The Western Rookie - Hunting Podcast

Sportsmen's Empire
  • 4.7 (152)
  • WILDERNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Western Rookie Hunting Podcast is dedicated to those who are interested in becoming better western hunters. Elk hunting, mule deer hunting, antelope hunting and other western big game species will all be up for discussion in this educational and entertaining podcast. The guys will also discuss the logistics of western hunting along with the gear that you will need in order to be successful.

  1. Learning To Hunt The West

    4D AGO

    Learning To Hunt The West

    In this episode, Dan Johnson introduces himself as the new host of the Western Rookie Podcast, sharing his background in hunting and podcasting. He converses with Adam Parr about the transition from hunting in Michigan to Colorado, discussing the challenges and learning curves associated with Western hunting. They delve into the importance of proper gear, physical preparation, and navigating access to hunting locations. Adam shares his experiences with elk hunting, emphasizing the need for mental and physical readiness, as well as understanding species behavior. The conversation concludes with practical tips for first-time Western hunters, encouraging them to connect with local resources and prepare adequately for their adventures. Takeaways: Dan Johnson introduces himself as the new host of the podcast.Adam Parr shares his transition from Michigan to Colorado for hunting.Choosing the right gear is crucial for Western hunting success.Physical preparation is key to handling the rugged terrain.Navigating access to hunting locations can be challenging.First-time hunters should learn about the species they are pursuing.Elk hunting requires understanding their behavior and habitat.Having a mentor can ease the learning curve for new hunters.Trail cameras can be useful but have limitations in Western hunting.Preparation and knowledge are essential for a successful hunting experience.

    1h 6m
  2. Transitioning to New Projects Pt. 2

    JUL 22

    Transitioning to New Projects Pt. 2

    In this episode, Brian Krebs and Dan Johnson discuss the transition of the Western Rookie podcast, with Dan taking over as host. They explore the evolution of Western hunting perspectives, the importance of learning through experience, and the launch of Dan's new podcast, Get Drawn West. The conversation highlights key takeaways from past guests, the significance of scouting and preparation, and the mystique surrounding Western hunting. They also share their bucket list hunts, the role of guides, and the importance of gear in successful hunting experiences. Takeaways Dan is taking over the Western Rookie podcast.Learning from various experiences is crucial in hunting.Podcasting provides a platform for sharing knowledge.Time in the field is essential for success in hunting.The West offers unique hunting opportunities.Scouting is vital for successful hunts.Understanding the mystique of Western hunting is important.Bucket list hunts motivate hunters to improve.Guides can provide valuable learning experiences.Preparation and gear are key to successful hunting.

    51 min
  3. Transitioning to New Projects

    JUL 15

    Transitioning to New Projects

    On this episode of the Western Rookie, Brian introduces Dan Johnson from the Sportsmen's Empire podcast network to catch up what their upcoming season looks like for western hunts as well as a big announcement with some changes coming to the Western Rookie Podcast.

    55 min
  4. GoHunt Bonus Series 31 – Backup Tag Options

    JUL 8

    GoHunt Bonus Series 31 – Backup Tag Options

    In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian shares a full rundown of backup options for hunters who haven’t drawn a tag yet, including leftover tags, OTC opportunities, and first-come-first-serve permits across the West. He also delivers timely updates on the public land sale victory, a Colorado wolf controversy, and why it’s still worth hitting the mountains even when plans don’t go perfectly. Key Takeaways: Leftover / OTC Opportunities:Colorado: Leftover tag sale opens August 5; OTC 2nd and 3rd rifle seasons still availableIdaho: Leftover tags on August 7 & September 18; Controlled Hunt 2 app runs Aug 5–15Utah: Any Bull OTC tags open July 10; Spike tags open July 17Wyoming: Leftover tags on sale July 17; reduced-price cow/calf and doe/fawn tags availableOregon: First-come-first-serve leftover tags—check system frequentlyMontana: Surplus list signup ends July 15Arizona: OTC archery deer tags available November 5Bonus Tip: Consider eastern whitetail states like North Dakota and Kansas for OTC or first-come tagsPublic Land Sale Update:Thanks to massive public response, the Senate public land sale proposal was removedThe fight isn’t over—Sen. Mike Lee and others are still pushing for future land transfersColorado Wolves Update:CPW is holding a special meeting on rising wolf-livestock conflictsSo far, 9 wolf deaths have occurred since reintroductionRaises concerns about ballot box biology and wildlife management without scientific oversightConclusion: If you’re tagless after July 4th, it’s time to act fast. Leftover tags and OTC options are slim, but they’re still out there. Pick one, treat it as a chance to try something new, and make the most of your fall. Every hunt is better than no hunt. Don’t miss the next deadline—download the free Western Rookie Application Calendar at westernrookie.com and use code WESTERN for $50 in GOHUNT Gear Shop credit.   Application Deadline: DATE at TIME   Application Style: STYLE   Application Cost: COST   State Application Website: WEBSITE Connect with Brian Krebs https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@westernrookie.com!   Sponsors and Discounts: GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN  https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4 GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold! https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE  https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS  https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK

    24 min
  5. Protecting Pronghorn w/ North American Pronghorn Foundation

    JUL 1

    Protecting Pronghorn w/ North American Pronghorn Foundation

    In this episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs hosts a packed conversation featuring Dean Krebs, Tad Johnson, and Collin Fountain from the newly formed North American Pronghorn Foundation (NAPF). Together, they dive deep into why pronghorn needed their own conservation group, the unique challenges these animals face, and the exciting projects NAPF has planned to protect and enhance pronghorn populations across the West. Key topics discussed: Why pronghorn are uniquely impacted by fencing and what NAPF is doing to help.The surprising biological needs of pronghorn compared to mule deer and other western wildlife.Insights into the huge impact severe winters and infrastructure have on pronghorn migrations.The critical importance of wildlife corridors and fence modifications to pronghorn survival.Specific, actionable ways listeners can support and get involved with pronghorn conservation.Ready to help make a difference for pronghorn? Head over to pronghorns.org today to join as a member, explore volunteer opportunities, or grab some NAPF merch to show your support. Follow @NAPF_official on Instagram and help spread the word to protect these iconic western animals!   FREE Western Rookie Application Calendar www.westernrookie.com/freeproducts Connect with Brian Krebs https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@westernrookie.com!   Sponsors and Discounts: GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN  https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4 GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold! https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers Okuma Fishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers! https://alnk.to/31sVDzF First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE  https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS  https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK

    1h 1m
  6. Call Your Senators! w/ Tyler Notch

    JUN 24

    Call Your Senators! w/ Tyler Notch

    In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs is joined by Tyler Notch to address an urgent and pressing issue: the potential sale of millions of acres of public lands. Tyler and Brian dive deep into the legislation proposed by Senator Mike Lee, the risks it poses to public land access, and why this battle matters deeply to every hunter and outdoor enthusiast. The conversation emphasizes unity across the outdoor community and stresses the critical importance of taking immediate action to protect these lands. Key topics discussed: Details of the proposed bill to sell 2-3 million acres of BLM and USFS lands.The hidden tactics used by politicians to quietly pass controversial land sales.Why this sale would set a dangerous precedent for future public land losses.How the sale of public lands negatively impacts hunters, anglers, hikers, and all outdoor recreation.Clear, actionable steps every listener can take right now to make their voice heard.Listen to this urgent conversation and join the collective effort to save our public lands. Subscribe to the podcast and follow @westernrookie on social media to stay informed and involved.   FREE Western Rookie Application Calendar www.westernrookie.com/freeproducts Connect with Brian Krebs https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@westernrookie.com!   Sponsors and Discounts: GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN  https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4 GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold! https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers Okuma Fishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers! https://alnk.to/31sVDzF First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE  https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS  https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK

    1h 8m
  7. Shed Hunting w/ Kansas Shed Dogs

    JUN 17

    Shed Hunting w/ Kansas Shed Dogs

    In this episode of The Western Rookie Podcast, Brian welcomes Gideon and Danielle from Kansas Shed Dogs to explore the exciting world of shed hunting with trained dogs. They share their extensive experience using Labrador retrievers to find sheds, offering listeners practical tips on dog training, shed hunting strategies, and navigating challenges like rattlesnakes. Gideon and Danielle reveal their methods for scouting prime shed hunting locations, explain the critical role of fresh deer sign, and discuss how terrain and timing affect shed hunting success. Key Takeaways from this Episode: 🔸 Dog Selection & Training: How to choose a high-drive, shed-focused dog and effective training techniques.🔸 Terrain & Scouting Tips: Why certain locations consistently produce sheds and how to scout effectively.🔸 Managing Multiple Dogs: Strategies for successfully hunting sheds with more than one dog.🔸 Rattlesnake Encounters: Real-world advice for handling dangerous wildlife encounters safely.🔸 Dog Health & Nutrition: Recommendations for maintaining optimal health and recovery for high-performance hunting dogs.👉 Follow Gideon and Danielle on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook @KansasShedDogs, and listen to their podcast, The Kansas Shed Dogs Podcast, for more expert tips and shed hunting adventures. Subscribe to The Western Rookie Podcast to get more insightful episodes aimed at enhancing your outdoor adventures!   FREE Western Rookie Application Calendar www.westernrookie.com/freeproducts Connect with Brian Krebs https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@westernrookie.com!   Sponsors and Discounts: GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN  https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4 GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold! https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers Okuma Fishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers! https://alnk.to/31sVDzF First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE  https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS  https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK MyMedic Kits https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tool_type=cl&merchant_id=3b3250a4-1c69-4622-aba2-bfa731775635&website_id=7f6281aa-3b5b-4477-94d5-7d43b2199765&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmymedic.com%2F&ctc=Western   Instagram Tags: @GUEST @steelheadoutdoors @maverickblinds @revealcellcam @vortexoptics @gohunt @sitkagear @sportsmens_empire @ninefingerchronicles @hoytbowhunting @xopgear

    1h 35m
  8. GoHunt Bonus Series #30: Corner Crossing Update

    JUN 10

    GoHunt Bonus Series #30: Corner Crossing Update

    In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian shares a jam-packed update covering point deadlines, land access battles, and the latest in public land politics. Brian dives into time-sensitive applications, the ongoing corner crossing legal saga, and a brewing storm over a federal land sale. If you're a public land hunter or building points across the West, this episode is a must-listen. Key Takeaways: Application & Point Deadlines:Nevada Points Deadline: Today – June 10Nebraska Points Deadline: Saturday, June 14Kansas Resident Deer Application: Saturday, June 14Utah Points + Antlerless Deadline: Friday, June 20Corner Crossing Case Update:Federal civil case upheld in favor of hunters—no trespassing foundBillionaire landowner is petitioning the Supreme Court to overturn the rulingIf SCOTUS hears the case and rules in favor of hunters, corner crossing could become legal nationwideIf SCOTUS rules for the landowner, access to millions of acres of land could be blockedFederal Land Sale Update:The Utah–Nevada land sale proposal (originally 460K acres, actually 1.5M acres) was struck downSen. Mike Lee (UT) is pushing to sneak the language back into a must-pass Senate billConservation groups, hunters, and public land advocates are staying vigilantConclusion: Whether it’s building your point strategy or defending public land, now’s not the time to get complacent. Stay alert, make your voice heard, and don’t let billionaires rewrite our public land laws. Stay ready. Stay involved. Download the free Western Rookie Application Calendar at westernrookie.com, and use code WESTERN to join GOHUNT Insider and get $50 in Gear Shop credit. Connect with Brian Krebs https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@westernrookie.com! Sponsors and Discounts: GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN  https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4 GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u RTIC Coolers – Keep Your Meat Cold! https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE  https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE  https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS  https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb Save 20% on your first order at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS  https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK

    20 min
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4.7
out of 5
152 Ratings

About

The Western Rookie Hunting Podcast is dedicated to those who are interested in becoming better western hunters. Elk hunting, mule deer hunting, antelope hunting and other western big game species will all be up for discussion in this educational and entertaining podcast. The guys will also discuss the logistics of western hunting along with the gear that you will need in order to be successful.

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