Today's guest is David Rydell who's been chasing big bucks in the back country since the late 1960's. Mr. Rydell gives his unique perspective on Mule Deer then and now. Listen in as we discuss the current state of affairs and how techniques have changed over the decades. Details on the Rokslide best Hunting Photo contest below- Elk-2024 Best Elk Hunt Photo Contest, sponsored by Kifaru Mule Deer-2024 Best Mule Deer Hunt Photo Contest, sponsored by Kryptek Sheep-2024 Best Wild Sheep Hunt Photo Contest, by Stone Glacier Whitetail Deer-2024 Best Whitetail Photo Contest, sponsored by First Lite   [ Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app  

Today's Tipsy Tuesday has all of the Rokcast hosts gathered together discussing what it takes to save a buck on the gear they use. Travis Hobbs and Robby Denning handout their personal "Tips and Tricks" on how and where everyone can pinch pennies to help save a buck on their favorite gear. Sam then shifts the talk toward the other Rokslide.com gear reviews [https://www.rokslide.com/category/gear/] and recaps the latest Western news. Outdoorsman Quality Used Optics-https://outdoorsmans.com/collections/used-optics Bowhunting Giant Nevada Elk, Between the Sage & Pine-https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mi7Ev5gdsuI Angled vs Straight Spotting Scopes-https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGtiuyTVnn4 Howl for Wildlife https://www.howlforwildlife.org/take_action  Check out Rokslides 2023 Favorite Gear- Here Visit Rokslide's Rokcast Forum to submit questions, request a topic or give feedback. To be a guest on Tipsy Tuesday please send an email to Sam@Rokslide.com [ Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

Today Mark Livasay takes us though his E-scouting process in Treeline Academy. Mark's proven 12 core principles to finding elk when E-scouting can narrow down any unit in the west to its highest probability. Moultrie launches their new Edge2 and Edge Pro2 Trail cameras and gives tips on best use. PhoneSkope helps us master Digiscoping with their Carbon Pro along with accessory details and the uses of Pyro Putty. Sam then shifts the talk toward the other Rokslide.com gear reviews [https://www.rokslide.com/category/gear/] and recaps the latest Western news. Treeline Academy-https://www.treelineacademy.net/ Review of Treeline Academy-https://www.rokslide.com/treeline-academy-e-scouting-masterclass-review/ Moultrie Mobile-https://www.moultriemobile.com/ PhoneSkope-https://phoneskope.com/ 15% off using Rokslide15 Howl for Wildlife https://www.howlforwildlife.org/take_action  Check out Rokslides 2023 Favorite Gear- Here Visit Rokslide's Rokcast Forum to submit questions, request a topic or give feedback. To be a guest on Tipsy Tuesday please send an email to Sam@Rokslide.com [ Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

Robby is today's host. Summer is heating up, and a few big bucks are around, even in the most hard-hit winterkill areas.  Before Robby jumps into the next two chapters of Hunting Big Mule Deer, he gives a scouting update and covers advancements in Moultrie Mobile's cellular cams, including the incredible battery life, no SD cards, AI screening for bucks, and Smart Tags for efficient filtering. Then it's on to Deer Drives for the big mule deer hunter. Do they really work? If so, how does a hunter organize a deer drive?  Finally, Robby discusses the need, or lack thereof, of Long Range Hunting to hunt big mule deer. Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

Robby hosts Taylor Gregory of the Wood River Chapter of the Mule Deer Foundation.  Find out how removing a single fence in critical mule deer corridors makes a difference in helping mule deer.  They also chat about getting off the "fence" and stepping up to help mule deer. Taylor took a hard look at himself and decided rather than just complain, he'd get his hands dirty helping mule deer where he can. Once he made the decision, the door flew wide open and soon he was co-chair of Idaho's Wood River Chapter of the Mule Deer Foundation, along with Ross Baker. These guys are donating their own blood, sweat, and tears to ensure mule deer get back on their feet. Also, Robby does a gear-wrap on what he'll be using for 2024. Some new, some old, some sponsored, some not, but nothing stolen! Bow: Mathews Phase 4, 29” Arrows: Easton Axis Match Grade 5mm customized by Iron Will Outfitters Broadhead: SEVR 1.5 TI expandable Rifle: 6UM with Rokstock (Robby joined the cult), Swarovski Z5 scope Optics: Zeiss 10x42 SF binocular Swarovski 8x42 EL Range TA binocular/rangefinder Swarovski 17-40x56mm STC spotting scope Swarovski 25-50/20-60 x 80 STS spotting scope Tripods/Heads: SLIK 624 exclusive from S&S Archery MTN HNTR SS Tripod from Altitude Outdoors Outdoorsman's Pan Head Altitude Outdoors Nano Pro Fluid Head Boots: Kenetrek Hardscrabble Crispi Summit II GTX Schnee Hunter II Pac Boot Satellite Mapping/Communications: onX Hunt Garmin inReach Mini SPOT Tents: Stone Glacier Skyscraper 2-Man Seek Outside 8-man Sleeping Bags/Pad: Stone Glacier Chilkoot 15 KUIU Super Down 15 EXPED Mega Mat Backpacks: Nimrod Apex Day Pack Stone Glacier KRUX EVO 3300 Clothing Early Season: Sitka Apex system/including their synthetic base layers Clothing Later Seasons: First Lite: Puffy Uncompahgre Pant Obsidian Foundry & Furnace base layers Gators: Traverse & Brambler Kifaru Wind River Wind Jacket Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

Today's Tipsy Tuesday is all about the early season. Up first Larry Bartlet takes a deep dive into the science of meat care in the backcountry. Larry lays out how to mitigate meat spoilage in the early season, along with proven tactics that get the best table fare even when temperatures are warm and your packed in days from the trailhead. Some of the top clothing companies (Stika, Firstlite, Forloh, Skre Gear) talk about their favorites choices to stay comfortable during those hot early season temperatures. The guys from Hardside Hydration, show us how stay hydrated no matter the conditions. Sam then shifts the talk toward the other Rokslide.com gear reviews [https://www.rokslide.com/category/gear/] and recaps the latest Western news. Prestine Adventures- https://pristineventures.com/ Mitigating spoilage in the Backcountry video-https://youtu.be/LFf6gs6_iso Stika Gear- https://www.sitkagear.com/ Firstlite Yuma- https://www.firstlite.com/products/mens-yuma-synthetic-hoody.html?lang=en_US Forloh Technical Hoodie- https://forloh.com/products/mens-solair-upf-technical-hoodie SKRE Gear- https://skregear.com/ Hardside Hydration- https://www.hardsidehydration.com/ Review of Hardside Hydration Swig Rig- https://www.rokslide.com/hardside-hydration-swig-rig-review/ Enter the 2024 Cold Bore Challenge- https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/2024-cold-bore-challenge.360756/ Howl for Wildlife https://www.howlforwildlife.org/take_action  Check out Rokslides 2023 Favorite Gear- Here Visit Rokslide's Rokcast Forum to submit questions, request a topic or give feedback. To be a guest on Tipsy Tuesday please send an email to Sam@Rokslide.com [ Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

The Top 1% is a little mini series we are recording with some of the best DIY Mule Deer Hunters in the country. This is the second episode in that series. The guys we really want to focus on and hear from are average hunters, family men, working blue collar jobs somehow taking the top 1% of Mule Deer over and over again on run of the mill type tags that the general public can get, they are getting it done legally and ethically. Dioni Amuchastegui defines the Top 1% and is such a fun guy to talk to and get inside his head on the how and why. There is so much good information in this episode. Dioni also tells the story of his 2023 archery buck recently featured on the cover of Western Hunter. For the first Top 1% Podcast Click Here Dioni on the Shoot2Hunt Podcast Western Hunter Magazine for Dioni's full Story and Pictures

Robby's back to his book, Hunting Big Mule Deer. Today's episode is in on tracking big mule deer, a top technique for buck hunters. Big mule deer can be very hard to track in the big mountains, due to the steepness of the terrain, but you still don’t want to ignore the technique. Even if big bucks are hard to track and shoot in their beds, paying attention to the tracks on the ground will tell you where deer go, where they don’t go, and a keen eye can tell the quality of the age class in the area by tracks. And occasionally, under the right conditions, tracking big mule deer is the only way to tie your tag on a big deer. Robby also directs you to several Instagram posts that can help you identify the tracks of big mule deer; see Robby’s or Rokslide’s Instagram posts from June 7, 2024 & July 28, 2023 Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

Rebecca Levine is on today's episode of the Rokcast, hosted by Robby Denning. Rebecca is a research scientist with the Monteith Shop. She conducted the Meeteetse Moose Project in Wyoming. Dive in to this episode to learn how temperatures and wind affect bull moose differently than cows, when the peak of the moose rut occurs, and how bull moose separate by elevation   PC: Billy Molls The Monteith Shop is one of the leading research organizations on mule deer and other ungulates. Based out of the University of Wyoming, their mission statement is “Advancing Science and Management, One Data Point at a Time.” You can follow the Monteith Shop here Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here       

#33 This week's Tipsy Tuesday all about Optic Innovations.  Drew Miles CEO of Tricer USA takes us though their newest innovations and even drops some hints of things to come. Hamilton Boykin lays out Leica USA https://leica-camera.com/en-US/product/leica-geovid-pro-10x42-ab 2024 Optic Innovations. He goes into great detail of the operation of the Geovid Pro AB+ and why every hunter could benefit from the Shot Probability Analysis (or WEZ).   Afterwards Dustin Diefenderfer and Sam talk mental toughness and how MTN TOUGH programs https://mtntough.com/ benefit more than just physical fitness. Argali's Brad Brooks returns to fill us in about the new Yukon tent https://argalioutdoors.com/. Sam then shifts the talk toward the other Rokslide.com gear reviews [https://www.rokslide.com/category/gear/] and recaps the latest Western news. Tricer review-https://www.rokslide.com/tricer-tripod-head-and-bino-adapter-review/ Leica Geovid Pro 32- https://www.rokslide.com/leica-geovid-pro-32-review/ Rokslide WEZ discussion thread- https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/required-precision-video-and-using-wez.350736/ Mtn Tough free trial- https://mtntough.com/ Argali Yukon Pre-sale- Argali Yukon 8P Tent | www.argalioutdoors.com Enter the 2024 Cold Bore Challenge- https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/2024-cold-bore-challenge.360756/ Howl for Wildlife https://www.howlforwildlife.org/take_action  Check out Rokslides 2023 Favorite Gear- Here Visit Rokslide's Rokcast Forum to submit questions, request a topic or give feedback. To be a guest on Tipsy Tuesday please send an email to Sam@Rokslide.com [ Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app    

Robby hosts Darby Finley, Wildlife Biologist for Colorado Parks & Wildlife. Darby has served over 20 years in Northwest Colorado, the heart of the Chronic Wasting Disease battle.  From day one on the job, Darby has been immersed in the origin, effects, and ongoing fight against CWD.  If you think CWD is just the boogey-man of wildlife management, you might want to listen to this episode. Darby gives evidence of how CWD has cut mule deer herds to the point that tag numbers have to be reduced (think lost hunter opportunity), but he also shows where the battle has been won and hunter opportunity has increased. They also discuss why Colorado went with the later season dates for rifle hunts, how this has affected buck numbers and age class, and if these season dates need to continue. This is one of those important episodes that everyone needs to listen to. Rokslide members can discuss this episode here Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

Travis Hobbs and Robby Denning host Dr. Tayler LaSharr of the Monteith Shop.  Tayler studied the mule deer migration in Wyoming in relation to fawn survival. She was looking for a correlation between survival rates of fawns raised in or near agriculture--are mule deer fawns more likely to survive, or are there hazards that actually decrease survival rates? Tayler also discusses how the condition of the mother and how "site selection" affects a mule deer fawn's survival in its first winter. This stuff will make you a better deer hunter! Tayler LaSharr is a Post Doctorate Research Associate for the Monteith Shop. This episode was recorded at the recent Mule Deer Days, sponsored by The Muley Fanatic Foundation and Wyoming Game & Fish, in Rock Springs, Wyoming. The Monteith Shop is one of the leading research organizations on mule deer and other ungulates. Based out of the University of Wyoming, their mission statement is “Advancing Science and Management, One Data Point at a Time.” You can follow the Monteith Shop here Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

A Tipsy Thursday featuring Robert Hanneman from Huntin' Fool sheds light on available Youth Hunting Opportunities. Robert knows all the ins and outs of western draw systems and which secrets will increase Youth Hunting Opportunities. Afterwards Mike Moore gives us his thoughts on the Stone Glacier Tokeen day pack. Then we have Alps Outdoorz give us some of their favorite products. Lathrop and Sons walks us though the Syngery footbeds. For conversation we hear from the Fiorland Wapiti Foundation and their efforts to save New Zealand's elk herd.  Sam then shifts the talk toward the other Rokslide.com gear reviews [https://www.rokslide.com/category/gear/] and recaps the latest Western news. Huntin' Fool-https://www.huntinfool.com/ Robert's youth article-https://www.huntinfool.com/resources/youth Stone Glacier Tokeen 2600 pack review-https://www.rokslide.com/stone-glacier-tokeen-day-pack-review/ Alps Gear-https://alpsoutdoorz.com/ Lathrop and Sons footbeds-https://lathropandsons.com/collections/synergy-footbeds Fiordland Wapiti Foundation-https://fwf.net.nz/ Howl for Wildlife https://www.howlforwildlife.org/take_action  Check out Rokslides 2023 Favorite Gear- Here Visit Rokslide's Rokcast Forum to submit questions, request a topic or give feedback. To be a guest on Tipsy Tuesday please send an email to Sam@Rokslide.com [ Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

Kevin Monteith is back, this time busting up the myths surrounding antler size vs age of bucks and bulls. This episode will surprise more than a few hunters. How antlers grow with age has been speculated on for decades, but with more access to accurate lab aging, and researchers like Kevin, a whole body of evidence is showing that what we think isn't always the case. Do antlers peak at five years old, or seven?  Do antlers regress as a buck or bull reaches his later years?  Also, can an elk really have a nine-foot antler spread? Robby and Kevin discuss these questions and more in today's episode on Antler size vs Age. Image Courtesy of Tayler LaSharr Kevin Monteith is one of the leading researchers on mule deer and other ungulates. Based out of the University of Wyoming, their mission statement is “Advancing Science and Management, One Data Point at a Time.” You can follow the Monteith Shop here and learn more about antler size vs age and other fascinating topics. Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

#32 This week's Tipsy Tuesday is focused on Purposeful Shooting Techniques.  Chris Cornelius shares his personal journey into the foundational aspect of killing game animals on demand. Purposeful Shooting Techniques is a "whole system" process approach- accounting for the shooter, the complete rifle system, and proper ammunition. These optimized techniques and processes increase speed and consistency when forced to make accurate on demand shots. Afterwards Alps Outdoorz https://alpsoutdoorz.com/extreme-packs.html joins in to discuss their new 5800 pack bag and elite frame. S&S Archery https://sandsarchery.com/ comes in to tell listeners about their business and offer a sweet discount. Bill Vanderhyden from Iron Will https://ironwilloutfitters.com/products/k3-ultralight-boning-knife talks about all Iron Will knife offerings including the new K3. Sam then shifts the talk toward the other Rokslide.com gear reviews [https://www.rokslide.com/category/gear/] and recaps the latest Western news. 223 Rokslide thread-https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/223-for-bear-mountain-goat-deer-chupacabra-elk-walrus-and-moose.130488/ Practice Drill- https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/equipment-versus-practice-posts-and-rifle-practice-shooting.165291/ Apls Outdoorz Elite review-https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/alps-outdoors-elite-3800-pack-review-by-torin-miller.319280/ Iron Will Knife K1 review-https://www.rokslide.com/iron-will-k1-ultralight-hunting-knife-review/ Iron Will Knife K2 review-https://www.rokslide.com/iron-will-k2-knife-review/ Discount S&S Archery code- Rokslide for 10% off Enter the 2024 Cold Bore Challenge- https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/2024-cold-bore-challenge.360756/ Howl for Wildlife https://www.howlforwildlife.org/take_action  Check out Rokslides 2023 Favorite Gear- Here Visit Rokslide's Rokcast Forum to submit questions, request a topic or give feedback. To be a guest on Tipsy Tuesday please send an email to Sam@Rokslide.com [ Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app  

Photo Courtesy of Ben Regan Travis and Robby host Rebekah Rafferty of The Monteith Shop. They discuss Rebekah's research into the phenomenon of mule deer abandoning winter range, and how seasons and landscape shape the winter distribution of deer. Rebekah is the current coordinator of the Wyoming Range Mule Deer Project and brings a wealth of knowledge to the Rokcast on mule deer. This episode on the dynamics of mule deer winter range was recorded at the recent Mule Deer Days, sponsored by The Muley Fanatic Foundation and Wyoming Game & Fish, in Rock Springs, Wyoming. The Monteith Shop is one of the leading researcher organiziations on mule deer and other ungulates. Based out of the University of Wyoming, their mission statement is “Advancing Science and Management, One Data Point at a Time.” You can follow the Monteith Shop here Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

  Robby hosts Idaho Fish and Game Deer & Elk Coordinator, Toby Boudreau, and Justin Binfet, Deputy Chief of Wyoming Game & Fish's Wildlife Division to talk Elk Hunting. They discuss the recent article by Dac Collins of Outdoor Life: "Elk Hunters had a Phenomenal Season in Wyoming, While Idaho Saw the Worst Harvest in a Decade" here https://www.outdoorlife.com They dive deep into what may have caused this harvest difference. Is Wyoming managing their elk herd better than Idaho? Or is Idaho ahead of Wyoming in limiting too much harvest? Or was this article just click-bait? Listen in and become a better elk hunter. Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

  #31 Tipsy Tuesday has Blake Brown taking us along on his big bull elk hunt in Fiordland National Park on New Zealand's South Island. Roy Sloan president of the Fiordland Wapiti Foundation https://fwf.net.nz/ walks us though the ballot process on how to draw this amazing big bull elk hunt. Roy shares the foundations successes and describes the legal fight to keep New Zealand's Wapiti/Elk herd in Fiordland National Park. Ryan Sapena joins in to let us know what's new at Seek Outside https://seekoutside.com/. Black Ovis team members Ty Hinds and Jace Johnson roll out the new Plateau tripod https://www.blackovis.com/blackovis-plateau-carbon-fiber-standing-tripod-with-panhead. Sam then shifts the talk toward the other Rokslide.com gear reviews [https://www.rokslide.com/category/gear/] and recaps the latest Western news. Donate to save the Wapiti-Fiordland Wapiti Foundation - Save the Wapiti (fwf.net.nz) Discount on all Black Ovis branded gear code- Rokslide for 10% off Enter the 2024 Cold Bow Challenge- https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/2024-cold-bow-challenge.355440/ Howl for Wildlife https://www.howlforwildlife.org/take_action  Check out Rokslides 2023 Favorite Gear- Here Visit Rokslide's Rokcast Forum to submit questions, request a topic or give feedback. To be a guest on Tipsy Tuesday please send an email to Sam@Rokslide.com [ Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app  

At the recent Mule Deer Days in Rock Springs, Wyoming, Robby caught up with Cody Robbins of the TV show Live 2 Hunt with Cody & Kelsey. If giant mule deer are your thing, this is your episode! Cody has taken 11 bucks between 200" all the way up to 288"! He's one of the most successful big buck hunters out there. In this episode, Cody talks everything about hunting giant mule deer: His early days of filming with Jim Shockey How shed hunting helps him locate giant mule deer Hunting public land Staying focused on one giant buck Taking the world record mule deer in 2011 The incredible hunt for a buck named Sleepy How giant bucks can consistently show up in a given area Genetics vs. Nutrition for growing giant bucks Laying it all on the table for the chance at a giant buck How CWD has affected him Don't miss this exciting episode. Even if you've watched his TV show, you'll learn more about giant bucks by tuning in to today's Rokcast episode. Cody Robbins' TV show airs every Sunday evening on the Outdoor Channel! Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here       

USGS Migration Route Data. Notice Interstate Locations and Migration Barriers. We hear all the time about urban sprawl affecting mule deer populations. I think the average hunter, (me included) usually only thinks about habitat destruction directly related to communities, homes, and businesses. We don't even consider the road system that link all of these communities together and the impact roadways have on wildlife, especially mule deer.  Of course when we do think about roads and wildlife, the first thing that comes to mind is wildlife-auto collisions, but it is much more complex than that. In fact those collisions we see are a drop in the bucket when we compare it to the loss of historic migration routes, and loss of access to habitat that comes with migration. Change has been everywhere you look nearly over the past half a century. It wasn't until 1956, that the Interstate Highway System was dreamed up under the Eisenhower administration. The speed limit on the highway during the 70's, 80's, and early 90's was 55 MPH, of course now, we would all lose our minds if we had to drive that slow. The big question- How has this complex system of multi-lane highways, changes in speed limits, and road noise affected the wildlife in the State of Utah, and around the west, particularly the mule deer herds? Here to address some of those questions, and many more is Matt Howard, the Utah Department of Transportations Natural Resource Manager. Matt is a biologist by definition, and a guy that studies "Road Ecology", which is a fairly new science. He explains what the State of Utah is doing to help reduce wildlife fatalities, improve migration corridors, and mitigate wildlife and automobile collisions. Constructing "Main Street of America" Route 66 To learn more on Utah Migrations- www.wildlifemigration.utah.gov The rest of the United States (besides Montana for some reason) www.westernmigrations.net If you enjoyed this episode and want to learn more about different episodes, you can check here for detailed show notes and overviews. Rokcast Podcast Another great Rokcast on Migration Routes. ROKCAST MIGRATION 

Robby reads from Hunting Big Mule Deer: How to Take the Best Buck of Your Life. His chapter on Ambush Hunting is a must if you want to be a complete mule deer hunter. Before he dives in, he recaps some mule deer news and checks in with The Mule Deer Foundation’s spring edition of their magazine--always a good source for on-the-ground mule deer updates. As Robby always says, this stuff will make you a better deer hunter, and better at Ambush Hunting, too Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

#30 Tipsy Tuesday has Daykota Kime giving out Bow Tuning tips. Daykota's tuning tips will help everyone get their broadheads flying straight for the 2024 Cold Bow Challenge. Howard Mee lays out the new rule changes and gives us the inside scoop of the Cold Bow Challenge. Finally, Bill Vanderhyden from Iron Will Outfitters talks about the University of Colorado arrow vane study https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/university-study-arrow-vane-designs-for-improved-broadhead-flight.355752/ and Bill even goes into a few of his favorite tuning tips. Sam then shifts the talk toward the other Rokslide.com gear reviews [https://www.rokslide.com/category/gear/] and recaps the latest Western news. Day Six Gear-https://www.daysixgear.com/ 2024 Cold Bow Challenge- https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/2024-cold-bow-challenge.355440/ Iron Will Outfitters-https://ironwilloutfitters.com/ Howl for Wildlife https://www.howlforwildlife.org/take_action  Check out Rokslides 2023 Favorite Gear- Here Visit Rokslide's Rokcast Forum to submit questions, request a topic or give feedback. To be a guest on Tipsy Tuesday please send an email to Sam@Rokslide.com [ Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

We are winning the mountain lion fight in Colorado! Robby is back with Dan Gates of C.R.W.M with an update and why we can't let up now. Hunters can and must win this fight! Topics covered in this episode: Update on C.R.W.M since Travis Hobbs' January 1 episode here Funds raised Nonresidents contribute over 80% of individual donations! Are we winning? Why this fight won't stay in Colorado Post-Colorado Long Term Plan Listeners can get involved and support C.R.W.M & Dan Gates here Coloradans for Responsible Wildlife Management (savethehuntcolorado.com) See you August 10th at Colorado Sportsman Conservation Banquet here

Robby hosts today's episode of the Rokcast, covering multiple topics. From bow choice dilemma, to the "Art of Sticking Your Head Over the Rise," bucks transitioning from velvet to hard-antlered, to a 45-day buck hunt story, it's all in the episode on scouting to archery seasons He then chats with Toby Boudreau of the Idaho Fish and Game on mule deer fawn and calf elk over-winter survival before calling Travis Hobbs on his thoughts on scouting so far in 2024.  They talk about runt bucks, fuel moisture levels, some welcome rain, and their loose plans to maximize on the bucks they've found. The season is at our doorstep, so listen in to make sure you're as ready as possible transitioning from scouting to archery seasons. Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

This Tipsy Tuesday is Everything Kifaru with Aron Synder and Anders Christianson. We cover Kifaru's move to Riverton Wyoming, jump into new material choices, and close out with what future holds for Kifaru. This week's reviews start with Les Welch's Mathews Lift https://www.rokslide.com/mathews-lift-review/. Sam then has Dustin Diefenderfer to talk about workouts and what's new at MTNTOUGH (https://mtntough.com/). Sam then shifts the talk toward the other Rokslide.com gear reviews [https://www.rokslide.com/category/gear/] and recaps the latest Western news. Kifaru- https://kifaru.net/ Half Ass Hunting Academy https://www.unknownmunitions.com/product/half-ass-hunting-academy/. Mule Deer Days- Mule Deer Days Rock Springs Wy Howl for Wildlife https://www.howlforwildlife.org/take_action  Check out Rokslides 2023 Favorite Gear- Here Visit Rokslide's Rokcast Forum to submit questions, request a topic or give feedback. To be a guest on Tipsy Tuesday please send an email to Sam@Rokslide.com [ Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app  

Most of us have been there, it's the worst day you can have hunting. You tried to do everything right, yet somehow you made a bad shot and now you have a wounded animal. A truly emotional rollercoaster ride. Now, the trail has gone cold, and you just can't sort the track out any further. It doesn't get much worse than this when hunting. This is where Rocky Mountain Big Game Recovery just might be able to help. I was recently at the Mile High Hunt and Fish Expo and a booth caught my eye. Rocky Mountain Big Game Recovery, I walked up and met Scott Gillespie, the President and founder of sure enough, a non-profit organization out west that works to help hunters find wounded big game animals with leashed tracking dogs. How cool is that? In this episode, Scott highlights some of what they do, and how this all came about. I know I hope I never have to call them, but it's sure an awesome resource to know about if that horrible day ever does come. They are actively growing this organization, if this sounds like something you might be interested in doing they are also looking for trackers. To find out more, check out their website and if you're a facebook user, they also have a group there. www.rockymountainbiggamerecovery.org Rocky Mountain Big Game Recovery Facebook Group

Robby hosts Brandon Diamond on today's Rokcast.  Brandon is the Area Wildlife Manager for Colorado's Gunnison Basin and beyond.  Brandon has been on the Rokcast before here and brings a depth of knowledge and experience to managing Colorado's mule deer. They talk about the current over-winter survival for the Gunnison Mule Deer and other parts of Colorado.  They talk about the challenges of managing for a variety of users, buck:doe ratios vs. age class, the increasing pressure from technology and motorized access, and the upcoming 5-year management plan for Colorado. There is still time for hunters to comment on the proposed changes to season dates and more.  If you want more mule deer in Colorado, listen in and get involved in the upcoming Colorado Parks and Wildlife Meeting May 1-2 in Montrose here Colorado Parks & Wildlife - May 1 - 2, 2024 (state.co.us) They also talk about the number of Gunnison Mule Deer deer licenses issued under the current limited quota management verses the OTC management this system replaced in the late 1990s, including buck to doe ratios.  You might be surprised at this data! Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app  

Robby hosts Southeast Idaho Regional Wildlife Biologist, Eric Freeman, on today's Rokcast episode. Eric is tasked with the challenge of moving Idaho's Southeast mule deer herd into the future. Eric recently co-authored an article titled "Harsh Winters Mean Harsh Truths for Southeast Idaho Mule Deer". In this episode, they dive into over-winter counts on the Southeast Idaho Caribou mule deer herd, buck:doe:fawn survival and the interesting trend of bucks surviving at a higher rate than does.  Eric also discuss these engaging topics: -Why the survival difference variability on individual winter ranges in same units? -Hunter participation vs. buck harvest graph -Mule Deer Advisory Group Forming -Is it realistic to expect mule deer numbers to climb back to previous highs? -Historical data on buck:doe ratios during that hayday See the co-authored article by Eric Freeman here https://www.idfg.idaho.gov/article/harsh-winters-mean-harsh-truths-southeast-idaho-mule-deer Follow IDFG on Instagram @idahofishandgame Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

  This Tipsy Tuesday has experienced Bear hunters Roger Holscher and Chris Young walking us though their Tips for hunting Idaho. Roger and Chris are well-versed in the planning and logistics of this hunt, but every year is just a bit different. This trip is much earlier than in years past and we have a discussion about the best spring bear hunting time frames. This week's reviews start with Phillip Miller and the Rokslide members' giant optics review https://www.rokslide.com/the-rokslide-members-giant-optics-review/.Ryan Avery and Jake Mushaney gives us more details on the Half Ass Hunting Academy https://www.unknownmunitions.com/product/half-ass-hunting-academy/. Sam then shifts the talk toward the other Rokslide.com gear reviews [https://www.rokslide.com/category/gear/] and recaps the latest Western news. Mule Deer Days- Mule Deer Days Rock Springs Wy   Howl for Wildlife https://www.howlforwildlife.org/take_action  Check out Rokslides 2023 Favorite Gear- Here Visit Rokslide's Rokcast Forum to submit questions, request a topic or give feedback. To be a guest on Tipsy Tuesday please send an email to Sam@Rokslide.com [ Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

Robby hosts Kevin Monteith of the Monteith Shop on today's episode.  Kevin is one of the leading researchers on mule deer and other ungulates. Based out of the University of Wyoming, their mission statement is "Advancing Science and Management, One Data Point at a Time." You can follow the Monteith Shop here Robby and Kevin jump into the difference between a shop and a lab and why it matters to deer hunters. And they cover the emerging research on mule deer out of the Wyoming Range and beyond. Kevin answers the question: Are there big deer in Wyoming outside of the Wyoming Range? Good deer hunters stay up on the research and in these trying times for mule deer, good research is essential. They also give a preview to the upcoming Mule Deer Days to be held in Rocksprings, Wyoming Thursday May 2nd through Saturday May 4th by our friends the Muley Fanatic Foundation. Find more information here and we hope to see you at Mule Deer Days. Kevin Monteith and The Monteith Shop will be presenting current research at the event. Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

The mule deer migration has begun in many areas of the West.  Robby gives an update on that and then takes a look at the water situation across the West for mule deer.  He also announces the 2024 Cold Bow Challenge starting in May. Get your bow & broadheads ready! Then he's back into Hunting Big Mule Deer: Obeying the Wind and Still-Hunting.  If you want to tag better bucks, you can't ignore these techniques. Too many hunters only glass, and while a great technique (your #1 technique), there are times when the bucks just aren't glassable.  You gotta get into thier living rooms to kill them and the best way to do that is with the wind in your favor and moving like a snail.  It's tough to kill bucks this way but some bucks can only be killed this way. Listen in as Robby reads from his 2015 book, Hunting Big Mule Deer. Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

This Tipsy Tuesday has Australians Clinton Miller and Mark Pitts walking us though the basics of tackling a DIY New Zealand hunting trip. Miller and Pitts have over a decade DIY New Zealand hunting trips under their belts so are well versed in the planning and logistics of this adventure. This DIY hunting trip is more attainable than most Americans think, listen to find out how. This week's reviews start with Unknown Munitions HAHA event https://www.unknownmunitions.com/product/half-ass-hunting-academy/. Zach Harold talks about testing the Hoyt Alpha X bow https://www.rokslide.com/hoyt-alpha-x-bow-review/. Next up is Mike Moore's Hilleburg Niak review https://www.rokslide.com/hilleberg-niak-review/ and finally Justin Rasmussen from Razco Gear https://www.razcogear.com/ takes us though the ROMR setup. Sam then shifts the talk towards the other Rokslide.com gear reviews [https://www.rokslide.com/category/gear/] and recaps the latest western news. New Zealand Dept of Conservation-https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/things-to-do/hunting/ Wyoming Wildlife Federation-Dream Big Commissioner Tag Raffle - Wyoming Wildlife Federation Western Hunter- Inside the chaos and secrecy surrounding the release of 10 wolves in Colorado by Mike Duplan-https://westernhunter.net/information/inside-the-chaos-and-secrecy-surrounding-the-release-of-10-wolves-in-colorado/ Join the discussion on Arizona's departure from wildlife auction tags-https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/arizona-does-away-with-auction-tags.351967/ Howl for Wildlife https://www.howlforwildlife.org/take_action  Check out Rokslides 2023 Favorite Gear- Here Visit Rokslide's Rokcast Forum to submit questions, request a topic or give feedback. To be a guest on Tipsy Tuesday please send an email to Sam@Rokslide.com [ Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

Dr. Larsen and Dr. Mcmillan receive "Conservationist of the Year" at the 2023 Hunt Expo The last thing you are going to hear any "coffee shop biologist" say, is that fewer bucks on the landscape would make more fawns. In fact, every expert knows the only way we are ever going to "increase deer populations" is to cut tags and limit hunting bucks. I mean, look at all the units out west with extremely limited buck hunting, the mule deer populations are EXPLODING there! Right?! Well..... ok maybe not. Why? If reducing buck mule deer tags is beneficial, why aren't those populations exploding? The truth is, and yes, even in 2023 no matter how they identify, the doe deer or females in the population "grow the herd". Think of it like this, a rancher would never have a pasture full of bulls when he can have that same pasture full of mother cows. He is going to have enough bulls to breed his cows, that gives him maximum productivity. There of course comes a social component to hunting, and YES, hunters want to see bucks, big bucks. Where is the best place to manage buck to doe ratios? That is the million dollar question that; spoiler alert, we don't answer. However, Dr. Randy Larsen and Dr. Brock Mcmillan of the BYU Ecology lab jump on todays podcast to share some professional light on it, as well as talk about a variety of things involving mule deer biology and what they are learning. These guys are some of the best in their field and heavily involved with some of the foremost mule deer research there is. As always, I think this podcast will help hunters get a deeper understanding of some of the biology and science that is Mule Deer Management. Pregnancy Rates comparing 14:100 vs. 26:100 Buck:Doe Ratio Cause Specific Mortality is important information Dr. Brock Mcmillan on the Gohunt Podcast Dr. Larsen on the Rokcast Podcast last year with Robby Denning Dr. Larsen on Feeding Deer Podcast

Robby hosts Jeff Short, Wildlife Biologist for the Wyoming Game & Fish.  Jeff is a previous guest on the Rokcast. Last summer he shared his research on Antler Point Restrictions. On today's episode, Jeff and Robby go over the recently released data on the survey of the Wyoming Range mule deer. Wyoming recently released the official report on the 2022/2023 winterkill on the Wyoming Range. This report indicates nearly two-thirds of that herd was lost to that winter, dropping from 30,000 deer to 11,000 deer between surveys conducted in February 2023 and February 2024 They define Wyoming Range Boundaries and discuss why the survey was conducted two years in a row.  The survey showed fawn:doe ratios dropped to 34 while buck:doe ratios fell to 24.  Jeff talks about what it will take to recover this herd and the fact that deer on the winter range now have already started their recovery with good body fat levels and range conditions. If you'd like to read more on this topic, see the article by Mark Heinz at the Cowboy State Daily here Game And Fish: Two-Thirds Of Prized Wyoming Mule Deer Herd Killed Last Winter | Your Wyoming News Source (cowboystatedaily.com)

Robby hosts today's Rokcast.  He covers high-level glassing for big mule deer, and touches on Travis Hobb's recent episode, "Your Angled Spotting Scope is Holding You Back." here Robby also covers a popular thread in the optics subforum, "Zeiss Victory SF Review," here recently renewed by Rokslide member B_Reynolds_AK on the superb performance of the Zeiss SF 32 mm binocular platform. He makes the case that the SF bumps up against the venerable Swarovski NL 32s.  Blasphemy to some, but go check that thread yourself.  You can also save some weight and save some money by jumping on that thread. Robby also gives a scouting update: two trips with zero deer sightings, but another trip with six bucks spotted and a shooter! Kind of expected in the years following winter die-off. He goes on to explain the concept of Scout Big Hunt Small here and why plan B doesn't always mean switching areas. Rokslide's Best Hunt Photo contests are now live for Mule Deer, Sheep, Elk, and Whitetail on our hunting forums here Sponsored by Kryptek, Stone Glacier, Kifaru, and First Lite, members stand to win thousands in some of the leading gear in the industry including three Kifaru ARK frames with bag of choice, $1,000 in the Kryptek Store, a Sky Solus 1P Tent, and the First Lite CORE Jacket and Bib.  Photos must be from a 2024 hunt and don't necessarily have to be grip 'n grin photo. Finally, Robby jumps into his extensive glassing chapter in his book, Hunting Big Mule Deer.  He covers glassing technique from archery range to five miles.  If you're glassing for big mule deer, this episode is for you. Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

Robby hosts his friend Cliff Gray on today's episode.  Cliff was one of the most popular guests for 2023, and rightly so. Cliff has an extensive hunting background from DIY to Outfitter and all points in between. Cliff's hunted from the Caribbean to Colorado to Canada on everything from his own feet to horses and mules.  Hard to find something he hasn't experienced. On today's episode, they chat on a variety of topics, including Cliff's newly launched podcast, Pursuit with Cliff Gray here Pursuit With Cliff - Cliff Gray on Apple Podcasts or anywhere you listen to podcasts. Other topics on today's episode: Colorado's wolf & mountain lion issues from a resident's perspective. Colorado's proposed regulation moving Archery Elk from OTC to Draw? And proposed changes to Mule Deer Seasons like an Archery opener on Aug 15, moving rifle seasons back to traditional dates, and adding a possible earlier opening 1st season deer. They wrap up with why the original Social Media--Forums--might still be the best Social Media for hunters Follow Cliff's Hunting Adventures at any of these links: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/CliffGray Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/Cliffgry/ Facebook - https://facebook.com/PursuitWithCliff Pursuit With Cliff Gray Podcast https://pursuitwithcliff.com/interviews-and-podcasts/ Cliff's Hunt Planning and Strategy Membership https://pursuitwithcliff.com/membership/ Hunt. Fish. Spear. (Experiences, Courses and Seminars) https://pursuitwithcliff.com/Experiences Merch https://pursuitwithcliff.com/shop/ SUBSCRIBE TO CLIFF'S NEWSLETTER: https://PursuitWithCliff.com/#Newsletter

Travis Hobbs & Robby Denning host Phil Mendoza of the Mile High Hunt & Fish Expo slated for April 5th-7th in Denver.  This is the maiden year of this Expo.  They talk about how this Expo was designed from the ground up for building the hunting community--everything from conservation, to equipment, to entertainment. Read on to get the Mile High Hunt Expo Promo Code and more information on this very exciting event. Travis & Robby will be hosting a seminar to kick off the Mile High Hunt Expo weekend at 3:30 Friday, 4/5 titled "Hunting Big Mule Deer: Early to Late Seasons. Here's a preview of their seminar Hunting Big Mule Deer: Early to Late Seasons: Travis: Hunting Big Early Season Mule Deer Why hunt early season Two parts to early season Velvet Mule Deer Hard-Antlered Mule Deer  Robby: Late Season Late Season includes the rut Three phases to the rut Early Rut Peak Rut Late Rut Tips for hunting all three phases.  We hope to see you at the seminar and the Mile High Hunt and Fish Expo! Use Promo Code: ROKSLIDE2024 at Mile High Hunt and Fish Expo 2024 here Mile High Hunt and Fish Expo 2024 Tickets, Fri, Apr 5, 2024 at 12:00 AM | Eventbrite You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

Today's Tipsy Tuesday has Kyle Virgin sharing his insight on building one of the most adaptable rifles systems in Alaska - The Hobbit Rifle. It was dubbed the Hobbit rifle for its compact size, thirst for adventure and simple fact it loves to eat! This week's reviews start with Mike Moore's take on the Stika Ambient UL Hoody https://www.rokslide.com/sitka-ambient-ul-60-hoody-review/ we move on to Torrin Miller and the Echelon Ultralite rifle stock https://www.rokslide.com/echelon-cf-versa-ultralight-stock-review/ Sam then shifts the talk towards the other Rokslide.com gear reviews [https://www.rokslide.com/category/gear/] and recaps the latest western news.   The Hobbit Rifle thread- https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/the-hobbit-rifle.181028/ Howl for Wildlife https://www.howlforwildlife.org/take_action  Check out Rokslides 2023 Favorite Gear- Here Visit Rokslide's Rokcast Forum to submit questions, request a topic or give feedback. To be a guest on Tipsy Tuesday please send an email to Sam@Rokslide.com [ Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

It seems that anywhere Boone & Crockett mule deer grow there is potential for solar development. On today's episode, Robby hosts Joel Webster and Rob Thornberry of the Theodore Conservation Partnership (TRCP) Recently the Bureau of Land Management proposed solar installation on public lands covering 22 million acres in 11 western states.  This matters to mule deer hunters and other big game hunters because solar development is fenced, blocking Mule Deer Migration Routes and other wildlife from using an area. If the fencing occurs on critical mule deer migration routes, this could cut off big game from accessing important summer and winter ranges.  With deer herds already down across much of the West, this could just make matters worse by making vital big game habitats unusable. They talk specifically about the hunting units at stake, especially Idaho deer and pronghorn units. Then they jump into the remaining western states, naming herds with significant conflict in each state, such as the Paunsaugunt in Utah and the Kaibab in Arizona. This important episode should serve as a reality check about the future. Joel and Rob wrap up the episode with information on what hunters and anglers can do about it.  Involved hunters are conservationists and are the thin line between healthy and unhealthy big game herds, so please listen in and get involved. Protect Mule Deer Migration Routes by visiting TRCP website here at www.trcp.org/solar Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app Below are the Mule Deer and Pronghorn migration routes referenced in today's episode: You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

If you want to hunt more big bucks, you have to learn what mule deer on the edge really means.  Today, Robby hosts Habitat Biologists Troy Fieseler and Luke Schultz of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Stationed in the Pinedale Region, Troy and Luke are responsible for managing the habitat of the Wyoming Range mule deer herd and beyond.  They discuss many topics that can make you a better mule deer hunter. Topics like the population dynamics in mountainous vs. desert climates and how they are almost polar opposites; one has no problem putting fawns on the ground while the other rarely experiences winter kill.  They also define what mule deer habitat is, (summer and winter range) and go in to what mule deer prefer and need to not just survive but thrive. Finally, and most importantly, they discuss what we as hunters can do to improve and protect habitat for mule deer. Be a better buck hunter and learn about mule deer on the edge. Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

Today's Tipsy Tuesday is straight from the Western Hunting Expo featuring Rob Gearing from Spartan Precision Equipment https://javelinbipod.com/. Mr. G walks us through the Spartan Precision Equipment lineup and which applications best fit each of their multiple offerings of bipods, tripods, and even quad rifle supports. Listen as Mr. G gives Spartans answers from the competitive shooter all the way to the lightweight mountain hunter. We have Jessica Brown from Stocky Stocks https://stockysstocks.com/, and she takes us through Stocky new innovative in-house carbon fiber injection process. Brad Brooks co-founder of Argali Outdoors https://argalioutdoors.com/ talks about old favorites, new releases, and things coming down the pipe to watch for in the near future. Sam closes out with Dustin Defendeffer of MNTTOUGH https://mtntough.com/. The time is now to start thinking about getting up and down those steep mountains come fall. You can catch more Rokslide.com gear reviews [https://www.rokslide.com/category/gear/] at the link. MNTTOUGH's 6 weeks free with- MTNPOD Howl for Wildlife https://www.howlforwildlife.org/take_action Check out the 2023 Rokstaff Favorite Gear- 2023 Rokslide Staff and Moderator Favorite Gear Picks - Rokslide [ Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

On today's episode, Robby helps you be a better hunter. Better hunters stay up on the news and regulations in the hunting industry, and support conservation.  His first guest is Jaden Bales of The Wyoming Wildlife Federation and Hunt West They touch on proposed changes coming to Colorado for elk and deer in the 2025-2029 Big Game Season Structure Then it's Travis Hobbs next. They chat about Idaho's proposed fee for shed hunters, and a possible change to Idaho's Non-resident tag allocation process.  Then they're onto some good news coming out of Utah on the great winter mule deer are enjoying in 2024, and share some stats from Dr. Randy Larsen @wildlifeprof on fawn survival rates and more. Robby also congratulates Travis on his recent win of the Conservation Person of the Year awarded at the Western Hunting & Conservation Expo for Travis' work on the mule deer feeding project in 2023 in Northern Utah.   Like Travis, get involved in all things affecting big game hunting in the West. Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here      .

Wanna be a better buck hunter? Then listen in... Based out of Green River, Wyoming & Established in 2012, the Muley Fanatic Foundation exists to ensure the conservation of mule deer and their habitat and to provide such supporting services to further the sport of hunting and sound wildlife management. The Muley Fanatic Foundation kicked off their Inaugural Event, Mule Deer Days, in 2023 in Rocksprings, Wyoming.  That event alone allocated $472K to projects like the Wyoming Hiway 189 Wildlife Crossing, and other mule deer habitat projects. On today's episode, Robby hosts Joshua Coursey, President & CEO of the Foundation, to tell us more about this year’s Mule Deer Day's event that takes place May 2-4th in Rocksprings, Wyoming.  Be sure and listen in and attend if you can.  Learn more about the Muley Fanatic Foundation here Listen here for past episodes on Mule Deer Days

Today's Tipsy Tuesday has Josh Ellis sharing his insight to what you should be discussing with your guide before you arrive at camp. What expectations should you be discussing with your guide to ensure you have a great experience? For the DIY hunters we have Sam Britch from Alaskan 4X4 rentals to share some tips on getting to Dalton highway.  This week's reviews start with Matt Cashell Outdoorsmans Innegra Tripod https://www.rokslide.com/outdoorsmans-g2-carbon-innegra-tripod-and-g2-pan-head-review/ move on to Brock Akers and Final Rise Summit XT vest https://www.rokslide.com/final-rise-summit-xt-vest-system-review/ Sam then shifts the talk towards the other Rokslide.com gear reviews [https://www.rokslide.com/category/gear/] and recaps the latest western news. Josh Ellis Instagram- ellis_expeditions 2023 Rokstaff Favorite Gear- 2023 Rokslide Staff and Moderator Favorite Gear Picks - Rokslide Howl for Wildlife https://www.howlforwildlife.org/take_action [ Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

Before diving into Hunting Big Mule Deer, Robby touches on the decline of Grip & Grin images that are winning the annual Rokslide Best Hunt Photo contests. Are people looking for something different when sharing hunt photos?  Does it help our hurt hunting's image?  Hunters always need to be careful when sharing images among mixed crowds. Non-hunters don't always understand the entire hunt process if they only see a grip & grin. They need to see the entire process of the hunt, from planning, to hunting, to harvesting & cooking the meat. Most non-hunters are supportive of hunting for the meat but the anti's try to cloud the issue with terms like "trophy hunting" to imply we don't use the meat. That's a crime!  So be careful what you share and remember that we represent hunting to the millions of non-hunters who ultimately decide the fate of hunting. Robby then jumps into the next chapter of HBMD: Moving in Deer Country.  How a hunter moves in deer country matters! Mule deer have great eyesight and hearing. To overcome those senses, Robby talks about slowing down in the deer woods. Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

Watch Rokslide writer, Tony Trietch bowhunt the great state of Nevada for giant bull elk! Video: https://youtu.be/mi7Ev5gdsuI?si=PYVp3x09YYRNvA-h

The Western Hunting and Conservation Expo February 15th-18th 2024 Salt Palace Convention Center- Salt Lake City, Utah On today's short podcast we jump into a few of the different events scheduled for this weekends expo. For more detailed information, tickets and updated schedule check out http://www.huntexpo.com Mule Deer Foundation http://www.muledeer.org Sportsman For Fish and Wildlife http://www.sfw.net You can join the discussion in the forums here-https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/western-hunt-expo-who-is-going.346320/  

Matt Cashell is Rokslide's long-time optics writer. If anyone on the staff wants to know a particular about optics, we track Matt down.  On today's episode, Robby hosts Matt to discuss the value in evaluating hunting optics via digiscoping. Does it work? Why not? Is there a better way for hunters interested in comparing optic performance? Matt and Robby get deep on this but also share a simple checklist any hunter can use when evaluating hunting optics. Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here     

  Today's Tipsy Tuesday has Cory Smith sharing his vast knowledge of Destination Hunting. Cory's experience was honed completing a Super Slam in 2019 along with two Sheep Grand Slams. Corey gives us an overview of destination hunting - from choosing the right outfitter and which questions to ask, to what pitfalls are out there. Cory's shares some of his gear selection and how to safety ship your essential equipment around the continent and get your trophy back home. This week's reviews start with Brock Akers Crispi Shimek-https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/crispi-shimek-gtx-review-updated-01-20-24.323591/ move on to Kyle Sandusky and the Maven RS1.2 Riflescope https://www.rokslide.com/maven-rs1-2-riflescope-review/   followed by Matt Cashell and the Kowa 66A https://www.rokslide.com/kowa-prominar-66a-review/. Sam then shifts the talk towards the other Rokslide.com gear reviews [https://www.rokslide.com/category/gear/] and recaps the latest western news.   Maven RS1.2 Thread- https://rokslide.com/forums/threads/maven-rs1-2-2-5-15x44-new-model.333202/ Enter the Best Whitetail Deer Hunt Photo Contest 2023 Best Whitetail Photo Contest Enter the Youth Best Photo Contest 2023 Best Youth Photo Contest sponsored by Western Edge Gear 2023 Rokstaff Favorite Gear- 2023 Rokslide Staff and Moderator Favorite Gear Picks - Rokslide Howl for Wildlife https://www.howlforwildlife.org/take_action [ Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app

Robby hosts his bro-from-another-mo Marc Muleyslayer Smith. They talk about their upcoming seminar at Western Hunting Expo, but also get into buck-shaming on social media, fighting the anti's, and a call for all hunters to stand up for Colorado in their fight to conserve hunting.  Important episode so please listen and share. Marc Muleyslayer Smith hopes to see you at the 2024 Western Hunting & Conservation Expo here Come meet Marc Muleyslayer Smith at the Western Hunting and Conservation Expo here Western Hunting & Conservation Expo – This is Conservation! (huntexpo.com) Rokcast is powered by onX Hunt. For 20% off, use Promo Code “Rokcast” at onX Hunt here https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app You can find Robby’s books, Hunting Big Mule Deer and The Stories on Amazon here or signed copies from the Rokslide store here