Upland Nation

Bird hunting: what does your dog really want? Your plans for the off-season

Now that the season is finally over, you tell me your highest priority is taking your dog to the next level. I'm with ya there!

So, let's begin the journey to canine excellence with a look at what a dog wants from you, why he works for you, and how you can become a better trainer/handler. I'll offer a few suggestions and observations that might not be in your bag of tricks yet.

Plus, we'll find out what else is on your "to-do" list for the off season, you could win a Scott Linden Signature Series Comfort Collar in our Upland Nation Puzzler question, all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting podcast: What the Dogs Taught Me ... and maybe you too. Are you still hunting ... in this weather?

With the season winding down, it's time to look ahead to training ... and thinking about how our dogs think. Anticipating a third printing of my book What the Dogs Taught Me in May (new title: Training and Hunting Bird Dogs: How to Become a Better Hunter and Dog Owner - available now on Kindle), let's take a look at some of the less-common tips and tactics.

From how a dog thinks, to little changes that have big impact, training methods and hunting strategies, we'll survey a number of subject areas, all with the goal of cultivating a better relationship between you and your dog.

You'll also have a chance to win a rare Signature Series Real Bird Bumper, and we find out why some of you are still out there slogging around in pursuit of birds and the dogs we love.

And it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

 

Bird hunting podcast: Epic public-access journeys and what we can learn from the guy who takes them.

I met Joe Augustine in Montana, walked a few fields with him, and learned way more than I should have! Now, so can you. Author, athlete, and passionate public-lands hunter, Joe has learned a lot while covering thousands of miles on foot and driving there!

Joe has learned the hard way: hunting tactics, to dog care, packing advice, how to shoot better photos, conditioning dogs for heat, to "best practices" for learning how to find and access walk-in properties and public land. He'll talk about some of his favorite spots, too.

We'll also cover your own travel plans, and you'll have a chance to win a Scott Linden Signature Series Real Bird Bumper in our Upland Nation Puzzler question, all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting podcast: Pro trainer on pups, clicker training, and positivity ... how you’ll save hunting

Todd Agnew, pro spaniel trainer at Craney Hill Kennel, shares his decades of hunting and training experience, starting with "why spaniels?" and going through a litany of tips and tactics to help us train virtually any dog breed.

It gets down to rewards, he says. But how? We'll explore.

Plus, the last point of the season, an Upland Nation Puzzler question and prize, and your survey responses on favorite dog breeds and how to ensure there's hunting for the next generation brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting podcast: shoot better - an instructor’s advice from gun selection to approaching a pointing dog

Hunter and chief instructor for the National Sporting Clays Association, Don Currie teaches schlubs like us all year. He offers valuable advice on unboxing your gun, checking for straight barrels (seriously, it's a thing), and choke selection. He schools us on terminology, gun fit, how to fit in at the range, and then we go to the field.

From patterning your gun to foot position on pointed birds, Don has real-life advice, some history lessons on gun making, and how to mount your gun. You will be a better shooter - and shooting teacher - after this podcast!

You share your new year's resolutions, and you could win a Scott Linden Signature Series Real Bird Bumper in our Upland Nation Puzzler question, all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting podcast: Wild Huns, wilder country - how’d it go? Your DOG’s new year’s resolutions

Friendship, adventure, and some pretty good dog work punctuate this adventure into the wild, public ground where Hungarian partridge dwell. You'll get a tour of some less-typical habitat, shoot a few and miss a lot, and hear about some cool finds and dazzling retrieves.

Huns are on the rise in the west, so if you're intrigued by this "bonus bird," we'll offer some tips and tactics as well.

And if you think your new year's resolutions are creative, wait until you find out what your dogs are saying!

You'll have a chance to win a Scott Linden Signature Series Real Bird Bumper in our Upland Nation Puzzler question, all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting the ”New West” ... we crack the code in this primer, plus your biggest public-access challenges

For many, their bucket list includes a trip west ... for adventure, fun, and that bird specie you can't find near home. But just as in the old days, there is a "code" in the New West as well. From preparation to where to find them, how to approach the habitat and hunting strategies, we'll touch on all of it. (Want more details? Go here.)

Listeners share their challenges when finding new ground to hunt, and we'll offer up a Scott Linden Signature Series Jaeger lead in our Upland Nation Puzzler question, all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting podcast: chasing wild quail and pheasants, the upside of social media friendship

Wild valley quail hunting ... with a few pheasants thrown in too. Facebook - and now, personal - friend Mark Avolio shares his experience, strategy and tactics as we debrief our recent hunt in Northeast Oregon. Mark runs setters all over the west, and a chance meeting a couple years ago in a faraway chukar spot led to our becoming regular hunting partners.

In this hunt, lush creek bottoms, bunchgrass swales, great weather and wonderful dog work were the standouts. Versatile dog work was on display, working "wrong" wind and tough retrieves in tight quarters. 

Shotgun ammo and choke recommendations for mixed-bag hunts, dog care tips and a few high points from the dogs' work are all covered in this wide-ranging talk between friends. We explore the reasons for singles without a covey rise, where shot birds go, and how to mark downed birds a little better. There's also a little nostalgia ending at an historical sheep ranch.

We'll find out how your last hunt went, and there's a chance to win a Scott Linden Signature Series Jaeger lead, all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting questions from you, and some hopefully-helpful answers from me!

You ask some fantastic questions on my websites, social media and my weekly newsletter. I've compiled some of the best - relevant to almost everyone - and pulled together some suggestions. With any luck, they're close to correct, and helpful to you.

From buying started dogs to marking downed birds, neutering and eye care, to best first dog breed to using frozen birds, you'll find something that applies to you or your dog.

Plus, a chance to win a Scott Linden Signature Series Jaeger lead, and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

And if you're so inclined to support the podcast and get in on some marvelous perks, investigate our Patreon page.

Chukar hunting tips from a big-game hunter ... public-access, wild-bird strategies, stories of adventure & hard damn work!

ENJOY OUR NEW FORMAT! More fun and easy to listen to ... but you can decide that for yourself.

My good friend and hunting buddy Tom Jenkins knows his way around the woods, pursuing elk and deer when he's not chasing his bird dog in the chukar hills. I've learned so much from him about wild bird hunting, public access, good habitat, and how to approach a bird hunt as more than a walk behind a dog.

So I made him come on and share some of his wisdom with YOU. We talk about our  shared hunt adventures, solo hunt stories, and I even relate a couple valley quail tips from last week's hunt.

There's also your own hunting stories from last week, and a chance to win a Chief Upland vest, all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

And if you're so inclined to support the podcast and get in on some marvelous perks, investigate our Patreon page.

Bird hunting podcast: ex-guide shares the joys of hunting ”for fun,” Mearns quail tips and tricks, picking a new dog, your regrets

Fascinating Mearn’s quail strategies from a former Arizona pro guide are the starting point, and from there we cover the waterfront!

Phil Wechsler shares why he left the pro guiding world ... the joys of hunting “for fun.” From the benefits to young dogs, to finding new places, there is a freedom to not guiding. Time of year to hunt, habitat and terrain, bird behavior … Gambel’s, scaled, Mearn’s. Why he loves Mearns the best. Hint: it involves bird dogs. In fact, they may be the perfect quail for steady pointing dogs.

Phil offers tips on developing young dogs, and the value of their bumping a covey, and how without paying guests every day is a training day. We discuss finding the “good spots,” how to take care of a kennel full of dogs, picking dogs, why he likes smaller dogs, the value of hunting each area just once, with a caveat.

Phil describes his “best year” of hunting … last season … not for the birds or dogs but for the friends he shared a hunt with. And, the best tip he ever got from a guide client.

You share how far you drive for a hunt, share your “regrets” and how we can all learn from them, a chance to win a Chief Upland hunting vest, and it's brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting advice from a fly fishing guide who knows ... blue grouse tips & tactics; why we hunt, win a vest!

He's a pro fishing guide, but this guy knows upland birds ... way upland. From snipe to blue grouse, Michael Salamone is in the woods and alpine valleys chasing some of those "bucket list" birds we covet all on public land. He'll offer strategy and tactical advice, habitat and behavior, and equip us for our first mountain hunt.

We'll go down some rabbit holes talking chukars and fishing, but the bottom line is, you'll want to climb higher and walk farther for these big birds, aka sooty or dusky grouse.

You'll also get a chance to win a Chief Upland hunting vest, and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

And if you're so inclined to support the podcast and get in on some marvelous perks, investigate our Patreon page.

At the feet of the master guide: Steve ”Grouseman” Grossman shares his secrets; let‘s go on a chukar hunt; what you‘ve learned this season

One of your favorite guests returns for a summary of his seasons so far: prairie grouse, ruffies, and pheasants in some of the best coverts anyone has! Steve Grossman offers insights into bird populations, the drought's effects, tactics and strategy plus dog care advice learned the hard way.

The best way to approach a pointing dog? Steve has the lowdown. And the "problem" with cocker spaniels in the grouse woods. Plus, the importance of a "tailgate exam."

Scott takes everyone on a chukar hunt with a happy ending, and social media friends offer up their best lessons learned so far this season on everything from the wisdom of dogs, to second shots and gas prices!

You'll also get a chance to win a Chief Upland customizable vest, and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

And if you're so inclined to support the podcast and get in on some marvelous perks, investigate our Patreon page.

Dog-killing heat and how to cope: a guide‘s tricks and tips and your suggestions too

Hard experience and close calls from the field led my guest Tom Fiumarello to suggest we do a show on how dogs are affected by hot weather. Tom is a pro guide and shooting instructor who has seen the risks and indications of a dog verging on life-threatening heat illness.

We'll cover symptoms, preventive care, products that could help, and what you should watch for in the field. I asked listeners to chime in too, and got some creative and hard-won advice from how to cool off a dog, to where to put alcohol (not in your mouth, silly - rubbing alcohol!).

Tom shares his sporting-clays course design experience and advice, relates recent ruffed grouse hunts too.

Hunting stories, dazzling dog work described, a chance to win a Peet boot dryer, and it's brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting podcast: Southwest quail pro guide and trainer Rashawn Gordon trades wild bird stories

Consummate quail chaser Rashawn Gordon joins me to explain his opening weekend philosophy, the current state of bird populations in Arizona, and to talk all things Southwest: his past and current season's high- and low-lights, dog and shooting safety, strategy, the habitat and scenery. We share camaraderie in the field, training, share some predator stories, and revel in the incredible world we dwell in: following dogs into the fields and forests.

Is there a place for "baby talk" in dog handling? We'll answer that question too. I'll also share your own insights on what you learned last weekend ... opening weekend for many. From your hunting buddy to bird behavior.

You'll also get a chance to win a Peet boot dryer, and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

And if you're so inclined to support the podcast and get in on some marvelous perks, investigate our Patreon page.

Bird hunting podcast: Dez Young of ”Hunting with Hank” in this reprise episode. Plus, Nevada chukar spots.

One of the pioneers of bird hunting television and good friend Dez Young joins me in this remastered episode from way back when nobody was listening - yet. You'll enjoy his insights on puppy raising, get behind-the-camera insights, and learn more about his fascinating multi-dimensional life.

I'll also clue you into a place in Nevada with plenty of public access for chukars and valley quail, and give you a shot at winning a Peet boot dryer in the "Upland Nation Puzzler" quiz (message me at Facebook with your answer).

Brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting podcast: Wild chukars in Northern Nevada opening weekend! How dogs ”talk,” and your own opener in words & pictures

My music-school buddy Dave and I debrief our opening weekend in Northern Nevada ... wild chukars and valley quail, rugged ground, some pretty good dog work, and better shooting than usual from this guy! We talk habitat, tactics, eye-melting scenery, strategies, and keep our music insider chat to a minimum :)

You'll also get a chance to win a Peet boot dryer, find out how dogs warn us - sort of, and everyone chimes in on their own opening weekend - if they had one!

Brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting podcast: 30 years‘ experience on the road ... what to bring, why, and how important it is to stop and smell the wild roses

Plus, your own suggestions on essential gear for your next hunt ... a chance to win a boot dryer, bird forecasts for Nevada and Missouri, too.

I'll share stories of how I learned many of these tricks, suggest some ways to make your hunting trips more enjoyable, memorable, safe, and productive. No shooting tips! Why would I have anything to offer there?

Brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting podcast: Guide to my top-four states for public access and wild birds, NE pheasant forecast, more open to hunting land

My boots, their ground ... I tip you to the four states that in my experience offer the best access, most wild birds, and an incredible total bird hunting experience. If you're looking for new country for this season, here's a good place to start. From bird species, general locations,terrain and habitats, towns to headquarter in, nightlife and culture too.

News on wildlife refuge hunting, pheasant numbers for Nebraska, and a chance to win a prize just for listening.

Brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting podcast: public access from A-Z, a prize, and the ultimate simple survival kit

Start the season with a bang ... maybe a double!

"This Land is Your Land," and this primer on finding public access hunting grounds will take you from nowhere to unexplored (by you) territory that might become your favorite spot. From online and IRL information sources, to the people and apps that can help you find walk-in land and the birds you and your dog love to pursue.

A few warnings about who you can and can't trust or don't want to piss off (bureaucrats), whether you should trust your mobile mapping app (NO) and the main reason you should exploit every information source you can.

Then, don't leave home without it: the ultimate "10 Essentials." Call it a survival kit if you like, but these must-have, must-carry lifesavers should be in every hunter's vest.

And a chance to win a Peet boot dryer too!

Brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting podcast: Montana Sharptail hunt debrief, find a job, pheasant phorecasts for ND, KS

My recent foray to public lands near Lewistown was enlightening and exciting. A celebration of wild birds, camaraderie, and wonderful dog work, I'll give you a brief rundown on what we saw, did, and shot ... plus tips on sharpie hunting strategy and tactics, habitat and the amenities available in the area.

We'll flank quivering pointing dogs, celebrate the wildest of wild, and revel in the big sky, get practical on important details and explore the Block Management Access system.

There's news on job openings in our world, plus pheasant population guesstimates from North Dakota and Kansas.

Brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Remastered! Upland bird hunting podcast: guru Bob Farris on Pudelpointers, wild bird hunting, breeding and training

Our most popular episode, remastered and worth another listen. Author of "Breeding and Training Versatile Hunting Dogs," NAVHDA judge, hunter, trainer and breeder, this guy has done it all ... including handling his dog to retrieve kicking tees for college football games! Bob Farris is well-respected for his dogs, training techniques, and insights that only come from judging hundreds of versatile hunting dogs.

We talk every aspect of dogs and hunting: wild bird strategies and tactics, puppy picking, socialization, training do's and don'ts. Bob covers the difference between breed clubs and the new Pudelpointer Alliance, and outlines the three most important skills you should teach to a dog and more.

Plus, advice on finding - and taking advantage of - public access ground, merchandise discounts and a chance to win a new Pointer shotgun.

(Can't wait for the discounts? Get 10% off and free shipping at Dogtra with the code SLUN10; 30% off your first order at Dr. Tim's performance dog food with the code UPLANDNATION. Win that gun by signing up for the mailing list at findbirdhuntingspots.com.)

Bird hunting podcast: opera and bird dogs ... ptarmigan hunting, public-access spot, your doggy dreams and what they mean

How a beautiful dog in the field is like an operatic aria ... and other poetic observations. Those are part of this week's interview with Alaska hunter Christine Cunningham as we explore her state's iconic birds, the three species of ptarmigan.

From habitat to tactics, the joys of a household with eight dogs, uniquely Alaskan hunting challenges, Chris covers the vast spaces where ptarmigan dwell, rocky crags and spongy tundra and most of it home to brown bears!

Chris is an artist with words - in print and on this podcast - so get ready to be inspired by her descriptions of our shared lifestyle.

We also find out who mentored most of us, take a look at news and controversy over duck stamps, visit a public-access spot in Kansas, and learn what your dream about hunting dogs really means and the entire podcast is brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting podcast: A boy dog named Sue and his inspiring human ... public-access tipsters, gamebird population estimates for three states

She braved national television, putting her shorthair and herself to the test: agility, acrobatics and grueling competition. For her, it's about that magical bond between dog and human ... maybe you too?

Sara Chisnell is a lawyer, hunter, and she and her dog Sue are heading to the NAVHDA Invitational soon. She offers insights and advice to anyone ready to go to whatever is their "next level." For her, it was the TV show "America's Top Dog."

From favorite hunting quarry, to Shutzhund training, Sara's can-do attitude is an inspiration to us all.

Scott offers some less-likely candidates you might cozy up to if you're looking for more public-access hunting ground, three states' gamebird population estimates for fall, and a "found dog" story that will put a smile on your face.

And the entire podcast is brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Himalayan snowcock to the chachalaca ... he's shot every single North American upland game bird. Better cellphone photos, giving back, your Opening Day, and Oklahoma public access.

Bird hunting podcast: From America's least-hunted bird on the summit of Ruby Dome, to a bird whose name is harder to pronounce than it is to shoot ... photographer/author Gary Kramer takes us on a continent-wide adventure in pursuit of every upland game bird. He personally chased and photographed - with a hunter's eye - every single one of them. His book GAME BIRDS - A Celebration of North American Upland Birds is the ultimate hunter's reference and conversation-starter. You can get it here.

Gary helps us take better photos with our cellphone, of birds, the habitat and our dogs, offering tips and advice that will make every nimrod a better "shooter." Oh, we'll also debrief his recent Amazon-basin fly fishing trip just for fun!

We look at lesser-known public-access ground in Oklahoma, get your thoughts on Opening Day (yay!), cover news you can use from a bright spot on the crowded fields we might be anticipating to another way for you to pay it forward and the entire podcast is brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

 

Bird hunting pro guide shares his secrets, Her Majesty has something for your dog, best sage grouse spot

What do pro guides think of clients, and vice-versa? What are the most important things we should do in the field? Rich Knarr of Rrank Gundogs shares guide secrets on hunting strategy, habitat, tactics, and dog training this week.

Rich cites his most important training too, what's important for hunters in the field, and more. He helps us if we are going to work with a pro guide, and why he chose shorthairs as his breed of choice ... along with a few cockers! Strategic feeding and his go-to remedy for a dog's low-blood-sugar problem (luckily, seldom needed) are also covered.

You'll get news you can use, also: youth hunts, a mentored hunter program and even Queen Elizabeth's new venture into the dog world. Our public access feature directs you to the best sage grouse prospects in the West. And the entire podcast is brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

 

Bird hunting: yep, snipe are real and we'll learn how to hunt them at 10,000 feet. Make your hunting dog's road trip stellar too.

Not just a great practical joke! There really is a snipe, and hunting it in the high elevation wetlands is an adventure, says Michael Salamone. He recently authored an article on the topic for Upland Almanac, and he'll spill the beans on the bird usually associated with burlap sacks and unsuspecting rubes literally holding the bag.

We'll get local intelligence on habitat, behavior, strategies, dog choices, tactics, and why this little shorebird hangs out in wet mountain meadows. Shot size and gun gauge are covered, as are the "real" reasons we go. We'll wend our way through fens and over beaver dams in pursuit of the jinking-juking-vexing migratory birds.

I'll offer two tips on making your dog's road trip as fun - and relaxing - as your own, and the entire podcast is brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting podcast: America's largest, most durable bird ... sage grouse, Nevada chukars, and why Amazon isn't doing your hunting dog any favors

Outdoor Life's Andrew McKean catches up with one of his former writers - me! We talk everything sage grouse, what he calls “America’s largest, most durable bird.” The myths, magic, mystique, and of course, how to hunt them. Except when you shouldn't hunt them - which might be this extreme-drought season.

We explore strategy and tactics, habitat needs, diet, and the importance of good boots. What you should look for, where to start your hunt, and why the type of sagebrush is critical. We cover dog choices, what he loves most about these iconic birds and their surroundings, and

Our public access feature covers a little spot in Nevada that is way off the beaten path but worth the effort. We also learn why dog food prices have risen four times as much as our own food, and why Jeff Bezos and Amazon are no friends of bird dog owners when it comes to dog food, and the entire podcast is brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

 

Bird hunting: who pays for habitat? Wildlife management? It's not who - or how - you think!

It still amazes me how many hunters believe hunting licenses ... or income taxes ... or property taxes fund wildlife management and conservation. Even at gatherings of long-time hunters, when I mention this topic in a speech, there are more than a few blank stares!

So, please bear with me as I get this off my chest once and for all: in the depths of the Great Depression, hunters went to Congress and asked to be taxed so all forms of wildlife could be more carefully managed and habitat acquired for it.

I'll explain how this magic funding mechanism works, who gets what, and who doesn't pay (hint: "non-consumptive" users from birders to kayakers, backpackers to mountain bikers). When you're done, I hope you'll agree that whether you're a vegan, anti-gun activist or fence-sitter, to help wildlife you should buy a gun, ammo, bow and arrows.

Our public-access feature covers some of my favorite North Dakota spots, and the entire podcast is brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Pro guide and trainer: desert quail strategy & tactics, let a pup be a pup, trust your dog, and where to find chukars and an alligator in Arizona

Our featured guest is Rashawn Gordon, Gordon’s Gun Dogs and Guide Service, Wellton, Arizona. Rashawn, a new guide and seasoned dog trainer, shares his experiences and hard-won advice. Plus public access ground, and news you can use.

First, listeners’ advice to new hunters, from expectation management to what not to do, to how to train the retrieve, and where the heck is the Owyhee River?

Then, Rashawn’s advice: Gambel’s quail strategy and tactics … do hawk calls really work? Let a puppy be a puppy, and a dog be a dog … trust his nose.

Critical training commands, chukars in Arizona? Best dog breeds and why. A rabbit hole is gone down, talking about Bodo Winterhelt (R.I.P.). How his advice changed Rashawn’s life … and many others’ as well.

Rashawn covers developing a pup’s natural abilities, introduction to birds, range, his two most important commands. He likes “wing on a string,” but not for the usual reasons! Rashawn outlines the most common “re-training” problem we dog owners create, and defines the two kinds of dogs he trains: hunting dogs, and competition dogs.

Rashawn shares early on-the-ground observations on Arizona quail populations for this season, a hunting dog that outdoes Lassie when it comes to alerting its owner, tells us when a dog is right to road in on birds, and where to find chukars – and an alligator – in Arizona. We debate 28 gauge vs. 20 gauge, ballistics, and the value of giving away shotguns.

There’s news on the Vermont woodcock opener and when you can get your duck stamp, and our public access segment covers pheasant ground in Minnesota.

And it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Listen this week! Bird hunter's guide to gun care, finding new hunting ground, and great photos

Get the entire podcast here.

The dumb things bird hunters do to our guns, and how to avoid them ... that's one of the topics Fred Bohm covers in this wide-ranging discussion. Fred is founder of Sage & Braker Mercantile, a gun care products company, so he's seen it all. (Host Scott Linden has probably done it all!)

We cover preventative maintenance, cleaning tips, simple ways to avoid making problems worse. But that's just the start. Fred's a big-time hunter, with a Pudelpointer and now, a Setter pup. We'll trade notes on hunting strategies, get the lowdown on ptarmigan hunting, talk scouting new ground, and of course, rejoice in the reasons he - and we - go bird hunting.

Fred is also an artist with a camera, and he'll give us some basic guidance on what makes a great bird hunting photo, whether it's with our cell phone or a fancy-pants SLR.

In "This Land is Your Land," Scott concludes his thesis on the economic benefits of public land hunting ... for the nearby communities.

And it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunter's guide to gun care, finding new hunting ground, and great photos

The dumb things bird hunters do to our guns, and how to avoid them ... that's one of the topics Fred Bohm covers in this wide-ranging discussion. Fred is founder of Sage & Braker Mercantile, a gun care products company, so he's seen it all. (Host Scott Linden has probably done it all!)

We cover preventative maintenance, cleaning tips, simple ways to avoid making problems worse. But that's just the start. Fred's a big-time hunter, with a Pudelpointer and now, a Setter pup. We'll trade notes on hunting strategies, get the lowdown on ptarmigan hunting, talk scouting new ground, and of course, rejoice in the reasons he - and we - go bird hunting.

Fred is also an artist with a camera, and he'll give us some basic guidance on what makes a great bird hunting photo, whether it's with our cell phone or a fancy-pants SLR.

In "This Land is Your Land," Scott concludes his thesis on the economic benefits of public land hunting ... for the nearby communities.

And it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Kali Parmley, editor in chief of Gun Dog magazine, on mentoring, sharing hunting spots and more

Kali Parmley, editor in chief, Gun Dog magazine is our featured guest, but your voice is also coming through loud and clear ...

You and your fellow hunters’ thoughts on feeding … twice daily, even on hunting days? What are the dangers, physiological, safety, and performance considerations?

Kali talks about the importance of mentoring, the ethics of sharing some hunting spots, why the magazine has a new look and editorial emphasis, and her favorite hunting challenges. She’ll explain her dog breed choices, and the joys of hunting dog ownership. Parmley lists some essential gear she uses, and explains what she finds most fulfilling about upland hunting, from a dog’s first point to a bucket-list hunt or five.

Scott shares some more advice on getting along in hunting country, becoming a “temporary citizen” of rural America.

And it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food; RuffLand performance kennels, HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com. 

Bird hunting trainer & guide takes us from puppies to running roosters, strategy and tactics for training and hunting

A rare treat: a dog trainer who guides. You'll get the best of both worlds in this interview with Ethan Pippitt of Standing Stone Kennels in Kansas. He'll provide insights on puppy training from Day One, to managing dogs and hunters in the fields of South Dakota, where he guides hunters from a lodge near Winner.

On the training side, we'll cover socialization, introduction to guns and birds, and steadiness. Ethan will tell us what kind of rewards best motivate dogs and why, how clicker training works, and what we should do more - and less - of when training our own dogs. In the field, we'll talk safety, better shooting, etiquette and how pointing breeds can handle running roosters.

Finally, Scott will suggest a public-access destination for ruffed grouse and woodcock in Vermont.

And it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting ahorseback: a bucket-list experience. Here's how, plus dog care, sharptail strategies and public access tips

Jeff Gillaspie of Tinker Kennels takes us for a ride, almost literally, on the rolling prairie of South Dakota. We saddle up and head out in pursuit of sharptails and prairie chickens, following elegant English setters.

Jeff outlines the mechanics of a horseback hunt, but also the intangible magic that comes from going really "old school." From gear and fitness, to strategy and tactics, we get the lowdown on why this should be on your life-list.

Jeff's hard-earned experience running dogs in big country will help any hunter's string, with advice on hydration, feeding, conditioning and training.

Scott outlines a short list of less-common public-land providers you might explore.

And it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food; RuffLand performance kennels, HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com. 

Bird hunting and dog training podcast: Pro trainer insights from picking a pup to what he needs to know, common training mistakes we make and that most critical command

Jared Moss of Best Gun Dogs shares his secrets and philosophy of breeding and training exceptional dogs. While his breed of choice is shorthairs, his advice is relevant for any dog at any level.

We go from the earliest bird contacts to the field, from his mentors to those we can still learn from in their books and videos. We'll cover the do's and don'ts of training, critical skills and gear, plus that one most important command - and why.

Jared will help us think like a dog, be more perceptive in our training, and probably get better results by moving slower!

I'll direct you to a hotbed of public access in Nebraska, too. And it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

 

Bird hunting basics: or are they? Some suggestions that might help you shoot better in the field.

Once he hits that point, it's all up to you. Managing what happens next can better ensure you actually hit a bird and reward your hard-working dog with a retrieve. I've pulled together some of the lessons learned the hard way that might help you next season.

From foot position relative to the birds' flight, to getting your dog to stay steady in the face of running birds - and the birds to stay put - to determining if you're cross-dominant (so that's why you miss!).

Perhaps it's not your fault at all - it's your hat's. Or maybe it's because you are looking but not seeing the bird. Have you considered your chokes? Patterned your gun? I'll explain why it will put more birds in your vest.

... and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting: it starts with better bobwhite habitat; and public-access hunting in Cali?

We dive deeper into the bobwhite situation with John Morgan, director of the National Bobwhite Conservation Initiative. An avid hunter, conservationist and academic, John tells us what his group does, and how it interacts with other upland conservation groups.

He outlines current research efforts, what works and doesn't (including "planting" birds). John also addresses a common question: why do groups like yours do so much work on privately-owned land?

Host Scott Linden also outlines some better places to air your dog on a road trip, and suggests a southern California public-land hunting spot worth a look.

... and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Shooting wild birds and clays - a British expert's tips and suggestions; finding ruffed grouse, saving those training birds

Let's take a trip to the British moors in pursuit of red grouse ... guided by Chris Batha, shooting instructor, clays champion and gun fitter - among other things! We'll live like kings for a day of shooting, learn some of the history of hunting over there, then dive deep into how we can become better shooters over here.

We get insights usually only available to those attending his lessons and workshops, on everything from gun fitting to non-toxic ammo, solving common shooting problems starting with foot position and ending with "push sir, push!"

Our "Handle It" segment addresses the dilemma of shooting all our training birds and how to save a few while teaching steadiness. We also explore a less-well-known region managed for ruffed grouse. Hint: it's not in Wisconsin.

... and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Why aren't there more quail? Your questions answered. Bird dog shopping, an alternative pheasant destination.

Why are bobwhite numbers so dismal? What can we do? What is Quail Forever doing? Why can't we simply plant more birds? Those are some of the questions I ask Southeast Regional Director of Quail Forever, Tim Caughran.

Tim has answers to all those, and many more, as we dive deep into quail behavior and biology, habitat, and why butterfly-hugger are critical partners. Tim offers up a tip on where to find wild bobwhites on public land, what kind of cover is your best bet, how to find hidden quail hangouts, and some hunting strategies.

Plus, advice on puppy shopping and intel gathering, and where to go in a pheasant state that doesn't have the initials SD.

... and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Great bird hunting books, how to enjoy them, places to stay when walk-in hunting, health warning for your dog

Listener Preston Fulmer suggested we talk about sporting literature and we got to it this week with guest Glen Blackwood. Glen authors a column for Upland Almanac magazine, reviews books for the Ruffed Grouse Society, and is a book dealer himself.

For Glen, it started on Christmas morning, when he would often find a vintage first edition under the tree.

We start comparing the psyches of fly anglers and wingshooters, then explore great writers of the past and why Glen thinks we should read them; then, on to contemporary authors who are up-and-coming, their titles, and why Glen things they’re so good.

We talk about “wildness” and why it fuels so much of our literary legacy as well as our own pursuits. We get advice on finding and buying first editions, and reasons not to. We learn why story collections are great “samplers” of genres and authors.

We also share some your best shooting tips, learn some warnings and prevention tips for your dog’s arthritis, and outline some less-common places to stay on your public-access hunting trips.

... and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Making an upland bird hunting magazine, public bobwhites, dog gear, your gear recommendations

We go behind the curtain at Upland Almanac magazine, talking with publisher John Gosselin and Tom Carney, editor. From how cover paintings are chosen, to how any good writer professional or not, can get his story in ... writing tips to the economics and mechanics of getting a magazine off the press and in your hands.

Our wide-ranging discussion also covers bird dogs and hunting, writers and artists we should follow, and a few things we three might regret!

We'll look at public-access quail in Georgia, and listeners and readers suggest gear they won't leave without, and safety equipment that could save your dog's life.

... and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

New way of thinking, faster puppy development, better performance in the field

Change your way of thinking and you'll have a happier dog working at his peak. Alec Sparks of Snowbound Kennels has trained dogs for almost three decades and his approach has evolved with the times. His unique approach to how dogs think and how we should think as a result is worth listening to, whether you've got a new pup or an old dog you're teaching new tricks.

Using operant conditioning, marking, rewards of various types, and minimizing the traditional reliance on compulsion, he believes dogs learn faster, retain better, and thus excel in the field.

We take a look at listeners' favorite dog names, and discover a new way to scout for new hunting areas, too.

... and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Phascinating Pheasants: a deep dive

Some things you know, some you don’t. But you will, after listening to this special edition of the Upland Nation podcast. “Those who ignore history are doomed to repeat it,” so the saying goes. And when it comes to this bird’s origins – and especially it’s future – the more we know, the better.

It seems like every “expert” has useful insights: guides, biologists, conservation leaders, your hunting buddy. But there are many dark, unexplored corners of the bird’s origins, lifestyle, and behavior. We’ll learn how they got here, what is being done – and not done – to help them, we’ll dig into threats to them, and the threats they pose to other birds.

With luck, you’ll pick up something that makes you a better hunter, and conservationist.

... and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Electronic Shooters Protection,  Dr. Tim's performance dog food; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunter's hacks, tips, advice, suggestions and points to ponder

Seventeen helpful observations from Scott's decades of stealing other people's ideas - from guides and outfitters, hunting friends, and strangers encountered in the field. These are ideas you can take for your own, share with your friends.

From dog training tips to shooting advice, hunting strategy and tactics, and even care and feeding of your dog and your human friends. Want the entire list? Go here.

Plus, using motion to help your dog understand you, and schmoozing the gatekeepers of public-access lands.

... and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Electronic Shooters Protection,  Dr. Tim's performance dog food; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

That critical first 12 weeks of puppyhood, and how they impact his entire hunting life

Breeder, trainer, former field-trialer Mark Fulmer of Sarahsetter Kennels outlines his rationale for a puppy training program that begins the moment a dog's eyes open. Brain training, utilizing instinct, and some operant conditioning ideas all combine to leverage the massive growth in a pup's brain in the early weeks to make a good dog great.

An unusual tool to introduce gunfire, why feeding quail to a pup builds prey drive, unique tools and gear, and a ton of insights into the why of puppy training are all part of the discussion. The "Handle It" segment covers feeding for maximum in-field stamina, and our public access feature covers a less-known South Dakota location.

... and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Electronic Shooters Protection,  Dr. Tim's performance dog food; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Pro trainer's insights on forest grouse, dogs, shooting and how to be a good guest

Forest grouse ... in Montana? We've got the inside story on ruffs, blues, and dusky grouse and how to hunt them, no matter where you are. Strategy and tactics, how to handle a dog in the deep woods, bird behavior, it's all part of our discussion. Gear and habitat, bells or beepers, we'll cover it all.

The "Handle It" segment covers an oft-forgotten pro trainer attribute we can all emulate, and our public-access segment touches on the unsung state of Oklahoma and bobwhite quail.

.. and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Electronic Shooters Protection,  Dr. Tim's performance dog food; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com and Gunner.

Scalies, bird dogs and the desert - from an expert

Orvis-endorsed wingshooting guide of the year Ryan O'Shaughnessy of West Texas Quail Outfitters takes us to school on scaled quail, bird dog training, and related topics. From handling cactus to pad health, hunting strategy and tips on communicating with your own dog, Ryan has answers to your questions.

This unique bird is on many hunters' bucket list, and Ryan pursues them all season long, from a guide's - and biologist's - perspective. With 18 dogs in his personal string, he's got practical advice on how dogs learn, care and feeding, what birds can teach them, what we should avoid doing in the field and what we should always do when working with our own dogs.

We discuss your thoughts on helping the habitat, listeners share their "beauty" shots, the "Handle It" dog training segment addresses the importance of birds in developing a young dog. In our public-access feature, we'll learn a bit about recon in our public-access feature.

.. and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Electronic Shooters Protection,  Dr. Tim's performance dog food; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com and Gunner.

30 years of bird dog and hunting experience in the woods and prairies - yours for the asking!

Tracey Lieske has been guiding, hunting, and training dogs for 30 years. Take advantage of his wisdom and hard-earned advice. From finding ruffed grouse to letting birds "train" dogs, he's got insights you won't find anywhere else.

Minimalist approaches to gear, command vocabulary, and creative ways to use the e-collar are all part of our discussion. What's important to ensure a sporting shot in the woods, scouting tips, and permission to get another dog are all covered in this wide-ranging discussion.

"Handle It" answers a listener question on an average dog's mileage, and our public access segment is an argument for spending money locally.

.. and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Electronic Shooters Protection,  Dr. Tim's performance dog food; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com and Gunner.

10 questions: why your mobile mapping app might fail you; force fetch and "sit"

Listener Glenn Ainsworth asks Scott 10 questions about everything from shotgun choice to outfitting your truck, dog breeds to why great clay target shooters aren’t always great bird shooters. The answers might surprise you - especially when you learn of a fatal flaw in your mobile mapping app. Other questions that might help you including finding lodges that welcome our dogs, how to climb the chukar hills longer, why to force fetch or not. 

We touch on your own stories about sharing the hunt experience with friends and family, debate whether or not to train "sit" in pointing breeds, and learn of a new mapping tool for Nebraska hunters.

And it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Electronic Shooters Protection,  Dr. Tim's performance dog food; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com and Gunner.