The Huntavore

Sportsmen's Empire
  • 5.0 (31)
  • WILDERNESS
  • UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY

Welcome to the Huntavore Podcast, where we discuss catching, cutting and cooking wild game. No egos, no status, just the pursuit of organic protein and a love for wild, natural creation.

  1. Ep 193 U.P. Ice Adventure

    2D AGO

    Ep 193 U.P. Ice Adventure

    In this episode, Nick recount their thrilling ice fishing adventure targeting trophy lake trout. They share their journey from the marina to the fishing spot, detailing their setup, techniques, and the excitement of catching their first lake trout. The conversation highlights the camaraderie among friends, the challenges of fishing, and the joy of experiencing nature together. Nick reflects on the significance of their catch and the memories created during this adventure, emphasizing the importance of outdoor activities and the bonds formed through shared experiences. Takeaways The journey to the fishing spot was an adventure in itself. Preparation and setup are crucial for a successful fishing trip. Patience and optimism are key when fishing. Using technology like fish finders can enhance the fishing experience. The thrill of seeing fish approach the bait is exhilarating. Catching a fish is a team effort, enhancing the experience. Deciding whether to keep or release a catch can be a meaningful discussion. Ice fishing offers unique challenges and rewards compared to other fishing methods. Outdoor activities like fishing strengthen friendships and create lasting memories. Trying new fishing techniques can lead to exciting discoveries. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    57 min
  2. Ep 192 Icefishing & Fasting with Wildgame

    FEB 12

    Ep 192 Icefishing & Fasting with Wildgame

    As winter blankets Michigan with snow and ice, ice fishing enthusiasts eagerly await the opportunity to cast their lines onto frozen lakes. In this episode, we’ll explore the thrilling experiences shared in a recent episode of the Huntavore Podcast, where the joys of fishing, family bonding, and learning new skills come together in the great outdoors. A highlight of the podcast is the host’s experience scouting for fish using a topographical map. This skill, which he describes as a work in progress, paid off during a recent outing where he successfully located a school of crappies. The thrill of spotting fish on his Garmin Striker sonar made for a rewarding day, even if the catch was primarily smaller ones affectionately dubbed as 'dinks.' The host shares valuable insights about categorizing their catches, from 'dinks' to 'keepers' and 'slabs,' emphasizing the importance of letting smaller fish grow for future trips. A personal twist to this episode is Nick’s new found motivation to slim down.  Getting weight in check to help be healthy and maintain activity level.  Nick shares his journey as he is a couple months into intermittent fasting and getting to see some early results, and feeling all the good vibes. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    46 min
  3. Ep 191 Mike Fitzgerald; A Sportsmen’s Slippery Slope

    JAN 29

    Ep 191 Mike Fitzgerald; A Sportsmen’s Slippery Slope

    In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss the challenges of balancing family life with sports commitments, the unpredictable nature of winter weather and ice conditions, and the journey of writing and publishing in the outdoor genre. They explore the motivations behind writing, the impact of podcasting on outdoor culture, and the ethical considerations surrounding sponsorships and conservation efforts. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of accountability in protecting natural resources and the role of writers in inspiring future generations. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 25m
  4. Ep 190 Escaping the Kitchen Rut Part 2

    JAN 15

    Ep 190 Escaping the Kitchen Rut Part 2

    In part two of this conversation, Nick and Chris of Okayest Cook, explore various themes surrounding hunting, cooking, and self-sufficiency. They share personal experiences from the hunting season, discuss the joys of cooking with wild game, and delve into the importance of creativity in the kitchen. The discussion also touches on the challenges of breaking out of cooking ruts, the art of making soups and stocks, and the benefits of canning meat for future use. Throughout the conversation, the hosts encourage listeners to share their own experiences and ideas, fostering a sense of community among food enthusiasts. In this episode, we reflect on how each hunting season brings valuable lessons, experiences, and a deeper sense of purpose to the food we prepare. We discuss how self-sufficiency in the kitchen enhances not only the flavor of meals but also the satisfaction that comes from making something entirely your own. From starting a podcast as a way to share a passion for food to finding inspiration through audience engagement, we explore how community can spark creativity. We also talk about breaking out of cooking ruts by rethinking everyday ingredients—using ground meat in versatile ways, transforming leftovers into something special, and relying on staples like soups and stocks to elevate any dish. Finally, we touch on practical skills like canning meat for long-term preservation, showing how thoughtful preparation today can shape meals for the future while strengthening both creativity and connection around the table. For Part 1:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/okayest-cook/id1735562840?i=1000744107440 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 7m

  5. JAN 2

    Reindeer: A Bittersweet Start to 2026

    Nick was given a huge opportunity to acquire a reindeer carcass.  He lays out the events that lead to this, how it wasn't a hunt, but a dispatch of an animal.  How he will go about salvaging as much as he can, from skull and antlers, to meat and hide.  It is a glaring look at the relationship we have with livestock, the relationship we have as farmers and butchers, and a parallel of how a years end can be sad, but a new year is beginning. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    31 min
  6. Out with One Season, In with a New

    12/18/2025

    Out with One Season, In with a New

    Nick Otto reflects on the recently concluded deer season and shares his excitement for the upcoming ice fishing season. He discusses the joys of ice fishing with family, the importance of preparing equipment, and the thrill of catching and cooking fish. Nick also emphasizes the need for proper management of outdoor gear and the anticipation of new adventures in the outdoors. Wrapped up deer season and made stock from bucks. Excited for ice fishing with upgraded equipment. Ice fishing with kids creates memorable experiences. Catch and cook is a family favorite activity. Planning to explore new fishing species this season. Research is key for booking ice fishing trips. Equipment management is crucial for outdoor activities. Family bonding is enhanced through outdoor recreation. Looking forward to new adventures in the coming year. Preparation for future seasons is essential. Show Partners: Umai Dry Instagram: @umaidry Website: bit.ly/3WhfnnX Sign up for the newsletter for 10% off TieBoss Instagram: @tiebossllc Website: https://tieboss.com/pod?ref=pod Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    40 min
  7. Ep.187 Stews and Braise Season with Kriss Abigail

    12/04/2025

    Ep.187 Stews and Braise Season with Kriss Abigail

    On this episode of Huntavore, Kriss Abigail and Nick Otto explore the world of hunting and cooking, focusing on the importance of utilizing underutilized cuts of venison. They discuss various cooking techniques, the value of patience in the kitchen, and the joy of creative meal prep. The conversation also touches on the significance of stewardship and conservation in hunting, encouraging listeners to embrace the culinary possibilities of wild game. With practical tips and personal anecdotes, this dialogue inspires a deeper connection to food and nature. Nick and Kriss, explore the deep connections between hunting, cooking, and the food that ends up on our plates. We talk about how hunting fosters a unique relationship with the meals we prepare and builds a stronger appreciation for the natural world. Respectful stewardship is a central theme, including the importance of using every part of the animal and embracing underutilized cuts to reduce waste and honor the harvest. We also dive into the value of understanding different cuts of meat—especially venison—and how patience in the kitchen can unlock richer, more satisfying flavors. From experimenting with international cuisines to transforming leftovers into new dishes, we highlight how creativity keeps cooking fresh and engaging. Throughout the episode, we reflect on the rewarding yet challenging nature of cooking with wild game and how embracing those challenges ultimately makes us better cooks and more thoughtful consumers of the food we gather. Show Partners: Umai Dry Instagram: @umaidry Website: bit.ly/3WhfnnX Sign up for the newsletter for 10% off TieBoss Instagram: @tiebossllc Website: https://tieboss.com/pod?ref=pod Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    1h 6m
  8. Ep 186 Big Lakers with Cate Meade

    11/20/2025

    Ep 186 Big Lakers with Cate Meade

    In this episode of Huntavore, Nick sits down with Cate Meade, a Chicago native whose love for the outdoors began with family traditions and time spent in nature. Her passion for cooking started early — sparked by a childhood moment making a simple cherry pie that set her on a lifelong culinary path. Today, Cate works full-time as a personal chef, cooking across a variety of kitchens, events, and private settings. She talks about the importance of adapting to guests’ dietary needs and allergies, a skill that has become central to her approach in the kitchen. Cate also shares insights from her time on MasterChef, where learning from world-class chefs and refining her techniques became invaluable experiences she carries into her daily work. A major part of her philosophy centers on hunting, harvesting, and respecting nature. She discusses the rising interest in connecting more deeply with food sources through hunting and fishing, including her own fishing adventures. We wrap with her bold recipe for hot honey lake trout, along with tips for preparing oily fish like trout to bring out the best flavor. Show Partners: Umai Dry Instagram: @umaidry Website: bit.ly/3WhfnnX Sign up for the newsletter for 10% off TieBoss Instagram: @tiebossllc Website: https://tieboss.com/pod?ref=pod Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    56 min
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5
out of 5
31 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Huntavore Podcast, where we discuss catching, cutting and cooking wild game. No egos, no status, just the pursuit of organic protein and a love for wild, natural creation.

Information

  • Creator
    Sportsmen's Empire
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    192
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Otto Isenoff 2018
  • Show Website
    The Huntavore

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