The WhitetailDNA Podcast

Welcome back to another episode of the WhitetailDNA Podcast! On today's episode, we sit down with Nathan Nelson of Still Water Outdoors to talk about the art and grind of tracking bucks in the snow on public land. Nathan shares how his passion for tracking first began, how that obsession eventually grew into filming and starting Stillwater Outdoors, and the unique challenges that come with tracking down big woods bucks in the harsh conditions of northern Wisconsin. We dive into how he identifies big buck tracks from the rest, and how to tell fresh tracks from old tracks. Nathan explains the ideal snow and weather conditions for successful tracking and how to approach each track. He also recounts memorable encounters from this past season that highlight both the highs and lows of hunting on the ground. Lastly, the guys dive into hunting over bait and why it isn't nearly as effective as many people might think. If you're curious about woodsmanship, late-season strategy, and learning deer behavior, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website Shop WDNA Merch The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru  

Welcome back to another episode of the WhitetailDNA Podcast! On today's episode, we go over some of our favorite hunting gear that would make great gifts for the hunter in your family. We cover everything from clothing systems, trail cameras, stands and sticks, backpacks, and much more. Whether you're shopping for a seasoned bowhunter, a hardcore rifle hunter, or just someone who loves to be outside, this episode will help you fill those last-minute Christmas lists that every hunter will appreciate. Enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website Shop WDNA Merch The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru

Welcome back to another episode of the WhitetailDNA Podcast! On today's episode, we cover all things late season—and right now, for most of the Midwest, the conditions are near perfect. Snow-covered ground, frigid temperatures, and food sources are shaping up to be the perfect recipe to kill a late-season buck. We break down how to key in on a variety of food sources, identifying transitional areas between bedding and food, and locating the hidden pockets where the deer are now. Lastly, we cover cold-weather gear that will keep you warm and lethal during those cold, brutal sits. If you're looking to capitalize during the toughest stretch of the season, this episode is for you. Enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website Shop WDNA Merch The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru

Welcome back to another episode of the WhitetailDNA Podcast! On today's episode, we are back in our favorite bow shop, Custom Archery & Outdoors, catching up with Randy Graber as he recaps his bow season chasing big bucks in Wisconsin and Illinois. We dive into all things bowhunting deer, recapping Randy's seasons in Buffalo County and Illinois. Randy explains his decision to commit fully to a traditional bow this season, and what challenges come with hunting with a trad bow. The guys discuss the benefits of using a bright white headlamp vs a red light headlamp, and how it affects deer behavior. The episode closes out with winter leagues coming up at Custom Archery, why they're exploding in popularity, and why you should get signed up to hone your archery skills for next season. We love popping into our favorite bow shop and shooting the sh*t with Randy. Make sure you visit Custom Archery & Outdoors for all your archery needs. Enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website Shop WDNA Merch The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru

Welcome back to the WhitetailDNA Podcast! On today's episode of the podcast, Jeremy breaks down the full story of how he managed to tag his target buck in just two sits. The guys uncover the history of this deer, including the tactics used to get an arrow in this buck, and the in-season clues that confirmed the rut was underway. Jeremy showcases a decision he made that ultimately led him to wrap his tag around "Bogey." This is a great conversation filled with real-world takeaways and offers a look at what it takes to target a specific deer during one of the most frustrating yet exciting months of the year. Be sure to head over to the YouTube channel to watch the full hunt for "Bogey." Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website Shop WDNA Merch The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru

Welcome back to another episode of the WhitetailDNA Podcast! On today's episode, we break down what the first half of November has really looked like in the whitetail woods and why things may not be as "finished" as some hunters think. We dive into why this window can actually be one of the best times of the entire season to kill a mature buck you've never laid eyes on before, and why committing to all-day sits is still absolutely worth it. We also get into the specific areas you should be honing in on right now, how to effectively call and decoy mature bucks into bow range, and why many rut reports you're hearing might be skewed or misleading. If you're wondering whether to stay in the tree or hang it up, this is the episode you don't want to miss. Enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website Shop WDNA Merch The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru

Welcome back to another episode of the WhitetailDNA Podcast! There's no better time to be in the woods than November, and to top it off, we spent the last week in southern Iowa. On today's episode, we recap the week of rut hunting in Iowa. Garrett walks us through his first trip to Iowa in late October, what lessons he learned when chasing mature bucks, shuffling cameras, and dialing in a game plan for November. The guys head back down for a week of prime rut hunting and, surprisingly, face a slow start. With some great encounters and some slow days, that's exactly the recipe for November, even in Iowa! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website Shop WDNA Merch The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru

Welcome back to another episode of the WhitetailDNA Podcast! On today's episode, the team sits down and shares Luke's story of the buck he killed in October, named "Vanilla." Luke breaks down the hunt from start to finish, dating back to the last two years. He covers door knocking, scouting, setup, and tactics that came together to make it happen. The team dives into lessons learned from Luke's October success, discussing what worked, what didn't, and how those takeaways can be applied in November. As the rut heats up, they also look ahead to what's next for the WhitetailDNA crew, sharing proven rut tactics, hunting strategies, and insights to help you tag your own November buck. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website Shop WDNA Merch The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru

Welcome back to the WhitetailDNA Podcast! On today's episode, we are covering our top 5 "never forgets" every deer hunter needs to keep in mind during the whitetail rut. Physically and mentally, these are the essentials that can make or break November. Some of these topics, many of us have fallen victim to and get caught up in. Never forget what's most important to you. Whether you're after a target buck or soaking in the chaos of the rut, this episode is your reminder to stay focused, hunt smart, and enjoy every second of the most exciting time of the deer season. Enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website Shop WDNA Merch The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru  

Welcome back to the WhitetailDNA Podcast! On today's episode, we are joined by our friend Jeff Sturgis. Jeff is the owner and operator of Whitetail Habitat Solutions and Pure Wildlife Blends Seed Company. As October heats up, so does buck movement—Jeff breaks down exactly how to capitalize during the critical pre rut phase. We dive deep into strategies that include hunting water sources, food sources, active scrapes, and why understanding the difference between a morning and evening stand can make or break your hunt. Jeff shares decades of insight on stand timing, buck behavior, and how to put yourself in the right place at the right time for a shot at a mature buck before the chaos of the rut kicks in. If you're looking to up your odds late October, this is a must-listen. Enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website Shop WDNA Merch The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru  

Welcome back to the WhitetailDNA Podcast! On today's episode, we're joined by Derrick Dixon of Whitetail Research — a whitetail behavior expert who's taking deer scouting to the next level. Using thermal drone technology, Derrick tracks mature bucks in real time and records their every move, creating data-rich YouTube videos that reveal the untold story of how these elusive deer truly behave. We dive deep into the patterns, tendencies, and behaviors of mature bucks, the kind most hunters never witness from a treestand. From unexpected movement times to off-the-grid bedding areas to thermal hubs and wind funnels, Derrick breaks down what he's learned from endless drone footage and meticulous documentation. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just obsessed with big bucks, this episode will challenge what you think you may know about mature whitetails. Enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website Shop WDNA Merch The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru  

Welcome back to another episode of the WhitetailDNA Podcast! On today's episode, we are joined by Jared Larsen of OnX Hunt. Jared has worked for OnX for over the last 8 years and has been a part of the rapid growth over the years. Jared has grown up chasing whitetails in Wisconsin and currently resides in Montana. Jared talks about the importance of utilizing OnX before your hunt, whether it's e-scouting or developing a hunt plan for your next adventure. The guys dive into early October whitetail hunting, the challenges it can present and what favorite days to hunt during the rut. Jared discusses some of the best, overlooked features OnX has that have become a game-changer in the years. We hope you enjoy this conversation!  New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website Shop WDNA Merch The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru  

Welcome back to the show! In today's episode, Alex and Kaleb Comstock sit down to chat through everything that goes into whitetail hunting during the month of October. October is quite an interesting month to hunt whitetails, as there's a lot of change from the beginning of the month to the end of the month. The guys talk through all these changes, how to combat them and how to make game plans to strike thorughout the month while hunting mature bucks. Enjoy!  New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Shop WDNA Merch Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru

Welcome back to the WhitetailDNA podcast! In today's show, Alex Comstock and Kaleb Comstock break down the 3 year journey for the buck Kaleb called Jeezy. Kaleb goes into depth on what went into hunting this buck, the work that went into the property and how he was able to capitalize early in this season. It's a heck of a story and we hope you enjoy!  New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Shop WDNA Merch Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru

Welcome back to the show! In today's episode of the WDNA Podcast, the guys are joined by Jeremy's good friends, Trent Johnson and John Seguin to talk all things elk hunting. Lopy, Trent and John are all headed to Wyoming to chase elk this September, determined to find some good bulls to go after. The guys talk about how they got into elk hunting, trials and tribulations, success stories and preview their plans for Wyoming. Enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Shop WDNA Merch Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru

Welcome back! In today's episode of the WDNA Podcast, for the third time we are joined by Brennen Nading of The Breaking Point TV to talk some early seson deer hunting. We recap the rather uneventful trip for the team, while diving deep into how Brennen was able to fill his North Dakota tag during the first week of the season! Brennen discusses how he made a specific move after hunting this deer for multiple years that ended up sealing the deal, and what went into that decision. After breaking all this down and more, the guys jump into what Brennen is looking forward to this fall in Iowa and Oklahoma. We cover a lot of good ground in this one. Enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel WhitetailDNA Merch HERE Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Custom Archery & Outdoors Tactacam Reveal Kifaru

Welcome back! The 2025 hunting season has begun! On today's episode of the WDNA Podcast, the team runs through the 2025 hunting season. The guys dive into what each hunt is shaping up to be for 2025 and the specific bucks they are after in each state, ranging from Minnesota to Wisconsin, North Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, and Wyoming, and everything in between. They also discuss the preparation that has taken place during the offseason, including food plots and property management on private land, as well as mock scrapes on public land. 2025 is shaping up to be a busy, but exceptional year. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website Shop WDNA Merch The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru  

Welcome back! On today's episode of the WDNA Podcast, we are joined by Kevin Harlander of Tactacam Reveal. Kevin talks to us about his early days in the hunting industry, guiding elk hunts, working for First Lite, and now with Tactacam Reveal. Kevin has a proven track record of outdoorsmanship. Kevin shares what sets Tactacam apart from its competitors, from innovative features to unmatched customer support—highlighted by an unbelievable story involving Jeremy. We also dive into the latest trail camera tech, including a breakdown of Tactacam's brand-new Ultra camera and how it's raising the bar in the trail cam industry. Kevin offers expert insight on how to get the most out of your trail camera strategy—from ideal placement based on the time of year to maximizing battery life and performance. Whether you're a seasoned whitetail hunter or new to the game, this episode is packed with practical tips and eye-opening stories that will elevate your approach to trail camera tactics. Enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website Shop WDNA Merch The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru  

Welcome back to another week! On today's episode of the WDNA Podcast, Alex and Garrett recap their recent scouting trip to Iowa as Garrett gears up for his 2025 Iowa deer season. The guys break down what they found while narrowing down promising public land spots. They also dive into the specific types of terrain and habitat features we're targeting when trying to locate mature bucks during October and November—think secluded bedding areas, terrain funnels, and overlooked pockets. The guys touch on the excitement and strategy behind locking down private ground, and how landing the right farm can completely change the game in a state like Iowa. Finally, we wrap up with expectations for the season ahead, how this trip shaped the strategy, and what Garrett is looking forward to the most when he returns with tags in hand. Enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website Shop WDNA Merch The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru  

Welcome back! On today's episode of the WDNA Podcast, we're covering early season tactics and nuances when chasing whitetail bucks. From understanding where to set up to letting your glass do the work when gathering intel, we break down two key areas every hunter should hone in on before the season heats up. We talk about when to be aggressive—and when to hold back—as well as the pros and cons of hunting mornings during the early weeks. You'll also hear tips on top items to bring into the woods, choosing the right early season clothing systems to stay stealthy and comfortable, and how September cold fronts can be game changers. Plus, we'll discuss why the early season is the perfect time to work out the kinks in your gear and setups. Whether you're chasing a velvet buck or just trying to get your season off to a strong start, this episode will help sharpen your approach. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the show! New episodes drop every Wednesday at 6AM CST LINKS: Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Follow along on Instagram and Facebook Check out the Website Shop WDNA Merch The WhitetailDNA Podcast is presented by: Dark Energy | 10% OFF (code: wdna10) Rack Hub | 10% OFF (code: whitetaildna) Pnuma Outdoors | 20% OFF (code: wdna20) Tactacam Reveal Cameras  Tactacam Reveal Accessories  Custom Archery & Outdoors Kifaru