In this episode of the Green Top Outdoors Podcast, host Hunter Brooks is joined by Ducks Unlimited representatives Barbara Gavin and Shawn Kooyman to discuss DU’s vital conservation work in Virginia—especially its growing efforts to restore wetland habitats and support waterfowl like the American black duck. Barbara shares her background and current role leading DU’s Working Lands Program, a partnership with NRCS that helps private agricultural landowners create and restore shallow water wetlands. The team highlights recent large-scale projects, habitat benefits, how farmers can get involved, and the growing momentum of Ducks Unlimited’ s impact across both private and public lands. They also touch on the success of DU fundraising efforts, chapter growth, and the many ways supporters can get involved.

If you are interested in learning more contact Barbara Gavin at bgavin@ducks.org or 757-812-4567 or visit the Ducks Unlimited website

Special Agent Zachary Howlett and First Sergeant Tyler Bumgarner of the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources join Hunter and Todd to recount one of the most shocking and widely publicized wildlife crimes in recent history — the Hollywood Buck case.

The Hollywood Buck, a beloved and iconic 29-point whitetail that called Richmond’s historic Hollywood Cemetery home, was known to locals and tourists alike. His enormous, non-typical antlers made him a legend — until his tragic and illegal killing rocked the community and captured national headlines.

In this episode, Agent Howlett and Sgt. Bumgarner take you deep into their investigation — from the first tips and forensic evidence to the arrest, trial, and ultimate conviction of the poachers responsible.

This is more than just a story about a deer — it’s a tale of justice, public outrage, and the dedicated officers who brought the truth to light. You won't want to miss this edge-of-your-seat account of one of Virginia’s most infamous wildlife cases.

Thank you to Real Tree for being apart of our very special 100th episode!

Hunter Brooks talks with Green Top Pros Andrew Napier and Patrick Combs about the used gun market and how things are going. They love to chat about good gun collections, estate collections and they will also dig into the history of Colt Firearms, Smith & Wesson and more. This one is good one.

http://www.greentophuntfish.com

Green Top’s archery experts are here to talk about all things archery. Your host, Hunter Brooks dives into a great conversation with Green Top Pro's Billy Nicar and Todd Sadler about everything from setting up a new bow to planning that hunt. Plus, they answer customer questions and discuss bow hunting in Virginia. They'll also talk about their New Mexico hunt later this year and how to prepare and plan for a travel hunt.

Guests:

Todd Sadler

Billy Nicar

Green Top’s shotgun experts are back to talk shooting clay competitions. What firearm should you start with? How do you get classified for your first shoot? And is it possible to ruin your day shooting clays by having too much fun?

Guests:

Andrew Napier: Green Top firearms long gun Manager

Mike Botelho: Green Top Sales Clerk - long guns

Green Top’s resident shotgun experts join the podcast to talk about the shooting sports. When you step into the box, how should you give yourself the best chance on every shot? As they say, the most important 6 inches to master is right between your ears.

Guests:

Andrew Napier: Green Top Firearms long gun Manager

Mike Botelho: Green Top Sales Clerk - long guns

Todd Jarrett won his first USPSA Handgun Nationals Open Championship in 1991 and the competitive shooting world has taken him on a ride ever since. He’s fired over 6 million rounds, helped sell millions of holsters and seen the world of firearms change in more ways than he can count.

Guests: 

Todd Jarrett – Competitive shooter and firearms instructor

Travis Barrett – Green Top firearms buyer

Spring Turkey season starts April 3 with Youth and Apprentice Weekend and opens up for the general population the next weekend. Brad and Hunter talk calls, gear and from one legged turkeys to swamp swims, share their best turkey hunting stories.

Guests:

Brad Stephenson: Green Top Waterfowl and Turkey Specialist

A firearm is only effective in the hands of someone who knows how to use it. We’re talking training, how accidents can be prevented and which courses may be right to expand your skills. Because shooting is much more than a hobby, it’s a lifestyle.

Guests:

William Doss – Green Top Shooting Range General Manager

Debra Smith – Green Top Shooting Range Training Coordinator

They aren’t making more land, and shopping malls are spreading further and further out from cities. What’s the future of hunting look like in 5, 10, 20 years in the Commonwealth? The Green Top guys dig in on changes they’re seeing already and what to expect. Hunting, fishing and all things outdoors – it’s more than a hobby, it’s a lifestyle.

Guests:

Travis Barret - Green Top Firearms Buyer

Austin Rush - Green Top Fishing Pro and Sales Clerk

Two 25+ year veterans of the Green Top firearms department sit down to discuss the state of ammo. Why’s demand so high? What’s ammo allocation mean? And when can we expect a return to “normal?” 

Featured guests:

Travis Barret - Green Top Firearms Buyer

Patrick Combs - Green Top Firearms e-Commerce & Collections Manager

Green Top has been helping generations get outdoors since 1947. Now, we're bringing you the latest in outdoor knowledge in podcast form.

Scent Thief – Russell Epperson, owner, and creator of Scent Thief, along with David Langston, join Hunter during the 2024 Outdoor Expo to discuss this wonderful product. The story of Russell’s journey from a teenage trapper to business owner of one the best and most innovative hunting products on the market is an amazing one. With hunting season in full swing, do yourself a favor and try this amazing product for optimal success!

Whether you’re planning your own safari or simply dreaming of the wild, this episode will transport you to a land where nature reigns supreme. Grab your binoculars and tune in for a virtual escape into the wild!

Over the first weekend in October, we're hosting our 5th Annual Outdoor Expo!

Today we talk with John Barklow, Senior Product Manager at SITKA Gear, about the new Optifade Cover Camoflauge Pattern.

https://www.sitkagear.com/technology/optifade-concealment/cover

Welcome to the Green Top Outdoors Podcast, where we dive deep into everything that makes the outdoors great—from hunting and fishing to community events and local happenings.

Deer season is almost here. Do you have a processor you trust to give you the best final product of your harvest? Stephen Wood joins your host Hunter Brooks and Todd Sadler for an episode about deer processing.

Almost two years ago, Stephen took a chance and started his business. In just a short amount time, his Woodsong Deer Processing has grown tremendously.

Stephen discusses his past, what gave him the idea in pursuing this business, why dull knives suck, and the future of the company. Anyone that harvests a deer knows the work involved in processing it and preparing it to consume. This episode will make you consider using a processor like Stephen and may also entice you to begin trying new methods of processing and preparing deer meat.

wswildgame@gmail.com

Facebook – Woodsong Deer Processing

Welcome to the Green Top Outdoors Podcast, where we dive deep into everything that makes the outdoors great—from hunting and fishing to community events and local happenings. I'm Hunter Brooks, and today, we’ve got an exciting conversation lined up as we talk with Sheila Sullivan and Rebecca Mulvane about a brand-new event that’s bringing some serious four-legged fun to the area.

It’s the First Annual Colonial K9 Classic, presented by Muddy Marley's Dog Wash, happening September 13-15 at Jamestown Beach Event Park. Get ready for a weekend packed with vendors, food trucks, a beer garden, and—of course—plenty of tail-wagging excitement as Chesapeake DockDogs take the stage to compete in Big Air, Extreme Vertical, and Speed Retrieve events.

This event is free to the public, making it the perfect way to spend a weekend outdoors with family and friends. Whether you’re a dog lover or just looking for some fun in the sun, this event is a must-see. Let’s jump right into the details with Sheila and Rebecca and learn what makes this event the first of its kind in over a decade!

Aneil Kumar and Elliot Loper join Hunter to talk about ISportsman.com. They dive into the cutting-edge platforms that are revolutionizing the way we manage and participate in outdoor recreation. ISportsman.com has set the standard for streamlining access to outdoor activities, from hunting and fishing to camping and hiking. We discuss how this user-friendly platform simplifies permit applications, activity tracking, and provides real-time updates to enhance your outdoor experience.

But the innovation doesn’t stop there. We also explore ISportsmanARX.com, a groundbreaking advancement that takes outdoor recreation management to the next level. 

Listen and learn how these platforms are contributing to wildlife conservation, improving safety, and making outdoor activities more accessible and enjoyable for enthusiasts of all levels.

In this exciting episode, we bring a unique twist to the world of firearm accessories with a mock fantasy football draft, but instead of players, we're selecting the top red dot sights for handguns. As the red dot sight rapidly becomes the go-to choice for handgun enthusiasts, its popularity is soaring daily. 

Kevin Dunne, Locke Taylor, Mike Norman, and Hunter select their “team” of red dots while analyzing and debating the best options available on the market. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just getting into the sport, this episode is packed with insights, recommendations, and a whole lot of fun.

Iain Henderson joins Hunter to discuss the popular and fascinating world of subsonic ammunition. We discuss popular choices in calibers for subsonic ammunition, why the 300 Blackout is the king of subsonic, and why application dictates performance. We will also provide insight into terminal, external, and internal ballistics and how they pertain to the performance of subsonic ammunition. This episode offers a short yet comprehensive overview of subsonic cartridges and their practical applications.

 In this special episode, Hunter sits down with Denny Quaiff, Bob Duncan, and Nick Hall to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Virginia Deer Hunters Association. They discuss how the organization was founded, the challenges they faced in those early days, and the victories that shaped its legacy.

From grassroots efforts to major conservation initiatives, this conversation highlights the dedication of those who fought to preserve Virginia’s deer population and hunting heritage. The guests also discuss the importance of hunters standing together as stewards of the outdoors to ensure future generations can continue to enjoy the tradition of hunting.

Tune in for a fascinating look at the history, passion, and perseverance that have kept the Virginia Deer Hunters Association going strong for four decades.

Jason Kelly is an accomplished combative athlete, an experienced competitive shooter, and a highly motivated instructor. He is renowned for generating unique and effective blocks of instruction to satisfy each customer’s needs. And he is an ambassador to Blue Force Gear. Jason joins Hunter and Iain to discuss Blue Force Gear, his background, training, and the #1 rule, always look cool.

Mike Dye is an upland game bird biologist for the Virginia DWR. He specializes in turkey and grouse. He returns to do another episode with Hunter and Todd to discuss this past spring turkey season. This episode covers the harvest numbers, survival rates of a turkey, conservation methods, and they discuss the various ways that the DWR can help you as a hunter, outdoorsman, landowner, and conservationist.

Zach Donovant, owner of Old Dominion Custom Rifles, returns for another episode with Hunter and Andrew. In this episode, they discuss some of the nuances of building custom rifles, wildcat calibers, smokeless muzzleloaders, hunting season, and the 25 SAUM.

Bear Davidson joins Hunter and Todd on this episode to discuss the NWTF (National Wild Turkey Federation), growing up in the outdoors, setting goals, achieving goals, and the importance of conservation. Bear is the former Vice President of the state NWTF and is now one of the National Board of Directors.

Michael Botelho and Andrew Napier join Hunter to discuss sporting clays, tournaments, and gun selection for new and experienced shooters.

Hunter is joined by Mike Smith and Owen Bradley to discuss pier and surf fishing in the OBX. Mike and Owen are both pros at Green Top and they share their advice and stories regarding this popular style of fishing.

The Outer Banks is known to be a fishing destination. As technical as it all sounds, Mike and Owen simplify things in this episode. So, whether you are a beginner looking to learn a new thing, or an experienced angler who is curious, tune in to this episode.

Lupo is Italian for wolf. It is a fitting name for this extraordinary rifle that Benelli is producing. This rifle is designed to dominate the land where their shotgun, the Super Black Eagle, dominates the skies. Hunter, Andrew, and Green Top gunsmith Chris Mierzwa recently built 3 separate Green Top performance packages, took them to the range, and tested them for accuracy. These packages consist of scope, mounts, and ammo all selected by them. In this episode, they give an in-depth review of this rifle and discuss how incredible the outcome was.

Hunter is joined by Green Top pro Iain Henderson and Ben DeWalt, founder, and senior instructor of Onsight Firearms Training. In this episode they discuss the importance of firearms training. 

Onsight offers a unique and advanced style of training. It ranges from defensive pistol, defensive shotgun, first aid, or even an AK rifle course. So, whether you are learning from a course at the Green Top Shooting Range or looking to become more educated in something specific, it all starts with signing up for the course. Developing skill and confidence can only be achieved through range time and education. All of these are discussed as well as the responsibility that comes with being a gun owner.

It’s March mayhem, and we decided to sit down and have us a little fun. Hunter, Travis Barrett, Patrick Combs, Mike Gardner, and Scott Parker sat down to decide what is the most iconic WW2 firearm.

Tune in and listen as we delve into the fascinating topic of World War II firearms and explore which weapon stands out as the most iconic. From the mighty M1 Garand to the fearsome MP40, join us as we examine the historical significance, battlefield impact, and cultural legacy of these legendary weapons. Whether you're a history buff, firearms enthusiast, or simply curious about the weaponry that shaped one of the most pivotal periods in human history, this episode is sure to fascinate and educate. Join us as we uncover the stories behind the guns that defined an era.

Jackie Rosenberger returns on another episode to discuss the upcoming 2024 Elk lottery. This program is now a highly anticipated event every year. The Elk Management program began many years ago with the help and support of many hard-working DWR employees and volunteers.

Jackie and Hunter discuss the current state of the elk herd, the successes of the 2023 hunt, and the future of the elk program.

For those seeking a combination of adventure and comfort, Tinashe promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa’s untamed wilderness, ensuring that every guest departs with exceptional trophies, cherished memories, and newfound friendships. Clayton Fletcher returns to Green Top and joins Hunter and Andrew for a great conversation about hunting in Africa. Clayton shares an unbelievable lion hunting story, the great opportunities offered in Africa currently, and why his outfitter service is one of the best in all of Africa. Clayton also reinforces why he does what he does and how conservation is the most important focus.

Charles Rodney has been hunting rabbits for over 60 years. He has obtained the name “The Rabbit Hunter” from those that he has hunted with and introduced rabbit hunting to throughout the last few decades.

He joins Hunter and Andrew to discuss this lifelong passion, his rabbit hunting dogs, firearms of choice, and some general perceptions about life and the importance of helping others.

In this episode, Hunter is joined by Justin Folks (VA DWR Deer Project Leader), Mike Dye (VA DWR Turkey project leader), and Carl Tugend (VA DWR Bear project leader). The harvest numbers for the 2023 hunting season are in and all are discussed. But this episode is not just about statistics. They discuss many factors that contribute to the annual harvests, prior and current studies that are being done, fun and interesting facts about each animal, and of course conservation.

Listen in for some outstanding information coming directly from the guys who work for the VA DWR. 

https://dwr.virginia.gov/wildlife/game/

Todd Jarrett is an American competitive shooter, world champion, and instructor who works directly for Staccato. Staccato is the most well-known manufacturer of the acclaimed 2011 handgun. Through their innovation and exceptional quality, they have achieved a master status in the gun industry. They are continuing their innovation with new products this year in 2024 ranging from the new model carry weapon, a new line of match-grade ammunition, and the Staccato Ranch. Todd sits down with Hunter and Travis to discuss his journey, an overview of the entire line of Staccato handguns, the importance of training, new products, and the Staccato Ranch experience they now offer.

Mike Norman joins Hunter for a short episode on hearing protection. If you have ever wondered what the ratings mean on a package of ear plugs or earmuffs, listen to this episode. Mike and Hunter also discuss the differences between electronic and passive muffs, suppressors and how they can help save your hearing, and how to understand the ratings for suppressors.

The 2023 deer season was a long one but a good one. Jut Updyke, owner of Drone Deer Recovery and Captured Media, stopped by to discuss deer season with Hunter and Andrew. From start to finish, Jut was on the go all season long running up and down the highway and backroads to help recover deer for hunters using his thermal drone, Jarvis. Jut shares some insights and data that he collected this past season and discusses what he is doing now that the season is over. Deer herd analysis has been keeping him busy and they discuss what is involved and why a landowner or hunt club should consider doing this once the season is over.

Hunter is joined by Justin McDonald, Justin Boyd, and Zack Schebish to discuss magazines. They cover a variety of topics surrounding magazines such as terminology, magazine capacity, how many magazines you should own with each firearm, and magazine accessories. They answer several common questions and misconceptions about magazines and discuss some of their own opinions and personal experiences.

Justin Folks is the new Deer Project Leader for the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR). Justin grew up in western Virginia and developed a love for the outdoors which has led him to the field of wildlife biology.

He joins Hunter and Todd Sadler to discuss his new role with the DWR as well as some interesting facts about deer. They also discuss deer management, how the current season is going, the decreased number of hunters and the causes, and the future planning of the DWR.

During our Expo in October, our good friend Lindsay Eichlman from Medford Knife joined Hunter and Matt McLamb for a podcast. If you are into knives or cutlery, you should check out Medford Knife. They discuss the history of the company, the quality in manufacturing, and the amazing end product. The company’s core values are pragmatism, hard work, honesty, love of one’s country, and treating people right. 100% American-made, Medford Knife brings an amazing quality back to American manufacturing. If you are not a knife fan, you will be one once you pick up a Medford.

Drew Mcintosh is the founder and owner of Migra Ammunition. Drew stopped by the store for a visit and joined Hunter and Andrew for a podcast. Migra Ammunition is a very young company that manufactures an innovative shotshell for waterfowl hunting. The “Staxd” load uses two shot sizes and is designed to deliver tighter patterns at greater distances while also delivering higher energy. Drew started this company in his mother’s garage and has quickly become a highly popular shotgun shell on the American market. Listen in and find out the science behind the design of the shell, the incredible success story, and the new products on the horizon from Migra. 

https://www.migraammunitions.com/

@migraammunitions #STAXD #MigraAmmo

Shawn Kooyman is the Senior Regional Director for Eastern Virginia Ducks Unlimited. He is back again with Todd Sadler to discuss fundraising, some awesome raffles going on currently, and of course conservation.

Scott Lindy and Matt Gills join Hunter for a discussion about the upcoming NRL Hunter 2-day National match taking place in Gladstone, VA at Black Bear Shooting Club.

Black Bear Shooting Club is located on the legendary Spears Mountain. This location offers challenging opportunities for long range shooting and competing. Scott and Matt discuss the history and purpose behind the NRL, the history behind Spears Mountain, and the exciting first ever shoot coming soon in April.

Many questions are answered regarding how to sign up for the match, what equipment is needed to compete, the community of shooters, and the challenges encountered when competing in a match of this scale. Listen and I guarantee you will gain interest in this opportunity coming soon to Virginia!

With Virginia muzzle loader season about to open, Jut Updyke and Mark Boyd join Hunter to discuss how deer recovery has been going through archery season using drones. They also discuss when you do or don’t pursue a wounded deer and share many tracking methods they have learned from experiences and many years of hunting.

Lena Miculek is not just a sport shooter, world champion, and gold medalist. She is an independent woman who enjoys the outdoors and is on a journey to help teach, inspire, and influence others to face their fears. Her parents Jerry and Kay Miculek are both world-class shooters and incredible people. She has grown up in the shooting industry and is now making her mark with Sig Sauer and the Rose program.

Saddle hunting has been around since the 1960’s. Recently, it has become very popular thanks to companies like Tethrd. Tethrd is a team of saddle-hunting fanatics with a passionate addiction to whitetail hunting. Tethrd seeks to accomplish two missions: spread their love for saddle hunting to the sportsman community and design and engineer the world’s best saddle-hunting equipment. Taylor Chamberlin joins Hunter and Caleb to discuss the art of saddle hunting and why it is growing in popularity so fast. Taylor is from Virginia and is a tremendous urban archery hunter. Saddle hunting is all he does. He really explains the extreme advantages that Tethrd and saddle hunting have over other traditional ways of hunting. His YouTube channel, Hunt Urban, is worth checking out along with other Tethrd videos on YouTube. If you hunt or have even a slight curiosity about saddle hunting, give this one a listen!

David Blanton and Michael Waddell (The Bone Collector) are legends of the hunting industry. Having both here at the store for our annual Outdoor Expo worked out perfectly to sit them both down with Hunter, Andrew, and Caleb to catch up and talk about the past. David and Michael go way back. Listen in to hear about some great experiences these two have had and some deep thoughts on how a hunter matures over time. A big thanks to Realtree Outdoors for getting these two gentlemen to our expo. 

Colion Noir is an American gun rights activist, lawyer, social media

influencer, and host of the web series NOIR. Like many of us here, he is

unapologetic about loving guns. He is also a huge proponent of introducing

new people to firearms and showing them the importance of education and

training.

In this episode, Colion sits down with Hunter and Justin Boyd to discuss how

he got started, training, and new firearm endeavors. The best part is how to

have a conversation with someone anti-gun.

A big thanks to Sturm Ruger & Co. for getting him to our Expo this year!

https://www.mrcolionnoir.com/