Joe, Rick, and Lee talk about where they've been and how the True North got started and what it's all about.

Fiddleheads and Turkeys with Ole Guide Mike – Episode #2The True North Lifestyle PodcastHosted by Joe Kruse | Featuring Lee Libby & Rick LabbeSpecial Guest: Ole Guide Mike – Part of the True CrewAre fiddleheads a North Woods delicacy… or just dirt-covered weeds?We kick off Episode 2 with legendary Maine outdoorsman and True Crew member Ole Guide Mike, covering everything from Osceola turkey hunting and plywood boat wipeouts to smoked elk steaks, gravel rashes, and dodging Florida gators.We dive into fiddlehead foraging, moose hunting, drone scouting, shed hunting, jet boats, smelt runs, wild strawberries, and river fishing — all through the lens of springtime in the North. Mike also shares behind-the-scenes insights on his upcoming crow hunting film, and we officially welcome Gary Williamson as our newest sponsor!Hit SUBSCRIBE to join us on our journey to live wild, work hard, and always look True North.⸻Topics We Cover in This Episode:• Fiddlehead foraging vs. Lee’s anti-veggie stance• Turkey hunting Osceolas in Florida• Water skiing and plywood boat chaos• Mike’s fear of gators & gravel rash wipeouts• Spring ice-out fishing in Maine• Smelt runs, jet boats, and river action• Moose hunting and grouse encounters• Crow hunting and Mike’s new film project• Cooking wild food in a smoker• Shed hunting and drone scouting• Planes and Joe’s upcoming adventures• Wild strawberries, hearing loss, and more• PLUS: Welcome to new sponsor Gary Williamson!⸻SHOW GARY SOME SUPPORT!📞 Call/Text Gary Directly: (207) 364-5326🏕️ Get in Touch:https://www.cassiemason.com/about/julia-gary-williamsonFour Seasons Rentals:https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.com⸻Shoutout to Taylor Walker!🎙️ Taylor has been a key part of our podcast production — from setup to editing, he’s been crushing it behind the scenes.🔧 Check out his incredible craftsmanship at Walker Knife Co:➡️ https://walkerknifeco.com🔥 Custom knives, tools, and gear built with pride.⸻Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle:👕 Shop Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle🎟️ HuntStock 2025 Tickets (10% OFF with code TTN):https://huntstock.ticketleap.com/huntstock-massachusetts-2025/dates/Aug-08-2025_at_1100AM⸻Drop a comment:Do YOU eat fiddleheads, or are you siding with Lee?⸻#TheTrueNorthLifestyle #HuntingPodcast #FishingPodcast #OutdoorPodcast #TurkeyHunting #Fiddleheads #WildGameCooking #MooseHunting #SmeltRun #MaineOutdoors #TrueCrew #CrowHunting #ShedHunting #deerhunting

Episode 3 : Tall Tales of The True North | Garnett Robinson
Welcome back to The True North Lifestyle Podcast! In Episode 3, we sit down with the one and only Garnett "Big G" Robinson, a man full of stories, controversy, and comedy. While we don’t necessarily approve of his methods, you can’t deny he’s entertaining.
His adventures and storytelling are second to none. On this episode Garnett talks about his early years of growing up in The True North Lifestyle and all the characters he's met along the way.
From “natural” holes in the ice for spring fishing to close calls with Maine Game Wardens, and new nicknames for Rick and Lee you’ll get it all. We also dive into some hilarious and unexpected moments involving Garnett’s attraction to Rick’s rugged masculinity, tales of Lanny Benoit and Jeff Paradis kissing Rick…
Other topics include:
 • Avoiding hunter orange back in the day and why Garnett’s changed his mind
 • Maine hunting laws and run-ins with the wardens
 • Hunting, fishing, and wild storytelling at its best
If you’re into hunting, fishing, backwoods humor, outdoor life in Maine, and a bit of good-natured chaos, this episode is for you.
Hit subscribe for more wild tales, honest conversations, and real outdoorsmen living the lifestyle.
HAVE REAL ESTATE QUESTIONS FOR WESTERN MAINE: SHOW OUR SPONSOR GARY SOME SUPPORT!
📞 Call/Text Gary Directly: (207) 364-5326
🏕️ Get in Touch:
https://www.cassiemason.com/about/julia-gary-williamson
Four Seasons Rentals:
https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.com
Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle
📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle
👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop
🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com
📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr
👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr
📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle
⸻
Shoutout to Taylor Walker!
🎙️ Taylor has been a key part of our podcast production — from setup to editing, he’s been crushing it behind the scenes.
🔧 Check out his incredible craftsmanship at Walker Knife Co:
➡️ https://walkerknifeco.com
🔥 Custom knives, tools, and gear built with pride.
#TheTrueNorthLifestyle #TallTalesOfTheTrueNorth #TrueNorthPodcast #BigGStories #OutdoorPodcast #BackwoodsHumor #WildTales #OutdoorComedy #HuntingStories #FishingFunnies #GoodNaturedChaos #MaineHunting #MaineFishing #SpringFishing #HuntingLife #OutdoorsmanLife #HunterHumor #FishingHumor #WhitetailTales #GarnettRobinson #RickAndLee #LannyBenoit #JeffParadis #MaineGameWardens #NoHunterOrange #IceFishingFails #OutdoorRebels #RealOutdoorsmen #NorthernTraditions

Episode 4 | Hunting, Determination & Diagnosis | Brian Aubry | The True North Lifestyle PodcastWelcome back to The True North Lifestyle Podcast! In Episode 4, we’re joined by Brian Aubry, a hunter and outdoorsman who was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in 2019. When you’re faced with a progressive disease, your perspective changes and Brian shares how that urgency has fueled his passion to live life full throttle, in the woods and on the water.From deer hunting in a boat to chasing bear and moose, Brian brings inspiration and insight for anyone who’s ever faced adversity or just needed that push to stop waiting and start doing.Brian breaks down: • What it means to be diagnosed with MS and how it changes everything • Why he plans ahead for every hunt and trip to make the most of every moment • How limitations shouldn’t stop you from chasing your outdoor dreams • The importance of your hunter safety card when hunting out west • Boat hunting tactics, using onX to your advantage, and how to adapt your methods • Bucket list hunts and why you should stop putting them offIf you’re hunting, planning to hunt in a new state, or facing physical or mental limitations, this episode is a must-listen. Let Brian’s story fire you up to go after the things that matter no matter what stands in your way.What’s on your bucket list? Don’t wait.Hit subscribe for more real stories, real adventures, and real passion for the outdoors.⸻HAVE REAL ESTATE QUESTIONS FOR WESTERN MAINE?SHOW OUR SPONSOR GARY SOME SUPPORT!📞 Call/Text Gary Directly: (207) 364-5326🏕️ Get in Touch:https://www.cassiemason.com/about/julia-gary-williamsonFour Seasons Rentals:https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.com⸻Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle⸻Shoutout to Taylor Walker!🎙️ Taylor continues to crush it behind the scenes, making this podcast possible.🔧 Check out his craftsmanship at Walker Knife Co:➡️ https://walkerknifeco.com🔥 Custom knives, tools, and gear built with pride.⸻Interested in sponsoring a future episode?We’d love to talk! Contact us at 📧 info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com to explore sponsorship opportunities.⸻#TheTrueNorthLifestyle #FullThrottle #HuntingWithMS #MSAwareness #TrueNorthPodcast #HuntingAdaptations #OutdoorPodcast #DeerHunting #BoatHunting #MockScrapes #HuntingWithLimitations #onXHunt #BucketListHunts #MooseHunting #BearHunting #WhitetailHunting #OutdoorMotivation #RealOutdoorsmen #NeverStopPushing #LiveTheLifestyle #TrueNorthMindset #Huntstock2025 #TTN

Maine Moose Lottery, Winter Ticks & Moose Management with Biologist Lee Kantar | The True North Lifestyle PodcastIn this episode, we’re diving deep into Maine’s moose population with none other than State Moose Biologist Lee Kantar from the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife — just in time for the Maine Moose Lottery on June 21st!Topics we cover include:🟤 Winter ticks and their devastating impact on moose (71% calf mortality!)🟤 Moose research and collaring projects dating back to 2014🟤 Cow/calf survival rates and predictive studies🟤 How body weight and tick loads determine survival in 8-month-old calves🟤 The Adaptive Moose Hunt and why it’s currently focused in Wildlife Management District 4🟤 Data collection methods, including helicopter transect line surveys🟤 Moose herd health: bull/cow/calf ratios🟤 How science and hard data shape moose hunt regulations in MaineHuge thanks to Lee Kantar and the team at MDIFW for joining us and sharing their insights. If you’re applying for a moose permit or just love talking big woods and big bulls, this one’s a must-listen.⸻🏠 Looking to buy or sell land, a home, a camp, or book a vacation rental in Western Maine?Gary Williamson is your go-to local expert and our trusted real estate guide!📞 Call/Text Gary: (207) 364-5326🔗 Learn more: https://www.cassiemason.com/about/julia-gary-williamson🏕️ Four Seasons Rentals: https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.comSupporting our sponsors helps us keep creating content and growing this channel — thank you for keeping the adventure alive!⸻🧭 Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle:📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle⸻🛠️ Shoutout to Taylor Walker!🎙️ Taylor continues to crush it behind the scenes, making this podcast possible.🔪 Check out his handcrafted knives and tools at Walker Knife Co:➡️ https://walkerknifeco.com🔥 Built with pride. Ready for the woods.⸻🎯 Interested in sponsoring a future episode?We’d love to talk. Reach out at 📧 info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com to explore sponsorship opportunities.

Episode 7 | Made By Hand: The Story of Walker Knife Co. & Taylor Walker | The True North Lifestyle PodcastIn Episode 7, we sit down with outdoorsman, filmmaker, and master knife maker Taylor Walker of Walker Knife Co. Taylor’s journey—from guiding whitewater rivers and fly fishing to crafting custom knives built to thrive in the toughest backcountry conditions, reveals the heart, soul and passion behind every blade he makes.🔪 Taylor’s story began with frustration over subpar commercial knives during his river guiding days. That frustration sparked a relentless pursuit of creating better, more reliable tools— made right in the woods of Maine, USA. Using cutting-edge MagnaCut steel and old-school craftsmanship, Taylor shapes knives that don’t just look good but work hard in the field.🎙 This episode also dives into Taylor’s filming Joe Kruse as they share stories from 2018 when Taylor followed Joe on hunts, falling in love with deer hunting and tracking—even though he had never deer hunted before and had no idea what to expect. Their friendship and shared experiences deeply shaped Taylor’s perspective on hunting and gear. Plus, stories of Taylor’s Pennsylvania flintlock hunt.🎙 What you’ll hear in this episode:* The inspiration and design process behind the new Trackr 2.0 knife—a first look before its official release at Huntstock* Why MagnaCut steel is perfect for hunting knives* How lessons from river gear and fly fishing influence hunting knife innovation* The art and technique of hand-built sheaths, vacuum molding, and precision CNC handle work* Real talk on edge retention, heat treatment, sharpening myths, plus two expert guides on knife sharpening and care* Insights on filming hunts and capturing authentic outdoor storytelling* Why Maine-made craftsmanship matters and how honest hunter feedback shapes every iteration* Stories from Taylor’s life guiding rivers, hunting Maine’s woods, fly fishing, flintlock hunting in Pennsylvania, and filming adventures in the backcountry🔥 Who this episode is for:Whether you’re a craftsman, hunter, filmmaker, gear enthusiast, or simply obsessed with quality tools and storytelling that perform in real conditions—this episode delivers deep insight and inspiration you won’t want to miss.Taylor is also an experienced freelance filmmaker, having worked with Maine-based organizations like High Peaks Alliance and the iconic L.L.Bean.🔥 If you’re a craftsman, gear junkie, hunter, or lover of tools that truly work, this conversation brings serious depth and inspiration.👉 Catch Taylor at Huntstock, where the Trackr 2.0 will be officially released! Plus he will be sharpening knives so bring your hunting knife and anything else you need sharpened to huntstock!🎙 Handmade Blades: The Journey of Taylor Walker —a hunter, whitewater guide, filmmaker, and self-taught knife maker—whose Maine-made blades are built to last and born from the backcountry.#CustomKnifeMaking #MagnaCutSteel #MaineCraftsmanship #HandmadeKnives #HuntingKnives #RiverKnives #SheathDesign #OutdoorGear #KnifeSharpness #CNCKnifeHandles #EdgeRetention #Huntstock #MadeByHand #WalkerKnives #TrueNorthLifestyle #HuntingPodcast #KnifeMaker #WhitetailHunters #HuntingGear #OutdoorLife #Craftsmanship #BuiltByTheHunt #KnifeMaking #MadeInMaine #Hunting #HuntingLife #BladeSmith #KnifeCommunity #KnifeEnthusiast #BackcountryGear #FieldKnives #GearTalk #HuntingCulture #WildernessSkills #KnifeCollectors

"The Stories That Built Us." In Episode 6, we sit down with our own Jeff Paradis, one of the driving forces behind The True North Lifestyle, lifelong hunter, friend, and storyteller with a passion for pushing limits and making memories in the wild. From the big woods of New England to the jungles of Africa and the peaks of Alaska, Jeff shares what it means to chase your curiosity and say “yes” to the unknown. Whether it’s tracking leopards, facing down coastal brown bears with a bow, or taking scope-bite to the face from a .416 Rigby, Jeff brings you along for the ride.Jeff breaks down:• What it’s like hunting leopards in Africa and the surprising way they build a blind• A grizzly bear encounter that left him with a broken nose—and a lifelong story• How the thrill of the unknown keeps him saying yes to new adventures• The risks of bowhunting dangerous game and how to mentally prepare• Why we walk the fine line between passion and sponsorship in the outdoor world• The importance of community and staying true to what really mattersIf you love hunting stories with grit, humor, and heart—or you’ve ever dreamed of chasing something bigger—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.This one goes deep with three good friends, Jeff Paradis, Rick Labbe and Joe Kruse, talking and telling stories, lots of laughs and unforgettable moments that remind us why the outdoors and friendship mean so much. It’s about more than hunting. It’s about living life and enjoying the passion for the outdoors!👉 Hit Subscribe and follow along as we celebrate real people, real hunts, and real stories from the woods and waters.🏕️ FEATURED SPONSOR — GARY WILLIAMSONLooking for land in Western Maine? Hunting cabin or dream home? Gary’s your guy.📞 Call/Text Gary Directly: (207) 364-5326🌲 Learn More: https://www.cassiemason.com/about/jul...🏡 Four Seasons Rentals: https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.comStay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle📺 YouTube: @truenorthlifestyle👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7...👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597W...📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle🎙️ Special Thanks to Taylor WalkerThe man behind the lens and edits — check out his incredible craftsmanship:🔪 Walker Knife Co: https://walkerknifeco.comInterested in sponsoring a future episode?Reach out: 📧 info@thetruenorthlifestyle.comWe’d love to feature brands that align with our values and audience.Hashtags:#TheTrueNorthLifestyle #JeffParadis #LeopardHunting #GrizzlyEncounter #BowhuntingBears #TrueNorthPodcast #HuntingStories #DangerousGame #AlaskaHunting #HuntingAfrica #RealOutdoorsmen #ScopeBite #LiveTheLifestyle #OutdoorPodcast #Huntstock2025 #TTN

Episode 8 covers stories from harpooning tuna to flying into inaccessible public land, this episode of The True North Lifestyle Podcast is packed with summer stories, western hunting insight, and hilarious guide tales you won’t want to miss.Joe Kruse, Lee Libby, Rick Labbe, and Mikey Stevens sit down to share updates and unforgettable experiences — from DIY moose hunts in brutal terrain to the controversial corner-crossing case that just changed western public land access forever.We cover it all: Alaska’s strict hunting laws, insane elk stories, power paragliding into checkerboard land, and Rick’s test drive of a new mountain-crushing Polaris rig. Oh — and Mikey shares a legendary story about guiding a married stripper during moose season (yes, really).💥 Plus:* The best and worst units to draw for elk and mule deer* Public vs. private access challenges across the West* Why helicopters are illegal during Alaska hunting season* Epic paragliding elk hunts into inaccessible land* Tips for packing out moose before the meat spoils* A shoutout to Jackman’s upcoming bass tournament 🐟* Rick’s final deer tracking seminar this season on August 15th in Dover-Foxcroft, ME!* Legendary\ story of Mikey guiding a married stripper on a Maine moose hunt.* Mike fishing the hex hatch* The summer fishing slowdown + fall cool-down ahead (spoiler: when the temps cool down the action heats up again)* Rick’s trip to Wyoming* Everyone’s fishing adventures* Fish Hook Fiascos, where everyone shares "getting hooked" storiesIf you're a diehard hunter, western DIY dreamer, or just here for the laughs this podcast delivers.🏕️ SPONSOR FEATURE— GARY WILLIAMSONLooking for land in Western Maine? Hunting cabin or dream home? Gary’s your guy.📞 Call/Text Gary Directly: (207) 364-5326🌲 Learn More: https://www.cassiemason.com/about/jul...🏡 Four Seasons Rentals: https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.comStay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle📺 YouTube: @truenorthlifestyle👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shopWebsite: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.comFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7...Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597W...Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyleInterested in sponsoring a future episode?Reach out: 📧 info@thetruenorthlifestyle.comWe’d love to feature brands that align with our values and audience.📌 Timestamps:0:00 – Summer Updates & Western Hunting Access12:10 – Drawing Tags: Elk & Mule Deer Strategy17:50 – Corner-Crossing Laws & Landmark Court Case26:45 – Flying in to Hunt: Paragliders, Planes, & Alaska Rules39:00 – The Stripper Moose Hunt Story 54:00 – Rick’s New Mountain Polaris Test Drive59:00 – Upcoming Bass Tournament in Jackman1:01:00 – Final Tracking Seminar Aug. 15 – Dover-Foxcroft, ME#TheTrueNorthLifestyle #DIYHunting #WesternHunting #PublicLandAccess #ElkHunting #MooseHunting #MuleDeer #CornerCrossing #OutdoorPodcast #TrackingBucks #Huntstock2025 #BassFishing #AlaskaHunting #ParagliderHunt #BackcountryHunters

In this episode, Joe, Rick, and Ol’ Guide Mike sit down with Garnett Robinson, nephew of the late Gordon Berry. Garnett shares stories of his early years hunting and fishing with Uncle Gordon and Uncle Ronnie, painting a vivid picture of time spent in the big woods and on the water.The guys reflect on Gordon’s lifelong outdoor passions, hunting, fishing, and shed hunting and celebrate the legacy he leaves behind. Along the way, Garnett and Ol’ Guide Mike revisit some wild stories from their days as roommates (and hint at a few they can’t share on air).Gordon will be dearly missed, but his love for the outdoors and the people he shared it with will carry on. R.I.P. Gordon, your stories and spirit live forever._____🎣 Support The True North Lifestyle by shopping with Northeast Troller!👉 https://northeasttroller.com/discount/TTN💥 Use code TTN at checkout for 10% off your order.If you’re looking for trolling gear for trout and salmon — spoons, flashers, dodgers, downrigger releases, live bait rigs, and more — Northeast Troller has you covered.⸻🏠 Looking to buy or sell land, a home, or camp in Western Maine?Gary Williamson is our trusted real estate guide.📞 Call/Text: (207) 364-5326🔗 https://www.cassiemason.com/about/julia-gary-williamson🏕️ Four Seasons Rentals: https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.com⸻🛠️ Shoutout to Taylor Walker!🎙️ Taylor continues to crush it behind the scenes, making this podcast possible.🔪 Check out his handcrafted knives and tools at Walker Knife Co:➡️ https://walkerknifeco.com🔥 Built with pride. Ready for the woods.⸻🧭 Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle:📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle⸻🎯 Interested in sponsoring a future episode?Reach out at 📧 info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com

Ever wonder what it’s like behind the scenes at a taxidermy shop? In this episode, we sit down with Jeff to talk all things taxidermy, Maine’s legendary bucks, and the stories hunters bring with their mounts. From hearing the same story three times (when a deer gets dropped off, checked in on, and finally picked up) to preserving giants from the big woods, Jeff shares the heart and passion that goes into honoring every animal.We also dive into feeding programs, deer migration, and the record-setting Maine bucks that prove what this state is capable of producing. If you’re into deer hunting, big woods traditions, and the art of preserving memories through taxidermy, this episode is for you.Topics covered in this episode:🎨 Why passion matters in taxidermy☎️ Calling tactics for moose, deer, and elk🦌 Legendary Maine bucks — Ramsay, Hill Gould, and Silver Ridge🌲 Deer migration and survival in the North Country❄️ Feeding programs and how they saved Maine’s herd in tough winters🏹 Stories from hunters and the connection between the hunt and the mount🔥 Why “You hunt it, we honor it” is more than just a taglineThis mix of hunting stories, outdoor knowledge, and the craft of taxidermy is one you won’t want to miss!🦌 Preserve your trophies with Peak TaxidermyJeff at Peak Taxidermy takes pride in creating high-quality mounts that honor your hunt and last a lifetime.🌐 Website: https://www.peaktaxidermy.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peaktaxidermy207👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Peak-Taxidermy-61572674926781/If you’re in the Winterport or Greater Bangor, Maine area, consider Jeff your go-to taxidermist. Be sure to follow him on Instagram and Facebook, and check out his site to see his incredible work!_____🎣 Support The True North Lifestyle by shopping with Northeast Troller!👉 https://northeasttroller.com/discount/TTN💥 Use code TTN at checkout for 10% off your order.If you’re looking for trolling gear for trout and salmon — spoons, flashers, dodgers, downrigger releases, live bait rigs, and more — Northeast Troller has you covered.⸻🏠 Looking to buy or sell land, a home, or camp in Western Maine?Gary Williamson is our trusted real estate guide.📞 Call/Text: (207) 364-5326🔗 https://www.cassiemason.com/about/julia-gary-williamson🏕️ Four Seasons Rentals: https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.com⸻🛠️ Shoutout to Taylor Walker!🎙️ Taylor continues to crush it behind the scenes, making this podcast possible.🔪 Check out his handcrafted knives and tools at Walker Knife Co:➡️ https://walkerknifeco.com🔥 Built with pride. Ready for the woods.⸻🧭 Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle:📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle⸻🎯 Interested in sponsoring a future episode?Reach out at 📧 info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com

Ever wonder what really goes on inside a beehive? 🐝 In this episode, we sit down with Nancy to talk all things beekeeping, honey, and hive life. From swarms and queen bees to the legendary “wiggle dance,” we dive deep into the fascinating world of honeybees and why they’re one of nature’s most intelligent and organized species.We also swap stories from Huntstock, share personal experiences with stings and remedies, and even get into how honey and bee venom are being studied for their health benefits. If you’re into hunting, homesteading, the outdoors, or natural living, this episode has something for you.Topics covered in this episode:How queens are born & cared for 👑🐝The wiggle dance and bee communication 🕺Swarms, varroa mites, and hive managementHoney as a remedy for stings, allergies, and energy 💪Beekeeping adventures (including a sting to the face!)Chaga, coffee, and survival hacks in the wild 🌲☕Why bees might just prove intelligent designThis mix of beekeeping knowledge, outdoor stories, and hunting lifestyle talk is one you won’t want to miss!______🎣 Support The True North Lifestyle by shopping with Northeast Troller!👉 https://northeasttroller.com/discount/TTN💥 Use code TTN at checkout for 10% off your order.If you’re looking for trolling gear for trout and salmon — spoons, flashers, dodgers, downrigger releases, live bait rigs, and more — Northeast Troller has you covered.⸻🏠 Looking to buy or sell land, a home, or camp in Western Maine?Gary Williamson is our trusted real estate guide.📞 Call/Text: (207) 364-5326🔗 https://www.cassiemason.com/about/julia-gary-williamson🏕️ Four Seasons Rentals: https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.com⸻🛠️ Shoutout to Taylor Walker!🎙️ Taylor continues to crush it behind the scenes, making this podcast possible.🔪 Check out his handcrafted knives and tools at Walker Knife Co:➡️ https://walkerknifeco.com🔥 Built with pride. Ready for the woods.⸻🧭 Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle:📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle⸻🎯 Interested in sponsoring a future episode?Reach out at 📧 info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com

Ever wonder what it’s like to run a general store at the heart of Maine’s big woods hunting culture? In this episode, Joe, Lee, and Rick sit down with Ryan Cowper, owner of the Flagstaff General Store in the Stratton–Eustis region.Ryan and his family have built a true community hub, serving food, renting cabins, and operating one of the busiest deer tagging stations in western Maine. Last season alone, they tagged nearly 300 deer, along with countless bears and moose, making the store a crossroads for hunters, locals, and travelers alike.From tracking big-bodied bucks to the legendary stories that pass through the tagging station, Ryan shares his deep ties to the hunting culture of Maine’s western mountains. He also opens up about his own hunting journey, from shooting his first spike horn at 13, to chasing bulls with a coveted Zone 4 moose permit, to the hunt where everything went wrong.Topics covered in this episode:🏪 Running the Flagstaff General Store & its role in the community🦌 The stories (and characters) that walk through a busy tagging station👣 Maine’s tracking heritage and how Ryan approaches the woods🛶 Hunting, cabins, and life in the Stratton–Eustis area🎯 The big shed he found, and the big miss that still haunts him🍂 The passion, laughter, and traditions that make Maine’s hunting culture uniqueThis mix of hunting stories, heritage, and real-life community perspective is one you won’t want to miss!💦Don’t forget to pre-order a bottle of TRUE ESTRUS, grab your doe estrus for this season:🔗https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop/ols/products/true-estrus🦌 Preserve your trophies with Peak TaxidermyJeff at Peak Taxidermy takes pride in creating high-quality mounts that honor your hunt and last a lifetime.🌐 Website: https://www.peaktaxidermy.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peaktaxidermy207👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Peak-Taxidermy-61572674926781/If you’re in the Winterport or Greater Bangor, Maine area, consider Jeff your go-to taxidermist. Be sure to follow him on Instagram and Facebook, and check out his site to see his incredible work!🎣 Support The True North Lifestyle by shopping with Northeast Troller!👉 https://northeasttroller.com/discount/TTN💥 Use code TTN at checkout for 10% off your order.If you’re looking for trolling gear for trout and salmon — spoons, flashers, dodgers, downrigger releases, live bait rigs, and more — Northeast Troller has you covered.⸻🏠 Looking to buy or sell land, a home, or camp in Western Maine?Gary Williamson is our trusted real estate guide.📞 Call/Text: (207) 364-5326🔗 https://www.cassiemason.com/about/julia-gary-williamson🏕️ Four Seasons Rentals: https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.com⸻🛠️ Shoutout to Taylor Walker!🎙️ Taylor continues to crush it behind the scenes, making this podcast possible.🔪 Check out his handcrafted knives and tools at Walker Knife Co:➡️ https://walkerknifeco.com🔥 Built with pride. Ready for the woods.⸻🧭 Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle:📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle⸻🎯 Interested in sponsoring a future episode?Reach out at 📧 info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com

This episode starts off with Jason Delpalazzo sharing stories from his Alaska moose hunt, from the long travel days and camp life to the challenges of filming in the backcountry. He talks about the scale of Alaska’s wilderness, the differences in calling moose compared to Maine, and the unforgettable moments that come when you finally connect after putting in the work.Then Rick dives into his Wyoming elk hunt, describing what it’s like to chase bugling bulls across the mountains. He breaks down how elk hunting tests your patience, calling, and endurance, and shares how those experiences compare to the thick, quiet woods of Maine.The guys also reflect on a multi-generational Maine moose hunt where a 13-year-old took center stage. It’s a story full of pride, tradition, and family, capturing what hunting is truly about: time together in the woods, passing on knowledge, and watching the next generation light up with excitement.Between laughs, storytelling, and a few good-natured jabs, this episode covers everything from cross-country hunting adventures to the local traditions that define Maine’s outdoor culture.🦌 Topics covered in this episode:🗺️ Jason’s Alaska moose hunt — travel, calling differences, and what makes the hunt so special🏔️ Rick’s Wyoming elk hunt — chasing bugles and adapting to the open country🎯 A 13-year-old’s first moose hunt and what it means for three generations of hunters🪵 Moose calling tactics and how hunting styles differ between regions🔥 Reflections on family, mentorship, and the shared passion that keeps hunters coming back💦True Estrus Doe Urine — Pre-Order Now!‼️https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shopOnly Available for One More Week! you want the ultimate edge for your fall hunts, don’t miss out on True Estrus — single-batch doe urine, harvested during peak estrus, shipped cold and fresh directly to you. Supplies are limited, and we’ll only be taking orders for another week until mid-October, so secure yours now! Perfect for pairing with your grunt tube, it’s a must-have for any serious hunter.This episode blends thrilling hunting stories, heritage, and actionable tips, perfect for anyone passionate about moose hunting, Alaska adventures, and the tools that make a hunt successful.🦌 Preserve your trophies with Peak TaxidermyJeff at Peak Taxidermy takes pride in creating high-quality mounts that honor your hunt and last a lifetime.🌐 Website: https://www.peaktaxidermy.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peaktaxidermy207👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Peak-Taxidermy-61572674926781/If you’re in the Winterport or Greater Bangor, Maine area, consider Jeff your go-to taxidermist. Be sure to follow him on Instagram and Facebook, and check out his site to see his incredible work!🎣 Support The True North Lifestyle by shopping with Northeast Troller!⸻🏠 Looking to buy or sell land, a home, or camp in Western Maine?Gary Williamson is our trusted real estate guide.📞 Call/Text: (207) 364-5326🔗 https://www.cassiemason.com/about/julia-gary-williamson🏕️ Four Seasons Rentals: https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.com⸻🛠️ Shoutout to Taylor Walker!🎙️ Taylor continues to crush it behind the scenes, making this podcast possible.🔪 Check out his handcrafted knives and tools at Walker Knife Co:➡️ https://walkerknifeco.com🔥 Built with pride. Ready for the woods.⸻🧭 Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle:📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle⸻🎯 Interested in sponsoring a future episode?Reach out at 📧 info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com

The boys from STAGR GEAR, Adam Lamson and Greg Gove, join us for an action-packed podcast, we talk hunting in the Northeast, sharing epic stories, gear tips, and family hunting moments you won’t want to miss. From bow season thrills to crossbow game-changers, and from teaching a 3-year-old grandson to hunt, to a wife’s first moose —this episode has it all!🎙️ What you’ll hear in this episode:* The story behind Stagr Gear: Blaze Capes, Gloves, and the evolution of jackets & pants for Northeast conditions* Upcoming women’s & kids’ gear lines, plus new colors like snow camo and classic red & black* Hunting updates from Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine—bow season, public land pheasant hunts, and more* Heartwarming family hunting moments and first-time experiences in the blind* Crossbow insights: extending range, boosting accuracy, and keeping older hunters in the game* Incredible moose, deer, and turkey hunts, including first kills and lessons in patience & confidence* Tracking tips: estrus scent, drag rags, and following blood trails for maximum success* Gear updates: Nor’Easter Grunt Calls, Stagr Gear custom hems, Walker knives, Peak Taxidermy, plus promo code TTN discounts* Behind-the-scenes hunting stories: town deer dynamics, Rangeley big bucks, Vermont tracking adventures, and snowmobile tales* Community, collaboration, and connecting with fellow hunters in the Northeast* How to support the podcast: subscribe, follow on social media, and leave a reviewWhether you’re a seasoned hunter, a family looking to get outdoors, or just love hunting stories, this episode is packed with laughs, tips, and unforgettable real-life adventures.Sponsors & Shoutouts:Stagr GearSave 10% & gear up for hunting season with Stagr Gear using our exclusive affiliate link:🔗 https://stagrgear.com/?sca_ref=9797309.KPojGto3e6m💥 Use promo code TTN at checkout and double-check that it’s applied to claim your discount! Preserve your trophies with Peak Taxidermy🌐 Website: https://www.peaktaxidermy.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peaktaxidermy207👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Peak-Taxidermy-61572674926781/🔪 Check out handcrafted knives and tools made in Maine: ➡️ https://walkerknifeco.com🧭 Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle:📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle🎯 Sponsorship Opportunities:Reach out for sponsorship opportunities to be featured in a future podcast episode or YouTube video at 📧 info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com

This is a podcast you won’t forget. Stephan White joins Joe Kruse in the studio to relive the unforgettable hunting story where he finally tagged his first deer—after 36 years of hunting since 1987. Guided by Joe for two seasons with Big Woods Outfitters at Lake Parlin Lodge, this was Steve’s third year hunting on his own under the American Plan, and he finally connected with the buck he had been chasing for decades.From the emotional high of seeing that deer standing in front of him, to the drag, the fire-starting mishaps, and the reflective moments sitting alone beside his buck—this episode captures everything we all love about deer camp: camaraderie, adrenaline, frustration, laughs, and once-in-a-lifetime memories.Set in the snowy Maine woods and staying at Lake Parlin Lodge, this episode is pure Northeast hunting storytelling at its best—heartfelt, hilarious, and packed with wisdom from decades in the woods.🎙️ What you’ll hear in this episode:• Steve’s once-in-a-lifetime buck after 36 years of hunting• How Joe tracked another buck, got Steve’s text, and rushed to celebrate and help get the deer out• Steve following a pamphlet word-for-word to gut his first deer ever• How Steve’s mother-in-law used to tell him every day: “This is your day”• The surreal moment every hunter dreams of—and how it matched his exact vision• Dragging the deer, smoke signals, frozen fingers & gear lessons learned the hard way• Why starting a fire in cold weather is harder than it looks—and what to pack next time• The emotion of doing it on your own, and why that made the hunt even better• Ben Allen of Epic Adventures sharing a funny story about a client NOT seeing a deer• Ben’s upcoming trip to the North Maine Woods to hunt deer• Rifle, snow, tracking conditions & how the hunt truly unfolded• Joe’s reflections on why this kind of hunt never gets old—no matter how many bucks you’ve taken• The community of deer camp: long-time friendships, shared stories, and why this lifestyle keeps us all coming back• Patriots vs. Dolphins banter (because it’s a tradition!)• Listener shoutouts & what your support means to the team⸻Sponsors & Shoutouts:Stagr GearSave 10% & gear up for hunting season with Stagr Gear using our exclusive affiliate link:🔗 https://stagrgear.com/?sca_ref=9797309.KPojGto3e6m💥 Use promo code TTN at checkout and double-check that it’s applied to claim your discount! Preserve your trophies with Peak Taxidermy🌐 Website: https://www.peaktaxidermy.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peaktaxidermy207👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Peak-Taxidermy-61572674926781/🔪 Check out handcrafted knives and tools made in Maine: ➡️ https://walkerknifeco.com🧭 Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle:📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle🎯 Sponsorship Opportunities:Reach out for sponsorship opportunities to be featured in a future podcast episode or YouTube video at 📧 info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com

In this episode, Joe Kruse and Rick Labbe sit down with Glenn Bombardier and the legendary Lanny Benoit, one of the greatest buck trackers to ever walk the big woods.From jaw-dropping deer stories across Maine, Vermont, and the Golden Road, to the brutal camps, school buses, wild adventures, and the early years of the Benoit brothers, this episode is packed with deep woods knowledge, humor, history and big buck stories!If you love tracking big bucks in snow, 200-lb Maine bucks, big woods adventures, and old-school deer camp storytelling, this episode is pure gold.Lanny covers everything from how he learned to read a track as a kid, to shooting giant bucks in the 70s and 80s, to the evolution of deer herds, coyotes, wolves, road systems, and why track selection and patience are the real keys to consistent success. He even dives into his days racing snowmobiles, the “veteran” pain tolerance he developed from it, and how that played into becoming a world-class buck tracker.🎙️ What you’ll hear in this episode:• Lanny Benoit’s earliest days learning to track with his father and brothers

• Stories from Maine’s Parlin Pond Road, Spencer Road, and the Golden Road

• Why Lanny shot so many 240–260 lb bucks—and how he chose the right track

• Aging a track, reading stride width, and how to judge a buck by his chest• The difference between long-bodied bucks vs. short-bodied bucks

• Wild stories: school buses as hunting camps, wall tents blowing over, fires, storms & deep snow

• The Ontario years—massive deer, sheds everywhere, and the story behind the big 300-lb ledge buck

• Party hunting days in Vermont and crazy double-kill stories• How wolves and coyotes changed the big woods forever

• Snowmobile racing, injuries, grit, and building the mental toughness needed for tracking giant whitetails

This podcast that captures exactly what makes Northeastern big woods hunting so special: tradition, knowledge, camaraderie, storytelling, and the thrill of following a single buck track through miles of wild country.**Sponsors & Shoutouts:**STAGR GEARSave 10% & gear up for hunting season with STAGR GEAR using our exclusive affiliate link:🔗 https://stagrgear.com/?sca_ref=9797309.KPojGto3e6m💥 Use promo code TTN at checkout and double-check that it’s applied to claim your discount!Handcrafted Knives & Tools (Maine-Made)🔪 Check out Walker Knife Co.: https://walkerknifeco.com🧭 Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle:📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle🦌 Preserve Your Trophy with Peak TaxidermyJeff at Peak Taxidermy delivers high-quality, long-lasting mounts that honor your hunt the right way. Trusted craftsmanship, built to last a lifetime.🌐 Website: https://www.peaktaxidermy.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peaktaxidermy207🎣 Support The True North Lifestyle with Northeast TrollerGet fully geared up for trout and salmon fishing with spoons, flashers, dodgers, downrigger releases, live bait rigs, and more.👉 https://northeasttroller.com/discount/TTN💥 Use code TTN at checkout for 10% off your entire order.🏠 Looking to Buy or Sell in Western Maine?Gary Williamson is our trusted real estate guide for land, homes, and camps across Western Maine.📞 Call/Text: (207) 364-5326🔗 https://www.cassiemason.com/about/julia-gary-williamson🏕️ Four Seasons Rentals: https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.com🎯 Sponsorship Opportunities:Interested in being featured in a future podcast episode or YouTube video?📧 Email: info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com

This episode is pure True North Lifestyle storytelling. Some opportunities only come once — and this conversation is all about having the courage to say yes when they do. The central theme of this episode is recognizing opportunity and taking action, even when the outcome is uncertain. Josh explains how the biggest adventures of his life: hunting, flying, traveling, and building an outdoor lifestyle which all started by stepping into moments most people hesitate to take.Joe, Rick, and Lee sit down with guest Josh Tripp for a wide-ranging, honest conversation that dives deep into what it really means to chase hard adventures, from tracking big Maine bucks, to solo archery elk hunting in Colorado, to bush flying, aviation mishaps, and the grit it takes to keep pushing forward.Josh shares unforgettable stories from his first experiences tracking deer in the Maine big woods with Rick, learning lessons the hard way and developing the patience and mindset required to consistently hunt mature bucks. The conversation then shifts west to a raw, boots-on-the-ground breakdown of solo elk hunting, including the mental grind, packing meat, hiring packers, and navigating the reality of doing it alone in the mountains.The episode also takes a wild turn into aviation stories — from wrecked planes and Super Cubs, to flying in harsh conditions, Hurricane Gloria, and a full-circle Saskatchewan story that sounds too crazy to be true (but is). Along the way, the guys connect the dots between hunting, flying, risk, experience, and why the most meaningful pursuits in life are rarely the easiest.This is a laid-back, hilarious, and thoughtful episode packed with real lessons, Northeast hunting culture, and the kind of stories that only come from years of getting after it.🎙️ What you’ll hear in this episode:• Josh’s philosophy on saying yes when opportunity presents itself• Josh’s first experiences tracking deer with Rick in the Maine big woods• Lessons learned chasing mature bucks and choosing the right track• Solo archery elk hunting in Colorado — mental battles, pack-outs, and reality checks• Hiring packers and what it’s really like getting an elk out of the mountains• Why waiting for “the right time” often means missing the moment• Aviation stories: Super Cubs, wrecked planes, bush flying & Hurricane Gloria• The unbelievable Saskatchewan plane story that comes full circle years later• How risk, age, experience, and grit shape better hunters and outdoorsmen• Why big adventures demand patience, preparation, and humility• Laugh-out-loud camp banter and classic True North storytelling• A running joke revealing Rick’s “unique” taste in hotels (yes… mannequins 😆)If you love big woods deer hunting, elk hunting, tracking stories, aviation, and real conversations about pushing limits and learning the hard way — this episode is for you.**Sponsors & Shoutouts:**STAGR GEARSave 10% & gear up for hunting season with STAGR GEAR using our exclusive affiliate link:🔗 https://stagrgear.com/?sca_ref=9797309.KPojGto3e6m💥 Use promo code TTN at checkout and double-check that it’s applied to claim your discount!Handcrafted Knives & Tools (Maine-Made)🔪 Check out Walker Knife Co.: https://walkerknifeco.com🧭 Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle:📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle🦌 Preserve Your Trophy with Peak TaxidermyJeff at Peak Taxidermy delivers high-quality, mounts that honor your hunt the right way. 🌐 Website: https://www.peaktaxidermy.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peaktaxidermy207🎣 Northeast Troller:

👉 https://northeasttroller.com/discount/TTN💥 Use code TTN at checkout for 10% off your entire order.

Kick back and hang out with Garnett—aka BIG G, the “Master of Disaster”—as he unleashes the wildest hunting stories of his life! Mike Stevens, Rick Labbe, and Joe Kruse join in, sharing laughs, reflections, and their own unforgettable moments as Garnett takes us through a full season of adventures.From sneaking out at midnight at age 10 with a flashlight and a 410, to tracking giant bucks in Saskatchewan and Alberta, BIG G shares the chaos, tricks, and laughs that made him a legend. This episode is a season recap of epic tales and timeless hunting lessons, including:* Epic childhood mischief: stealing root beer bottles to trade for shotgun shells.* Family, friends, and legacy: revisiting his dad’s grave, honoring hunting mentors like Clark Perkins, and passing on lessons to the next generation.* Old-school hunting wisdom: BIG G and Rick break down strategies for tracking smart, older bucks—even modern hunters will take notes.* School vs. deer: how “buck fever” got him excused from class, and the tenderloin deliveries that kept him out of trouble.* Seasoned adventures: epic encounters with “Ghost Bucks” in Saskatchewan, monster bucks in Alberta, and classic Maine hunting stories that span decades.* Camaraderie and chaos: moments of laughter, friendly bets, and the off-the-cuff brilliance only Garnett can deliver.* Whether you’re a hunter, outdoors fan, or just love larger-than-life storytelling, BIG G’s tales are equal parts hilarious, heartwarming, and jaw-dropping. This episode is the perfect look back at a season full of adventure, friendship, and unforgettable memories.🎯 Like, Subscribe, and hit the bell to catch more legendary stories from The True North Lifestyle!

**Sponsors & Shoutouts:**STAGR GEARSave 10% & gear up for hunting season with STAGR GEAR using our exclusive affiliate link:

🔗 https://stagrgear.com/?sca_ref=9797309.KPojGto3e6m💥 Use promo code TTN at checkout and double-check that it’s applied to claim your discount!Handcrafted Knives & Tools (Maine-Made)

🔪 Check out Walker Knife Co.: https://walkerknifeco.com

🧭 Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle:

📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle

👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop

🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com

📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr

👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr

📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle

🦌 Preserve Your Trophy with Peak TaxidermyJeff at Peak Taxidermy delivers high-quality, long-lasting mounts that honor your hunt the right way. Trusted craftsmanship, built to last a lifetime.

🌐 Website: https://www.peaktaxidermy.com

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peaktaxidermy207

🎣 Support The True North Lifestyle with Northeast TrollerGet fully geared up for trout and salmon fishing with spoons, flashers, dodgers, downrigger releases, live bait rigs, and more.

👉 https://northeasttroller.com/discount/TTN

💥 Use code TTN at checkout for 10% off your entire order.

🏠 Looking to Buy or Sell in Western Maine? Gary Williamson is our trusted real estate guide for land, homes, and camps across Western Maine.

📞 Call/Text: (207) 364-5326🔗 https://www.cassiemason.com/about/julia-gary-williamson🏕️ Four Seasons Rentals: https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.com

🎯 Sponsorship Opportunities:Interested in being featured in a future podcast episode or YouTube video?

📧 Email: info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com

Some hunts become stories.Some stories become legends.In Episode 19, we sit down with Kode Paradise, a 19-year-old hunter from Jackman, Maine, who spent three seasons chasing the same buck. He missed him twice, learned hard lessons, and finally crossed paths with him again — running with a doe — making a shot that changed everything.This episode is about more than one buck.It’s about focus, patience, and the kind of hunting that only happens in the big woods.If you love true hunting stories — this one is for you.⚠️ Quick heads-up: From 7:45–18:00 the camera angle stays the same due to a switch issue. Audio never drops — and the story is too good to skip.⸻What You’ll Hear in This Episode:• The 3-year history of one Jackman giant• Missed shots and the lessons they taught• The final encounter and a running shot• Why Jackman bucks are different• Deer nutrition myths (and why feeding corn is a joke)• The truth about taxidermy and mounting• Maine deer genetics and how the herd has changed• Big-woods hunting in Maine• Why patience beats pressure every time• A taxidermy shop stealing a buck… and how it was recovered• The real cost of mounting a full moose• Why antlers are dropping early this season• What the future of hunting access could look like• How to track deer without obsessing over trail cameras⸻⏱️ Episode Timestamps0:00 – Welcome to the True North Lifestyle Podcast0:54 – Cody Paradise & the Jackman dream buck2:10 – Growing up in Jackman & learning the big woods early3:58 – Muzzleloader heartbreak: missing the same buck twice5:19 – Going all-in on one deer7:13 – Passing deer & the mindset to kill a true giant8:41 – The week before Thanksgiving: conditions line up11:15 – Spotting the buck from the truck11:45 – Close-range encounter in thick cover13:32 – The shot sequence & recovery16:01 – A 151″ Jackman giant & what it meant19:16 – Big Maine bucks: then vs. now25:03 – How weather instantly changes deer movement31:21 – The taxidermy disaster no hunter wants to experience49:40 – Chasing big racks out west51:45 – Spotting a buck over a mile away56:00 – 293-yard muzzleloader shot (and a surprise)57:20 – Why both antlers were already gone1:05:20 – Blake Shelton flies over the hunt 🤯1:10:30 – “We’re living the good old days right now”🧭 Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle:📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle **Sponsors & Shoutouts:**STAGR GEARSave 10% & gear up for hunting season with STAGR GEAR using our exclusive affiliate link:🔗 https://stagrgear.com/?sca_ref=9797309.KPojGto3e6m💥 Use promo code TTN at checkout and double-check that it’s applied to claim your discount!🏠 Looking to Buy or Sell in Western Maine? Gary Williamson is our trusted real estate guide for land, homes, and camps across Western Maine.📞 Call/Text: (207) 364-5326🔗 https://www.cassiemason.com/about/julia-gary-williamson🏕️ Four Seasons Rentals: https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.com Handcrafted Knives & Tools (Maine-Made)🔪 Check out Walker Knife Co.: https://walkerknifeco.com🎣 Support The True North Lifestyle with Northeast TrollerGet fully geared up for trout and salmon fishing with spoons, flashers, dodgers, downrigger releases, live bait rigs, and more.👉 https://northeasttroller.com/discount/TTN💥 Use code TTN at checkout for 10% off your entire order.🎯 Sponsorship Opportunities:Interested in being featured in a future podcast episode or YouTube video?📧 Email: info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com

What part of winter in Maine are you living for right now — snowmobiling, ice fishing, bobcat hunting, grooming trails, or scouting for spring?

The boys are finally back behind the mics.

In Episode 20 of The True North Lifestyle Podcast, Joe sits down with Rick Labbe and Lee Libby for a long-overdue winter catch-up that covers everything from western bowhunts to Maine cat season to the future of outdoor access in our state.

Rick shares the story behind his Arizona buck and why this year’s rut timing had everyone guessing. The guys break down Maine’s bobcat season — what conditions matter most, how hounds are progressing (including pup “Patches”), and how to recognize a big, clean cat track… even when you’re spotting them at 40–50 mph from a moving truck.

From there, the conversation shifts to trail grooming realities — breakdowns, bony sections, rider responsibility, and the kind of winter mileage goals that leave your throttle hand numb. If you’ve been logging miles or running a groomer this winter, you’ll relate.

We also take time to remember Dave Jones and what he meant to the Jackman snowmobile community and the people who ride those trails every winter.

The discussion eventually turns toward land access, dams, energy, outdoor recreation, and the changes that could impact how we live and hunt in Maine. It leads into politics — but no matter where you stand, our shared love for the outdoors is what brings us together. That’s what The True North Lifestyle is all about.

And of course, we wrap with what’s ahead: Allagash and St. John trips, the Spider Lake True North ride, the Maine Sportsman’s Show, new gear, seminars, and more guests lined up.

⸻

In This Episode:

• The podcast is back (and the boys get called out for missing meetings 😅)

• Rick’s Arizona buck & why the rut was late

• Maine bobcat season recap & reading clean cat tracks

• Bobcat hunting with hounds & pup “Patches” coming along

• Trail grooming realities: breakdowns, bony stretches & rider responsibility

• Big winter mileage goals & remote ride plans

• Remembering Dave Jones and his impact on the Jackman community

• Real talk: dams, land access & Maine’s outdoor future

• Maine Sportsman’s Show & upcoming True North projects

⸻

Chapters:

0:00 Intro – The crew is back

2:30 Arizona buck story

10:30 Cat season recap + reading tracks

22:30 Grooming talk + trail realities

34:30 Big miles + winter ride plans

51:00 Remembering Dave Jones

1:02:00 Outdoors & Maine access discussion

1:18:00 Sportsman’s Show + upcoming projects

1:27:00 Wrap-up

⸻

If you enjoy the episode, it genuinely helps when you subscribe, like, and share.

⸻

Sponsors & Shoutouts

Maine Sportsman’s Show 2026

Come see us, catch the seminars, and stop by to say hello.

🔗 https://mainesportsman.com/sportsmans-show/

Lake Parlin Lodge

Weekly deer season cabin rentals in November + Sunday & Friday night happy hour included.

🔗 https://lakeparlinlodge.com

STAGR Gear

Save 10% and gear up for hunting season using our exclusive affiliate link:

🔗 https://stagrgear.com/?sca_ref=9797309.KPojGto3e6m

💥 Use promo code TTN at checkout and double-check it’s applied.

Gary Williamson – Western Maine Real Estate Guide

Land, homes, and camps across Western Maine.

📞 (207) 364-5326

🔗 https://www.cassiemason.com/about/julia-gary-williamson

🏕️ Four Seasons Rentals: https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.com

Walker Knife Co.

Handcrafted knives & tools.

🔗 https://walkerknifeco.com

🎯 Sponsorship Opportunities

Interested in being featured in a future podcast episode or YouTube video?

📧 info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com

⸻

Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle

📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle

👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop

🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com

📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr

👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr

📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle

Stranded in the Alaskan bush. Giant brook trout in Labrador. Snowmobiling in Jackman. A lifetime of wild outdoor stories.In Episode 21 of The True North Lifestyle Podcast, the guys are joined by a special guest we’ve been wanting to get behind the mic for a long time — Rick’s dad, Mike Labbe.Mike shares decades of unforgettable hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling adventures that helped shape Rick’s passion for the outdoors. From raising a family around hunting camps in Maine to wild trips across Alaska, Canada, and Labrador, this episode is packed with unbelievable stories, humor, and lessons learned from a lifetime spent chasing adventure.You’ll hear the story of getting stranded deep in the Alaskan wilderness, remote fly-in fishing trips chasing giant brook trout, the early days of snowmobiling in Jackman, Maine, and what it was like raising kids in a family where hunting season meant school could wait.If you love hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, Maine outdoor culture, and wild wilderness stories, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.In This Episode:• Rick’s dad Mike Labbe joins the podcast• The heyday of snowmobiling in Jackman, Maine• Family hunting traditions in the Maine woods• A crazy story about getting stranded in the Alaskan bush• Giant salmon, lake trout, and wilderness fishing trips• Labrador fly-in brook trout adventures• Floatplanes, wilderness travel, and close calls• Stories from Rick growing up in a hardcore outdoor familyTimestamps / Chapters0:00 Podcast Intro0:23 Rick’s Dad Mike Labbe Joins the Podcast1:44 Starting the Jackman Snowmobile Rental Business3:20 The Heyday of Snowmobiling in Maine6:36 Family Snowmobiling Trips & Trail Culture9:19 Grooming Trails & Volunteer Work12:38 The Alaska Road Trip Adventure13:38 Stranded in the Alaskan Bush17:19 Canoeing 70 Miles Toward Civilization20:04 The Floatplane Rescue31:17 Maine Hunting Traditions34:58 Fishing the Allagash & Canada38:31 Alaska Fishing & Giant Crab Story49:08 Labrador Fly-In Fishing Trips1:07:00 Giant Lake Trout Stories1:09:43 Confrontation on a Remote Lake1:12:20 Maine Sportsman’s Show Talk1:16:45 Upcoming Adventures1:18:17 Podcast Outro – Shoot StraightSponsors & ShoutoutsMaine Sportsman’s Show 2026Come see us, catch the seminars, and stop by to say hello.🔗 https://mainesportsman.com/sportsmans-show/Lake Parlin LodgeWeekly deer season cabin rentals in November + Sunday & Friday night happy hour included.🔗 https://lakeparlinlodge.comSTAGR GearSave 10% and gear up for hunting season using our exclusive affiliate link:🔗 https://stagrgear.com/?sca_ref=9797309.KPojGto3e6m💥 Use promo code TTN at checkout and double-check it’s applied.Gary Williamson – Western Maine Real Estate GuideLand, homes, and camps across Western Maine.📞 (207) 364-5326🔗 https://www.cassiemason.com/about/julia-gary-williamson🏕️ Four Seasons Rentals: https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.comWalker Knife Co.Handcrafted knives & tools.🔗 https://walkerknifeco.com🎯 Sponsorship OpportunitiesInterested in being featured in a future podcast episode or YouTube video?📧 info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com⸻Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle⸻👍 Like, comment, and subscribe to follow along with our adventures, podcasts, hunting films, and outdoor stories.

🚨 Maine moose hunting is at a turning point and this conversation matters.

This could be voted on Thursday (3/26) — action is needed NOW!

In Episode 22 of The True North Lifestyle Podcast, Joe sits down with James Cody, Executive Director of the Maine Professional Guides Association, and Lee Schanz Jr of Big Woods Bucks to break down two major issues that could impact the future of moose hunting, guiding, and sporting camps in Maine.

This episode focuses on L.D. 2054, the bill aimed at cleaning up Maine’s lodge tag program, protecting the integrity of the moose hunt, and making sure the system works the way it was originally intended. The conversation also covers the push for expanded September moose hunts in more zones across the state, and why that matters for guides, sporting camps, hunters, and the rural Maine economy.

From the economics of nonresident moose permits and sporting camps, to fairness for guides and outfitters, to what listeners can do right now to support the bill, this is an important and timely discussion for anyone who cares about Maine’s outdoor heritage.

If you care about Maine moose hunting, sporting camps, guiding, and protecting the future of the outdoors in Maine, this is an episode worth listening to and sharing.

Timestamps / Chapters

0:00 Podcast intro

0:06 Special guests James Cody & Lee Schanz

1:32 What this emergency legislative update is about

2:23 Breaking down L.D. 2054

4:03 The original purpose of the lodge tag program

6:13 How lodge tags affect nonresident permits

8:01 How the current system works

11:20 Why this program needs to be cleaned up

12:38 Zone access and adjacency issues

16:03 Who should qualify for lodge tags

18:48 Lee Schanz’s perspective as a guide

22:12 Why the public should support this program

24:14 Key changes proposed in L.D. 2054

28:00 Why moose tags shouldn’t become currency

32:23 Stopping resale and flipping of tags

36:08 Preference for camps running their own hunts

38:01 Permit process issues being addressed

41:28 Why this matters to everyone

42:12 Where to read and follow the bill

44:31 The 12–1 committee vote explained

46:01 Attempted revote and what happened

48:30 Why you should contact legislators

51:16 September moose hunts explained

53:08 Greenville, Rangeley, and pushback

56:04 Why September hunts matter

58:55 Business and biological benefits

1:02:18 Final thoughts on the future of moose hunting

1:04:00 Call to support L.D. 2054

1:04:35 Closing thoughts

1:05:18 Shoot Straight

Call to Action:

If you support cleaning up the lodge tag program and protecting the integrity of Maine’s moose hunt, take a few minutes to contact your local representative and senator and ask them to support L.D. 2054.

Every voice matters.

Sponsors & Shoutouts

Lake Parlin Lodge

Weekly deer season cabin rentals in November + Sunday & Friday night happy hour included.

🔗 https://lakeparlinlodge.com

STAGR Gear

Save 10% and gear up for hunting season using our exclusive affiliate link:

🔗 https://stagrgear.com/?sca_ref=9797309.KPojGto3e6m

💥 Use promo code TTN at checkout and double-check it’s applied.

Gary Williamson – Western Maine Real Estate Guide

Land, homes, and camps across Western Maine.

📞 (207) 364-5326

🔗 https://www.cassiemason.com/about/julia-gary-williamson

🏕️ Four Seasons Rentals: https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.com

Walker Knife Co.

Handcrafted knives & tools.

🔗 https://walkerknifeco.com

⸻

Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle

📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle

👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop

🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com

📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr

👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr

📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle

⸻

🎯 Sponsorship Opportunities

Interested in being featured in a future podcast episode or YouTube video?

📧 info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com

Ever had one of those trips where everything turns into chaos… in the best way possible?

13 guys. Moosehead Lake. Ice fishing. A massive bonfire.
And a podcast recorded right in the middle of it all.

But this trip wasn’t just fun—it got real.

This episode of The True North Lifestyle Podcast is different than anything we’ve done before.

We brought the mics to camp, rotated guys in and out (musical chairs style), and captured real, unfiltered conversations from one of the best—and most eventful—weekends we’ve had.

You’ll hear from familiar voices and new faces including Oscar, Phil, Greg, and Griffin—each bringing their own stories, perspective, and energy to the table.

From sketchy ice conditions and pressure ridges to helping pull a machine out of the lake… and even hearing about a truck going through the ice near the Kineo docks—this weekend was a reminder of how quickly things can change out there.

At one point, the crew even talks about it straight up:
👉 they’d take the risk for a big buck… but not for a fish.

And that mindset showed when Rick made the call to keep the group from crossing the lake in tough conditions, avoiding a situation that could’ve gone sideways fast.

And for the first time ever… Neil steps in and takes over hosting duties in the second half of the podcast, switching roles with Joe and running the show.

👉 How do you think Neil did?

Would you want to see another episode with Neil hosting? Let us know in the comments.

🧊 What Went Down This Weekend

• Ice fishing on Moosehead Lake
• A 13-man crew at camp
• A legendary lake bonfire 🔥
• Helping rescue a machine through a pressure ridge
• Reports of a truck going through the ice near Kineo
• Rick making the call to avoid a risky lake crossing
• “Risk it for a buck… not for a fish” conversation
• Garmin LiveScope debate (game changer or cheating?)
• Kids, mentorship, and growing up in the outdoors
• Behind-the-scenes with our film crew
• Griffin’s brutal first experience trying to keep up with Rick tracking 😅

📌 Timestamps

0:00 Welcome to camp (13 guys, Moosehead trip begins)1:30 Ice conditions & bonfire tradition3:30 Fish caught + recap5:00 LiveScope discussion10:00 Camp chaos & stories 😅14:30 Oscar joins the podcast28:00 Machine through the ice rescue story31:00 Dangerous ice & pressure ridge discussion34:00 Meet Phil & Griffin (film crew)46:00 Tracking story (Griffin vs Rick)52:00 Neil takes over hostingEnd: Wrap up + what’s next

📍 Locations

Moosehead Lake, MaineLake Parlin Lodge

🎯 Coming Up

We filmed this entire trip—full video dropping soon 🎥Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it.

💬 Comment Below

Have you ever had a sketchy moment on the ice?

And seriously…
👉 Should Neil host another episode?

🌲 Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle

📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle
👕 Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop
🌐 Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com
📖 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7Yrdq1f/?mibextid=wwXIfr
👍 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B/?mibextid=wwXIfr
📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle

Lake Parlin LodgeWeekly deer season cabin rentals in November + Sunday & Friday night happy hour included.🔗 https://lakeparlinlodge.comSTAGR GearSave 10% and gear up for hunting season using our exclusive affiliate link:🔗 https://stagrgear.com/?sca_ref=9797309.KPojGto3e6m💥 Use promo code TTN at checkout and double-check it’s applied.Gary Williamson – Western Maine Real Estate GuideLand, homes, and camps across Western Maine.📞 (207) 364-5326🔗 https://www.cassiemason.com/about/julia-gary-williamson🏕️ Four Seasons Rentals: https://www.fourseasonsrealtymaine.comWalker Knife Co.Handcrafted knives & tools.🔗 https://walkerknifeco.com🎯 Sponsorship OpportunitiesInterested in being featured in a future podcast episode or YouTube video?📧 info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com

What happens when you stop avoiding the tough topics… and finally say what everyone’s thinking?

In this episode, Joe, Rick, Lee Libby, and “Old Guide Mike” dive headfirst into some of the biggest hot button issues in the hunting and outdoor community right now—from Maine legislation to hound hunting, Sunday hunting, and the future of our traditions.

This one gets real.

From celebrating the passing of LD 2054 to breaking down controversial topics like anti-hound legislation, fly fishing-only waters, and Sunday hunting laws… this is a raw, honest conversation about what’s happening right now and what it means for sportsmen everywhere.

If you care about hunting, fishing, and protecting the future of the outdoors… this is a must-listen.

📌 Timestamps
0:00 Intro + why this episode is different
0:45 Subscribe + supporting the channel
2:30 Sponsors, merch & upcoming guests
4:50 Introducing hot button topics
5:45 LD 2054 passes – what it means
8:00 How sportsmen made a difference
10:00 Lodge tag system explained
14:30 Non-resident hunters discussion
20:30 Anti-hound hunting legislation
24:00 Why hounds matter for conservation
31:00 Fly fishing-only waters debate
35:00 Maine trout fisheries & access
43:30 Sunday hunting discussion
47:30 Old stories + real perspectives
End: Final thoughts on the future of hunting

🔥 In This Episode
• The truth behind LD 2054 and why it matters
• How sportsmen actually made a difference through calls and emails
• Corruption, loopholes, and fixing the lodge tag system
• The real impact of non-resident hunters on local economies
• Anti-hound hunting legislation quietly added to federal bills
• Why hound hunting is critical for wildlife management
• The controversy around fly fishing-only waters in Maine
• Wild vs native brook trout and protecting fisheries
• Sunday hunting debate and how it affects everyday hunters
• Real stories, opinions, and unfiltered takes from the crew

🧠 Why This Episode Matters
This isn’t just another podcast—the guys speak freely and say what’s on their minds.

This conversation is about:
• Protecting hunting traditions
• Standing up for what’s right
• Understanding how legislation actually affects sportsmen
• Making sure future generations can enjoy the outdoors

As discussed in the episode, sportsmen speaking up made a real impact—proving that voices, calls, and emails truly matter.

💬 Let’s Hear From You
Where do YOU stand on these issues?

• Should Maine allow Sunday hunting?
• What are your thoughts on hound hunting?
• Did LD 2054 go far enough?

🌲 Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle
Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop
Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BC7...
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597W...
Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle

STAGR Gear
Save 10% using our link:
https://stagrgear.com/?sca_ref=979730...
Use promo code TTN at checkout

Walker Knife Co.
https://walkerknifeco.com

Lake Parlin Lodge
https://lakeparlinlodge.com

🎯 Sponsorship Opportunities
Interested in being featured in a future podcast or video?
info@thetruenorthlifestyle.com

What actually makes fish bite? Why do fish hit one lure… and completely ignore another? If you’ve ever wondered why one lure works one day and not the next… this conversation will change how you think about fishing.

In this episode, Christian Carlson of Northeast Troller https://northeasttroller.com/discount/TTN breaks down the real factors behind what triggers fish to strike—from lure design and color patterns to trolling speed, presentation, and instinct. If you’re looking for trolling gear for trout and salmon — spoons, flashers, dodgers, down-rigger releases, live bait rigs, and more — Northeast Troller has you covered.

What does it take to turn a passion for fishing into a full-blown business? Joe Kruse, Rick Labbe, and Lee Libby sit down with Christian Carlson of Northeast Troller to talk about everything from growing up fishing across the country to building a successful lure company from the ground up.

This one is packed with insight, laughs, and real-world experience—from selling night crawlers as a kid to designing and testing trolling spoons that are now catching fish all over the Northeast.

If you’re into fishing, lure design, or just appreciate the grind of building something from nothing… this episode delivers.

🎣 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• How Christian got his start selling nightcrawlers as a kid
• The story behind building Northeast Troller
• What actually goes into designing a fishing lure
• The science behind spoon shapes, colors, and action
• Why some lures work one day… and not the next
• The truth about “hot” patterns and industry trends
• How small tweaks in speed and presentation change everything
• The process of hand-painting and building lures
• Why quality hooks and materials matter more than you think
• Real fishing stories, laughs, and behind-the-scenes moments

📌 Timestamps

0:00 Intro + welcome to the podcast
0:45 Supporting the channel + subscribe
2:30 Sponsors, merch & updates
4:40 Meet Christian Carlson (Northeast Troller)
6:30 Growing up fishing + early influences
8:00 Selling nightcrawlers as a kid
10:00 From aquaculture to lure building
12:00 How trolling spoons are made
14:30 Testing lure shapes & action
18:00 Color patterns & why they matter
22:00 Naming lures + industry trends
26:00 Patents, designs & competition
30:00 Custom lures & what actually works
33:00 Boat speed, presentation & fishing strategy
36:00 Behind the scenes of lure production
40:00 Hooks, materials & durability
44:00 What happens to lost lures?
46:00 Old-school lure origins & fishing history
End: Final thoughts & wrap up

💬 Let’s Hear From You

What’s your go-to lure or pattern that always produces?

Have you ever found something that just “works” no matter what?

Drop it below 👇

🌲 Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@TrueNorthLifestyle
Gear: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com/shop
Website: https://thetruenorthlifestyle.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16597WbQ3B
Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle

🤝 Sponsors & Partners

Northeast Troller

👉 https://northeasttroller.com/discount/TTN

💥 Use code TTN at checkout for 10% off your order.

If you’re looking for trolling gear for trout and salmon — spoons, flashers, dodgers, down-rigger releases, live bait rigs, and more — Northeast Troller has you covered.

STAGR Gear
Save 10% with code TTN
https://stagrgear.com

Walker Knife Co.
https://walkerknifeco.com

🎯 Sponsorship Opportunities

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What creates a legendary deer hunter?In Episode #26 of The True North Lifestyle Podcast, the crew sits down with the legendary Lanny Benoit alongside Timmy Bolduc and Glenn Bombardier for one of the most personal and in-depth conversations yet about the origins of the Benoit Bucks legacy, growing up in the Vermont woods, learning to track deer, competitive shooting, snowmobile racing, and the mindset that helped shape one of the greatest big woods buck hunters of all time.From stories about carrying a .22 at 7 years old, shooting bucks around the house as a kid, learning without modern technology, and eventually helping revolutionize big woods deer tracking through books, VHS tapes, seminars, and deer schools… this episode dives deep into the history behind the Benoit family and the culture of Northeast deer hunting.The conversation also covers:The beginnings of the Benoit Bucks DVDs and seminarsHow tracking schools are helping modern huntersWhy confidence and experience matter in deer huntingThe reality of learning through mistakesShooting, mechanics, geometry, and competitionThe mentality required to consistently track mature bucks, this is one you don’t want to miss.📌 Timestamps0:00 – Intro0:45 – Timmy Bolduc & Glenn Bombardier join the podcast1:40 – Fishing Moosehead Lake with Lanny2:15 – Supporting the podcast & sponsors3:10 – Huntstock Wisconsin & Massachusetts4:15 – Rick Labbe’s Buck Bash announcement5:30 – Walker Knife Co. & handmade knives6:45 – The origins of Lanny Benoit’s hunting passion7:40 – Growing up hunting in Vermont as a kid8:30 – Carrying a .22 at 7 years old9:15 – Life before TVs, phones & paved roads10:30 – Fishing and hunting alone as a child11:40 – Lanny’s obsession with becoming a great deer hunter12:30 – Shooting bucks around the house at 9 years old13:10 – Competition, mindset & passion14:20 – Snowmobile racing & designing carburetors15:10 – Why school bored Lanny16:00 – Understanding mechanics & geometry17:20 – Early deer tracking lessons18:20 – Hunting Maine & the big woods19:30 – Lanny’s first 200-pound buck20:40 – Legendary shooting ability & skeet shooting23:00 – Coaching shooters & fixing bad habits24:50 – Advice for becoming successful at anything25:50 – The growth of the Benoit deer tracking schools27:30 – Hands-on shooting drills at deer school29:00 – How to sign up for deer school30:30 – The influence of Benoit books & DVDs31:10 – Tom Blaise/filming discussions & early hunting films33:30 – Ontario hunts & filming giant bucks35:40 – The first Benoit DVDs & VHS tapes36:40 – Why hunting with a cameraman can help38:00 – The origins of hunting seminars & videos40:40 – The first Benoit Bucks book & its impact42:00 – Competition between the Benoit brothers43:20 – Tips for tracking mature bucks44:30 – Confidence, experience & learning from mistakes46:30 – Lake Parlin Lodge deer camp openings48:30 – Timmy & Glenn discuss how Benoit Bucks changed their hunting🌲 Featured GuestsLanny BenoitTimmy BolducGlenn BombardierJoe KruseRick Labbe🦌 Mentioned In This Episode🏹 Benoit Deer Tracking Schools📍 Pine Grove Lodge – Moscow, Maine🎣 Northeast Troller👉 https://northeasttroller.com/discount/TTN💥 Use code TTN for 10% OFF🧥 STAGR Gear👉 Use code TTN for 10% OFF🔪 Walker Knife Co.👉 Handcrafted knives made in Maine🏕 Lake Parlin Lodge👉 Weekly deer season cabin rentals available now🎟 Huntstock👉 Use promo code TTN for discounted tickets💬 Comment BelowWhat’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned while deer hunting?And what’s your favorite Benoit Bucks memory — the books, VHS tapes, DVDs, seminars, or tracking stories?👇 Let us know in the comments.🌲 Stay Connected & Live The True North Lifestyle📺 YouTube: @TrueNorthLifestyle📘 Facebook: The True North Lifestyle📸 Instagram: @thetruenorthlifestyle🌐 Website: TheTrueNorthLifestyle.com