The WHTL Podcast - Whitetail Deer Hunting Tactics, Stories & Expert Guests – Details, episodes & analysis

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The WHTL Podcast - Whitetail Deer Hunting Tactics, Stories & Expert Guests

Jake Hofer

Sports

Frequency: 1 episode/7d. Total Eps: 443

Welcome to Trail Cam Radio, as we dive into all things trail cameras, deer hunting, whitetails, wildlife research, outdoors, camera traps, and expert guest advice. Speaking from our own experience of running a trail camera company over the years, we hope to share as much valuable information through this deer hunting podcast.

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Score global : 27%

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#388 - If You Haven't Filled A Tag Yet Don't Panic, Do This Instead! with Thomas Mlsna

Tuesday, November 4, 2025 • Duration 01:13:58

Welcome to the WHTL Podcast, presented by Moultrie. Your source for Whitetail Deer Hunting Tactics, Stories & Expert Guests. In this episode, we're back on the road with repeat guest and friend of the channel Thomas Mlsna. We Discuss:

Don't assume deer movement from trail camera photos; they can be misleading.
Keep scouting throughout November; deer behavior changes rapidly.
If you're feeling discouraged, get out there and put in the effort.
Historical data is crucial; learn from past hunting experiences.
Pressure from hunting can push deer to lower-pressure areas.
Use community scrapes to gather intel on deer movement.
Anticipate deer behavior based on wind direction and food sources.
Be methodical in your approach; plan your hunts carefully.
Don't rely solely on trail cameras; they provide limited information.
Embrace the unpredictability of the rut; stay adaptable and observant.

And So Much More!

If you're serious about whitetail hunting tactics, understanding mature buck behavior, and staying ahead of the curve, you don't want to miss this episode.

Follow along on social!

IG - @WHTLDEER

TikTok - @WHTLDEER

YouTube - @WHTLDEER

Thanks again for all of the support from our partners—none of this would've been possible without them!

-Moultrie: https://bit.ly/moultrie_

-Hawke Optics | Use Code WHTL for 15% off: https://bit.ly/hawkeoptics_

-OnX: https://bit.ly/onX_Hunt

-Painted Arrow: ⁠⁠bit.ly/PaintedArrow

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#377 - The Lee Lakosky Interview: What Its ACTUALLY Like Being A Hunting TV Host

Tuesday, October 28, 2025 • Duration 02:02:26

Welcome to the WHTL Podcast, presented by Moultrie. Your source for Whitetail Deer Hunting Tactics, Stories & Expert Guests. In this episode, we're back on the road with someone who needs no introduction, the one and only Lee Lakosky. We Discuss:

The podcast emphasizes the importance of authentic conversations over scripted content.
Lee discusses the significant impact Tiffany has had on women's participation in hunting.
The couple's home reflects their passion for hunting and features reclaimed wood with history.
Lee shares nostalgic memories tied to the deer they've hunted and the stories behind them.
He highlights the misconception that he only has a TV show, revealing his diverse interests.
Lee prioritizes being a good father and husband above all else in his life.
EHD (Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease) is a major concern for Lee in deer management.
He expresses frustration over the focus on CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease) instead of EHD.
Lee reflects on the challenges and sacrifices made during their journey to success.
The conversation touches on the pressures of fame and the scrutiny from the hunting community.

And So Much More!

If you're serious about whitetail hunting tactics, understanding mature buck behavior, and staying ahead of the curve, you don't want to miss this episode.

Follow along on social!

IG - @WHTLDEER

TikTok - @WHTLDEER

YouTube - @WHTLDEER

Thanks again for all of the support from our partners—none of this would've been possible without them!

-Moultrie: https://bit.ly/moultrie_

-Hawke Optics | Use Code WHTL for 15% off: https://bit.ly/hawkeoptics_

#368 -The Future of Hunting: Hard Truths with Skip Sligh

Tuesday, August 26, 2025 • Duration 55:15

Welcome to the WHTL Podcast, presented by Moultrie. Your source for Whitetail Deer Hunting Tactics, Stories & Expert Guests. In this episode, we're back on the road in Iowa with Part 2 of our Candid Discussion on the Future of Hunting with Skip Sligh.

. We Discuss:

Healthy debate is essential for addressing issues in hunting and unifying hunters.
Access to hunting is declining, risking the sport for average people.
Poaching is a significant problem, often involving advanced technology.
Younger hunters are more educated but need to focus on the right reasons for hunting.
Social media can both help and hurt hunting by promoting unrealistic expectations.
Hunting celebrities should advocate for better regulations and resources.
Complacency in older generations has negatively impacted hunting's future.
Effective deer management requires understanding local populations and dynamics.
Businesses in the hunting space should be tasteful and support conservation efforts.
The future of hunting depends on engaging the next generation and improving regulations.

And So Much More!

Follow along on social!

IG - @WHTLDEER

TikTok - @WHTLDEER

YouTube - @WHTLDEER

Thanks again for all of the support from our partners—none of this would've been possible without them!

-Moultrie: https://bit.ly/moultrie_

-Hawke Optics | Use Code WHTL for 15% off: https://bit.ly/hawkeoptics_

-OnX: https://bit.ly/onX_Hunt

-Painted Arrow: ⁠⁠

#297 - Do This NOW To Tag Your Target Buck This Fall - Steve Pinkston

Tuesday, July 18, 2023 • Duration 01:12:34

In today's episode of The Exodus Podcast, we are back in the studio with Steve Pinnkston. We talk about the advantages of using e-bikes for hunting, highlighting their time-saving benefits and reduced environmental impact. Another episode delves into the mindset of a seasoned hunter during the rut, emphasizing the importance of being unbothered by getting busted and focusing on one deer at a time. Additionally, Steve discusses the significance of summer scouting for fall hunting success, as well as the changing tactics required for hunting due to shifts in deer behavior. We Discuss:

Using an e-bike saves time, reduces scent, and allows quicker access to hunting spots.
E-bikes have gained popularity in the past five years and have become essential for whitetail hunting.
Using e-bikes allows hunters to access their hunting spots faster and with less physical exertion.
E-bikes provide a lower impact compared to UTVs or ATVs, making them an ideal choice for stealthy hunting.
Getting out of a hunting location without disturbing the deer is crucial.
Preparing hunting areas and finding the right trees for stands in advance.
The effectiveness of trail cameras is limited compared to firsthand observation.
Summer scouting in out-of-state trips follows a similar process, but access and crowded areas require additional strategy.
Having access to multiple small parcels increases the chances of finding a buck worth hunting.
Studying individual deer, even if they're not the target, provides valuable insights for future hunts.
Getting busted in the summer doesn't impact hunting success in October or November.
The early season is an extension of the summer pattern and offers great hunting opportunities.
The value of a spotting scope
Balancing the risks of being detected by does with the reward of hunting the targeted buck.
Cameras are essential for monitoring transition areas and learning deer movement patterns.

And So Much More!

Connect:

Click Here To Build Your Set Of Exodus NIS Arrows:

#296 - Is EHD Going To Wipe Out Your Deer Heard This Summer? with Skip Sligh

Tuesday, July 11, 2023 • Duration 01:12:12

In today's episode of The Exodus Podcast, we are back in Iowa with Skip Sligh. We talk about various topics related to deer farm management, the importance of supplemental feeding during droughts, abundance of browse and forage, nutrition value of stump growth, and proper timber management. The impact of EHD and Blue Tongue on deer populations, including the transmission and role of cattle in their prevalence, is also discussed. Additionally, the controversial issue of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is addressed, with emphasis on critically analyzing expert opinions and understanding its prevalence in the soil and transmission by various animals. We discuss:

EHD is a deadly virus transmitted by midges, causing hemorrhaging in deer
Dry conditions can increase the likelihood of EHD outbreaks, but they can also occur in wet years with fluctuating water levels
EHD outbreaks are not solely dependent on weather conditions
The potential extinction of whitetail deer due to CWD could have significant economic and ecological consequences
In 2019, Iowa experienced a significant outbreak of a new strain of EHD, resulting in high deer mortality in certain areas
Cattle can introduce new strains of EHD, with infected midges transmitting the disease to deer
Healthy deer with a nutritious diet tend to have a better chance of surviving EHD
Analyzing and critically thinking about the information on CWD is important
Killing off all the deer won't solve the problem if there is no cure or natural immunity.
Stump growth in trees is highly nutritious and contributes to the deer's overall health
Overdoing projects and pressuring the farm can do more harm than good
Summer pressure on mature bucks can still have a significant impact and should be minimized
Staying out of hunting areas during the summer and focusing on core projects set you up for success in the fall

And So Much More!

Connect:

Click Here To Build Your Set Of Exodus NIS Arrows:

https://exodusoutdoorgear.com/collections/custom-arrows/products/the-nis

#295 - Consistently Finding Mature Bucks After Moving To A Big Buck State with Justin Synan of the Run'n and Gun'n Podcast

Tuesday, July 4, 2023 • Duration 01:02:21

In today's episode of The Exodus Podcast, we are back in the studio with Justin Synan of the Run'n and Gun'n Podcast. We talk about his move from suburban Maryland to hunting in Kentucky, his hunting strategies, and his success in consistently killing mature bucks. We discuss:

Moving to Kentucky allowed Justin to hunt bigger deer with better genetics
Adjusting his tactics after moving to Kentucky
Using trail cameras to locate big deer in the big woods
Targeting specific bucks around the time when does are active
Focus on where the does are rather than trying to figure out where the buck is
Being methodical and having a goal in your scouting can lead to success
Scout with the wind in your favor, be surgical in your approach
The importance of persistence, never giving up, and learning from each season to progressively hone your skills as a bow hunter
Swtiching to saddle hunting after a Climber accident

And so much more!

Click Here To Build Your Set Of Exodus NIS Arrows:

https://exodusoutdoorgear.com/collections/custom-arrows/products/the-nis

Enter Here For Your Chance At A $750 Prize Package From Exodus and Latitude:

https://exodusoutdoorgear.com/pages/exodus-latitude-outdoors-giveaway?_pos=1&_sid=e1b0d40b5&_ss=r

CONNECT:
-https://linktr.ee/exodustrailcamera
-https://bit.ly/TheDeerGearPodcast
-https://linktr.ee/TheLandPodcast

#294 - Making Habitat Improvements To Drought Proof Your Farm! Jared Van Hess from The Habitat Podcast

Tuesday, June 27, 2023 • Duration 47:46

In today's episode of The Exodus Podcast, we are coming to you from the Total Archery Challange in Michigan with Co-Host of the Habitat Podcast Jared Van Hess. We chat about tips for attracting deer, dealing with drought, and improvements for the upcoming hunting season in Michigan. We also talk about the benefits of conservation easements and the thrill of improving your property. We discuss:

Aggressive tillage can increase susceptibility to drought
Protecting soil can make food plots more drought tolerant
Plant trees and water them once every two weeks, using gravity-fed watering systems
Water holes should be located in cover to attract deer and provide a natural path
A failed food plot can be retried, get some sort of cover on the soil, or wait for the fall
During June and July, focus on water holes, mock scrapes, and getting cameras ready
Landownership is often demonized, but it is a rewarding experience and a legacy for families
Water holes are underrated and important for wildlife survival during drought conditions
Tucking water hole in the edge where it is surrounded by brush on three sides to limit access
Land ownership can provide a legacy for future generations to enjoy

And so much more!

Click Here To Build Your Set Of Exodus NIS Arrows:

https://exodusoutdoorgear.com/collections/custom-arrows/products/the-nis

Enter Here For Your Chance At A $750 Prize Package From Exodus and Latitude:

https://exodusoutdoorgear.com/pages/exodus-latitude-outdoors-giveaway?_pos=1&_sid=e1b0d40b5&_ss=r

CONNECT: -https://linktr.ee/exodustrailcamera -https://bit.ly/TheDeerGearPodcast -https://linktr.ee/TheLandPodcast

#293 - Introducing The Brand New Exodus NIS .204 Diameter Hunting Arrow!

Tuesday, June 20, 2023 • Duration 52:12

In today's episode of The Exodus Podcast, we are unveiling our brand new Exodus NIS .204 diameter hunting arrow! The team discusses the development and benefits of the Exodus NIS Arrow, offering customization options. They also answer questions on arrow building, nocks, and broadhead weight. We discuss:

The NIS is a high-quality, multi-layered carbon shaft that offers strict tolerances for straightness and spine
The product development process focused on creating a lightweight arrow at a good price point
The NIS has a true .204 diameter shaft and is built with precision
It is a lighter weight shaft, offering more variability and a faster set-up
Eliminating weak spots found in traditional .204 builds with components
The NIS is crafted with strict straightness tolerances in mind
The NIS offers high performance at an affordable price
Two different insert options for more flexibility
CTI is still present in the NIS Arrow but is transferred differently due to its lightness
Spine alignment after cutting for arrow to arrow consistency
Added Fletching Options
Added Nock Options
Packing a punch further down range

And so much more!

Click Here To Build Your Set Of Exodus NIS Arrows:

https://exodusoutdoorgear.com/collections/custom-arrows/products/the-nis

Enter Here For Your Chance At A $750 Prize Package From Exodus and Latitude:

https://exodusoutdoorgear.com/pages/exodus-latitude-outdoors-giveaway?_pos=1&_sid=e1b0d40b5&_ss=r

CONNECT:
-https://linktr.ee/exodustrailcamera -https://bit.ly/TheDeerGearPodcast -https://linktr.ee/TheLandPodcast

#292 - What You Need To Know Planning for Out-of-State Hunts with Beau Martonik and Johnny Stewart

Tuesday, June 13, 2023 • Duration 01:04:29

On today's episode of the Exodus Podcast, Cameron chats with Beau Marton and Johnny Stewart at the Seven Springs Total Archery Challange about their different styles when it comes to planning for out-of-state hunts. They discuss strategies for finding safe zones for mature deer, including identifying areas with vegetation diversity and studying the terrain, tips for planning and scouting, emphasizing the importance of taking multiple years to get to know a state, and the importance of relying on reliable intel rather than emotions when making decisions while hunting. We discuss:

Identify your hunting goals before picking a state to hunt in
Plan on hunting a state for at least three years to get to know it
It takes time to plan and hunt in a new area
E-scouting is important, but useless if you dont put boots on the ground
Mature deer live in places where they feel safe, which may not be the most obvious areas.
Study the terrain to better understand how the deer will move
For early season hunting, a four-day plan is sufficient
Boots on the ground scouting and camera placement can help find these safe zones.
Hunting pressure can push mature bucks to seek safer areas.
Be optimistic and don't let missed opportunities bring you down
Focusing on states closer to home and with high deer densities to maximize his hunting time
Hunting in safe zones requires understanding deer patterns and tendencies
Trail cameras can help identify deer behavior and patterns.
Evaluating pros and cons of a hunting spot can reveal the need to move
Scouting and taking notes, as well as using trail cameras, can help with future hunts
Taking the emotion out of a situation can help make better decisions