The HUNTXP Podcast

Get ready for one of our most personal and fun episodes yet. JD and Jonny answer listener-submitted hunting questions — including some from JD’s own kids! From how to hunt bears, to why Jonny really does Hunt Xp, to favorite venison recipes and public land ethics — this episode is packed with real talk and wild stories.We also hit a fire-round of hot takes:🔥 Kuiu vs Sitka🔥 Trail cams ruining the game?🔥 Crossbows in their own season?🔥 TikTok hunters — good or bad?🔥 Face paint vs face mask🔥 And more…👀 Plus: Jonny breaks down how to age a buck from a real trail cam photo, and the guys share their dream hunts, funny school memories, and even what’s on their water bottles.🎧 Perfect for hunters who love gear, ethics, and community — and who aren’t afraid to laugh a little.👇 Drop your own questions in the comments — they might show up in Part 2!#HuntingPodcast #PublicLandHunter #BearHunting #KuiuVsSitka #HuntXp #DeerAging #TurkeyHunting #MeatEater #Archery #CrossbowDebate #HuntingQandA

In this first part of our special Q&A series, JD and Jonny tackle your questions on mobile hunting gear, rattling tactics, and how weather and pressure change your approach in the Midwest. They kick things off with a hands-on first impression of Trudave’s new waterproof rain set and 800g insulated boots—gear that came out of nowhere to earn a legit spot in our kit. We also unpack lessons from a full season of running and gunning with saddle systems, and dive into how and when to use tactics like rattling (especially in low deer-density areas).If you’re into mobile hunting, gear strategy, or trying to refine your cold-weather setup, this episode is for you. Stick around for laughs, hard-earned insights, and real talk about what works in the woods and what doesn’t.🧰 Gear discussed: • Trudave Waterproof Rain Gear • Trudave 800g Hunting Boots • Mobile hunting strategies (hang-and-hunt, saddle setups) • Tree stand system mods • Midwest-specific whitetail tactics👉Links + Discounts Below!Support the pod and grab the gear we trust: Trudave Boots & Rain Gear: Get 15% off with code "HXP15" Nested Tree Stand System: Get 10% off with "HUNT10"📩 Got a question for the next Q&A? Hit us up at info@huntxp.com or drop a comment on Spotify.

What happens when the hunting camp disappears—but the need for connection remains?In this episode of the HUNTXP Podcast, JD Larson and Jonny sit down with Walt Lee—former co-founder of the now-retired SoCo Hunt—to unpack how modern hunters are becoming increasingly disconnected, and why he’s building a new kind of Digital Deer Camp to bring real community back to the hunting world.As traditional forums fade and social media gets louder (and more toxic), many hunters feel isolated. Walt shares why SoCo ended, what he learned from building it, and how Digital Deer Camp aims to revive the best parts of old-school deer camp culture—camaraderie, mentorship, storytelling, and shared experience—without the noise.The crew dives into the cultural differences between North and South, the unique challenges of hunting Florida whitetails, the responsibility of monetizing hunting content, and the hard question: What impact are we actually having on the space we profit from?If you’ve ever felt like the only hunter at the party… or wondered where the real hunting community went… this one’s for you.🔥 Exclusive Community Discounts:• 15% Off Trudave Boots → Use code "HXP15"• 10% Off Nested Treestand Systems → Use code "HUNT10"📌 Topics Covered:Why SoCo Hunt endedThe birth of Digital Deer CampLoneliness in modern hunting cultureFlorida deer behavior & hunting strategiesPublic land responsibility & conservation ethicsBuilding positivity and humility in the hunting spaceReplacing social media noise with real connection#HuntingPodcast #DigitalDeerCamp #HUNTXP #WhitetailHunting #HuntingCommunity #PublicLandHunting #FloridaHunting #DeerCamp #ConservationEthics #ModernHunter #OutdoorCulture #HuntingLife #Trudave #NestedTreestand

In this episode of the HUNTXP Podcast, we sit down with Cole Booth and Mac from Gone All Season to break down the highs, lows, and lessons from their most ambitious whitetail season yet.From an epic muzzleloader drive in Ohio with The Hunting Public crew to solo public land sits in Sheboygan, these guys share what worked, what didn’t, and what it’s really like chasing whitetails while building a media brand from scratch.We get into: • Mac’s Driftless buck — their most watched hunt of the year • Cole’s ground-game rut success and the decision-making behind it • What freelance hunting content life actually looks like • How they scouted, traveled, and hunted smarter all season longNo fluff, no ego — just a couple of dudes putting in the work and letting the camera roll.🎯 If you hunt public land, dream about chasing deer full-time, or just want to hear the real stories behind the hunts — this one’s for you.@huntxpteam on insta Huntxp.com ⸻🔗 Links from the Show: • 🦌 Watch Mac’s Driftless Region Buck Hunt • 🌾 Cole’s Ground Hunt Rut Buck • 🎥 Gone All Season YouTube Channel @goneallseason  • 📸 Follow Gone All Season on Instagram⸻🧰 Audience Discounts & Gear Partner Links:🥾 Trudave Boots – Trusted by the HUNTXP crew.➡️ Claim Your Exclusive 15% Discount with HXP15 : 🌲 Nested Treestand Systems – Lightweight, mobile, deadly.➡️ Grab 10% Off Nested Systems Gearwith "HUNT10" code

In this episode of the HUNTXP Podcast, JD and Jonny break down their most-used hunting gear of 2025—and topping the list? The Nested Layering System, which crushed in comfort, versatility, and real-deal cold-weather performance. Whether you’re glassing muleys out West or posting up for rutting whitetails in the Midwest, this system flat-out works.We also get into gear that surprised us, held up through abuse, and a few that didn’t quite make the cut. From TrueDave boots that proved their grip on the ice, to heavy arrow setups from Easton, to saddle systems from Guard Pro, we’re giving you a year’s worth of field-tested feedback in under an hour.👊 Want to support the show? Click through our affiliate links below for every piece of gear we mention.🦌 Gear links: 1. Nested Layering System – Build-your-own layering kit: https://nestedtreestands.com/HUNT10 (10% off with code HUNT10) 2. TrueDave Boots – Slip-on, weatherproof boots with elite traction- Jonny's Deck boots - https://amzn.to/4qfseqy- JD's low-cut deck boots - https://amzn.to/3LvyivI- JD's Ankle cut hunting boots - https://amzn.to/4qAOACo- Waders - https://amzn.to/4qduVJh 3. Easton Full Metal Jacket Arrows (300 spine) – Built for heavy setups & ethical penetration: 4. VPA Broadheads – 3-blade design that hits like a hammer: - 3 blade: https://amzn.to/4swKFIK- Omega's: https://amzn.to/4bmbHMG 5. Gardepro Cameras: https://gardepro.com?utm_source=Affiliate+&utm_medium=KOL&utm_campaign=UpPromote+&sca_ref=8123869.ZMJqdIjuk7 --- Get 10% off with code HXP10 6. Barronett Blinds – Roomy, easy-to-pack-in ground blinds: 7. 10-Point Crossbows – High-performance accuracy for tight spots- Wicked Ridge Invader Decock : ⸻Episode Summary:JD and Jonny unpack a full season of gear testing in the 2025 HUNTXP Gear Review episode. Leading the way was the Nested Layering System, which proved itself across cold, wet, and active hunts. They also break down the top-performing boots, arrows, saddle setups, and blinds that earned a permanent spot in their gear room.Whether you’re gearing up for next fall or replacing cold-weather layers now, this is your insider look at what worked—and what didn’t—in the real world.Gear Covered • Nested Layering System • TrueDave Boots • Easton Arrows (300 spine) • VPA 3-Blade Broadheads • Guard Pro Tree Saddle System • Barronett Blinds • 10 Point Crossbow • KUIU Rain Gear & Western Apparel • Trail Cams • Bino Harnesses • Irish Setter Boots (briefly)Notable Quotes “If I could only wear one system from early season to deep cold—it’s Nested. It outperformed everything else in my pack.” — JD“The layering flexibility from Nested made it my go-to no matter what the forecast looked like.” — Jonny

Eric Clark of Okayest Hunter joins the HUNTXP Podcast for one of the most raw and real conversations we’ve had on modern hunting culture.After catching hate online for posting a photo of his first bow-killed doe, Eric realized just how toxic parts of the hunting community had become — especially toward newer or “average” hunters. That backlash sparked the launch of Okayest Hunter, a countercultural brand built to give voice to the 95% of hunters who don’t measure success in inches of antler.In this episode, we get into:The true story behind Eric’s viral bowhunting backlashHow Okayest Hunter is challenging the hunting industry’s egoThe cultural pushback from Michigan huntersRaising kids in a healthier deer camp cultureWhy humility is strength in the woodsIf you’ve ever been made to feel like your deer “wasn’t big enough,” or your hunt “didn’t count” — this episode is for you.🎙️ Hosted by JD Larson & Jonny🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube🌐 HUNTXP.com | OkayestHunter.com#OkayestHunter #HUNTXP #DeerHunting #WhitetailHunting #Bowhunting #PublicLandHunter #HuntingPodcast #HuntingCulture #MichiganHunting #EverymanHunter #HuntingCommunity #HuntingStories #DeerCamp #AuthenticHunting #ModernHunter #BlueCollarHunter #HuntingShaming #MidwestWhitetails #RealHunting #HumilityInHunting

We’re back from rutcation, and this one covers everything — from hunting new states to passing on the passion to our kids. JD had a close encounter with a mature buck… and busted it. That moment went viral — and so did the backlash. We unpack the miss, the fallout, and what it revealed about today’s internet hunting culture: quick to judge, slow to understand.But it wasn’t all busts. Jonny’s dad tagged a nice buck from his stand, and Jude dropped a buzzer-beater buck in the final moments of rifle season. We reflect on the pressure of hunting with your kids, what we learned this season, and why failure can be one of the most valuable teachers in the woods.🎯 Real hunts. Real failure. Real community.Gear we recommend Check out the nested tree standsUse code HUNTXP10 for 10% off! #HUNTXP #Rutcation #ViralFail #WhitetailHunting #HuntingPodcast #DeerSeason #HuntingCulture

Every hunter faces it sooner or later — that sinking feeling after the shot when the blood trail fades. In this episode, JD and Jonny sit down with Shane Simpson, co-creator of the TRAKR app and one of the most respected deer trackers in the country.Shane breaks down what really happens after the shot — from reading sign and understanding hit location, to how blood tracking dogs are changing recovery odds for hunters across the country. You’ll hear how the TRAKR app is connecting hunters and trackers faster than ever, what hunters should do (and not do) before calling a tracker, and how privacy and data are helping everyone become more ethical, successful hunters.Plus, the crew dives into mobile setups, off-season scouting, and how tools like the Nested Treestand system give hunters a serious edge in pressured states.This one’s packed with real talk, hard-earned lessons, and more than a few laughs.⸻🔗 Links & Resources🧭 Download the TRAKR App: https://www.gettrakr.com/▶️ Follow Shane Simpson on YouTube:  @ShaneSimpsonHunting  🌲 Check out Nested Treestands: https://nestedtreestands.com/HUNT10📸 Follow HUNTXP: HUNTXP.com ⸻🦴 Key Takeaways • How to interpret blood trails and hit sign before calling a tracker. • Why blood tracking dogs are changing the game — and how to find one fast. • The biggest mistakes hunters make after the shot (and how to avoid them). • The power of privacy and how the TRAKR app protects your hunting spots. • Why early-season scouting and real data can make you a better hunter. • Bonus: JD and Jonny share their funniest close calls and bear run-ins.#HUNTXP #DeerTracking #ShaneSimpson #TRAKRApp #WhitetailHunting #BloodTrail #HuntingDogs #DeerRecovery #BowhuntingTips #PublicLandHunter #HuntingEthics #DeerHuntingPodcast #TrackingDeerAfterTheShot

Sometimes the best hunts aren’t about filling tags — they’re about the people, the stories, and the moments that shape who we are as hunters. In this episode, JD Larson sits down with Garrett Davis, a Kansas bowhunter with a passion for traditional archery and chasing experiences over trophies.From growing up in the whitetail-rich plains to honing his craft with a stick and string, Garrett brings a grounded, humble take on why the journey matters more than the outcome. Whether you’re deep into trad life or just trying to slow down and enjoy the process again, this one’s packed with stories, lessons, and that campfire feel that makes hunting what it is.Even though technical gremlins sidelined Johnny halfway through, the conversation still runs deep — covering everything from Western hunts to life balance, faith, and finding joy in the grind.⸻🧭 Episode Highlights • Garrett’s take on what it means to “chase experience, not just game.” • Lessons learned bowhunting Kansas whitetails. • Why traditional archery builds mental toughness and patience. • How Garrett balances hunting, family, and purpose. • The beauty of slowing down and letting the woods teach you.🏹Quote “If you’re only hunting to fill a tag, you’re missing what the woods are really offering you.” – Garrett Davis

This week, JD and Jonny catch up with one of our favorite returning guests—Joe Jones from Outdoors in Color. From his first gobbler and a son’s first dove, to punching tags in elk country and stacking coyotes—Joe’s 2025 season was anything but slow.📍 Topics We Cover: • His full DIY Idaho elk hunt recap • Lessons from calling and scouting solo • Turkey hunting mistakes that almost cost him his first bird • Raising kids who hunt and fish • Coyote control and helping the neighbor • Off-season elk prep, gear changes, and physical trainingIf you’re a dad juggling the chaos of kids and camo—or just dreaming of the mountains—this one hits home.🔗 FOLLOW JOE:Instagram: @OutdoorsInColor💥 Don’t forget to leave a review, share the episode, and subscribe to HUNTXP wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode, we sit down with Derrick Dixon, founder of Whitetail Research, to dig into his groundbreaking thermal‑drone study of mature bucks. We unpack what drone footage reveals that GPS collar data often misses, explore why bucks move when they do (and when they don’t), and talk real tactics you can test this fall.Derrick’s story: how quitting his job and tracking deer for a full season led to one of the most talked-about whitetail projects on YouTubeWhy thermal drones expose movement patterns GPS collars can’tWhat triggers a mature buck to stand up, and how wind, thermals, and light interactHow to hunt “movement windows” most hunters never realize are happeningPractical tactics for everyday hunters—no expensive gear requiredHow staging areas, terrain edges, and overlooked travel corridors can be decoded by thermal flight patterns🔬 Whitetail Research Website: whitetailresearch.net🎥 Whitetail Research on YouTube (Derrick Dixon): youtube.com/@WhitetailResearchFeatured video: What 1 YEAR of Thermal Whitetail Research Taught MeWant more content like this? Gear breakdowns, strategy deep-dives, and real-talk about hunting in the modern world—it’s all happening at HUNTXP.com. Join the crew, level up your season, and get access to exclusive gear drops, giveaways, and member-only content.This is deer camp for the digital age. Welcome to HUNTXP.🎯 What You’ll Learn🔗 Links & Resources🧢 Join the HUNTXP Community

In this raw and real episode of the HUNTXP Podcast, JD and Jonny sit down with Melody, a fierce traditional archer and ground hunter, to unpack what it means to live the trad life. From overcoming neurological challenges to dropping does with a recurve, Melody's story hits deeper than most. She shares how shooting in her basement helped her win a Wisconsin state title, why she made the shift to ground hunting, and the mental and physical grit that traditional bowhunting demands.We also dig into gear talk—her go-to longbow (the Old Mountain Mesa), why repetition trumps range time, and how trad hunters can keep their edge year-round. If you’re into longbows, recurves, or just want to sharpen your woodsmanship, this one’s for you.Whether you're new to traditional archery or a seasoned stickbow hunter, you'll walk away challenged and encouraged.huntxp.com for more ➡️ Topics Covered:Winning a trad archery shoot with 9-yard basement practiceLiving with neurological conditions while staying in the huntTransitioning from treestand to ground huntingWhy off-season reps matter more than range timeBow setups, target habits, and muscle memoryBuilding a meaningful hunting lifestyle over hype📍Stay connected, stay consistent, and remember—traditional archery isn’t just a method. It’s a mindset.#TraditionalBowhunting#TraditionalArchery#LongbowLife#RecurveBow#GroundHunting#BowhuntingTips#BasementArchery#OldMountainMesa#WomenWhoHunt#StickbowChronicles#BowhuntingStories#OffSeasonTraining#MuscleMemoryMatters#TraditionalHunter#DIYBowhunting#Women in traditional archeryOld Mountain Mesa longbowBasement archeryReal-world bowhunting stories

In this episode of the HUNTXP Podcast, we sit down with Justin Gibbins, founder of Limitless Outdoors, to talk about his journey from Idaho to Alaska, building a hunting ministry, and how faith and the outdoors intersect in powerful ways. Justin shares his story of chasing moose in the Alaskan backcountry, launching Limitless Outdoors, and turning hunting into a platform for discipleship.We also touch on the origins of Sportsmen for God (S4G), balancing passion with faith, and the gear that makes tough hunts possible—including the Wicked Ridge M-1 with De-Cocking System, a crossbow designed for real-world hunters who need reliability and safety in the field.Whether you’re chasing whitetails in the Midwest, dreaming about Alaska, or looking to strengthen your walk with Christ while living the hunting lifestyle, this conversation will inspire and challenge you.Links Mentioned in This Episode: • HUNTXP.com → https://huntxp.com • Sportsmen for God → https://sportsmenforgod.org • Limitless Outdoors → https://limitlesshunting.com/ • Wicked Ridge M-1 Crossbow with De-Cocking → https://amzn.to/48u8fOIFollow HUNTXP: • Website: https://huntxp.com • Instagram: https://instagram.com/huntxpteam • YouTube: https://youtube.com/@huntxp

In this episode of the HuntXP Podcast, we sit down with Damon Wolfe, one of the fastest-rising filmmakers in the hunting industry. Damon has already built an impressive resume, filming with big names like Chris B. and Kaitlyn Maus, and telling hunting stories that stir emotion as much as they showcase the pursuit itself.From chasing whitetails and mule deer with a camera in hand to openly sharing his faith, Damon brings a fresh and inspiring voice to the hunting world. We talk about the grind of life on the road, the behind-the-scenes of outdoor storytelling, and what it takes to build a career as a hunting creative.Whether you’re here for gear talk, filmmaking insight, or the raw passion of someone who truly loves the hunt, this episode has it all.More at huntxp.com ⸻⏱️ Episode Breakdown • (00:00) Intro and catching up • (06:00) Damon’s start in filmmaking and early hunting influences • (15:00) Filming for Chris B. and Kaitlyn Maus • (22:00) Faith and perspective on the grind • (35:00) Behind the lens: the rush of filming hunts • (50:00) Gear, partnerships, and why Vapor Trail Archery is Damon’s go-to • (01:05:00) Closing thoughts and takeaways⸻🔗 Links and Gear from this EpisodeDamon Wolfe + All41 Creative • Follow Damon Wolfe on Instagram: @damonwolfe_ • Check out All41 Creative: all41creative.com • Follow All41 Creative on Instagram: @all41_creativeVapor Trail Archery: https://www.vaportrailarchery.com • Visit Vapor Trail Archery Pro Shop for tuning, bowstrings, and one-on-one service: Vapor Trail Archery Pro Shop👉 Shop the Gear: • VPA Three Blade Broadhead: https://amzn.to/4meSgbi • VPA Omegas: https://amzn.to/41xenld • Easton FMJ 500: https://amzn.to/47xjcyq • APEX GEAR Carbon Core Stabilizer: https://amzn.to/3JiGTAE • Apex Surge 3 Finger Release: https://amzn.to/45VA7cQ • APEX GEAR Covert 4 Pin Sight: https://amzn.to/3JBGysM • TruDave Waders: https://amzn.to/3V4DfwN - Trout waders: https://amzn.to/4lvp6U0 - Slip on water boots: https://amzn.to/3V3Y7Ej

In this episode, we sit down with Sam Soholt — hunter, conservationist, photographer, and one of the most creative voices in the outdoor space.Sam grew up in South Dakota, cut his teeth with Midwest Whitetail and the Hunting Public crew, and then branched out on his own. He founded Public Land Tees, a T-shirt company where $5 from every sale goes directly to land conservation, and he built the legendary Public Land Bus with his brother to promote public lands across the country.Sam’s work has reached all corners of the hunting world, including photographing hunts with Joe Rogan. His images and conservation message have helped bring public land advocacy to a wider audience, showing how hunting, storytelling, and culture intersect.Today, Sam continues to lead through his conservation projects and as the host of the Field & Stream Podcast. We dive into his journey, his work with Rogan, the evolution of Public Land Tees, and the mindset it takes to create meaningful change in the hunting community.🔗 Resources Mentioned in the Show Notes:Public Land Tees: https://www.publiclandtees.comThe Public Land Bus Project: https://www.publiclandbus.comField & Stream Podcast (hosted by Sam): https://www.fieldandstream.com/podcast👉 If you enjoy this conversation, hit subscribe and drop a comment with your favorite part of the episode.#SamSoholt #JoeRogan #PublicLandOwner #PublicLandBus #PublicLandTees #HuntingPodcast #FieldAndStream #Conservation #PublicLandHunter #WhitetailHunting #DeerHunting #HuntersLife #HuntingCommunity

Episode 2 of Season 2 of the HUNTXP Podcast brings on Wisconsin native Gabe Denzine — a hunter, storyteller, and creative who’s carved his own path in the outdoor industry. From his wild 186-inch Minnesota public land buck story (yes, it involves American Eagle underwear and a broken nose) to his unfiltered insights on chasing big woods whitetails, Gabe keeps it real.We dig into: • Hunting whitetails in the vast Northern woods. • Life with Tourette’s and what it means in the deer stand. • How Gabe built a career through storytelling and networking. • Gear talk, early season prep, and plenty of laughs.If you want hunting stories with heart — and lessons you can take into your own season — this is a must-listen.🔗 Episode Links (Using these links helps support the channel): • Gabe’s YouTube Channel:  @huntingwithtourettes  • TruDave Deck Boots • TruDave Waders • VPA Omaga | VPA 3 blade Broadheads

Nick Andrews didn’t take the traditional path into the hunting industry. From growing up in Texas with a dream of hunting for a living, to serving in the Marine Corps, to stumbling into photography and videography, Nick’s story is anything but ordinary.In this episode of the HUNTXP Podcast, we sit down with Nick to unpack his winding road into hunting media and how it eventually led him to a full-time spot with The Hunting Public. We dive into:Nick’s background in the Marine Corps and how military discipline shaped his hunting approachThe coin-flip moment that sent him to art school and into photographyHow stumbling onto The Hunting Public’s turkey tour on Amazon Prime lit the fireWhy he almost didn’t apply for the THP internship (and how a buddy convinced him)The skillet story that may have sealed the deal for his full-time gigMy grandmother’s timeless advice: “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” — and how it surprisingly connects hereNick’s perspective on creating hunting content and building community through storytellingWhether you’re dreaming about breaking into the hunting industry, or just love hearing behind-the-scenes stories of The Hunting Public crew, this episode is full of real talk, lessons learned, and some laughs from camp.🎧 Don’t miss this one. Subscribe to HUNTXP so you never miss a drop.

The HUNTXP Season One finale is here! JD & Jonny relive the best hunting stories and insights from a year of podcasting with legends like John Eberhart, Greg Godfrey, and Garrett Prahl. Expect epic advice, laughs, and real-world lessons from hunters who walk the walk. Subscribe to catch Season Two – it’s just getting started.Episode Overview:It’s the season one send-off, and JD & Jonny are back to catch up, share some laughs, and relive the best moments from the year. From epic hunts to life-changing advice, this highlight reel includes:Season One Guest Highlights: • Hayden Engle – Early season prep & mental game. • Jeremiah Stavne (Modern Day Mountain Man) – Filming hunts, chasing mountain bucks. • Ben Larson – Conservation and the hunting community. • Levi Illick – Real talk on modern whitetail pressure. • Greg Godfrey (Tethrd) – Mobile hunting & saddle hunting evolution. • Cole Booth (Gone All Season) – Life on the road chasing game all year long. • Roy Holdford – Wild stories from the Turkey Van Tour. • Mel Heage – Representing the renaissance woman in hunting. • Garrett Prahl (DIY Sportsman) – Technical scouting and public land mindset. • John Eberhart – Scent control, door knocking, and next-level strategy. • Cody Kraut (GrowingDeer.tv) – Land management tips that actually work.What You’ll Hear: • Behind-the-scenes moments from JD & Jonny • New gear talk: GuardPro X66 trail cam & Trudev boots • Why the MeatEater store is worth a visit • Reflections on building HUNTXP from scratch • A sneak peek at what’s to come in Season 2Affiliate Mentions: • GardePro Trail Cams – Tested in the field, JD & Jonny give honest feedback on performance. (https://www.huntxp.com/blog/guardpro-... ) • Trudave Boots – Rubber boots redesigned for the modern hunter. (https://www.huntxp.com/blog/trudave-l...)

In the third and final episode of our three-part series on wolves, JD and Jonny sit down without a guest to process everything we’ve learned — and ask the question many hunters in the Northwoods are thinking:Should we have a wolf hunting season?After deep dives with Steve Porter (wildlife advocate and elk farmer) and Dan Stark (MN DNR's top wolf biologist), this episode is all about real talk. It’s not just science or sentiment — it’s the intersection of boots-on-the-ground experience, ethical hunting, and wildlife management.Expect raw takes, honest questions, and thoughtful reflections on:What we learned from both guestsHow media shapes the wolf narrativeWhat the data says (and doesn’t say)The cultural tension between predator protection and deer camp realityWhy most hunters are stuck between frustration and apathyWe're not trying to win arguments. We're trying to grow understanding — and maybe help push the conversation forward.🎯 If you hunt, manage land, or just care about conservation, this episode is for you.⏱️ Episode Timestamps:00:00 – Intro & Turkey Camp Banter06:15 – Reflecting on Steve Porter’s Passion09:30 – Inside the Mind of Dan Stark, DNR Biologist14:40 – The Bar Talk vs. The Science21:00 – Our Take: Is a Wolf Season Viable?28:45 – Public Perception & Predator Politics35:10 – Modeling a Better Hunting Conversation42:00 – Outro: What’s Next for HUNTXP#WolfHunting #HUNTXP #WhitetailConservation #MNOutdoors #PredatorControl #HuntingPodcast #ElkVsWolves #WolfDebate #MidwestHunters #ConservationMatters #OutdoorLife #FieldToTable #MeatEaterStyle #PublicLandHunting

What’s really stopping a wolf hunting season in Minnesota? 🐺 In this deep-dive episode of the Hunt XP Podcast, we sit down with Dan Stark, Large Carnivore Specialist for the MN DNR, to unpack the truth about wolves, whitetails, and policy gridlock. From moose calf mortality to cougar sightings and public land strategy, this is a must-watch for hunters, conservationists, and wildlife nerds alike.🔥 Topics Covered:Why wolves are still federally protectedCougar populations in MNImpact of wolves on moose calvesThe legal framework behind predator controlThe inside scoop on the future of wolf seasons👊 Brought to you by the crew at HuntXP.com — your source for no-BS hunting gear reviews, tactics, and how-tos.🧠 More from Dan Stark:Minnesota DNR Wolf Management Plan: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/mammals/wolves/mgmt.html📌 Follow us for more real talk from the field:🔗 Website: https://www.huntxp.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/huntxpteam📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@huntxp#WolfHunting #MinnesotaDNR #PredatorManagement #HuntXP #DanStark #WhitetailHunting #PublicLandHunter #WolvesInMinnesota #MooseDecline #HuntingPodcast #HuntResponsibly #ConservationConversation #CarnivoreEcology