Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Hunt West Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snowy & Cold Weather Hunting Tips | 28 Oct 2024 | 00:28:19 | |
Welcome to another Hunt West Podcast episode! Today, we're packing for a mule deer migration hunt where temps are forecasted to drop with wind chill in the negatives. This podcast is dedicated to helping you have a more comfortable and safe hunt in the late season when snowy and cold conditions are just what you are looking for to get animals on their feet and visible. Jaden covers ways you can make your camp more comfortable for less, manage food and water needs when the temps drop, and have your hunting rig dialed for getting in and out of your spots. We hope you enjoy this quick hitting episode of the Hunt West Podcast! If you're into mule deer, elk hunting, or even spring bear hunts, Hunt West delivers tactical know-how without the fluff. If you like what you hear today, hit that subscribe button, share it with your buddies, and get ready to plan smarter, hunt harder, and enjoy the great outdoors like never before. Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Hunt West Podcast Pilot Episode | 26 Oct 2024 | 00:22:43 | |
Welcome to the Hunt West Podcast! Join your host, Jaden Bales, as he dives into the world of Western hunting. This show is designed for hunters who want to up their game with real-world strategies, planning tips, and hunting stories—whether you're a seasoned non-resident looking for new opportunities or a local just sharpening your skills. Jaden brings years of experience to the mic, from his roots in Eastern Oregon's ranching culture to working with mentor Cody Rich on podcasts like The Rich Outdoors and the Elk Hunt Podcast. You'll learn all about hunting tactics, tag applications, and how to stay prepared no matter what the season throws your way. Expect down-to-earth advice, educational insights, and raw field reports—sometimes recorded straight from the pickup. With occasional guest appearances and a focus on reducing the learning curve, this podcast offers the knowledge you need to make every hunt count. If you're into mule deer, elk hunting, or even spring bear hunts, Hunt West delivers tactical know-how without the fluff. Hit that subscribe button, share it with your buddies, and get ready to plan smarter, hunt harder, and enjoy the great outdoors like never before. Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Wyoming Elk Applications & What To Do At Different Point Levels | 17 Dec 2024 | 00:42:21 | |
On this episode of the Hunt West Podcast, Jaden breaks down the gist of the Wyoming nonresident elk application process, which are due on January 31st! He also goes into the various point levels, starting at the bottom and discussing how you'd go about building points while still hunting often in Wyoming, all the way to what he would do with 10 or more preference points. Not to mention, he gives an overview of the different General Regions and whether or not he thinks the Game and Fish will increase or decrease tags in each of them during the season setting process in April. If you're looking for some direction as to where to go with your Wyoming elk applications, Jaden is offering FREE 15-minute consultations with folks until January 15th. Be sure to hit him up at jaden@huntwest.net if you'd like to get on the phone and talk about what your application should look like. We hope you enjoy this episode and get a lot of value from it! Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Should I Try To Get A Tag In Idaho? | 01 Dec 2024 | 00:16:04 | |
In today's episode, Jaden tries to answer the question as to whether you should plan to get on the Idaho First-Come, First-Serve OTC tag system for elk, mule deer, and/or whitetails. Your mileage may vary and the answer as to whether you should spend the $185 to get a license and sit in the queue for a tag is certainly person-dependent. One way you can increase the opportunities for hunting across the West is getting creative with your weapon choices, though! Idaho is a great example where traditional muzzleloader seasons are available in the over-the-counter tags and someone who picks up a muzzle-stuffer can really unlock some fun season dates if they are willing to learn a new weapon system. Lastly, Jaden covers some housekeeping items before heading out on his last guided hunt of the year, including giving a breakdown of the Unlimited Membership service with Hunt West. New this year, Unlimited Members get a FREE $200 tax stamp from Silencer Central AND a FREE year-long membership with MTNTOUGH's online programing. Reach out at Jaden@huntwest.net if you'd like to learn more about Hunt West Services. 50% OFF YEARLY MTNTOUGH PROGRAM Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Late Season Gear For Black Friday & Idaho Hunt Recap | 24 Nov 2024 | 00:59:32 | |
In this solo episode of the Hunt West Podcast, host Jaden Bales dives into a packed agenda designed to help you level up your Western hunting game. Jaden kicks off with essential housekeeping for 2025 planning, including key dates for Idaho tag pickups, Alaska draw deadlines, and Wyoming elk applications. He shares insights from his own Idaho mule deer hunt, recounting the challenges of winter kill, finding productive areas, and the lessons learned in snowy, rugged terrain. You'll also get Jaden's gear breakdown featuring his top 10 picks to make late-season hunts more comfortable—just in time for Black Friday deals! Plus, hear about his collaboration with Eastman's, new articles on elk hunting expectations, and how to navigate Wyoming's evolving draw system. Whether you're strategizing for next year's hunts or looking for gear recommendations, this episode has something for every Western hunter. Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| The Differences in Eastern & Western Hunting | 18 Nov 2024 | 00:49:08 | |
Welcome back to the show! In this solo episode, Jaden gives his take on the main differences between eastern and western hunting as he returns home from his Michigan whitetail hunt. Along the way, he tells the story of his 4-day foray into chasing midwestern whitetails, the set up for his hunt, and ways folks from both styles can learn from each other to become better hunters. We hope you like this solo round storytelling session and "lessons-learned" podcast. Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Cody Rich | Late Season Elk, Evolving Expectations, & More | 12 Nov 2024 | 01:13:08 | |
This week on the Hunt West Podcast, THE Cody Rich joins the show. For many, he needs no intro, but Cody is the host of the nearly 10-year-old Rich Outdoors Podcast as well as the Elk Hunt Podcast. He's a serial entrepreneur and one of the most influential mentors in my life and hunting. To tell you the truth, the Hunt West Podcast and Services would not be possible without Cody opening a ton of doors for me, so it only felt right for the first guest to be Mr. Rich. In this show, we talk about how his approach to hunting has changed since the early days of podcasting, how expectations change with the podcast, and what makes different hunts special. Cody gives us his thoughts on late-season elk and deer hunting right now, how he'd take different approaches for different expectations and more. Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Follow Cody Rich on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| HW Field Report 11.3.2024 | 03 Nov 2024 | 00:15:22 | |
Last week saw October come to a close, ending many deer and elk hunting seasons in Idaho and Wyoming. That said, the kickoff of November means states like Montana and Colorado are just now getting rolling. Plus, most folks with whitetail tags and cow elk hunts across the West are still looking for ways to get afield. If you have tags to hunt, it's an exciting part of the fall with winter weather, rutting bucks, and snowy elk hunting inevitable in the coming weeks. Here's this week's Field Report! If you're into mule deer, elk hunting, or even spring bear hunts, Hunt West delivers tactical know-how without the fluff. If you like what you hear today, hit that subscribe button, share it with your buddies, and get ready to plan smarter, hunt harder, and enjoy the great outdoors like never before. Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Where to Mule Deer Hunt in 2025: States, Strategies, and Opportunities | 28 Dec 2024 | 00:50:16 | |
In this episode of the Hunt West podcast, host Jaden Bales provides a soup-to-nuts overview of mule deer hunting across various Western states, including Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Montana, Utah, Oregon, Wyoming, and Washington. He discusses the current state of mule deer populations, various management strategies, and the best hunting opportunities available. Jaden also covers specific hunting regulations, season dates, and draws for different weapon types, offering tips for planning successful hunting trips in 2025 and beyond. The episode aims to educate hunters on how to create multi-state hunting plans while considering differences in terrain, buck ratios, and public land access. SHOW NOTES & MANAGMENT PLANS 00:33 Mule Deer Population Decline 01:08 Planning Your Mule Deer Hunt 04:24 Colorado: The Mule Deer State Colorado Mule Deer Management Plan >> 11:35 Idaho: General Season Opportunities Idaho Mule Deer Management Plan >> 15:53 Nevada: Low Density, High Quality Nevada Mule Deer Management Plan >> 20:37 Montana: General Season Abundance Montana Mule Deer Management Plan >> 24:59 Utah: Conservative Management Utah Mule Deer Management Plan >> 28:37 Oregon: Emerging Opportunities Oregon Mule Deer Management Plan >> 32:42 Wyoming: Diverse Management Wyoming Management Plans/Reports >> 39:00 Washington: Over-the-Counter Hunts Washington Mule Deer Management Plan >> ___ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Out of State Hunting & Our Favorite New Gear with Chad Ryker | 13 Jan 2025 | 01:05:03 | |
In this episode, Jaden shares a podcast with the Out of State Hunter Podcast host, Chad Ryker. The guys cover the Wyoming elk applications, Arizona elk applications, and how to structure applications and strategies in conjunction with other states. They also talk about their favorite pieces of gear from 2024 (hint: one of these pieces was just released to the public) as well as new items in their backpacks for 2025. This is a hodgepodge of information in a conversational style with Chad. We hope you enjoy this old school style interview podcast. 🎧 Tune in to sharpen your knowledge and gear up for the adventure! Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Should You Choose Limited Quota or General in Wyoming with Logan Dix | 10 Jan 2025 | 00:47:37 | |
In this episode of the Hunt West Podcast, host Jaden Bales helps you decide whether to wait to apply for a limited quota license or put in for a general license to elk hunt in Wyoming. Jaden shares personal experiences and advises hunters on making decisions with 4-10 preference points. The episode also features a guest, Logan Dix, who discusses his grandpa's limited quota hunt, as they compare various hunting situations and expectations. Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Wyoming General Elk Hunts: The Soup-To-Nuts Overview | 06 Jan 2025 | 00:43:44 | |
In this episode of the Hunt West Podcast, we explore the ins and outs of Wyoming's general elk hunting opportunities. From the rugged mountains of the West to the open landscapes of the East and the thick forests of the South, we break down each region's unique challenges and advantages. Learn how to align your hunting goals with your skills and experience and pick the right region and areas within the region for you. We also discuss the dynamics of Wyoming's general tag system and how to make the most of this hunting opportunity. Whether you're a resident or a non-resident planning your next hunt, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to help you strategize for success. 🎧 Tune in to sharpen your knowledge and gear up for the adventure! Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| The Messy Montana Draw with Hayden Richins | 23 Mar 2025 | 00:31:36 | |
In this episode, Jaden sits down to talk the messy Montana deer and elk draw, while giving people a sense of tactics to make sure you draw when you anticipate drawing in Montana. In particular, Montana has a split point system using preference points for general elk and deer combo tags, while maintaining a bonus point system for the permitted tags there. The guys also talk about different approaches to using the general seasons to prepare for an upcoming permit tag. We hope you come out of this podcast with a clearer approach to drawing Montana tags ahead of the April 1st deadline. Reach out to Jaden@huntwest.net if you have any questions ahead of the draw! _____ Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Free-Range Hunting in Argentina with Remi Donnelly of Terra Pampa | 19 Mar 2025 | 00:36:18 | |
If you've ever wanted to know about the logistics of hunting Argentina, this episode with Terra Pampa's Remi Donnelly is for you! Remi and Jaden talk about what makes a good outfitter in general in South America, the history of Terra Pampa, free-range hunting in Argentina, how to get heads and hides back to the States, and much more. If someone doesn't have international hunting on their bucket list, I think they should. It's reasonably priced for an incredible experience, world class accommodations, and a REAL hunt for free-ranging stags and other species. For more information, shoot me an email Jaden@huntwest.net _____ Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Hunter McWaters on Hunting Adventures, Catching the Muley Bug, and the Evolution of a Hunter | 02 Feb 2025 | 01:04:48 | |
In this episode of the Hunt West Podcast, Jaden and Hunter McWaters talk about the whole gambit of western hunting adventure and the mule deer bug. Hunter shares his personal journey from a tumultuous past to finding redemption and purpose in hunting. Hunter recounts his hunting experiences in states like Colorado and Montana, as well as overseas in Spain. He also shares insights on choosing hunting spots in Wyoming and the value of seeking adventure over trophy goals. The episode highlights Hunter's evolution as a hunter, including his use of different weapons and bullet types, and his perspective on the hunting culture in the U.S. versus Europe. There are a ton of gems to pick up from this podcast. We hope you enjoy! _____ 02:22 Hunter's Origin Story 09:57 Success in Western Hunts 13:49 Deer vs. Elk Hunting 17:02 Blacktail Deer Hunt 34:06 Hunting in Spain: A Unique Experience 38:50 Mule Deer Hunting in the US 39:03 Comparing Hunting Experiences in Montana and Colorado 45:11 The Progression of a Hunter 51:28 Wyoming Deer Hunting Strategy 01:01:35 The Hunter's Quest: Where to Find More _____ Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| There's No Place Like Home: In-State & Out-of-State Hunts with Jordan Stailey | 27 Jan 2025 | 01:09:07 | |
In this episode, Jaden catches up with New Mexican friend Jordan Staley. He doesn't look much like Dorothy (he's @therealbeardedhunter on IG) but the two discuss tactics for drawing and hunting elk, pronghorn, and coues deer in Jordan's backyard of New Mexico as well as out-of-state hunts like Arizona, Wyoming, and others. They also get into the nitty-gritty of getting into elk close to roads and the importance of understanding local wildlife behavior, usually by hunting the same place as much as possible or by learning your backyard. Jordan also shares his experiences participating in NRL Hunter competitions to improve his shooting skills and reflects on the balance of hunting for himself versus guiding family and friends. The episode is filled with hunting tips, stories from the field, field judging pronghorn, and much much more. Check out the Pronghorn Guide Service field judging tests here >> ______ 01:28 Drawing Tags and Hunting Strategies 11:26 The Importance of Local Knowledge 37:02 Pronghorn Hunting in Wyoming 40:56 Scoring and Judging Pronghorn 51:45 Upcoming Hunts and Plans 59:04 Long Range Shooting and Competitions ______ Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Cow Elk Hunts & Granolas v. Bubbas with Chad Lubinski | 21 Jan 2025 | 01:12:19 | |
In this Hunt West Podcast episode, Chad Lubinski shares his experiences of transitioning from hunting Midwest whitetails to digging into filling the freezer out west. The conversation covers a broad range of topics including Chad's adventures with pronghorn and cow elk hunts in Wyoming and the different types of cow elk hunts you can look for in the Cowboy State. The boys also discuss timber hunting versus open country glassing, differences between endurance sports and hunting, the importance of good gear, and the mindset required to be successful in different hunting terrains. Whether you are a seasoned hunter looking for information on cow elk hunts, or someone new who wants to hear about the learning curve of western hunting, you'll find learn something from this one and hopefully enjoy the good conversation between friends. Follow Chad on social media @chadahooche_ here >> Check out Chad's YouTube Channel here >> Listen to the Peanut Butter Mountains Podcast here >> Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Ice Bath Struggles 02:35 From Midwest to Western Hunting 04:45 Challenges of Oregon Hunting 09:01 Glassing Techniques and Strategies 16:07 Pronghorn Hunting Success 23:53 Elk Hunting Trials and Triumphs 36:36 Strategizing Elk Hunts: Immediate vs. Long-Term Goals 49:53 Endurance Sports and Hunting: A Mental Game 01:01:09 Lessons from Tree Stand Hunting 01:08:34 Final Thoughts and Social Media Plugs ______ Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Cody Rich Gives the Montana Playbook for Deer and Elk | 16 Mar 2025 | 00:54:07 | |
In this episode, we have Cody Rich from The Rich Outdoors and Elk Hunt Podcast back on the show to talk Montana deer and elk. The boys discuss where Montana sits in someone's applications and the strategies that are effective for getting a nice bull or buck in the Big Sky state. The guys also compare Montana to Colorado as guys consider which of the two states they should invest in with their short-term hunting plans. Cody's experience and stories in Montana and around the West are super helpful for anyone considering putting Montana in their plans. We hope you enjoy the show! _____ Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Successful Colorado Strategies with Garrison Kinsel | 09 Mar 2025 | 01:06:25 | |
In this episode, Jaden sits down with his good buddy and Colorado resident, Garrison Kinsel. In Garrison's words, he's married to the whitetail game with a love affair with Colorado mule deer. But what he doesn't also mention is that he's been on multiple successful opportunity elk hunts and recently took a great old Colorado bull elk by pounding the timber on a late-season rifle hunt. Hope you enjoy this episode and get some ideas for approaching your next Colorado mule deer or elk hunt in 2025. _____ Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Colorado Deer and Elk Overview | Solo Round | 02 Mar 2025 | 00:48:57 | |
In this episode of the HuntWest podcast, Jaden dives into the upcoming changes to Colorado's deer and elk hunting seasons for 2025. He talks about the elimination of the non-resident over-the-counter archery season and explains how to navigate these shifts, offering strategies to maximize your hunting opportunities, from understanding application processes to selecting optimal tags. Jaden also discusses season structures for both deer and elk, providing key dates and ways to think about various seasons, terrain types, and hunting methods for hunting rocky mountain high. Tune in for a data-nerd's take on how to use the resources at your finger tips to make set you up for a successful 2025 hunting season in Colorado. You can find CPW's new statistics and management web pages here: Mule Deer Web Page >> Elk Web Page >> _____ SHOW NOTES: 01:39 Strategies for Navigating the New Elk Hunting System 05:38 Detailed Breakdown of Rifle Seasons 13:38 Late Season Elk Hunting Tips 18:06 Introduction to Mule Deer Hunting in Colorado 19:17 Analyzing Mule Deer Data and Strategies 33:48 Upcoming Changes in 2028 and Final Thoughts 39:45 Conclusion and Upcoming Content _____ Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Bo DePeña Talks Fatherhood & Hunting Colorado | 23 Feb 2025 | 00:56:45 | |
Welcome to another episode of the Hunt West Podcast! This one with Bo DePeña kicks off a series of Colorado conversations to help you know what you're getting into when you hunt this popular elk and mule deer destination state. Bo and Jaden start by talking about how fatherhood has changed how he hunts, and what he learned from guiding hunters in Colorado. Then, they dive into some stories of Bo's elk and mule deer hunts in 2024. This one is a good conversation with friends with good nuggets to get better as a western hunter baked into it. We hope you enjoy the show! _____ Find Bo DePeña's music here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Spot & Stalk Spring Bear Hunting 101 | 16 Feb 2025 | 00:29:24 | |
In this solo episode, Jaden repurposed a video recording to help you learn what to look for on your spot and stalk spring bear hunts. It's a shorter podcast that is just chalk full of meat and potatoes information to help you plan spring bear hunts. It's a great opportunity to get out, especially with multiple states still offering great spring bear hunting over the counter. Plus, it's an incredible way to test gear, hone skills, and bring home some tasty meat for the freezer. We hope you enjoy this quick hitting spot and stalk spring bear hunting solo episode. _____ Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Is Your Rig Ready for Western Hunting? Jaden & Tyler Talk Offroading | 12 Feb 2025 | 01:17:19 | |
Today on the Hunt West Podcast, Jaden brings on Tyler Bales, an off-roading and at-home vehicle project guru who has a wealth of information to bring to the table. From always working on multiple of his hunting-offroad vehicles to his time spent upgrading tires and suspensions at a tire store, he's amassed some great technical information for hunters to know about their rigs. But first, don't forget to get ahead of the game by planning your western hunts with Hunt West services, which will be largely offline for the month of March. The website is revamped, so if you want to learn more about services that can help you make the most of your time, money, and vacation days on your hunts, then check it out at huntwest.net Follow Tyler on Instagram @tyler_bales8 if you want to talk with him about vehicle stuff. _____ Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Myth-Busting Mule Deer Age and Antler Size | 07 Feb 2025 | 00:32:02 | |
On this episode of the Hunt West Podcast, Jaden Bales tackles the big question: 'Did I shoot a baby giant in 2024?' Jaden dives deep into various studies and personal anecdotes to bust myths about deer ages and antler sizes. He discusses data from the Utah long-term study on mule deer and an interesting Texas Apache Ranch study, sharing insights on how environmental factors affect antler growth. Tune in for a detailed analysis of mule deer data, hunting strategies, and the significance of understanding deer aging in the quest for that big buck. Check out these studies and resources to come to your own mule deer antler-age conclusions: The Utah Study: Long-Lasting Effects of Maternal Condition on Free-Ranging Cervids Antlers by the Numbers: The Apache Ranch Study Study shows mule deer antlers peak earlier than thought The Wyoming Maternal Effects Study Wyoming Tooth Age Data ____ 01:57 Understanding Deer Aging and Antler Size 02:48 Key Studies on Deer Antler Size 06:59 Texas Apache Ranch Study Insights 10:22 Analyzing Personal Hunting Data 15:35 Wyoming Deer Data Analysis 20:20 Regional Comparisons and Insights 27:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts ____ Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Planning an Alaska Blacktail Hunt with Jeff Lund and Tyler Bales | 04 Feb 2025 | 01:16:33 | |
In this episode of the Hunt West Podcast, we introduce Jeff Lund, an experienced hunter and writer based in Alaska. Lund discusses his history in the hunting space, his experiences hunting blacktail deer, and the challenges posed by the local terrain and weather conditions. The conversation delves into the detailed planning required for a successful blacktail deer hunt, including the importance of scouting, understanding predator impacts, managing habitat for deer populations, and the gear necessary for navigating the rugged Alaskan landscape. Jeff also shares specific stories about his hunting adventures and provides practical advice for listeners planning their own trips. Check out Jeff's website onstepalaska.com or follow him @alaskalund You can request to follow Tyler Bales on IG @tyler_bales8 ___ 01:16 Jeff's Journey to Alaska and Hunting Beginnings 03:50 Challenges and Changes in Blacktail Deer Hunting 09:07 Comparing Blacktail and Mule Deer Hunting 12:23 Preparing for the Hunt: Strategies and Expectations 22:39 Weather Challenges and Hunting in the Rain 36:24 Navigating Steep Timber with Ropes 37:24 Challenges of Hunting in Rocky Terrain 40:08 Strategies for Spotting and Shooting Deer 54:20 Dealing with Predators and Safety Concerns 01:00:01 Managing Hunting Pressure and Remote Locations 01:08:37 Final Thoughts and Reflections ___ Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast Here >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| I Drew a Tag, Now What!? | 21 Apr 2025 | 00:42:15 | |
In this solo episode, Jaden Jaden gives you actionable "meat and potatoes" type information to better plan your hunt by breaking down his process for getting started e-scouting and mapping out a hunt for which you drew a tag and don't have a set game plan for yet. He breaks down four steps in detail for getting started:
A good hunt plan makes your week-long vacation much less stressful as you adapt to every obstacle, hiccup, and audible call along the way. Heck, getting out and enjoying your hunt is at the baseline of why we all do it anyway, so why not take all the steps you can to make sure your next hunt is a good one. We hope you enjoy today's podcast! _____ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Oregon's Massive Mule Deer Changes with Josh Smith | 12 Apr 2025 | 00:46:31 | |
Back in 2024, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife adopted a brand-spanking-new mule deer plan using a ton of new data collected from mule deer studies. Today, Josh Smith, the ODFW Mule Deer Coordinator, joins the show to tell us what the proposed changes look like, and for Oregon mule deer hunters, they are going to overhaul how you apply. In the least, it's possible your favorite unit's boundaries won't change much, but the codes and names for hunts you apply for will. At most, your hunt area maybe has three different mule deer herds using it, and that will upend how you apply. Want to see the proposed changes for yourself? Click here >> If you want to plan your 2025 or 2026 Oregon mule deer hunt, be sure to reach out to jaden@huntwest.net to get started. _____ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Nerding Out About Mule Deer and Their Management with Jared Oakleaf | 06 Apr 2025 | 01:20:13 | |
In this episode of the Hunt West Podcast, we have Jared Oakleaf from Lander, WY on the show to nerd out about mule deer and their management. Jared is a die-hard big deer hunter who spends as much time learning about mule deer and working to conserve them as he does chasing them. The guys touch on a ton of controversial topics, including antler point restrictions, ideal buck-to-doe ratios, the effects (or lack thereof) of limited quota seasons, and so much more. They also break down what may just be the secret to timing your hunting plans to maximize mature buck numbers and quality on your next hunt. They reference a ton of work from the Monteith Shop, which you can read by clicking here >> We'd love it if you supported their work on the website, as well. Click around in there, there's a lot to find on the website. We sincerely hope you enjoy the show! _____ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Hunting the Southern Hemisphere's September | Stories from Argentina | 30 Mar 2025 | 01:08:39 | |
This could be an episode of the Hunt South Podcast, as friends Hayden and Jaden talk about their month hunting, translating, and guiding in Argentina. They discuss what the roar is all about with red stags, how black buck are South America's speedgoats, what it's like bringing down a water buffalo, and the tactics it takes to get a good wild boar on the barbecue. They share stories from the trip and also give advice for those looking to make the trip down one day. If you have ever thought, "what if I could have two fall hunting seasons?" You can with a little planning and some airline miles to burn. The guys cover it all in this podcast. We hope you enjoy the show. Reach out to Jaden@huntwest.net if you have any questions about booking a trip to Argentina! _____ Learn more about Terra Pampa and hunting Argentina >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show.
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| Wyoming Bear Down & The Gear We Used with Jordan Budd | 24 May 2025 | 01:32:00 | |
In this episode, Jaden has on his friend Jordan Budd after she took a stud of a Wyoming black bear spot and stalk style. They recap the hunt, what they were looking for, the kinds of conditions that came together for this bear to show himself, and all the different pieces of gear that made this an absolutely textbook western big game hunt. If you like good hunting stories and are a gear nerd like us, this podcast is going to be right up your alley. We hope you enjoy it! Find Jordan Budd on Instagram or via her outfitting website runningwaterhunting.com _____ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> If you want to go to Argentina, or have other questions about western hunting, contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| How to Make a Hunting Plan: A Real Hunt West Session | 20 May 2025 | 00:56:41 | |
In this episode, you're getting a front-row seat to a real Hunt West e-scouting session. Jaden sits down with two Colorado elk hunters and walks through the exact process he uses to break down a unit — from figuring out elk behavior in September to identifying terrain features that hold animals, and how to build flexible game plans based on wind, access, pressure, and feed. This is way more than just picking waypoints — it's a deep dive into the Hunt West framework that teaches you how to think about a hunt, not just where to go. Whether you're planning your first western elk hunt or looking to sharpen your e-scouting game, this episode is packed with the goods. We hope you enjoy it! _____ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> If you want to go to Argentina, or have other questions about western hunting, contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Old School Deer Tactics & What it Takes to Find a Big One with Robby Denning | 17 May 2025 | 01:18:03 | |
While old school deer tactics is in the name, this podcast with Robby Denning holds a lot more gems than that. From remembering Robby's father's impact on his hunting passion, to ways guys hunted deer more often "back in the day" and how to use those tools today, Jaden and Robby cover a whole host of topics in this podcast. They also discuss what it takes to find a big, special mule deer and take him home in today's hunting environment, aging mule deer bucks, and so much more. Hunting Mule Deer with Robby and Travis >> Robby Denning's Books on Mule Deer Hunting >> Breaking 200" - A Rokslide Blog >> _____ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> If you want to go to Argentina, or have other questions about western hunting, contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Huntin' Stories & Surviving HAPE with Matt Emerson | 10 May 2025 | 01:23:51 | |
If you want to hear good stories of progressing as a western hunter, this podcast with Matt Emerson is great. Not only that, but today's podcast includes his incredible story of catching high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) and how to recognize signs of it before you have to call in a helicopter to the backcountry as he did. I spend a lot of time with Matt, and I even was sucked in by this interview. I am so excited to bring you this podcast with Matt Emerson, and hope you enjoy it, too! Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> If you want to go to Argentina, or have other questions about western hunting, contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| All About Western Muzzleloaders with Chad Eidson | 03 May 2025 | 01:11:59 | |
In this episode of the Hunt West Podcast, Jaden picks the brain of his friend Chad Eidson about western hunting with muzzleloaders. Chad shared what he knows about the regulations and technology allowed in different states, and they discussed the evolution of muzzleloader technology, and the limitations of sighting systems. The guys also cover overall advantages and disadvantages of using muzzleloaders for hunting with some good old stories sprinkled in there. For anyone who has wanted to unlock better drawing odds or interesting season dates with a muzzleloader in the west, this podcast will get you pointed in the right direction. We hope you enjoy it! _____ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Arizona Coues & Wyoming Adventures with Jason Scott | 26 Apr 2025 | 01:13:54 | |
In this episode, Jaden sits down with coues deer fanatic, and avid western DIY hunter, Jason Scott to cover a ton of topics, and tell a few hunting stories along the way. This is just a classic conversation between two fellas who love getting out and spending time in the mountains. We hope you enjoy it! _____ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Lessons from the Field and Gear For Traveling Hunters with Seth Oren | 30 May 2025 | 01:23:43 | |
In this episode of the Hunt West Podcast, we sit down with lifelong hunter and western DIY guy, Seth Oren for a conversation that's packed with stories, overarching strategy, and lessons from the field. From the Wisconsin woods to the high country of the West — and even the islands of Hawaii — Seth has spent a ton of time chasing critters, and he gets into some of the hunts that shaped his western hunting skills along the way. We dive into what makes western hunting so addicting, how Seth prepares for out-of-state hunts, and the gear he's come to trust after years of trial and error. We also cover Seth's business, Deep Fork Rentals, which lets traveling hunters rent the high-quality gear they need when coming out west for the first time. If you're looking to learn from hard-earned experience, fine-tune your approach to hunts this fall, and dial in your gear, this episode delivers. Learn more about Deep Fork Rentals and get a hold of Seth at Deepforkrentals.com _____ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> If you want to go to Argentina in 2026 THERE ARE ONLY TWO SPOTS LEFT! Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net to learn more. Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| How to Get Started Out West | 05 Jul 2025 | 01:16:22 | |
If you've ever thought, "I want to hunt elk out West, but I don't know where to start," this episode is your launchpad. Today's show is a special crossover—Weston Homa from the Run the Rack podcast flips the mic and interviews Jaden about how Eastern whitetail hunters can realistically break into Western hunting. From over-the-counter tags and reissue strategies to what gear actually matters and how to build a multi-year hunt plan, this one's packed tighter than your elk packout dreams. We hope you enjoy this episode, and if you like this podcast not only share it with a friend, but go check out more of Weston's work at Run the Rack Outdoors, too. _____ You can now can tap into my brain without booking a full consulting call. The Virtual Hunt Buddy is up and running and ready to help you get your plans in order—24/7, no scheduling required. It's trained on everything I've said or written about western hunts in the last 6 years. If you're trying to build a gear list, pick a week to hunt, or figure out where to put your glass on opening morning, this tool can help. It doesn't cost a dime to give it a whirl. _____ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> If you want to go to Argentina in 2026 THERE ARE ONLY TWO SPOTS LEFT! Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net to learn more. Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| How to Be a Dialed Backpack Hunter with Brad Brooks of Argali | 28 Jun 2025 | 00:58:47 | |
If you've ever wondered what it really takes to hunt deep in the backcountry—and make it back out in one piece—you'll want to listen to this one. Jaden sits down with Brad Brooks, founder of Argali, to talk all things backpack hunting logistics. From elk vs. mule deer strategies, to hauling meat solo, to common gear mistakes—this conversation is full of hard-earned lessons and straight-shooting wisdom. Brad shares personal stories (including a 7.5-mile elk packout with a camera guy), breaks down his "spoke-and-wheel" base camp method, and dishes on why quilts are overrated and your boots probably suck (unless you found the right ones for you). We hope you enjoy the episode. Watch and Subscribe to Argali's YouTube here >> _____ You can now can tap into my brain without booking a full consulting call. The Virtual Hunt Buddy is up and running and ready to help you get your plans in order—24/7, no scheduling required. It's trained on everything I've said or written about western hunts in the last 6 years. If you're trying to build a gear list, pick a week to hunt, or figure out where to put your glass on opening morning, this tool can help. It doesn't cost a dime to give it a whirl. _____ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> If you want to go to Argentina in 2026 THERE ARE ONLY TWO SPOTS LEFT! Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net to learn more. Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| How to Pick Glassing Knobs | Solo Round | 21 Jun 2025 | 00:55:31 | |
In this episode, Jaden takes you along on a midday glassing session from a real knob in Montana, where he breaks down how to effectively find—and use—glassing points to locate game. This isn't about "killing spots," it's about how and where to find animals before you can make a move. Whether you're e-scouting this summer or mid-hunt and struggling to find critters, Jaden lays out a practical, detailed framework to help you locate game from glassing knobs using real hunting scenarios and terrain examples. What You'll Learn:
We hope you enjoy this show! _____ You can now can tap into my brain without booking a full consulting call. The Virtual Hunt Buddy is up and running and ready to help you get your plans in order—24/7, no scheduling required. It's trained on everything I've said or written about western hunts in the last 6 years. If you're trying to build a gear list, pick a week to hunt, or figure out where to put your glass on opening morning, this tool can help. You get 3 free messages to try it. After that, it's just $10. _____ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> If you want to go to Argentina in 2026 THERE ARE ONLY TWO SPOTS LEFT! Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net to learn more. Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Sheep Stories: How to Hunt Bighorn Sheep with Guide and Outfitter Jimmy Owens | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:44:28 | |
What does it take to be a top-tier sheep guide in modern-day Wyoming? Jimmy Owens of Lost Creek Outfitters gives us the behind-the-scenes look at a sheep hunt—logistics, expectations, glassing strategies, and the high-pressure stakes of once-in-a-lifetime tags. Learn why mules matter, how shooting trumps stamina, and what it's really like chasing rams in grizzly country. For hunters who dream of drawing a tag or just want to know what it takes, this one is a dang good one. Please note: we recorded these live at the Wild Sheep Expo in Casper and while audio quality may not be crystal clear, the content is awesome! _____ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> If you want to go to Argentina in 2026 THERE ARE ONLY TWO SPOTS LEFT! Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net to learn more. Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. His new single, "Any Old Reason" is out now! | |||
| Sheep Stories: Early Bighorn Research, Surviving TWO Plane Crashes & More with Kevin Hurley | 16 Jun 2025 | 01:13:32 | |
In his wild ride through decades of conservation work, Kevin Hurley—Vice President for Conservation Emeritus at the Wild Sheep Foundation—shares the untold tales of bighorn sheep research from the 1980s to today. From TWO plane crashes to backpacking solo into Wyoming's most remote basins looking for bighorns, Kevin's lived experience paints a picture of how modern sheep management was built on grit, passion, and the occasional ram-shaped miracle. This episode is part history lesson, part survival story, and all heart for the wild sheep of the West. Please note: we recorded these live at the Wild Sheep Expo in Casper and while audio quality may not be crystal clear, the content is awesome! We hope you enjoy this episode. _____ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> If you want to go to Argentina in 2026 THERE ARE ONLY TWO SPOTS LEFT! Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net to learn more. Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. His new single, "Any Old Reason" is out now! | |||
| Sheep Stories: How Wyoming is Putting and Keeping Sheep on the Mountain with Katie Cheesbrough | 15 Jun 2025 | 00:59:09 | |
If you care about the future of wild sheep in Wyoming and across the West, this episode is for you. Executive Director of the Wyoming Wild Sheep Foundation, Katie Cheesbrough, walks us through the behind-the-scenes work that keeps bighorns on the mountain—from prescribed burns and cheatgrass battles to science-informed transplants and working across private lands. It's a boots-on-the-ground conversation about what is actual conservation looks like, and how every tag, dollar, and decision plays a role in the bigger picture. We hope you enjoy this episode. Please note: we recorded these live at the Wild Sheep Expo in Casper and while audio quality may not be crystal clear, the content is awesome! _____ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> If you want to go to Argentina in 2026 THERE ARE ONLY TWO SPOTS LEFT! Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net to learn more. Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. His new single, "Any Old Reason" is out now! | |||
| Real Talk on Nutrition & Hunting Stories to Back It with Kyle Kamp | 07 Jun 2025 | 01:20:47 | |
In this episode of the Hunt West Podcast, Jaden Bales sits down with longtime friend and backcountry nutrition expert Kyle Kamp of Valley to Peak Nutrition. Kyle shares how mastering the basics of nutrition—not chasing the latest fads—is the key to performing at your peak in the mountains. From building sustainable systems to dialing in off-season weight loss and fueling long hunts like a late-season elk hunt, or a dall sheep trek in Alaska, Kyle lays down practical, no-BS advice for every kind of hunter. Whether you're prepping for September elk season, cutting excess weight for the mountains, or figuring out what to actually eat in the backcountry, this episode delivers. Expect real stories, smart strategies, and a ton of overlap between hunting and nutrition that'll get your wheels turning and your food game dialed. _____ Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> If you want to go to Argentina in 2026 THERE ARE ONLY TWO SPOTS LEFT! Contact Jaden at Jaden@huntwest.net to learn more. Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| How to Hunt Late-Season Elk in a Roaded Unit: Game Planning with Tyler Bales | 01 Nov 2025 | 00:47:38 | |
In this week's episode, I sit down with my brother, Tyler Bales, to talk about his wife's upcoming late-season Oregon elk hunt: a classic roaded-country challenge where finding unpressured elk takes creativity, patience, and a little local knowledge. We dive into how he scouted a heavily roaded unit with a fresh burn, what he's learning about elk using edges between timber, burns, and private land, and how to hunt smart when you've got family (and a baby) along for the ride. You'll hear us talk through everything from reading sign and choosing glassing knobs, to camping logistics, and how to build an elk plan that balances real-life constraints with solid hunting strategy. If you've ever hunted late-season elk in places where "road access" doesn't necessarily mean "easy elk," this one's for you.
Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| The Pre-Rut Mule Deer Playbook | Solo Round | 25 Oct 2025 | 00:48:29 | |
In this solo round, Jaden breaks down one of his favorite times of year—the pre-rut window when mule deer bucks start slipping out of their hidey holes and showing daylight movement, but haven't gone full rut yet. It's that sweet spot where weather, timing, and patience make or break a hunt. Jaden shares what he's learned from hunting and guiding across the West, including:
From elevation bands to glassing hard, this episode is a tactical masterclass in hunting the edge between bachelor groups and the rut. Mentioned:
CTA: | |||
| The Elk Hunting Playbook with Cody Rich | 05 Sep 2025 | 01:11:30 | |
Welcome to September — the month elk hunters live for. In this episode, I sit down with Cody Rich, longtime mentor and host of The Elk Hunt Podcast, to talk through the 201-level elk hunting playbook. We dive into the real differences between a "101 hunter" who's just out walking the woods and a "201 hunter" who consistently finds and kills elk year after year. Cody breaks down what separates the average Joe from the top 10% of elk hunters — and how you can bridge that gap this season. Inside this episode, you'll hear us cover:
Cody also shares stories from his own hunts — from missing bulls on opening day to glassing elk seven miles away with binos — and gives one clear assignment for anyone wanting to level up their elk hunting game this September. We hope you enjoy the show! Subscribe to the Elk Hunt Course at Elkhunt201.com >> Listen to the Elk Hunt Podcast here >> _____ Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| September Mule Deer Madness with Hayden Richins | 30 Aug 2025 | 01:03:58 | |
September means velvet bucks, blown stalks, and long days behind the glass. In this episode, Jaden sits down with Hayden Richins (@wynotwild) to talk all things September mule deer hunting. The two swap stories from past hunts, break down archery and rifle strategies, and get honest about the mistakes (and lessons) that come with chasing deer in September. From velvet to hard horn, ambush setups to full-send stalks, this one is packed with practical insights and plenty of laughs. What you'll hear in this episode:
Whether you're a die-hard mule deer hunter or just gearing up for your first archery season, this episode will leave you with tactics you can use on your next September hunt. 👉 Follow Hayden on Instagram: @wynotwild Do you have more questions about your hunt related to this topic? Ask the AI Hunt Mentor things like:
It's now FREE so use the AI Hunt Mentor here to find out what you should do >> _____ Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| BONUS: Planning Future Hunts Like Someone With a Touch of the 'Tism | 24 Aug 2025 | 00:20:13 | |
Every hunt you go on has two stories: the one you're living in the moment, and the one that quietly sets up your future seasons. In this bonus episode of the Hunt West Podcast, Jaden lays out how you can use your 2025 hunts to build momentum into 2026 and beyond. Whether you're driving through prime elk country, eyeing a future mule deer unit, or keeping a finger on application deadlines, the key is to hunt with your eyes open—not just for what's in your crosshairs, but for what's coming next. What You'll Learn in This Episode:
Special Offer: _____ Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| No Excuses Hunting: Beating Negativity and Finding Success This Season | Solo Round | 23 Aug 2025 | 00:51:04 | |
In this solo episode of the Hunt West Podcast, Jaden fires up the mic to deliver the pep talk every hunter needs before stepping into the mountains this fall. Too often, hunters head into a season weighed down by excuses, negative chatter, and unrealistic expectations. Jaden pushes back hard on that mindset with a no-excuses, stay-positive approach that will help you make the most of whatever your hunt throws at you. From wildfires and winter kills to snowstorms, hunting pressure, and quiet elk, Jaden shares real-world stories and lessons learned from years in the field—proving that backup plans, grit, and adaptability are what separate those who go home early from those who notch tags and create lasting memories. You'll learn:
If you've ever doubted whether it's worth the trip, or felt like the odds are stacked against you, this is the mindset reset to listen to before hunting season kicks off. Do you have more questions about your hunt related to this topic? Ask the AI Hunt Mentor things like:
Use the AI Hunt Mentor here to find out what you should do >> _____ Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||
| Old-School Skills & Modern-Day Mountain Hunting with Cade Cole | 16 Aug 2025 | 01:05:55 | |
This week on the Hunt West Podcast, I sit down with one of the most unique hunters you'll ever meet — Cade Cole. If Jeremiah Johnson and a backcountry rifleman had a kid who grew up in blue jeans, it'd be Cade. He's a young guy with an old soul, a no-nonsense attitude, and the kind of woodsmanship that doesn't come from gadgets — it comes from time in the mountains. We get into:
...And so much more. If you want to sharpen your shooting, toughen up your mindset, and maybe ditch a few "high-speed" crutches along the way, this episode is a masterclass in keeping it simple and hunting hard. _____ Watch Cade Cole's Elk Hunt Video Here >> Learn about Hunt West planning services >> Follow Hunt West on Instagram >> Subscribe to the Hunt West Weekly Email Here >> Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show. | |||