Cutting The Distance

Backwoods University explores wildlife biology and the people who dedicate their lives to studying animals and their habitats. Guided by host Lake Pickle’s curiosity, you’ll hear insights from wildlife biologists and outdoorsmen, while gaining an intimate perspective on North American wildlife, habitat, and the impact humans have had on them. You’ll learn from the experts how to understand the wild. After all, you can’t love what you don’t understand. Subscribe now wherever you listen to podcasts. Don't miss episode one coming out June 9th! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIQv7voZWHy7_axb5Zc-zEsUaKo20oniK Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0MLEAslFa9CxTE3Gd5OX3E?si=qyD7Pe3USgC2KGTbY_jt3g  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bear-grease/id1559983625 iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-bear-grease-80440754/ Connect with Lake Pickle and MeatEater Lake Pickle on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and YouTube Clips MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2025

With a few minutes left on the time clock in some states this spring to bear hunt, Dirks talks baiting statagies with Mark Livesay from Treeline Academy. They touch on escouting and dig in deep on Mark's favorite baiting tricks. If you have a little time left to hunt and were pondering if it's worth setting up a bait this late in the game, give this a listen and head out with bait in hand! Learn more at https://www.treelineacademy.net/ Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2025

This week's guest, Jimmy Gruenwald, aka Jimmy Kits, talks about getting the right items in your backpack's first aid kit. We talk tourniquets, quick clot, and more. Don't skip this episode - your life may depend on it! Lean more at https://www.instagram.com/orionmedconsulting Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2025

Inspired by Mother's Day, Dirk reflects on how his mom was there to support his elk huntting and deer hunting endeavors from the beginning. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2025

In this episode, I sit down with NWTF biologist Chuck Carpenter to talk turkeys in the Pacific Northwest. From tough mountain hunts to population trends and harvest models, we cover what it takes to sustain healthy turkey numbers—and how understanding their biology can make you a better hunter. We also dive into hunting during the “henned up” phase, calling strategies, and how pressure affects gobbling and decoy effectiveness. If you like mixing science with strategy, you’ll enjoy this one. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2025

In this episode, Jason steps away from just talking calls and hunting tactics to share a more personal side of the journey. Building Phelps Game Calls, chasing bulls every fall, being a dad and husband, and trying to juggle it all—it’s not always as clean or easy as it might look from the outside. He talks about burnout, learning lessons the hard way, what success really means to him now, and how his priorities have shifted over time. It’s a real conversation about the pressure, the passion, and trying to build something that lasts beyond the next bugle. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 1 May 2025

New from the MeatEater Podcast Network: Long-time western author Dan Flores presents a big picture history of an American West you've never encountered. Covering a vast time span in a western America whose landscapes and wild animals drew people from around the world, this podcast tells a new story of our most fascinating region. Subscribe now wherever you listen to podcasts:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIQv7voZWHy4X3UFECqr3ggFIj9uQJT2O Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0wrs79YL0Jw2AjQrCBKUUu Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-american-west/id1811365050 iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1248-the-american-west-273702538/ Pandora: https://www.pandora.com/podcast/the-american-west/PC:1001101272 Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/17657fa8-7388-4983-8b26-c1d5505ed2e5/the-american-west MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop MeatEater MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2025

Jason sits down with Joe Elliston and Dennis Stokes of Initial Ascent to dive into the story behind their hunting pack company. They talk about what inspired them to start the brand, the hands-on prototyping process, and the rigorous testing their packs endured before ever hitting the market. The conversation highlights the innovation that sets their pack system apart, as well as where they're headed next in the world of high-performance backcountry gear. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2025

Gear reviews and elk hunting go hand in hand. This week Dirk and Gabe Gerrish of Backwoods Pursuit talk about behind the scenes of his recent elk hunting film, "Chasing Tradition," and also the ins and outs of reviewing hunting gear. Link to Gabe's website: https://backwoodspursuit.com/ Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2025

Everyday, hunters and sportsmen look at moving to the country and building a sustainable simple life. Dirk talks with long time friend Mark Bonnalie, aka "Modern Rural Civilian," about his origin story and the inspiration to sell everything and move to rural acreage and begin building their homestead. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 10 April 2025

I'm back in nerd mode looking into bullet construction—how they perform at different distances, their accuracy, consistency, and what happens on impact. Instead of going down the rabbit hole alone, I’m joined by Madi Woodward from Nosler to break down “purpose-built” bullets and what to consider when selecting the right one. Plus, we’ll discuss Nosler’s line of suppressors and their impact on hunting and shooting performance. Tune in for an insightful conversation! Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 3 April 2025

Dirk gets to talk with one of his favorite podcasters - Brent Reaves. Brent hosts "This Country Life" on the Bear Grease podcast and is an avid sportsman and advocate for hunting. They talk about Brent's upbringing and his take on hunting turkeys. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 27 March 2025

Ever wonder what it's like having a "Shed Antler" dog? Dirk and Idaho hunting guide and outfitter Chris Cabral talk about Chris' labs and what it's like shed hunting with a dog. They also take a deep dive into bear baiting, and talk hunting mountain lions and elk in Idaho's rugged back country. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 20 March 2025

Ever wonder what it's like having a "Shed Antler" dog? Dirk and Idaho hunting guide and outfitter Chris Cabral talk about Chris' labs and what it's like shed hunting with a dog. They also take a deep dive into bear baiting, and talk hunting mountain lions and elk in Idaho's rugged back country. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 20 March 2025

Jason sits down with Bryant Sentman and Cory Toombs of Tall Timber productions. They talk about their most memorable day in the field, who they would hunt with if they had a chance, amongst a bunch of others. They then dive into the elk obsession project , how it originated and where it's going from here. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 13 March 2025

Dirk and Ryan Carter from DC Outfitters discuss guiding and scouting limited entry units in Utah. They cover trail camera seasons, shed antler hunting seasons, and the new requirement for Idaho non-resident shed hunters to purchase an Idaho hunting license. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 6 March 2025

Jason sits down with Ashley Stuckless to discuss his journey. Ashley is an aspiring film producer and recently caught Jason's eye with a pair of stone sheep hunting films. The series of films takes you from the Lows to the Highs of sheep hunting. They discuss getting into backpack hunting, the approach you should take, Ashley's favorite adventures and the future of High BC. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 27 February 2025

Dirk's best friend and brother-in-law Randy Wise joins the show today. Besides being jokesters, Randy and Dirk have had some big adventures over the years. From Randy getting impaled on an elk hunt, to falling over 30 feet from a treestand breaking his body, their first elk hunt, and schoolboy shenanigans, they share some of their favorite moments. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 20 February 2025

Jason and Dirk discuss how the advancements in technology may push the boundaries of ethics, fair chase, and how it is shaping the future of hunting. They tackle subjects like thermal, smart scopes/sights, cell cams, drones and AI. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 13 February 2025

This week's Pendlton Whisky Q&A took us down a rabbit hole! "How do I get into the hunting industry?" Dirk has a great conversation with hunter, entrepreneur, and good friend, Jon Gabrio. They recap Jon's black bear and elk hunt from last year, then take a deep dive into working in the hunting industry. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 6 February 2025

Just a normal guy doing everything he can to chase his dreams. Tucker Stanley got a late start on hunting after playing college football as well as in europe but he's dead set on making up for lost time. In the last 6 years Tucker has killed a 200" muley, 170" mountain whitetail, some great bulls and we wanted to jump into the stories and how he has made it happen. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 30 January 2025

New year, new me! Ever felt like "It Must Be Nice" when you see other hunters take to the field out of state? Dirk has a great conversation with financial adviser Jeff Bynum about how to afford those out of state hunts that you feel like they are just out of reach.  Financial Outfitters Group: https://www.finoutfitters.com/ Jeff Bynum and Financial Outfitters Group offers Investment Advisory Services through Coho Advisory Services, LLC (CAS), a registered investment adviser. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through Coho Financial Group, LLC (CFG) and individually licensed and appointed agents. This platform is solely for informational purposes and is not offering advisory services or sales of securities. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 23 January 2025

So you may have heard about the potential world record elk that recently was killed in Washington? It was everywhere on social media!!! You may have also saw others try to discredit the accomplishment. Jason and Dirk sit down to discuss the topic through their point of view. They discuss the legality, circumstances, finances required as well as public perception and give their opinion on what may have eased the negative attention the hunter received. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 16 January 2025

Dirk catches up with Josh Boyd every year, just exchanging hunting stories and expressing opinions and ideas from our experiences while hunting. This episode Josh recaps his amazing hunting season and then takes us down memory lane with the story of his giant whitetail buck from years ago. We also talk a little about the diseases that whitetail deer face and what game managers are doing about it. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 9 January 2025

Jason recaps his dream 2024 season, shares highlights from each of the hunts, as well as discusses some of the new gear he tried out and what will stay in the rotation. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 2 January 2025

We all face adversity everyday, and some days have some huge set backs. This week Dirk talks with motivational speaker and hunter, Sidney Smith. Sidney is a double amputee who has overcome loosing both legs, only to go on and lead an extraordinary life. Sidney still enjoys hiking in the mountains and hunting, not to mention competing in Iron Man, and Bodybuilding competitions. His story is uplifting and motivating to say the least. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 27 December 2024

Will the latest and greatest archery products help you shoot better? Jason sits down with Cory Miller and discusses what really matters when it comes to being a better archer. Cory gives his opinion on the bows, rests, sights, stabilizers, arrows, broad-heads and what affect they have on the accuracy. Jason also sprinkles in his own opinions on what matters to him when it comes to hunting and being effective. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 19 December 2024

Ever had your heart broken by shooting an animal and then not being able to retrieve it due to various circumstances? Dirk has a great conversation with filmmaker Matt Gagnon about his latest film, "Tracking: A K9 Film," where he takes you into the world of blood-tracking dogs where they work hard to recover big game. Matt answers questions regarding getting started training your dog and many best practices while working with your loyal pooch. You can watch the film on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wdkzEaMTPW0?si=F0dobnGfP5rrV713 Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 12 December 2024

Jason and Dirk sit down to discuss trophy hunting. The conversation starts with the two struggling even to define what it is. They then make a strong case for what people consider trophy hunting. They discuss the value that hunting brings to the animals, they talk about the selective management taking place because of self-imposed maturity, as well as the amount of meat you "put in the freezer" because of harvesting more mature animals. The two also made sure to talk about where they feel trophy hunting may be hurting the genetics and age structure of the herd as well. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 5 December 2024

Dirk takes you on a walk down "memory lane" this week as he shares his journey of whitetail deer hunting in his home state of Idaho. Not hunting from a tree is the go-to tactic for Dirk and many other hunters in that region. Listen in on his take of Idaho whitetail deer hunting. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 28 November 2024

The crew is back in Kansas hunting whitetails during the peak of the rut. Jason sits down with Randy and Brock to recap the hunt and talk about the state of whitetails in the midwest. They dive into topics like "the first good moisture year after the drought", the unseasonably warm weather, and south winds as well as setting and hunting stands specific to the rut. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 21 November 2024

Dirk and Derek Miller from Eastern Oregon Outfitters recap Dirk's Mt. Emily hunt. Dirk quizzes Derek about being an outfitter with Pendleton Whisky's Q&A. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 14 November 2024

Jason sits down with Luke Horak, the owner of Arrowhead Rifles. They discuss the recent advancements in muzzleloaders and what’s required to get them to shoot and perform. They go over everything from ignition systems, bullet selection, powders, performance and what one should expect from their modern day muzzleloader. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 7 November 2024

Finding mature mule deer can be a huge challenge to say the least. This week Dirk picks mule deer hunting expert Tom Schneider from "Stuck N The Rut" on finding and hunting big mule deer. Check out Tom's Mule Deer Masterclass here: https://www.stuckntherutmuledeermasterclass.com/md Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 31 October 2024

With September being a not-so-distant memory, Jason and Dirk talk about how their hunts finished up, Washington State hoof rot elk, and October rifle season plans. They also take "Pendleton Whisky Q&A" calls and answer them.  Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 24 October 2024

If you came face-to-face with a grizzly bear, how would you react? With the ever-growing presence of grizzly bears in Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, folks in the outdoors are having more encounters each fall. Dirk catches up longtime friend Ron Niziolek and talks elk hunting with grizzlies in Wyoming's backcountry.  Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 17 October 2024

This week, we're coming to you live from Elk Camp in New Mexico's Gila Forrest with none other than country artist Luke Combs, Jeremy Romero, and Tyler Carlson. We break down the hunt so far with one day to go. This episode is available to watch on YouTube and, be on the lookout for this hunt film on MeatEater in 2025! Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 10 October 2024

It's Whitetail Week! Who better to have on the show than North Idaho resident and accomplished whitetail hunter, Troy Pottenger. Jason and Troy dive into some listener questions and then discuss the importance of licking branches and scrapes to scouting, finding, and hunting mountain bucks. They also touch on being mobile versus having some annual stands, giving the bucks almost too much wind, as well as how his strategies stay the same and differ as the rut is on. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 3 October 2024

Dirk is elk hunting in Idaho with a couple good friends, Cody Wilson and Bradley Dammerman. They break down their hunt so far this September and make a game plan for the remaining days. They also answer the Pendleton Whisky "Listener Question" about tight-lipped bulls. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 26 September 2024

2024 archery elk season update! Jason and Dirk catch up on how the season has gone so far this September, Pendleton Whisky Q&A, and then go on a little tangent about product development. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 19 September 2024

Archery elk season may be going strong in the west, but early whitetail hunters are also hitting the woods. Dirk has Tony Peterson on the podcast to discuss the efficacy of calling early season deer. They also talk about getting comfortable shooting from a tree stand, and Tony's favorite period of the rut to hunt big bucks. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 12 September 2024

Jason sits down and talks with Matt Snyder in Alaska. Matt has been in the Tok area hunting sheep for most of his life. They dive into the history of Matt's time in the surrounding mountains and his successes. They also talk about the current state of Dall Sheep and what may be causing the decline; from predators to harsh winters to disease. They wrap up the conversation with a recap of Jason's Dall Sheep hunt and what went into it. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 5 September 2024

As we embark on our elk hunting trips to the backcountry mountains and lonesome plains, the thought of having an equiptment failure is at top of mind. From loose bolts to stretched strings, "Murphys Law" can sideline an elk hunt at any time. Today, Dirk talks about bullet proofing your bow with Cory Miller from Darton Archery and Blackagle arrows before you take to the field, so you can hunt with piece of mind. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 29 August 2024

Every hunter should define a goal or have a purpose on every elk hunt. For Jason, the goal on every hunt varies depending on the tag, who he's hunting with, etc. On some hunts he may be after a certain bull, while others may be to kill any legal elk, and sometimes it's just to make sure his family and friends have a great time. Regardless of the goal, he talks about planning and executing throughout the hunt and maintaining focus. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 22 August 2024

In the last episode of our two-part "How to Call an Elk" series, Dirk dives deep into coaching you how to make advanced elk calls: lip bawls, grunts, chuckles, and barks! His straight forward approach on how to make these elk sounds can be a game-changer whether you're new to elk calling or a seasoned vet. If you want to watch Dirk perform these calls check out his personal YouTube channel THE BUGLER playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmts0qLfo7ZzXMW-ssBUr7gful9S6cT1A Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 15 August 2024

I would argue I've learned more from my mistakes than from my successes when it comes to elk hunting. In this episode, Jason gives his opinion on ten common mistakes that may be hindering success for you this fall. He touches on calling your way into elk, unwillingness to change the plan, calling to small as well as not spending enough time in the woods. Jason hopes you can learn from the mistakes he's made to shorten up the learning curve. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 8 August 2024

31 days until September! Are you ready? Want to learn how to become a more proficient elk caller? In this episode, Dirk dives deep into making elk vocalizations. He starts with fundamental sounds, then shifts into turning those sounds into cow calls and bugles. Link to see videos of Dirk making these calls: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmts0qLfo7ZzXMW-ssBUr7gful9S6cT1A&si=-Z4Eaf7-cOROFhhI Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 1 August 2024

Jason dives into some of his past archery hunts and talks about what he feels were the key factors that led to success. Successful elk hunters usually don't limit themselves to one tactic or one game plan. They are able to evaluate the elk, the pressure, and the sign to formulate a plan that gives them the best chance for success. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 25 July 2024

We've all heard that classic three-note bugle, which is typically a go-to for most folks while calling elk. This week, Dirk talks about non-typical elk vocalizations and how he uses them while calling to bull elk each September. Dirk also answers "Pendleton Whisky's Listener Questions" about topics ranging from fall bear hunting tactics while hunting elk, to making a backpacking game plan, to hunting Idaho's remote Frank Church Wilderness. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips Subscribe to The MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 18 July 2024

Bill Vanderheyden returns to the podcast to discuss new findings from the University of Colorado study, which looked at accuracy, stability, drag, wind drift, spin up, and sound. He offers tips for improving flight with broadheads. We also talk about the new heads he has coming out at Iron Will. Connect with Jason, Dirk, and Phelps Game Calls MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Youtube Clips MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTube Shop Phelps MerchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transcribed - Published: 11 July 2024