Birdshot Podcast

Nick Larson
  • 4.8 (962)
  • WILDERNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Birdshot Podcast, presented by onX Hunt and hosted by Nick Larson, is where upland hunters come together. Each week we share conversations that connect the people, stories, and traditions of wingshooting—from bird dogs and shotguns to the birds and landscapes that bring us back season after season.

  1. #344 | Weather, Puppies, and the Reality of a "Rough" Grouse Year with Fritz Heller

    JAN 2

    #344 | Weather, Puppies, and the Reality of a "Rough" Grouse Year with Fritz Heller

    In this episode of the Birdshot Podcast, Nick Larson is joined by Fritz Heller, a dedicated upland hunter, to discuss the 2025 hunting season, dogs, grouse hunting, and much more. Fritz shares insights into the challenges of the season, including heat waves and the impact on bird numbers, as well as his experience training new puppies. The conversation also gets into Fritz's plans for the future, including his search for a camper for hunting trips and his thoughts on managing bird populations and hunting conditions. Fritz Heller is an upland bird hunter, dog trainer, and dedicated outdoorsman from Michigan. He has been actively involved in training dogs and hunting for many years, sharing his knowledge of the sport with others. Fritz is passionate about the welfare of wildlife, managing habitats, and improving bird populations, and has a wealth of experience hunting grouse, pheasants, and other upland species. Expect to Learn The impact of weather conditions on the 2025 hunting season Heat waves and their effects on bird numbers, especially in the early season The importance of habitat regeneration and the role of different species, like blackberries, in grouse hunting How puppy training can vary by breed, and how Fritz is raising his new Labrador and Cocker Spaniel puppies Fritz's thoughts on taxidermy and the importance of commemorating hunting memories The search for a camper and how Fritz is researching the best setup for his future hunting tripsEpisode Breakdown with Timestamps: [00:00:00] - Introduction [00:10:57] - 37 Degrees and Snow depth [00:19:57] - Fritz’s Week Trip this Year [00:36:13] - Different Color Phase [00:43:23] - Discussing the puppy’s first season [00:51:37] - Pippa: A Hunting Dog and the difference from a Lab [01:01:40] - Puppy walks [01:13:04] - Ruffed Grouse Drumming in Spring [01:17:28] - Camper, Truck and Rig [01:20:52] - Closing and upcoming plans for the next hunting season Follow the guest, Fritz: How to Hunt Ruffed Grouse with a Flushing Dog: https://projectupland.com/grouse-species/ruffed-grouse/how-to-hunt-ruffed-grouse-with-a-flushing-dog/   Follow the Host Nick: Instagram: @birdshot.podcast Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com Listening Links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609 YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/ The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 28m
  2. #343 | Shotguns, Shotshells, and Smarter Pheasant Hunting with Phil Bourjaily

    12/19/2025

    #343 | Shotguns, Shotshells, and Smarter Pheasant Hunting with Phil Bourjaily

    In this episode of the Birdshot Podcast, Nick Larson is joined by Phil Bourjaily, Shotgun Editor at Field & Stream and passionate bird hunter. Phil shares insights from his pheasant hunts, discusses the current state of upland bird populations, and offers tips on hunting pheasants with pointing dogs. He also talks about how habitat loss affects bird numbers, the role of public and private land hunting, and how hunting conditions vary season to season. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just getting into upland bird hunting, this conversation offers a wealth of knowledge and experience. Phil Bourjaily is a Shotgun Editor at Field & Stream, where he covers topics ranging from bird hunting to gun reviews and outdoor traditions. He’s a seasoned upland bird hunter with a wealth of experience hunting pheasants, grouse, and other upland species. His love for bird dogs and his deep understanding of hunting habitats make him a valuable resource for bird hunting enthusiasts. Expect to Learn How habitat loss impacts pheasant and quail populations The importance of public and private land in upland hunting Tips for hunting pheasants with pointing dogs, especially during late-season hunts The best weather conditions for pheasant hunting and how snow can affect bird behaviour The best shotgun set-up for pheasant hunting, including the right gauge and choke combinations Episode Breakdown with Timestamps [00:00:00] - Introduction [00:04:40] - Armadillos [00:10:29] - Public vs. Private Land Access [00:16:56] - Short Hairs vs. Other Dogs [00:24:58] - Zeke's Hunting Behavior - Moving, Tracking, and Following [00:29:00] - Discussion on Choosing the Right Gauge for Pheasant Hunting [00:48:05] - Weight and Balance in Pheasant Guns [00:58:09] - Bismuth Pricing [01:11:18] - Find More of Phil’s Published Work Follow the Guest Phil: Field and Stream: https://www.fieldandstream.com/authors/phil-bourjaily  Top 10 best shotguns: https://www.fieldandstream.com/outdoor-gear/guns/shotguns/best-pheasant-hunting-shotguns  Follow the Host Nick: Instagram: @birdshot.podcast Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com Listening Links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609 YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/ The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 18m
  3. #342 | Winter Birds, Running Roosters & the Making of a Dog Handler with Isaiah Osborne

    12/12/2025

    #342 | Winter Birds, Running Roosters & the Making of a Dog Handler with Isaiah Osborne

    In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, Nick Larson sits down with Minnesota upland hunter Isaiah Osborne to talk pheasants, sharptails, German shorthaired pointers, and growing up hunting without a bird dog. Isaiah shares his journey from discovering wild birds with friends in high school, to serving in the Marine Corps, to learning bird dogs from professional trainers in Arizona. The conversation covers pheasant behavior, Gambel’s quail, tracking vs. true dogs, winter pheasant strategies, and building a reliable upland hunting truck setup. Isaiah Osborne is a dedicated upland hunter from New Ulm, Minnesota. Raised in a large family with no dogs allowed, he eventually found his way into upland hunting, served in the Marine Corps, trained with Gordon’s Gun Dogs in Arizona, and now hunts behind two German shorthaired pointers across Minnesota and the Great Plains. Expect to Learn How Isaiah grew up pheasant hunting without dogs and how bird dogs changed everything What he learned training quail dogs in Arizona with professional handlers The difference between true dogs and tracking dogs in upland hunting Why pheasants run early season and hold tight after snowfall How Isaiah hunts Gambel’s quail, sharptail grouse, and Minnesota pheasants Tips for public land hunting, dog handling, and winter bird behavior Details of his truck, kennel, and gear setup for multi-dog upland hunting Episode Breakdown with Timestamps [00:00:00] - Introduction and winter conditions [00:03:26] - Growing up in New Ulm and discovering pheasant hunting [00:06:11] - Bird-hunting article and Isaiah’s background [00:12:15] - Hunting Gambel’s quail with and without dogs [00:15:52] - How many birds did they walk past without dogs [00:18:05] - Tracking dogs vs. true dogs in pheasant country [00:26:14] - Snow conditions and birds holding tight [00:32:27] - Ideal pheasant hunting weather [00:40:08] - Sharptail grouse hunting in North Dakota [00:40:51] - Adjusting pheasant dogs to big running prairie birds [00:44:56] - Isaiah’s bird dog training setup with pigeons [00:52:13] - Truck setup: F-150, topper, Decked drawers, Ruff Land kennels [01:02:24] - Favorite shotguns and 28-gauge pheasant loads [01:03:15] - Closing thoughts and hunt-swap idea Follow the Guest Isaiah:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isaiah_osborne10/ Follow the Host Nick: Instagram: @birdshot.podcast Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com Listening Links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609 YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/ The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 9m
  4. #341 | The Prairie Partnership: Ranchers, Wildlife, and the Grasslands We Stand to Lose

    12/05/2025

    #341 | The Prairie Partnership: Ranchers, Wildlife, and the Grasslands We Stand to Lose

    In this episode of the Birdshot Podcast, Nick Larson welcomes back Ted Koch, for an important conversation on prairie grouse conservation, grassland loss, ranching, and the future of upland habitat across North America. Ted also shares unforgettable elk-hunting stories, ruffed grouse parallels, and urgent insights into habitat fragmentation and the decline of gamebird populations. Ted Koch is a retired endangered species biologist and CEO of the North American Grouse Partnership. With decades of experience in western wildlife conservation, Ted works directly with ranchers, agencies, and conservation partners to protect prairie grouse species, including sharp-tailed grouse, greater prairie-chickens, lesser prairie-chickens, and sage-grouse. Expect to Learn Why prairie grouse populations are collapsing across North America How grassland loss and fragmentation impact sharptails, prairie-chickens, and sage-grouse Why ranching is essential to upland bird habitat How public-land and private-land management affect upland hunting access What hunters can do to support prairie conservation and rangeland stewardship Episode Breakdown with Timestamps [00:00:00] - Introduction [00:04:36] - What’s keeping Ted Busy [00:19:20] - Storytelling, memory, and the hunt [00:20:42] - Introduction to the North American Grouse Partnership [00:25:18] - Private-land rangelands and public perception [00:37:05] - How Conservation Practices Create Real Value for Wildlife and Habitat [00:43:37] - Rangelands, Cattle Production and Food Output [00:56:12] - Comparing The Approach with CRP [01:00:50] - National Grasslands Conservation Act and Its Role in Farm Bill Funding [01:04:40] - Learn More about The North American Grouse Partnership and Membership Follow the Guest Ted Website: grousepartners.org  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrousePartners  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/na_grouse_partnership/?hl=en  Saving Ranching to Save Wildlife: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lxM6vvEoRgc Follow the Host Nick: Instagram: @birdshot.podcast Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com Listening Links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609 YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/ The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 13m
  5. #340 | The Truck-Camp Bird Hunter: Upland Adventures with Jimmy Lewis

    11/21/2025

    #340 | The Truck-Camp Bird Hunter: Upland Adventures with Jimmy Lewis

    In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson reconnects with Jimmy Lewis, a passionate bird hunter and overlanding expert, for a deep dive into the world of upland hunting and the overlanding rigs that make it all possible. Jimmy talks about his transition back into guiding, his updated overlanding setup, and the challenges of hunting in varying conditions. From rooftop tents and truck bed caps to bird dogs and family adventures, this episode covers it all. Jimmy Lewis is an experienced bird hunting guide, outdoor enthusiast, and expert in overlanding rigs. After years of guiding in Montana and beyond, he recently transitioned back into full-time teaching while juggling his passion for guiding, bird hunting, and overlanding. His thoughtful approach to creating the ideal hunting and camping setup makes him a go-to resource for anyone interested in taking their outdoor adventures to the next level.  Expect to Learn: How overlanding rigs can be built for upland hunting, including his latest truck setup for guiding. The importance of a reliable vehicle and why Jimmy switched from a Dodge Ram to a Toyota Tundra. The advantages of rooftop tents and what to look for when selecting one for your overlanding setup. Tips for keeping your bird dogs safe and comfortable while traveling, including kennel ventilation and temperature management. How camping in varying conditions (from extreme heat to snow) enhances the outdoor experience. The mental and physical benefits of getting outside in different seasons, from early autumn hunts to late-season adventures.  Episode Breakdown with Timestamps [00:00:00] - Introduction [00:07:48] - Season in Montana [00:14:28] - Jimmy’s Dog Blake [00:23:22] - Old Rig and the Transition [00:30:38] - Gen-Three Toyota Tundra and upgrades [00:43:55] - Smart Cap and Overlanding Modifications [00:53:58] - Advice for Setting Up Your Own Overlanding Rig [00:58:44] - Roof-Top Tents [01:14:47] - The Cooler vs. Fridge Tipping Point [01:24:19] - Bumper Replacement Details for the Gen-Three Tundra Build [01:27:45] - How to Reach Jimmy for Rigs or Guiding Follow the Guest Jimmy: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jimmylewismt/  Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/finsandfeathersoverland/?hl=en  Follow the Host Nick: Instagram: @birdshot.podcast Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com Listening Links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609 YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshotUse Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/ The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 36m
  6. #339 | Hunting Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock North of the Border with Andrew & Mark

    11/14/2025

    #339 | Hunting Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock North of the Border with Andrew & Mark

    In this episode, host Nick Larson is joined by Andrew Lowles and Mark Symes of Ruffed Grouse Society of Canada, as they discuss the state of grouse and woodcock hunting in Atlantic Canada. They cover their unique experiences managing land for upland birds, their passion for conservation, and what makes hunting in their regions special. From forest management practices to the challenges and rewards of bird hunting in the varied landscapes of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Andrew and Mark share their wealth of knowledge, offer advice to hunters, and highlight the exciting potential for growth within the Ruffed Grouse Society of Canada. Expect to Learn: The diverse forest types in Eastern Canada and how they contribute to grouse and woodcock habitats. The role of the Ruffed Grouse Society Canada in promoting habitat management and conservation in the region. How hunters can use modern tools like OnX to plan their hunts on Crown land and private property. The unique challenges and opportunities of hunting in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, including woodcock flight patterns and grouse cycles. Insight into how the Ruffed Grouse Society Canada is growing and how members can get involved in local conservation efforts. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [00:00] - Podcast Introduction and Welcoming Andrew and Mark from  [03:40] - Andrew’s Background and Journey into Grouse Hunting [07:53] - Mark’s Path from Moose Hunting to the Uplands [09:24] - Managing Forest Lands for Upland Birds in Atlantic Canada [11:30] - Public Land and Crown Land Access in Nova Scotia [14:40] - Old Farmsteads, Wild Apples, and Hidden Grouse Habitat [19:43] - Defining Good Grouse Cover and Forest Types in New Brunswick [25:15] - Private Land Regulations and Trespass Law Differences [33:01] - Regional Differences in Habitat Across Canada [35:46] - Softwoods, Christmas Trees, and Grouse Habitat Impacts [37:00] - The Mission and Growth of Ruffed Grouse Society Canada [43:03] - Habitat Projects and Access Initiatives [52:53] - Exploring New Covers and Hunter Observations [57:08] - Training Dogs and Transitioning to Pointing Breeds [01:05:00] - Hunting as a US Visitor and Guide Requirements [01:10:35] - Promoting Awareness and Conservation Opportunities [01:17:14] - Closing Remarks and Episode Wrap-Up Follow the Host Nick: Instagram: @birdshot.podcast Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com Listening Links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609 YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/ The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 24m
  7. #338 | How A Bird Dog Transformed This Big Game Hunter into an Upland Obsessive with Brad Trumbo

    11/07/2025

    #338 | How A Bird Dog Transformed This Big Game Hunter into an Upland Obsessive with Brad Trumbo

    In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson sits down with Brad Trumbo, business owner at Palouse Upland Media. Brad shares his journey from big-game hunting in the East to his deep love for upland bird hunting in the West. They discuss the unique landscapes of Eastern Washington, the challenges of hunting various upland birds, and Brad’s approach to bird dogs and land management. Brad Trumbo: A biologist, bird hunter, and author, Brad's experience spans from fish passage research to working in public land management. His passion for upland hunting, especially in the Palouse, has inspired him to write about both the birds and landscapes he loves. Expect to Learn: How Brad transitioned from big-game hunting to upland birds Insights into hunting in the Palouse region of Washington and Idaho The challenges of hunting valley quail, pheasant, and Hungarian partridge Brad’s approach to bird dog training and management How to understand and enjoy the landscapes while hunting Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [00:00:00] - Podcast Introduction and Welcoming Brad Trumbo [00:02:53] - Defining the Palouse Region's Landscape and Ecology [00:04:03] - Brad's Path from Biology and Fisheries to Upland Hunting [00:06:25] - The Transition from Big Game to a Passion for Bird Hunting [00:07:01] - The Story Behind Getting the First Bird Dog [00:08:59] - On Dog Breeds, Aging, and Adapting Hunts for Senior Dogs [00:15:35] - Breakdown of Washington's Upland Bird Seasons [00:21:17] - A Hunting Anecdote: The Giant Whitetail and the Covey of Huns [00:23:06] - The Challenges of Archery and Ethical Hunting Considerations [00:28:30] - How a Dog's Health Issue Catalyzed a Writing Career [00:31:57] - The Journey to Publishing "Wing Shooting the Palouse" [00:34:03] - Blending Natural History and Personal Narrative in Writing [00:39:50] - Habitat and Strategies for Hunting Western Ruffed Grouse [00:44:10] - Hunting for the Love of Landscape Over Bird Tally [00:54:20] - Public Land Access and Hunter Programs in Washington [01:02:10] - The Appeal of Covey Birds and Hunting Valley Quail Follow the Guest Brad Trumbo: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tailfeathers_upland/ Website: https://bradtrumbo.com/ Follow the Host Nick: Instagram: @birdshot.podcast Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com Listening Links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609 YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshotUse Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/ The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 12m
  8. Reload #193 | Grouse and Woodcock Hunting Q&A with Brady Martin

    10/31/2025

    Reload #193 | Grouse and Woodcock Hunting Q&A with Brady Martin

    In this reload episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson delves into a lively Q&A session with a loyal listener, Brady Martin. As Brady embarks on his first season of serious grouse hunting with his new bird dog, he shares the challenges, questions, and experiences he’s encountered. Together, they explore everything from scouting, bird cover, and hunting techniques to managing expectations for new hunters and bird dogs. Brady Martin is a first-time grouse hunter getting serious about the sport with his young bird dog. From his background in law enforcement and K-9 handling to his transition into upland bird hunting, Brady brings a unique perspective on both the joy and the challenges of pursuing ruffed grouse and woodcock. With a strong curiosity and desire to learn, he’s asking all the right questions as he embarks on this new adventure. Expect to Learn How to effectively scout and assess grouse hunting spots using e-scouting tools Why early-season grouse hunting can be particularly challenging How Brady is training his young bird dog and what he’s learning in the process Tips for understanding the nuances of grouse and woodcock cover The importance of adjusting your approach based on bird behavior and cover changes  Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [00:00:00] - Introduction and Thank You to Patreons [00:08:57] - Poodle Pointer [00:16:39] - Nick’s Journey [00:18:14] - First Question: Scouted Spots You Drive Past [00:28:52] - Is It Just Grouse or Woodcock Too? [00:32:35] - Early Season Challenges: Leaves, Food, or Scattered Birds? [00:52:25] - Hazel Brush [00:57:14] - Good Grouse Cover: White Pine, Hazel, and Swamps [01:17:29] -  Personality and Patience in Hunting and Fishing [01:28:05] - Handling a Dog on Point: Whoa or Let Them Learn? [01:32:57] - Last Question: Dog Training Helping a Dog Hunt Out of Sight Follow the Host Nick: Instagram: @birdshot.podcast Website: www.birdshotpodcast.com Listening Links: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609 YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshotUse Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/ The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 41m
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4.8
out of 5
962 Ratings

About

Birdshot Podcast, presented by onX Hunt and hosted by Nick Larson, is where upland hunters come together. Each week we share conversations that connect the people, stories, and traditions of wingshooting—from bird dogs and shotguns to the birds and landscapes that bring us back season after season.

Information

  • Creator
    Nick Larson
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    343
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Birdshot Podcast

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