DSC Campfires with Larry Weishuhn

Episode Overview In this special bonus episode, Larry Weishuhn welcomes listeners to 2026, reflecting on a fast-paced 2025 and sharing his excitement for the adventures ahead. He provides a roadmap of his upcoming hunts, convention appearances, and new content plans for the year. 2025 Recap & Recent Adventures Larry briefly touches on his late 2025 activities, including: Carmen Mountain Whitetail: Hunts in November and December. Texas Panhandle: Hunting with Craig Archer and Kyle Foley. Cotton Ranch (Becker Bottoms): Spending time in Northeast Texas with David and Edgar Cotton and Rick Lambert. Larry notes their shared appreciation for Savage Model 99 lever-action rifles, mentioning he recently hunted with a .300 Savage built in the 1920s. Upcoming Plans for Early 2026 Coues Deer Hunt (January): Larry is heading deep south to the El Durangueño Ranch in Durango, Mexico (Sierra Madres) to hunt with Terry Anderson. He recounts a successful hunt there in 2025 for a unique buck with broken tines (currently being mounted by Double Nickel Taxidermy). DSC Convention (Feb 6–8): Larry will be back in Atlanta at the World Congress Center. Roles: He will MC the Life Member Breakfast and present the "Educator of the Year" award to his good friend, Dr. Mike Arnold. Appearances: Attendees can find him at the Hornady and Stealth Vision booths. Future Content & Announcements TV & Print: The Carmen Mountain Whitetail hunt will be featured on Sportsman's Life TV (Carbon TV/YouTube) and in an article for Sporting Classics Magazine. Upcoming Podcast Episodes: An interview with Jeff Johnson (originally recorded for the NRA). A sit-down with Fred Eichler, discussing longbows vs. rifles. A discussion with Edgar Cotton about his decades of elk hunting, starting in the 1970s. International Hunts: Plans for later in the spring include hunting Muntjac and Chinese Water Deer in England, followed by a three-nation Roe Deer hunt. Patreon Launch: Larry announces a new Patreon launching in Jan/Feb to offer extra content, direct communication, and giveaways. Sponsors Mentioned: DSC, Hornady, Taurus, Stealth Vision, Red 55 Winery, Choctaw Hunting Lodge, The Crown Bar, Texas Wildlife Association, Double Nickel Taxidermy, and Burnham Brothers Game Calls. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of DSC’s Campfire, host Larry Weishuhn sits down with Craig Archer to explore the nuances of woodmanship, wildlife management, and the "lost art" of tracking animals after a shot. Reading the Signs: Archer emphasizes that modern hunters often focus on the shot but neglect the critical signs that follow. He stresses observing how an animal reacts—whether it "kicked up its back end," "humped up in the middle," or "stumbled"—to determine the shot's placement. The Tracking Process: Archer advises hunters to stay in their blinds after a shot to observe and wait rather than rushing to look for the animal. This patience prevents hunters from inadvertently destroying a blood trail by stepping on it. Environmental Factors: The duo discusses how local terrain, such as the "sandy shinnery" country of Texas, affects tracking. In sandy soil, blood may form "balls" that aren't immediately recognizable, and heavy fat content in well-fed deer can quickly plug exit wounds, minimizing external bleeding. Property Management: Archer shares his management philosophy for his low-fence operation, which includes: Natural Diet: Avoiding protein supplements in favor of a natural habitat supported by rotational cattle grazing. Water Distribution: Strategically placing water troughs to spread livestock and wildlife across the property, preventing overgrazing near a single source. Collaboration: Working closely with biologists to manage population density and "buck-to-doe ratios". Hunting Ethics: They underscore the importance of sighting in rifles before a hunt, noting that even high-quality optics can be knocked out of alignment during travel. Ensuring an accurate shot is a fundamental responsibility to the animal. Craig Archer is a professional outfitter and land manager with over 17 years of experience in the Lubbock, Texas area. His operation maintains a near 100% success rate for mature animals by strictly managing hunting pressure and maintaining "sanctuaries" near water sources where rifle hunting is prohibited. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Summary: "Christmas Week Celebration" In this holiday episode, Larry Weishuhn reflects on the importance of family, tradition, and the outdoors during the Christmas season. He shares personal anecdotes from his life in Texas, bridging the gap between historical wilderness and modern conservation. Family Traditions: Larry discusses his plans to gather with his daughters and five grandchildren, emphasizing that the outdoors—specifically deer hunting and fishing—always plays a central role in their celebrations. The Family Property: He speaks affectionately about a family property held for over 150 years, home to massive oak trees that he estimates are 400 to 500 years old. Historical Reflections: Larry imagines the history witnessed by those ancient trees, from local Indian tribes gathering acorns and flint for tools to the arrival of Spanish and European settlers. Wildlife Conservation: He contrasts the current abundance of white-tailed deer with his childhood in "Zimmerscheidt," where seeing a single deer track was a major event. He credits hunters and outdoorsmen as the true "stewards of wildlife" and habitat. The Importance of Storytelling: Larry encourages listeners to use modern technology to record their own voices and stories for future generations, just as he uses his podcast to preserve his memories. Key Highlights Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🦌 DSC's Campfires with Larry Weishuhn: Show Summary 🐻 This episode of DSC's Campfires features host Larry Weishuhn and guest David Cotton, covering a range of topics from charity events to thrilling hunting adventures with a special emphasis on family experiences. David Cotton begins by discussing his participation in a Toys for Tots golf tournament at Pinnacle Club on Cedar Creek Lake. This is his fourth year playing in the event, which raises funds to buy toys for children whose families are struggling. While the local tournament is smaller, it's expected to draw 144 golfers and could collect 200 to 300 toys after donations. The conversation moves to a memorable bear hunt David and his 85-year-old father, Dave, experienced at the Choctaw Hunting Lodge in Oklahoma. The father and son were placed in the same blind by their guide, Dusty, with the goal of both killing a bear. David's Father's Bear: Despite early issues with crosshairs in low light, David's father later killed a large bear. The bear was hit with a perfect shot, traveled about 65 yards, and David noted the distinct "death moan". The bear weighed 347 pounds. David's Bear: Within just 15 minutes of the first kill, another bear appeared. David made a good shot on the second bear, which weighed around 150 to 160 pounds. The Gear: David mentions their use of Stealth Vision optics, noting the excitement of capturing the hunt on video. David then recounts a recent second rifle season elk hunt in the Pagosa Springs/Chama area of Colorado. Initial Challenge: Earlier reports from a friend indicated very few elk were being seen. A Successful Hunt: David convinced his father to hunt a specific area, setting him up with a chair at the base of a stand. The Shot: His father used a Stealth Vision scope with a customized turret that uses yardages instead of mill dots. He ranged an elk at 346 yards, turned the turret to 350 yards, and hit the elk, dropping it. The bull elk was a 5x4. In a follow-up shot, his father hit the elk in the head when it tried to get up, confirming the kill. The discussion shifts to the current whitetail deer season in Texas, which both Larry and David describe as "different" and "difficult". Unpredictable Rut: The rut has been highly unpredictable, with bucks either being absent or showing up unexpectedly. Weather and Food: Despite ideal cool, cloudy, and overcast weather for hunting, deer activity was low. David notes that a large number of acorns means deer have ample food and do not need to move much. Extended Season: David expresses optimism about the extended season through the end of February due to the Managed Lands Deer (MLD) program, hoping to see more mature bucks become active later on. Larry reminds listeners about the upcoming DSC Convention in Atlanta, Georgia, scheduled for February 6th, 7th, and 8th. ⛳ Holiday Charity and Community🌲 Double Bear Kill at Choctaw Hunting Lodge🏔️ Elk Hunting in Colorado🦌 Tough Whitetail Deer Season📢 DSC Convention Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🦌 Podcast Summary: Tale of Two Bucks This episode of DSC's Campfires features host Larry Weishuhn sharing two personal hunting stories from the current season. The episode also includes mentions of the DSC Convention in February and various sponsors. 🦌 Hunt One: The Absolute Monster Buck Larry details his first hunt on the Choctaw Hunting Lodge in southeastern Oklahoma, a property of 44,000 contiguous acres. This hunt followed a personal health scare—pericarditis—that required surgery and recovery, making the trip even more meaningful. Location: Choctaw Hunting Lodge, which includes a high-fenced area of over 1,000 acres for managed deer. The Setup: Larry was invited as a guest of Avient, a world-renowned polymer producer, to assist with introducing them to various manufacturers. He was using a rifle with an Avient barrel and a Stealth Vision scope. The rifle was a 7mm PRC with Hornady 175-grain ELD-X Precision Hunter bullets, which he notes is "unbelievably accurate". The Hunt: After his friend, Jim McQuerry, successfully harvested an impressive 10-point buck, Larry returned to the field. Larry hunted with Jim and Dusty and Jessica Vickery, who run the lodge. They spotted a massive deer in thickets. Larry ended up taking the deer with a shot at 50-60 yards using a borrowed .22 Creedmoor rifle with 80-grain Hornady ELD-X bullets. The Trophy: The buck was an "absolute monster". Its antlers scored 357 (gross) on the Boone and Crockett system. Larry reports that the antlers were wider than he could imagine, with an outside spread of 37.5 inches, and featured eight drop tines. Larry shares that while some may criticize hunting a high-fenced property, the circumstances of his health and the sheer experience of taking such an animal make it a cherished memory. 🦌 Hunt Two: The Red River Buck The second story takes place in Montague County, Texas, on a lease near the Oklahoma border. Larry's goal was to rattle a white-tail buck out of Oklahoma, across the Red River, and into Texas. Location: A lease in Montague County, Texas, along the Red River. The Setup: Larry spent time prior to the hunt putting out Vineyard Max attractant in the area and set up near a trail coming out of the river. He hunted mid-day, which he firmly believes is an excellent time to hunt, especially when the moon is new or full. The Hunt: After an unsuccessful morning, Larry returned to his spot at noon. He started rattling antlers and after his first sequence, a mature buck came towards him from the river, showing signs of having just crossed the water. When the buck turned to walk away, Larry grunted at it, which caused the deer to turn back. He was able to get a shot off through a small window in the brush with his 7mm PRC rifle. The Trophy: The buck was a mature, six-year-old basic 9-point with a couple of kickers, scoring about 145. It was a special hunt because he achieved his goal of rattling a buck out of a different state and taking it on his home turf. 🗓️ DSC Convention Announcement Larry reminds listeners that the DSC Convention is scheduled for February 6-8 at the World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia. Learn More About Larry at: https://www.larryweishuhn.net Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Larry sits down at the campfire with longtime friend, author, and professor Dr. Mike Arnold, recently named DSC Foundation’s Educator of the Year for 2026. The two visit about Mike’s lifetime of work in education and outdoor writing, then dive deep into his unforgettable hunt in the Scottish Highlands with Royal Outfitters UK. Mike recounts the toughness and magic of the mountains, pursuing hard-earned hill red stags during the rut, taking a younger stag for the larder and population control, and making the longest shot of his hunting career on an old warrior stag. He also shares the stories behind a trophy roebuck and a rare royal Sika stag, along with fascinating insights into Sika biology, behavior, and how hunters help manage deer numbers for Scotland’s massive forestry industry. Along the way, Larry and Mike talk about the stark beauty and rich history of Europe, from castles to the famous “Harry Potter” Jacobite train, and how trips like these are ideal for both hunters and non-hunters alike. They wrap this portion of the conversation by touching on Mike’s ongoing writing projects, including new work that highlights how hunters around the world are solving human–wildlife conflicts through ethical, science-based conservation. Topics in this episode include: Dr. Mike Arnold honored as DSC Foundation Educator of the Year 2026 Challenging red stag hunting in the Scottish Highlands during the rut Pursuing and taking a roebuck and royal Sika stag How hunters support Scotland’s forestry and wildlife balance The draw of European hunting: history, culture, and great adventures for hunters and non-hunters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Larry Answers Two Big Questions from Listeners In this engaging and insightful episode of DSC’s Campfires, Larry Weishuhn—Mr. Whitetail himself—pulls up a stump by the fire and dives into two listener-submitted questions that every hunter can appreciate. With his trademark blend of storytelling, humor, and deep field experience, Larry breaks down each topic in a way only he can. Question 1: A practical, boots-on-the-ground discussion about deer behavior, seasonal patterns, and how hunters can adjust their approach to improve success in changing conditions. Question 2: Larry shares personal wisdom and proven strategies regarding gear selection, field preparation, and the realities of modern deer management. His answers mix decades of field trials, conservation knowledge, and relatable campfire honesty. Larry brings real-world clarity to questions many hunters overthink. His down-to-earth teaching style makes complex topics feel simple and actionable. It’s full of storytelling moments, laughs, and hard-earned advice from one of America’s most trusted outdoor voices. Whether you're prepping for your next hunt or simply love hearing Larry’s perspective, this episode delivers classic Campfires content: entertaining, educational, and packed with practical takeaways. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Larry sits down with a group of legendary outdoorsmen including Choctaw Hunting Lodge’s Dusty Vickrey, Avient’s Jesse Baird, and former Shooting Times editor Jim Bequette. The conversation this show revolves around lots of hunting stories, Avient's Rapid Heat Releasing Barrel Technology, and much more fun-spirited conversations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special bonus episode of the podcast, seasoned outdoorsman Sam Old joins the show to share his best deer season insights, strategies, and practical field wisdom. From understanding late-season deer behavior to choosing the right stand locations, Sam breaks down what hunters should be paying attention to right now. He offers real-world tips on scouting, feeding patterns, shot placement, equipment choices, and how changing weather can dramatically shift deer movement. Whether you’re a new hunter or a long-time veteran of the woods, Sam’s straightforward advice will help you make the most of your time in the field this season. A helpful, informative, and timely episode packed with knowledge you can put to use this season! Happy Hunting! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Mike Arnold (www.mikearnoldoutdoors.com) describes to Larry his most recent trip to Africa involving hunting crocodiles, hyenas, capturing and moving rhinos and the adventures in doing so, such as he and his wife Francis being in a small, leaky rowboat surrounded by crocodiles and hippos, and pulling hairs from the tails of rhinos for genetic research...  Larry and Dr. Arnold also talk about his latest book, "Bringing Back the Wild" available in audiobook, Kindle and hard-cover form, and how to procure autographed copies through his website at mikearnoldoutdoors.com . Outdoor writing and wildlife conservation at its finest! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this lighthearted and laughter-filled episode, Larry Weishuhn — known to many as Mr. Whitetail — reflects on his decades-long friendship and media adventures with legendary outdoor radio host Luke Clayton of Catfish Radio fame. The two share stories from their years in the outdoor industry, filled with humor, camaraderie, and good-natured ribbing that longtime listeners have come to love. Larry then sits down with a colorful guest who goes by the name “Ole Root” — a character who brings both comic relief and unexpected wisdom to the campfire conversation. As the talk unfolds, it becomes clear that Ole Root may have enjoyed a few too many sips before joining the show, making for some hilariously unpredictable and entertaining moments. This episode is a perfect blend of storytelling, laughter, and the authentic campfire spirit that defines DSC’s Campfires with Larry Weishuhn. Learn More at LarryWeishuhn.net Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Larry sits down with outdoorsman and storyteller Sam Old for a lively campfire conversation about hunting heritage, outdoor adventures, and lessons learned in the field. Sam shares memorable stories from his time in the woods, insights on wildlife conservation, and his personal philosophy on living close to nature. As always, Larry’s signature humor and warmth bring out the best campfire moments — blending wisdom, laughter, and genuine appreciation for the great outdoors. Learn more at LarryWeishuhn.net Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Larry rides solo on this episode talking about his Maine bear hunting adventure, as well as Edgar and David's fall bears on the Choctaw Hunting lodge. Larry also talks about his other adventure with some medical complications which became a doctor/surgery "adventure". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Larry sits down with Randy on a solo interview episode and talks about bear hunting with Wilderness Lodge Outfitters (https://wildernessescape.com/). Randy has been a guide and outfitter in the Northeast for decades and is a trusted expert in guiding and outfitting and also a close friend to Larry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of DSC’s Campfires, host Larry Weishuhn sits down in Maine with renowned guide and outfitter Randy Flannery and DSC Foundation director Abe Nayfa during a bear hunt. The conversation covers the challenges of bear hunting in unusual weather conditions, the impact of food sources and environmental changes on bear behavior, and the importance of patience and preparation in the field. Abe shares his experience as a first-time bear hunter and his deep involvement with the DSC Foundation, highlighting the organization’s commitment to wildlife conservation and education. Randy discusses his approach to guiding, the qualities he looks for in his team, and the camaraderie that makes camp life special. The episode also touches on the broader mission of DSC and its chapters, emphasizing the value of community, conservation, and passing on outdoor traditions to future generations. Learn more about Larry at http://larryweishuhn.net/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DSC’s Campfires with Larry WeishuhnColor-Phase Bears, Big Black Bruisers & a Day at Stealth Vision (with Dr. Mike Arnold)Episode Summary Pull up a chair—Larry welcomes friend and wildlife biologist Dr. Mike Arnold back to the fire to swap spring bear stories from British Columbia and Alberta, break down color-phase genetics, and nerd out on long-range Stealth Vision optics at company HQ in Crockett, Texas. From barge rides over 600-foot glacial lakes and logging-road stalks to a rain-soaked recovery on a 400-pound boar, this one’s packed with fieldcraft, gear talk, and camp-style laughs. 00:00 – Welcome & Sponsors Larry sets the table and welcomes Dr. Mike back to the mic. 01:28 – Mike’s British Columbia Spot-and-Stalk • Camp access by barge across a deep, glacial lake; days spent glassing logging roads • Goal: a color-phase bear (“cinnamon/chocolate”)—and finding one! • Tracking with wind in the face, slipping off the road into a small burn, and re-locating the bear at ~60 yards • Shot with a .338 Federal (MG Arms ultralight) on quad sticks; double-lung hit, short dash, quick finish • Daily bear sightings (including a grizzly boar and sow), plus moose, mule deer—and elk moving back into the area 13:00 – Larry’s Alberta Hunt (Bait, Ground Level, Big Boar) • A cagey black bear that “checks the blind” finally slips up—Larry hunts from the ground instead • Raining hard, light is terrible; Stealth Vision SVT 3-18×44 with lit reticle makes the difference • Mossberg .308 on loan from Brad Fenson, Hornady Precision Hunter ammo; quartering shot, short 35-step recovery • Estimated ~400-lb spring boar with a “weightlifter’s neck” 18:30 – Why So Many Color-Phase Bears? • Dr. Mike’s genetics take: small historical populations can “fix” color variants in a region • Western/interior populations show more blondes, cinnamons, and chocolates; coastal/eastern tend to be black • Forestry practices and green-up patterns boost bear numbers; grizzlies abundant but not generally huntable there (outside First Nation harvest) 22:30 – Range Day at Stealth Vision HQ (Crockett, TX) • Inside look at Stealth Vision’s “top-tier or nothing” approach with Dr. John McCall and Joe Cunningham • The integrated cant indicator (“green bubble”)—no more flipping to a separate level at long range • Pushing to 1,000+ yards; how smart engineering for the human eye improves clarity, speed, and precision • Anecdotes on extreme consistency—tiny groups at 500 yards and beyond 33:05 – Looking Ahead • Saskatchewan plans (good color-phase odds), plus a visit to Choctaw Hunting Lodge on the horizon • Camp closes with thanks and an open invite to gather again next week Rifles & Calibers: • MG Arms Ultralight – .338 Federal (Dr. Mike) • Mossberg – .308 Win (Larry, loaner from Brad Fenson) Optics: • Stealth Vision SVT 3-18×44 (illuminated reticle, integrated cant indicator) Ammunition: • Hornady Precision Hunter (ELD-X) Hunt Styles: • Spot-and-stalk (BC); Baited (Alberta) Wildlife Notes: • Frequent black bear sightings, grizzly pair, moose; elk recolonizing pockets of BC • Color-phase frequency in parts of BC ~25–30% (per outfitter estimates) “It’s easy to shoot too high on bears—know the anatomy. Even then, aim discipline matters.” – Larry & Dr. Mike If you enjoyed this campfire, follow/subscribe so you don’t miss our next episode—Larry’s lining up more voices from this same camp week. Share the show with a hunting buddy, and let us know your favorite bear-hunting lessons or color-phase encounters. DSC • Hornady • Taurus • Stealth Vision • Mossberg • Vineyard Max • Red 55 Winery • Choctaw Hunting Lodge Plus: The Crown Bar (La In This EpisodeGear & Details MentionedPull QuoteCall to ActionThanks to Our Partners Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lee Newton, collector and authority of Ruger No. 1 single-shot rifles joins Larry around the campfire this week to talk about the history, mystique and hunting with Bill Ruger’s classy and classic single shot rifles, the Ruger Number 1, including about the historic Club 21 rifles Ruger presented to legendary outdoor writers such as Jack O’Connor, Warren Page, Elmer Keith and others, including stories about how he was anle to procure these rifles, as well as tales about hunting them. Beyond collecting these icon firearms, Lee also sells Ruger No. 1s through his website www.classicsportingarms.com. Fabulous visit with a dear friend, and Larry’s source for his Ruger No. 1 rifles! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Larry is honored to be joined around the DSC Campfire this week by Kyle Stelter, CEO of the Wild Sheep Society of British Columbia, Co-Chair of the Wild Sheep Foundation and host of the weekly podcast "Talk is Sheep" to discuss what is being done in British Columbia, Canada to greatly improve sheep habitat through controlled burns, but also a unique project that keeps various British Columbia bighorn sheep herds healthy! British Columbia is home to four species and subspecies of wild sheep! For more information and how you can become a part of this highly achieving conservation group please visit www.wildsheepsociety.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John McAdams, podcaster, writer, YouTuber and Hunt Broker not to mention being tremendously knowledgeable about hunting firearms, bullets and ballistics after graduating from West Point, saw combat duty in Iraq and Afghanistan got into the outdoors/hunting/firearms field after leaving military service. He started doing a blog (www.thebiggamehuntingblog.com) , which lead to the Big Game Hunting Podcast , which can be heard and or seen anywhere podcasts can be listened to, or watched. He too has his own Youtube Channel, and serves as an experienced hunt broker. John has hunted throughout the world as well. After being a guest on John's The Big Game Hunter Podcast, Larry asked John to join him around the campfire to among other things visit about his recent African safari and his experience with the 25 Creedmoor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joining Larry around the Campfire for the 300th episode is J. Wayne Fears, legendary outdoorsman, outdoor writer, editor, wildlife biologist, camp cook, speaker, storyteller supreme, book author..and someone Larry is extremely proud to call his friend! Fears is a member of the Explorer's Club and numerous Halls of Fame. He has written thousands of feature articles and at last count over 30 award-winning books. In this episode Larry and J. Wayne recall some of the more "interesting" adventures they shared in years past, as well as delving into some of J. Wayne's recent books. To learn more about J. Wayne Fears, his adventures and books go www.ruralsportsman.com...or Google "J.Wayne Fears books". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices