InCamp Podcast

Post-season is where a lot of real progress gets made, and Jared Larsen lays out exactly how he approaches winter scouting with purpose. We talk about the mental shift after the season ends, how to balance learning with deer welfare, and why conditions should dictate when—and when not—to be in the woods. Jared explains how he revisits familiar areas while still forcing himself to scout new ground, stacking information year over year to better understand deer behavior.We get into bedding areas, wind direction, trails, rubs, and how post-season scouting helps reveal how mature bucks actually use a property. Jared also shares how he uses tools like the ONX Hunt app to mark observations, track movement, and turn winter scouting into actionable hunting strategies for next fall.https://www.instagram.com/jaredclarsen/?hl=enhttps://www.onxmaps.com/v2

Dan Marcelin joins the InCamp Podcast to talk about getting started in deer hunting and what actually matters when you’re new. We cover his first time in the woods, the prep that went into it, the mistakes that showed up, and what he learned once it was time to track, harvest, and handle a deer.This episode focuses on mentorship and why having the right people around speeds up the learning curve. Dan explains how gear choices, patience, and paying attention to sign made a difference, and why understanding deer behavior matters more than hype or shortcuts.We also get into the reality of killing an animal—what it requires mentally, how to do it the right way, and the responsibility that comes with taking game for food. From time in the woods to putting meat in the freezer, this conversation keeps hunting grounded in preparation, respect for wildlife, and learning by doing.If you’re new to hunting or helping someone through their first season, this episode lays out what to expect and what to focus on.First-time hunters learn fast when expectations are realistic.Good mentorship shortens the learning curve.Preparation matters more than gear trends.Deer behavior and sign tell you what’s actually happening.Tracking and recovery are part of the job.Killing an animal deserves respect and attention to detail.Bringing home meat makes the work worth it.

In this InCamp Field Notes episode, Aaron Hepler and Rich Yoder focus on the practical side of predator hunting—what you need to know before you ever make a stand. Rich explains why fox hunting is the easiest way to break into predator hunting, how to simplify calling setups, and what mistakes most beginners make right away.https://nightprowleroptics.com/https://www.instagram.com/bo_yoder/?hl=en

In this episode of InCamp, I sit down with Dirk Durham, a seasoned elk hunter and bugler, to dive into his journey and what shaped him as a hunter.Dirk shares the moments that tested his skill and mindset, from chasing bugles in high-country timber to adapting when plans fell apart. Through his stories, you’ll hear how experience shapes intuition, why confidence comes from learning through failures, and how adaptability and perseverance separate hunters who succeed from those who just observe.Along the way, we touch on the practical side of hunting: e-scouting, calling, understanding elk behavior, and executing the shot process—but always in the context of Dirk’s real-world experiences. We also explore the emotional side of hunting: family, passion, and the way a single hunt can leave a lasting impact.https://www.youtube.com/@THEBUGLEROFFICIALhttps://www.instagram.com/thebugler/https://phelpsgamecalls.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooNPLWnGBg2EnI0IXlnSdtr-HcK5LoLTY2hIWPScgFOgITe2TUT

In Part 2 of this Field Notes series, Megan and I shift deeper into rabbit hunting and the culture around it. We talk about why rabbit hunting has stuck around for generations, the group aspect of it, and how the dogs bring people together as much as the hunt itself. We also get into what makes a good rabbit dog, memorable hunts, and even how rabbit meat fits into the full experience from field to table. This episode is less about chasing limits and more about tradition, time outside, and listening to dogs do what they were born to do.Rabbit hunting is as much about the dogs as it is the huntRunning beagles is better with a group — it’s a shared experienceHearing a dog open up on a rabbit never gets oldGreat hunts turn into stories that last way longer than the seasonCooking rabbit is part of honoring the hunthttps://www.instagram.com/megan_plete/?hl=enhttps://athlonuntamed.com/

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.