Huntin' Land Podcast

Great Days Outdoors
  • 5.0 (54)
  • WILDERNESS

Stay up to date on Hunting Tactics, Land Management, Land Values, and Land Market dynamics with hosts Joe Baya, Butch Thierry, and Clint Flowers.

  1. 4D AGO

    Spring Food Plot Prep - Soil Tests, Seed Blends & Smarter Food Plots

    Spring is the perfect time to start preparing food plots for next fall’s hunting season—but the most important step happens before you ever plant a seed. In this episode of Huntin’ Land, host Joe Baya sits down with Caleb Weaver from Southern Seed & Feed to break down how soil tests can completely change the way you approach food plots. They start with the basics of reading a soil test and explain why numbers like pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, CEC, and organic matter matter more than most hunters realize. Many landowners spend thousands of dollars on seed and fertilizer without ever testing their soil, which often means they’re wasting money or growing weaker plants than their property could support. Caleb explains how correcting soil pH with lime can dramatically improve plant nutrition uptake, why organic matter is critical for water retention during summer droughts, and how better soil structure leads to healthier plants and stronger wildlife nutrition. The conversation also dives into practical strategies for building better soil over time using plant choices like clovers, buckwheat, cowpeas, sorghum, and other summer crops that improve root structure and microbial activity underground. They also discuss common mistakes hunters make with food plots—like blindly planting soybeans on small plots where deer density will wipe them out—and why blends designed for southern soils often outperform single-species plantings. If you manage hunting land and want healthier food plots, stronger deer nutrition, and more productive habitat over the long term, this episode walks through the simple soil science that can make the biggest difference on your property.

    54 min
  2. Conservation That Pays: How To Manage Understory When Prescribed Fire Won't Work

    JAN 20

    Conservation That Pays: How To Manage Understory When Prescribed Fire Won't Work

    In this episode, we break down one of the most common—and frustrating—habitat challenges landowners face: how to manage overgrown understory when prescribed fire isn’t working or isn’t an option. Years of fire suppression have allowed midstory vegetation to block sunlight, eliminate native ground cover, and stall wildlife habitat across much of the Southeast. Joe Baya and Butch Thierry are joined by Jody Pagan of Ecosystems Protection Service and Brian Sheppard of Brush Clearing Services, two seasoned habitat professionals who explain the difference between manipulating land and truly restoring ecosystems. They walk through how to evaluate soils, vegetation, and disturbance history, why sunlight is the key driver of habitat, and how to recognize when fire alone can no longer do the job. The conversation then shifts to mechanical and chemical alternatives, including forestry mulching, timber harvest, and herbicide work. Brian explains when mulching makes sense, its limitations, and why follow-up fire and maintenance are critical for long-term success. Real-world restoration examples highlight how resetting vegetation can quickly bring back ducks, turkeys, quail, and other wildlife. We also discuss how landowners can use NRCS and Farm Bill programs like EQIP and CSP to help offset costs and accelerate habitat work. Whether you’re managing timber, wetlands, or a hunting property, this episode delivers a clear, practical roadmap: restore sunlight, reset vegetation, reintroduce fire, and maintain the system the land was built for.

    1h 23m
  3. Are You Shooting Enough Does? How QDM Fatigue Is Hurting Deer Herds

    12/12/2025

    Are You Shooting Enough Does? How QDM Fatigue Is Hurting Deer Herds

    In this episode, we break down one of the most common questions in whitetail deer management: How many deer—especially does—should you harvest each season? Hunters often rely on guesses, trail-cam photos, or instinct, but Dr. Bronson Strickland, one of the leading experts in deer biology and habitat management, explains how to use forage capacity, herd size, buck-to-doe ratios, and fawn recruitment to make science-based harvest decisions. Dr. Strickland walks us through evaluating habitat quality, recognizing signs of overbrowsing, understanding how much deer truly eat, and determining a healthy buck-to-doe ratio. We also explore the impact of skewed ratios on rut timing, fawn health, and overall herd performance. Then we shift to the technology side with Paragon Aerial Solutions, leaders in thermal drone deer surveys. They explain how modern aerial counts determine accurate herd numbers, prevent double-counting, measure buck-to-doe ratios, estimate fawn recruitment, and identify where deer actually spend time on the property. We discuss survey accuracy, cost-per-acre, seasonal timing, property size limitations, and how drone data integrates with mapping apps like OnX and HuntStand. Whether you're managing small acreage or a large hunting property, this episode gives you a full, science-driven roadmap: forage capacity → deer demand → herd size → ratios → fawn recruitment → harvest goals. Perfect for landowners, habitat managers, and anyone wanting to improve their whitetail herd using real data, not guesses. Important Links: Great Days Outdoors First South Farm Credit Southern Seed and Feed Dixie Building Supply / Baker Metal Works Chestnut Hill Outdoors Texas Hunter Products Black Buffalo Paragon Aerial Solutions

    1h 32m
  4. 2025 Hunter's Gift Guide: What We Love to Give and Get

    12/01/2025

    2025 Hunter's Gift Guide: What We Love to Give and Get

    Join hosts Joe Baya, Nick Williams, and Butch Thierry as they dive into the best hunting gifts and gear for 2025 in this special holiday episode of the podcast. Whether you're searching for the ultimate Christmas gifts for hunters or just want to upgrade your own outdoor gear, our experts review top-rated hunting equipment and share their favorite stocking stuffers. Discover insider tips on hunting clothing, base layers, smart outdoor tech, stabilized binoculars, premium scopes, and essential gear for every hunter. Highlights include reviews of Texas Hunter products, Chestnut Hill Outdoors food plot solutions, Leupold CDS systems, SIG Sauer Zulu stabilized binoculars, and more. Plus, get creative ideas for family gifts, unique camp accessories, and ways to document your best hunting memories. Tune in to learn how to find the perfect hunting gift for every outdoorsman and outdoorswoman on your list! Important Links: Great Days Outdoors First South Farm Credit Dixie Building Supply / Baker Metal Works Chestnut Hill Outdoors Texas Hunter Products Black Buffalo

    1h 5m
  5. Strategic Buck Harvest: Managing for Future Trophies with Dr. Bronson Strickland

    11/20/2025

    Strategic Buck Harvest: Managing for Future Trophies with Dr. Bronson Strickland

    Join host Joe Baya, co-host Butch Theory, and special guest Dr. Bronson Strickland of Wildlife Investments as they dive deep into the science of deer hunting, strategic buck harvest, and effective wildlife management. In this episode, the team discusses actionable strategies for balancing doe and buck populations, maximizing trophy buck potential, and implementing expert food plot and habitat improvement techniques. Learn proven game camera tips, culling methods, and age-based deer management practices that can take your deer hunting and land investment to the next level. Whether you’re a novice hunter or seasoned land manager, discover how to optimize your hunting property for long-term success. Important Links: Great Days Outdoors Farm Credit of Northwest Florida First South Farm Credit Southern Seed and Feed Dixie Building Supply / Baker Metal Works Bucks Island Marine 157 Outfitters Chestnut Hill Outdoors Texas Hunter Products Barnett Crossbows

    1h 6m
  6. The Long-Term Advantage of Food Plot Trees

    11/14/2025

    The Long-Term Advantage of Food Plot Trees

    In this episode, Joe Baya & Butch Thierry welcome Ian Wallace from Chestnut Hill Outdoors to share expert advice on transforming your property into a wildlife haven. Focusing on food plot trees like the Dunstan chestnut, Ian explains how strategic land management boosts deer hunting success, enhances wildlife nutrition, and creates long-lasting habitat diversity. Learn about effective timber stand improvement, cost-effective ways to increase carrying capacity, and the benefits of integrating mass-producing trees for year-round attraction. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or new landowner, these practical tips for improving your hunting property are essential listening for anyone interested in wildlife habitat, deer attractants, and property investment for hunting Important Links: First South Farm Credit Dixie Building Supply / Baker Metal Works Bucks Island Marine Chestnut Hill Outdoors Texas Hunter Products Barnett Crossbows

    1h 5m
  7. Wildlife Stand Improvement | Dr. Deer’s Playbook for Multiple-Use Forests

    10/17/2025

    Wildlife Stand Improvement | Dr. Deer’s Playbook for Multiple-Use Forests

    Join host Joe Baya and expert guest Dr. James Crowell, aka “Dr. Deer,” as they dive deep into wildlife management, timber stand improvement (TSI), and maximizing land investment for deer and habitat optimization. This episode covers the essential differences between timber stand and wildlife stand improvement, optimal oak tree diversity (60/40 red to white), thinning practices for healthier hardwood stands, the value of prescribed fire, and strategies to boost deer habitat and forest productivity. Dr. Crowell shares actionable insights for landowners looking to improve soil health, manage timber for both wildlife and investment, and take advantage of government cost-share programs. Whether you’re a seasoned land investor, recreational property manager, or new landowner, these expert tips on forest, habitat, and deer herd management will help you leave your land better than you found it. Important Links: Great Days Outdoors Farm Credit of Northwest Florida First South Farm Credit Southern Seed and Feed Dixie Building Supply / Baker Metal Works Bucks Island Marine 157 Outfitters Chestnut Hill Outdoors Texas Hunter Products Barnett Crossbows

    1h 26m
  8. Building Better Duck Habitat: Why and How to Install Wood Duck Boxes with DuckHut

    10/03/2025

    Building Better Duck Habitat: Why and How to Install Wood Duck Boxes with DuckHut

    Join host Joe Baya with co-hosts Butch Thierry and Nick Williams as they welcome Kent Grimm from Duck Hut to discuss innovative strategies for wood duck conservation and waterfowl habitat management. This episode dives deep into the benefits of installing wood duck boxes, the importance of predator guards, and practical tips for improving wetland and hunting land for wildlife. Kent shares his journey developing durable plastic wood duck boxes and explains how these artificial nesting sites can dramatically increase duck populations. Whether you're a landowner, hunter, or conservationist, learn how to enhance your property for waterfowl and support successful wildlife habitat improvement. Important Links: Great Days Outdoors Farm Credit of Northwest Florida First South Farm Credit Southern Seed and Feed Dixie Building Supply / Baker Metal Works Bucks Island Marine 157 Outfitters Chestnut Hill Outdoors Texas Hunter Products Barnett Crossbows

    51 min
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5
out of 5
54 Ratings

About

Stay up to date on Hunting Tactics, Land Management, Land Values, and Land Market dynamics with hosts Joe Baya, Butch Thierry, and Clint Flowers.

Information

  • Creator
    Great Days Outdoors
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    218
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    ©202GreatDaysOutdoors
  • Show Website
    Huntin' Land Podcast

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