Nine Finger Chronicles - Deer Hunting Podcast

To mark the incredible milestone of the 1000th episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, join host Dan as he offers a heartfelt reflection on his decade-long journey. This special episode is a blend of personal stories, gratitude, and insightful conversations with friends and fellow hunters. In a deeply personal monologue, Dan reflects on his journey, expressing immense gratitude to his family, friends, and the dedicated listeners who have supported him. He shares his philosophy on hard work, the importance of kindness, and the role of family in his life, offering a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey. This milestone is also celebrated with four special guests. In a conversation with Lucas Cayko, they dive into the challenges of modern life, the importance of faith and family, and the strategies for tracking big bucks. Dan is also joined by Mark and Tony to share humorous memories and discuss the evolving nature of bowhunting, the joy of friendship, and the peace found in nature. Finally, Dan and Justin reflect on their past experiences, the humorous aspects of aging, and the changing priorities in their hunting pursuits. They also explore the joys of youth hunting, the ethics of the sport, and the timeless pursuit of the biggest buck. This episode is an engaging and powerful tribute to a thousand episodes of shared stories, wisdom, and a profound appreciation for the outdoors. A Look Back and A Thank YouConversations with Fellow Hunters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles, Dan Johnson engages in a lively Q&A session, addressing a variety of topics from hunting strategies and personal influences in the industry to his favorite music and the challenges of aging. He shares insights on the importance of public land hunting, dream hunts he aspires to undertake, and the best and worst jobs he's had. The conversation also touches on his favorite guests and the unique experiences that podcasting has brought him. In this extensive conversation, Dan shares his experiences and insights on podcasting, self-employment, and the joys and challenges of hunting. He discusses the importance of flexibility in life, the debate surrounding crossbows, and the significance of introducing children to hunting. Dan reflects on personal growth through hunting experiences, his decision to quit drinking, and the cinematic inspirations that shape his perspective. He also explores the allure of bow hunting versus gun hunting, the importance of habitat management, and shares his favorite venison recipes, all while emphasizing the joy of outdoor activities and the connections made within the hunting community. Takeaways Dan emphasizes the importance of relatable figures in the hunting industry. He shares his love for classic rock, particularly Led Zeppelin. October cold fronts are no longer a major factor in his hunting strategy. Aging presents physical challenges that affect his hunting abilities. Public land hunting requires more effort but can be rewarding. He dreams of hunting caribou and experiencing adventure hunts. Lifeguarding was a fun job due to the environment. He humorously reflects on arm wrestling Mark Kenyon. Terrain features play a crucial role in successful hunting strategies. Podcasting has allowed him to connect with interesting people from all over. Podcasting allows for diverse conversations with people from all backgrounds. Self-employment offers flexibility but comes with financial uncertainties. The debate over crossbows highlights differing views on hunting traditions. Introducing kids to hunting can be made easier with ground blinds. Memorable hunting experiences often shape personal growth and perspectives. Quitting drinking can lead to improved health and family relationships. Cinematic influences can resonate deeply with personal passions like hunting. Dream hunting partners can enhance the experience and create lasting memories. Reflections on aging can influence parenting and lifestyle choices. Scoring deer is less important than the experience and excitement of the hunt. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dan Johnson and Wade James discuss Wade's journey in the hunting industry, his transition to traditional archery, and the challenges of balancing passion with family life. They explore the evolution of videography, the impact of technology on hunting content, and the importance of authenticity in the hunting community. Wade shares his reflections on personal growth, spirituality, and the complexities of identity, while also addressing the challenges of complacency and the pursuit of dreams. Takeaways Wade emphasizes the importance of authenticity in the hunting community. The transition to traditional archery has changed Wade's perspective on hunting. Wade reflects on the burnout experienced in the hunting industry. The art of storytelling remains timeless in videography. Wade discusses the impact of technology on hunting content creation. The balance between family responsibilities and personal passions is crucial. Wade shares insights on personal growth and spirituality. The challenges of complacency can hinder personal and professional growth. Wade's journey highlights the importance of maturity in decision-making. The hunting experience can be both a spiritual and personal journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan interviews Travis Avery from Sawyer, focusing on the importance of understanding tick-borne illnesses, particularly Lyme disease and Alpha-Gal syndrome. They discuss the effectiveness of permethrin as a fabric treatment for insect repellent, the symptoms and prevention of tick-borne diseases, and the significance of water safety while enjoying outdoor activities. The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness and education regarding these health risks for outdoor enthusiasts.takeaways Travis Avery works remotely for Sawyer, a company specializing in outdoor products. Permethrin is a fabric insect repellent that bonds with clothing to provide long-lasting protection. Tick-borne diseases are often overlooked but can be very dangerous for outdoor enthusiasts. Lyme disease has significantly increased in prevalence over the past 15 years. The Lone Star tick can cause Alpha-Gal syndrome, a red meat allergy. Ticks need to be attached for 8 to 24 hours to transmit Lyme disease. It's important to save ticks for identification and potential testing. Regular tick checks are essential after spending time outdoors. Water safety is crucial; untreated water can carry harmful pathogens. Education and awareness about tick-borne illnesses are vital for outdoor safety. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, Dan, Aaron, and Nate discuss the September shift in deer behavior as hunting season approaches. They explore how changing food sources, bachelor groups, and antler dynamics influence deer movement. The conversation also touches on the impact of crop harvest on deer behavior and strategies for preparing for the upcoming hunting season, including the importance of scouting and understanding deer patterns.takeaways The September shift marks a significant change in deer behavior as food sources change. Bucks often follow does as they shift to new food sources. Bachelor groups tend to break up as the season progresses, with older bucks often separating from younger ones. Antler size can influence dominance hierarchies among bucks, affecting their social dynamics. Deer may exhibit increased fighting behavior in early September as they establish dominance. The transition from summer to fall can lead to decreased deer movement as they adjust to hormonal changes. Crop harvest can significantly impact deer behavior, often leading to increased visibility in open fields. Scouting and understanding food sources are crucial for successful hunting during the September shift. Youth hunters can benefit from early season hunts to gain experience and fill the freezer. The dynamics of deer movement can vary significantly based on local agricultural practices and environmental conditions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging conversation, Dan and Troy celebrate the upcoming milestone of 1000 episodes of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast. They reflect on the journey of podcasting and hunting, sharing personal experiences and insights about the hunting culture, the impact of technology, and the importance of family involvement in outdoor activities. The discussion also touches on hunting regulations, the dynamics of hunting seasons, and the joy of connecting with nature. Troy shares his background in the hunting industry and the challenges of balancing work with hunting, while also expressing excitement for future hunting adventures and bucket list goals. Takeaways Celebrating milestones in podcasting is important. The journey of hunting and podcasting is filled with challenges. Hunting seasons bring excitement and anticipation. Family involvement in hunting creates lasting memories. Technology has changed the way we hunt and scout. Cattle can impact deer movement and hunting strategies. The hunting culture is evolving with new generations. Out of state hunting adventures offer unique experiences. Fishing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors beyond hunting. Balancing work and hunting requires careful planning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles, Dan Johnson and Chris Dunkin discuss various themes surrounding parenting, youth wrestling, deer behavior, and hunting strategies. They share personal anecdotes about their children's interests, the growth of youth wrestling, and the dynamics of deer behavior as the hunting season approaches. The conversation also delves into the impact of technology, specifically cell cameras, on hunting practices and the importance of understanding deer patterns and territory dynamics. The episode concludes with a discussion on specific deer and hunting plans for the upcoming season. Takeaways: Dan is excited about reaching 1,000 episodes. Chris shares his experiences with his daughters and their interests. The growth of youth wrestling is significant and encouraging. Understanding deer behavior is crucial for successful hunting. Mock scrapes are effective for attracting deer. Cell cameras provide valuable insights into deer movements. Parenting styles can influence children's interests in outdoor activities. The dynamics of doe groups are essential for hunting strategies. Aggressive bucks can be challenging to hunt due to their behavior. Luck plays a significant role in hunting success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dan Johnson and Aaron Blysee discuss the evolution of podcasting, the creative process behind producing content, and the importance of personal growth in both hunting and life. They explore the significance of storytelling in hunting, the impact of technology on the hunting experience, and the value of involving children in the hunting process. The conversation emphasizes the need for authenticity, the joy of the experience over the metrics, and the lessons learned through hunting and life. Takeaways: Dan is approaching a milestone of 1000 podcast episodes. Maintaining a creative flow is essential for podcasting. Guest selection can be challenging but rewarding. The evolution of personal goals in hunting reflects personal growth. Big bucks are not the only measure of success in hunting. Hunting should be about the experience, not just the kill. Involving kids in hunting can foster a love for the outdoors. Storytelling is a crucial part of the hunting experience. Technology can enhance the hunting experience but may detract from the moment. It's important to reflect on the journey and the lessons learned. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson and guest Scott Cronin discuss various aspects of hunting, including the importance of advocacy for public lands, the current state of deer management in Kentucky, and the cultural and legislative influences affecting hunters. They explore the balance between hunting for antlers versus managing deer populations, the impact of non-resident hunters on local ecosystems, and the necessity of maintaining relationships with landowners. The conversation emphasizes the need for hunters to engage in conservation efforts and the challenges posed by rising land prices.takeaways People come for the guests, not the host. Advocacy is crucial for protecting public lands. Hunters need to unite for their rights. Kentucky's hunting landscape is changing. Balancing antler size with deer management is essential. Cultural influences affect hunting practices. Legislation impacts hunting opportunities. Non-resident hunters affect local deer populations. Maintaining landowner relationships is vital. Conservation efforts are necessary for sustainable hunting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us on the Nine Finger Chronicles as we delve into the fascinating journey of hunting strategies and equipment evolution. From traditional bows to modern range-finding binoculars, discover how technology and techniques have transformed the hunting landscape. Listen in as Dan and Jeremy share personal stories, insights, and the impact of these advancements on their hunting experiences. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new to the field, this episode offers a unique perspective on the past, present, and future of hunting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging conversation, Dan and Jeremy discuss the importance of family, the value of experiences over material gains, and the evolving perspectives on hunting. They reflect on personal growth through outdoor adventures, the challenges of hunting in different environments, and the impact of technology on the sport. The discussion also touches on the significance of defining what it means to be a good hunter and the challenges posed by trespassing. As they share their goals for the upcoming hunting season, they emphasize the importance of enjoying the process and making memories with loved ones. Takeaways: Spending time with family is more important than chasing money. Experiences in nature create lasting memories. Hunting should be about enjoyment, not just the outcome. Defining a good hunter goes beyond filling tags. Technology can enhance the hunting experience. The hunting community often overlooks the importance of relationships. It's essential to communicate with landowners to maintain access. Setting personal goals can enhance the hunting experience. Enjoying the process is key to a fulfilling hunting season. Balancing family commitments with hunting is crucial. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging conversation, Dan and Aaron discuss the challenges and joys of family life, particularly in the context of step-parenting and blending families. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences with their children and the responsibilities that come with parenting. The discussion then shifts to hunting, focusing on the realities of hunting in Iowa, the impact of environmental factors on deer populations, and the importance of scouting and adaptability in hunting strategies. They emphasize the significance of spending time in the woods and the knowledge gained from experience, ultimately highlighting the journey of a hunter and the lessons learned along the way. Takeaways: Summer life is filled with family responsibilities. Navigating new family dynamics can be challenging but rewarding. Step-parenting requires patience and understanding. Hunting can be a bonding experience for families. Expectations in hunting often differ from reality. Environmental factors significantly impact antler growth. Public land hunting presents unique challenges and opportunities. EHD outbreaks can affect deer populations and hunting success. Scouting and adaptability are key to successful hunting. Time spent in the woods translates to greater hunting knowledge and success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, Dan reflects on the importance of seizing opportunities in life, particularly in relation to spending quality time with family and engaging in outdoor activities. He discusses the evolving landscape of hunting media and the challenges it presents to traditional hunters. The conversation then shifts to the technical aspects of hunting, focusing on scent management and the significance of understanding wind and thermals in successful hunting strategies. Dan shares personal experiences and insights gained over years of hunting, emphasizing the need for adaptability and strategic planning in the field. Takeaways Seize opportunities for family activities, especially outdoors. Quality time spent with children creates lasting memories. Hunting media is evolving and presents new challenges. Understanding wind direction is crucial for successful hunting. Thermals can significantly affect scent management. Strategic planning is essential for effective hunting. Adaptability is key in changing hunting conditions. Personal experiences shape hunting strategies over time. Community and shared passion can influence hunting practices. Preparation and safety are vital for a successful hunting season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles, join Dan and Jeremy from the Antler Up Podcast as they dive into the essentials of optimizing your hunting gear and apparel. From trail cameras to bows, and the importance of layering for comfort and efficiency, they cover it all. Discover tips on maintaining your equipment, choosing the right gear for different hunting conditions, and the benefits of building strong relationships in the hunting community. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights to enhance your hunting experience. Tune in and gear up for success! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson and guest Mitchell Shirk dive deep into the world of bear hunting. They discuss the excitement and challenges of hunting bears, the impact of bear populations on other wildlife, and the strategies involved in successfully tracking and hunting bears. Mitchell shares his personal experiences, including the thrill of hunting bears with a bow and the importance of scouting and understanding bear behavior. The conversation also touches on the ethics of hunting, the camaraderie of hunting camps, and the unique regulations surrounding bear hunting in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Takeaways: Mitchell is excited about hunting this year, especially bear hunting. Bear hunting in Pennsylvania has unique challenges and strategies. The bear population in New Jersey has increased due to hunting moratoriums. Bears can significantly impact deer populations and other wildlife. Scouting for bears requires understanding their food sources and behavior. Hunting bears without bait is a challenging but rewarding experience. Wind direction is crucial for successful bear hunting. Bears have larger home ranges than deer, requiring broader scouting efforts. Patience is key when hunting bears; don't give up easily. Bear hunting can be as thrilling as deer hunting, offering unique experiences. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, Dan and Jeremy discuss the challenges of coaching youth sports, the impact of technology on children's engagement, and the importance of multi-sport participation. They delve into hunting strategies, focusing on access routes and the significance of understanding wind direction for successful hunting. The conversation emphasizes the need for trial and error in developing effective access routes and learning from experiences to improve hunting success. Takeaways: Coaching youth sports can be challenging due to varying levels of engagement. Technology and social media have a significant impact on youth participation in sports. Multi-sport participation is beneficial for young athletes' development. Access routes are crucial for successful hunting and should be evaluated carefully. Understanding wind direction is essential for effective hunting strategies. Trial and error is a key component in developing successful access routes. Learning from past experiences can improve future hunting success. It's important to adapt strategies based on the specific terrain and conditions. Maintaining a positive mindset is vital in coaching and hunting alike. Preparation and practice are essential for both sports and hunting success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Dan Johnson speaks with Austin Atkinson from Huntin' Fool about the complexities of hunting regulations, the impact of drought on wildlife, and the challenges of tag allocation between residents and non-residents. They discuss the increasing demand for hunting opportunities, the role of technology in wildlife management, and the importance of personal service in helping hunters navigate the system. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of hunting and the need for effective management strategies to ensure sustainable practices. Takeaways: Drought significantly impacts wildlife populations and hunting success. Hunt and Fool provides personalized hunting strategies and advice. Demand for hunting tags is steadily increasing, complicating allocation. Residents typically have priority for hunting tags in their states. The overpopulation of hunters leads to competition for limited tags. Hunting regulations are evolving, with many states moving to lottery systems. Technology, such as drones, can enhance wildlife surveys and management. Mandatory harvest reporting is crucial for accurate wildlife data. The future of hunting opportunities is uncertain due to changing regulations. Hunt and Fool emphasizes a personal touch in helping clients plan their hunts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, Dan Johnson and Jeremy Dinsmore discuss the transition from the Fourth of July to the hunting season. They emphasize the importance of safety during fireworks, the need for preparation, and the strategic setup of trail cameras to track deer movement. The conversation delves into understanding terrain features, access routes, and the significance of thermal hubs and river bottoms in hunting. The episode concludes with a focus on the importance of preparation and practice for a successful hunting season. Takeaways: Fireworks can be dangerous; safety should always come first. Post Fourth of July is a crucial time for hunters to prepare for the season. Setting up trail cameras is essential for tracking deer movement. Understanding terrain features can significantly improve hunting success. Access routes are critical for effective hunting strategies. Thermal hubs play a vital role in deer movement and behavior. River bottoms can provide unique hunting opportunities due to their gradual elevation changes. Preparation and practice with gear are essential for a successful hunting season. Deer movement is influenced by various factors, including food sources and bedding areas. Effective hunting requires a combination of strategy, preparation, and understanding of deer behavior. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson speaks with Joe Wilson about hunting in Michigan, the evolution of deer management, and the pressing issue of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). Joe shares his personal experiences with hunting, the changes in deer populations, and the importance of testing for CWD. The conversation delves into the potential impacts of CWD on deer herds and the hunting community, exploring both best and worst-case scenarios. Joe emphasizes the need for awareness and proactive measures to manage deer populations and protect the future of hunting. Takeaways: Joe Wilson shares his love for hunting in Michigan. The conversation highlights the importance of deer management. CWD is a significant concern for deer populations. Testing for CWD is crucial for hunters. Joe's personal experience with a CWD positive deer. The need for awareness about CWD in the hunting community. Best case scenario involves proactive measures against CWD. Nature has a way of balancing deer populations. Hunters should focus on shooting more does. The podcast encourages a collective effort in deer management. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging conversation, Dan and his guest explore the dynamics of college sports rivalries, particularly focusing on football and wrestling. They discuss the impact of NIL on college athletics, the pros and cons of using lighted nocks in hunting, and the importance of preparation for the hunting season. The discussion also delves into decision-making processes in hunting, the influence of weather patterns on deer movement, and personal hunting experiences that highlight the joy of the sport beyond just pursuing big bucks. Takeaways: College sports rivalries create intense fan engagement. NIL has changed the landscape of college athletics. Lighted nocks can help visualize arrow flight but have limitations. Preparation for hunting season is crucial for success. Simplifying decision-making in hunting can enhance enjoyment. Weather conditions significantly affect deer movement patterns. Personal experiences in hunting shape our strategies and decisions. Filling the freezer with meat can be as rewarding as hunting big bucks. Social media influences perceptions of hunting and success. Enjoying the hunting experience is more important than the size of the game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices