If you are interested in hunting big game in New Mexico in 2024, or beyond, this episode is for you. We speak directly with the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish to understand how to hunt in New Mexico, and also answer your listener-submitted questions about their application process, updates on species, changes in regulations, and more.

Resources for this episode...
- New Mexico Department of Game & Fish: https://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/
- Historical Harvest Report: https://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/hunting/harvest-reporting-information/
- Draw Odds Report: https://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/hunting/applications-and-draw-information/how-new-mexico-draw-works/
- Hunter Education: https://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/education/hunter-education/
- Employment: https://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/enforcement/career-advancement/

Contact Us: podcast@exomtngear.com
Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry

Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Hunt Backcountry Podcast

441 | New Mexico Game & Fish (Your Questions, Misconceptions, and More...)

If you are interested in hunting big game in Idaho in 2024, or beyond, this episode is for you. We speak Toby Boudreau, Deer and Elk Coordinator for the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, to get an update on the status of deer, elk, wolves, black bear, and grizzly bear in Idaho. A recap of the recent non-resident tag general sale, information on the use of e-bikes, and a whole lot more.

Resources for this episode...
- Idaho Fish & Game: https://idfg.idaho.gov/
- Idaho Hunt Planner: https://idfg.idaho.gov/ifwis/huntPlanner/
- Idaho Big Game Seasons & Rules: https://idfg.idaho.gov/rules/big-game
- Idaho Harvest Statistics: https://idfg.idaho.gov/ifwis/huntplanner/stats/
- Idaho State of Deer & Elk: https://idfg.idaho.gov/stateofdeerandelk

Toby's Previous Episodes...
- On Wolves & Wolf Hunting: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/215
- On Tag Sales & Big Game Management in Idaho: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/382

Contact Us: podcast@exomtngear.com
Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry

Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

442 | Idaho Fish & Game (Your Questions, Misconceptions, and More...)

If you are interested in hunting big game in Montana in 2024, or beyond, this episode is for you. We speak with Greg and Emily from Montana Fish, Parks & Wildlife, to get an update on the status of deer, elk, and grizzly bears in Montana. The state's "It's Up To Us" hunter ethics campaign. The differences between Montana's bonus points and preference points for their hunting applications, and much more.

Resources for this episode...
- https://fwp.mt.gov/hunt
- https://fwp.mt.gov/ItsUpToUs
- https://fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/hunting-licenses
- https://fwp.mt.gov/binaries/content/assets/fwp/conservation/elk/elk-management-plan/region-3-elk-plan.pdf

Contact Us: podcast@exomtngear.com
Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry

Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

443 | Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (Your Questions, Misconceptions, and More...)

Steve & Mark answer your listener questions on this Monday Minute podcast episode. They discuss how to get started hunting, how to choose a sleep bag or quilt (especially for big guys), and why you can convert an Exo Lid into a fanny pack, but they don't recommend it.

Sleeping Bag vs Quilt Podcast — https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/130

Come see us at Hunt Expo — https://huntexpo.com/

Get a special show discount at the Pacific Northwest Sportsmen's Show when you visit the Born & Raised Outdoors or PNWild booth — https://thesportshows.com/shows/pacific-northwest/show-information/

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View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

Monday Minute

MM 209 | Narrow Your Focus, Choose a Sleeping Bag or Quilt, and Convert Your Lid

This is a great conversation on the realities of hunting late-season elk, how dealing with variable weather can change the course of a hunt, the importance of logistics and details, how trophy opportunity can change the pressure of a hunt, and a whole lot more.

Rob joins us to tell the story of his 2023 late-season Montana elk hunt. While the hunt ended with a beautiful 350+ bull, it took a lot more work and persistence than Rob imagined it would.

Contact Us: podcast@exomtngear.com
Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry

Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

445 | Late-Season Trophy Elk Hunt in MT (A Listener Story)

We continue the "Before & After the Hunt" podcast series with people just like YOU... listeners of the podcast. Throughout this series, we will be speaking with everyday hunters as they plan and prepare for a specific hunt, and then we will have a follow-up episode after their hunt to hear how the hunt unfolded, the lessons they learned, and more.

Today, we are speaking Zak, who completed a guided elk hunt in Montana, which was a family trip with his father and uncle. As an adult-onset hunter from the east coast, this was Zak's first western hunt — it was a fulfilling experience where he learned a lot and found success. We discuss the story, the lessons, and the takeaways.

Zak's "Before the Hunt" Episode: https://exomtngear.com/blogs/podcast/419

Contact Us: podcast@exomtngear.com

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Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

448 | After the Hunt — Montana Deer & Elk Combo

If you are interested in hunting big game in Colorado in 2024, or beyond, this episode is for you. We speak with John and Brandon from Colorado Parks & Wildlife. In this conversation, we answer your listener-submitted questions about CO's application season, the future of over-the-counter (OTC) hunting opportunities, the reintroduction of wolves in CO, and more.

Helpful CPW Links...
- https://cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Pages/hunt.aspx
- https://cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Pages/BigGame.aspx
- https://cpw.state.co.us/aboutus/pages/commission.aspx
- https://www.youtube.com/@ColoradoParksandWildlife/videos

Contact Us: podcast@exomtngear.com
Leave A Message: https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry

Podcast Episode Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

452 | Colorado Parks & Wildlife (Your Questions, Misconceptions, and More...)

Utah often gets overlooked by non-resident elk hunters due to its limited entry units. However, for a more accessible elk hunting experience, Spiker Chow offers a viable option. Hunting in Utah presents a unique and thrilling experience, even for newcomers. Josh shares his story of taking his friend Jaden elk hunting for the first time, where Jaden encountered elk at remarkably close distances. These intense moments teach the crucial lesson of understanding wind and thermals, as elk are highly sensitive to scent. The narrative emphasizes that while knowledge from articles and podcasts is useful, real learning happens in the field. Hunting is not just about the kill but the journey and the lessons learned along the way. It highlights the importance of preparation, patience, and respecting the natural instincts of the prey. For Josh, seeing a mentee succeed in hunting is more rewarding than personal achievements. Additionally, Trey and Jeff discuss the mental health benefits of hunting, with Trey recounting how archery helped him overcome depression and find a new sense of purpose. Jeff shares his own transformative experiences, emphasizing the therapeutic power of hunting and the camaraderie it fosters.

Deadshot Nutrition - Shell, WY MAF

Brandon Waddell, the founder of Mountain Archery Fest (MAF), embodies the spirit of resilience and determination. His journey is a testament to the power of hard work, self-discipline, and a deep-seated passion for archery. Through MAF, Brandon has created a unique platform that not only celebrates the sport but also fosters a sense of community among participants.

Brandon's story is one of perseverance. Training rigorously throughout the winter, he has consistently placed in the top ranks of competitions, despite facing challengers 20 years his junior. His dedication to physical fitness and mental well-being is evident in his commitment to maintaining a rigorous workout regime, even amid a demanding job and personal commitments. This focus on fitness is not just about competition; it's a crucial element of his overall approach to life.

MAF has grown under Brandon's leadership, hosting events across the country and gaining recognition as a significant player in the 3D archery community. The festivals are not just about shooting arrows; they offer a space for veterans to share their stories and find solace, reflecting Brandon's commitment to mental health and emotional support. His approach emphasizes the importance of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health, demonstrating a holistic view of well-being.

Brandon's vision for MAF extends beyond the sport, aiming to build a supportive and inclusive community. By partnering with organizations like the Boys and Girls Club and hosting events that welcome everyone, he is making archery accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience. His story is a powerful reminder that with passion and perseverance, we can create meaningful change in our communities and lives.

Founder Of MAF - Brandon Waddell

Steve and Mark answer your listener questions on this Monday Minute episode. They discuss choosing bivy camp locations while elk hunting, what they do with their food when hunting in bear country (specifically in Alaska), how to prevent vehicle break-ins at the trailhead, and more.

SUBSCRIBE VIA EMAIL — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter

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MM 228 | Bivy Location for Elk, Bears & Food, Gear Theft at the Trailhead

Before Steve and Mark answer your listener questions on this Monday Minute episode, they announce an ALL-NEW accessory for K4 Pack Systems — The Elk Call Kit. This kit includes a simple, fast, and secure bugle tube holder, as well as a shoulder harness-mounted holder for 2 elk reeds.

CHECK IT OUT — https://exomtngear.com/callkit

For listener questions, Steve & Mark discuss how they would plan meat care for an elk hunt in grizzly country (with multiple tags to fill), and talk about the trade-offs between killing quickly and minimizing meat loss. They also answer a listener's question about how (and why) to rate and review the podcast.

ELK CALL KIT — https://exomtngear.com/callkit

NEW EXO NALGENE — https://exomtngear.com/bottle

NALGENE HOLDER & BOTTLE BUNDLE — https://exomtngear.com/nalgene

SUBSCRIBE VIA EMAIL — https://exomtngear.com/newsletter

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View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

MM 229 | NEW K4 Elk Call Kit, How (and Why) to Rate or Review, and More...

Jake joins Mark for an overdue Monday Minute episode. They discuss the recent move of Exo HQ, what's to come on the podcast, and why post-hunt pack care (whether you use an Exo or not) is an underestimated and overlooked danger.

Links mentioned in this episode:
- New Exo HQ: https://exomtngear.com/contact
- Hunt Kodiak with Foxtail Lodge: Contact Jerre at taken_line@comcast.net or learn more at https://www.kodiakalaskafishinglodge.com/
- Pack Damage Example: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cb_aTUbpJl9/

ASK YOUR QUESTION — podcast@exomtngear.com

LEAVE A MESSAGE — https://speakpipe.com/huntbackcountry

View & Search the Podcast Archive: https://exomtngear.com/podcast

MM 233 | New Exo HQ, Jake Returns, Post-Hunt Pack Damage

The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation have a long-standing partnership dedicated to preserving and enhancing elk populations in the Land of Enchantment. Together, they’ve spearheaded habitat restoration projects that ensure sustainable, high-quality elk herds across the state. Join us as we discuss the importance of elk conservation, habitat management, and the power of collaboration with Josh McDonald of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and NMDGF’s elk biologist, Travis Zaffarano. 

Episode 33: Conservation in Action: Collaboration for New Mexico's Elk

Brian Johnson, the mind behind The Anatomy Hunter, is on a mission to reduce the number of wounded and lost deer, ensuring more ethical kills and meat for families. With a background in taxidermy and sculpture, he’s spent decades studying animal anatomy, inventing better shot-placement techniques, and even helping develop Reinhart archery targets. His Perfect Kill Shot Documentation Project aims to catalog a thousand real-world shots, showing exactly how animals die based on shot placement. Through firsthand experience—including an elk hunt that sparked the idea—he’s developing a new way to teach hunters, using real footage, scientific analysis, and interactive education to improve ethical shot placement. His passion isn’t about trophies—it’s about knowledge, respect, and ensuring every hunter understands the anatomy of their prey.

The Anatomy Hunter

We’ve all had our moments in the field — and in this episode, Brayden McAlister shares the story of the shot that just didn’t land. From spotting the perfect bull elk to… well, totally missing it, Brayden walks us through the hunt, the heartbreak, and how it all went down.

Tales of Outdoor Oopsies with Brayden McAllister

In this episode Brian Barney sits down for a solo podcast. He talks about what he is working on this time of year, scouting trips and mindset. Then he really gets into backpack hunting. He talks about strategy and the advantages of this style of hunting. He breaks down all his gear and the reasoning behind why he uses what he does. It's a great podcast filled with next-level information this week on Eastmans' Elevated.

Eberlestock - https://bit.ly/Eberlestock-Eastmans

Federal Ammunition - https://bit.ly/FederalPremium-Eastmans

Forever Barnwood - https://bit.ly/ForeverBarnwood-Eastmans

Kryptek - https://bit.ly/Kryptek-Eastmans

Mathews - https://bit.ly/MathewsArchery-Eastmans

MTN TOUGH - https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH-Eastmans

Outdoor Edge - https://bit.ly/OutdoorEdge-Eastmans

onX - https://bit.ly/onXHunt-Eastmans

Sig Sauer - https://bit.ly/SIGSAUER-Eastmans

Silencer Central - https://bit.ly/SilencerCentral-Eastmans

Stone Glacier Sleep Systems - https://bit.ly/StoneGlacier-Eastmans

SecureIt - https://bit.ly/SecureIt-Eastmans

Zamberlan - https://bit.ly/Zamberlan-Eastmans

Episode 496:  Backpack Hunting Solo With Brian Barney

In this episode Brian Barney sits down with Tim Andrews. Tim is the owner of Gypsum Creek Outfitters in Colorado. He chases some giant elk and mule deer around and has a bunch of valuable insight. He has always been about being a student of the game and learning something from everyone and his experiences in the mountains. The guys have a great conversation all about shortening your own learning curve.

Eberlestock - https://bit.ly/Eberlestock-Eastmans

Federal Ammunition - https://bit.ly/FederalPremium-Eastmans

Forever Barnwood - https://bit.ly/ForeverBarnwood-Eastmans

Kryptek - https://bit.ly/Kryptek-Eastmans

Mathews - https://bit.ly/MathewsArchery-Eastmans

MTN TOUGH - https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH-Eastmans

Outdoor Edge - https://bit.ly/OutdoorEdge-Eastmans

onX - https://bit.ly/onXHunt-Eastmans

Sig Sauer - https://bit.ly/SIGSAUER-Eastmans

Silencer Central - https://bit.ly/SilencerCentral-Eastmans

Stone Glacier Sleep Systems - https://bit.ly/StoneGlacier-Eastmans

SecureIt - https://bit.ly/SecureIt-Eastmans

Zamberlan - https://bit.ly/Zamberlan-Eastmans

Episode 499:  Student Of The Game With Tim Andrews

In this episode Brian Barney sits down with his buddy Ryan Munsey. The guys talk over what it means to have mental grit on a hunt. They talk about how to obtain mental toughness and discipline. Ryan is the perfect guest to discuss such subjects as he is the author of "F Your Feelings" and hosts his own podcast "Move The Chains"  Ryan and Bryan also talk about some of the tough hunts they have done together and how to persevere through tough situations.

Eberlestock - https://bit.ly/Eberlestock-Eastmans

Federal Ammunition - https://bit.ly/FederalPremium-Eastmans

Forever Barnwood - https://bit.ly/ForeverBarnwood-Eastmans

Kryptek - https://bit.ly/Kryptek-Eastmans

Mathews - https://bit.ly/MathewsArchery-Eastmans

MTN TOUGH - https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH-Eastmans

Outdoor Edge - https://bit.ly/OutdoorEdge-Eastmans

onX - https://bit.ly/onXHunt-Eastmans

Sig Sauer - https://bit.ly/SIGSAUER-Eastmans

Silencer Central - https://bit.ly/SilencerCentral-Eastmans

Stone Glacier Sleep Systems - https://bit.ly/StoneGlacier-Eastmans

SecureIt - https://bit.ly/SecureIt-Eastmans

Zamberlan - https://bit.ly/Zamberlan-Eastmans

Episode 502: Mental Grit With Ryan Munsey

In this episode Brian Barney sits down with Dallin Waddoups. Dallin is a young go-getter hunting antelope, mule deer and elk on public lands. The guy's dive into hunting each of these species and some of the tactics they use. They also chat about finding good areas, shot execution, target panic and more. A great conversation this week between a couple public land hunters. 

Eberlestock - https://bit.ly/Eberlestock-Eastmans
Federal Ammunition - https://bit.ly/FederalPremium-Eastmans
Forever Barnwood - https://bit.ly/ForeverBarnwood-Eastmans
Kryptek - https://bit.ly/Kryptek-Eastmans
Mathews - https://bit.ly/MathewsArchery-Eastmans
MTN TOUGH - https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH-Eastmans
Outdoor Edge - https://bit.ly/OutdoorEdge-Eastmans
onX - https://bit.ly/onXHunt-Eastmans
Sig Sauer - https://bit.ly/SIGSAUER-Eastmans
Silencer Central - https://bit.ly/SilencerCentral-Eastmans
Stone Glacier Sleep Systems - https://bit.ly/StoneGlacier-Eastmans
SecureIt - https://bit.ly/SecureIt-Eastmans
Zamberlan - https://bit.ly/Zamberlan-Eastmans

Episode 512:  Public Land Hunting With Dallin Waddoups

Backcountry hunters talking backcountry hunting. Join us for a lively discussion on a variety of topics related to hunting big game in the mountains. We'll be talking tactics, sharing lessons learned, swapping stories, interviewing individuals from the hunting industry, hearing the hunt stories of everyday hunters (including our podcast listeners), and getting into the nitty-gritty of backpacking gear, hunting gear, and bow/rifle setups. Contact us at any time with your questions or feedback by emailing us: podcast@exomtngear.com

Thanks for listening!  — Mark & Steve

Eastmans’ Elevated Podcast with host Brian Barney is the podcast for hardcore Western Big Game hunters. Brian does one thing every single episode, talks hunting! From tips and tactics for locating and stalking to shooting strategies and even photo taking advice, Eastmans’ Elevated keeps you up to date and in the know all while entertaining you as Brian and his guests take you along on their hunts and breakdown the skills and mindset needed to be successful in the Western Big Game hunting arena.

Eberlestock - https://bit.ly/Eberlestock-Eastmans
Federal Ammunition - https://bit.ly/FederalPremium-Eastmans
Forever Barnwood - https://bit.ly/ForeverBarnwood-Eastmans
Kryptek - https://bit.ly/Kryptek-Eastmans
Mathews - https://bit.ly/MathewsArchery-Eastmans
MTN TOUGH - https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH-Eastmans
Outdoor Edge - https://bit.ly/OutdoorEdge-Eastmans
onX - https://bit.ly/onXHunt-Eastmans
Sig Sauer - https://bit.ly/SIGSAUER-Eastmans
Silencer Central - https://bit.ly/SilencerCentral-Eastmans
Stone Glacier Sleep Systems - https://bit.ly/StoneGlacier-Eastmans
SecureIt - https://bit.ly/SecureIt-Eastmans
Zamberlan - https://bit.ly/Zamberlan-Eastmans

Join the New Mexico Wildlife Podcast, the official podcast of the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, for coverage on all things outdoors in the land of enchantment! From hunting and fishing to bird watching and wildlife photography, we have got you covered!

New tracks tagged #ElkHunting