness intersect to make us stronger—in the woods, in the field, and in life. We talk kettlebell training, mobility, and mental toughness, and how these tools help hunters move better, stay patient, and perform at their best. Chandler shares his journey from fitness to hunting, practical tips for building consistency, and lessons on persistence and discipline that translate from the gym to the outdoors. This conversation isn’t just about hunting or working out—it’s about how showing up every day can improve your life.Takeaways:    •    Kettlebell training enhances hunting performance.    •    Mobility and movement prep are critical in the field.    •    Consistent fitness routines build discipline and mental toughness.    •    Persistence and patience are essential for both hunting and life.    •    Personal hunting stories illustrate the value of presence and focus.https://www.youtube.com/@CoachMANdlerhttps://www.instagram.com/coachmandler/

This week on the InCamp Whitetail Brief, I’m breaking down what’s been one of the trickiest Pennsylvania whitetail seasons I’ve seen in a while. Deer movement hasn’t followed the usual patterns, scrapes are showing up in odd places, and the scouting game has felt off. I talk through what I’ve been seeing in the woods, how I’ve had to make in-season adjustments, and why every hunting area seems to go through cycles.From busted hunts to unexpected success, this one’s about learning to pivot, get creative, and make the most of what the woods are giving you right now. Whether you’re in a rut (pun intended) or trying to dial in late-season strategies, this episode’s full of takeaways that’ll help you stay adaptable and keep the hunt fun.Takeaways:    •    Every hunting spot runs in cycles—don’t panic, adapt.    •    Scrape activity tells a bigger story than just buck sign.    •    Deer movement is shifting—stay flexible and scout smart.    •    Sometimes you’ve gotta get creative and enjoy the ride.https://www.instagram.com/incamp_podcast/?hl=en

This week on InCamp Podcast, I sit down with Victoria Friedges to talk hunting, archery, fishing, and everything that comes with living an outdoor lifestyle. We get into how family and community shape who we are as hunters, how tech and social media fit into the mix, and why it’s so important to share your story and keep learning.Victoria’s done a little bit of everything — from running a trapline with her dad to managing hunting land and jumping into archery — and she’s honest about the challenges and growth that come with it. We talk about women finding their place in the outdoor world, staying versatile, and being the example you want others to follow when it comes to conservation and respect for the hunt.⸻Takeaways     •    Family and community fuel a lifelong love for hunting and fishing.    •    Learning new things — like picking up archery — builds confidence and keeps it fun.    •    Managing land and understanding deer behavior is all about patience and strategy.    •    Social media can connect us, but responsibility matters.    •    Women in the outdoors are pushing boundaries and inspiring the next generation.    •    Growth in hunting isn’t just about success — it’s about learning from the journey.https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/she-goes-beyond/id1790348733https://www.youtube.com/@shegoesbeyondhttps://www.instagram.com/shegoesbeyondthe8/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/victoriafriedges/?hl=en

In this week’s Whitetail Brief I catch up with Dan Johnson and dig into the heart of rut hunting — that magical window when bucks are chasing and the woods turn electric. We talk about embracing the “rutcation” mindset: yes, you’re working a job, you’ve got family responsibilities, but this is your chance to lean into the rut and make the most of it. We share stories from the field, balancing family and time in the stand, and getting sharp on deer behaviour. The big message: when bucks are ready to breed and does aren’t quite there yet, that’s prime real estate. Weather shifts matter. Doesn’t matter how many rubs and scrapes you’ve got if the does aren’t moving. We shift focus to staging areas near doe bedding, and caution against over-calling — subtlety wins. Plus, we talk kids in the woods and using trail-camera data like gold. If you’re chasing whitetails during the rut, this one’s for you.⸻Take-Aways:    •    “Rutcation” is your shot at hunting during the rut even with work/family.    •    Balance family + hunting = better time in the woods, less guilt.    •    Study deer behaviour — that’s your edge.    •    Peak window: bucks ready, does not yet.    •    Weather changes = deer movement changes.    •    Tracking does > obsessing over rubs and scrapes.    •    Hunt where does are bedding and staging.    •    Don’t over-call — subtlety gets results.    •    Bring the kids — rut hunts can be memorable for everyone.    •    Use trail-camera intel to plan hunts smart