Western Rookie - Lessons Learned From First Western Hunts

Discover the wild truth about chasing elk — not with perfect gear or endless time, but through overcoming mountain adversity and mental grit. If you're dreaming of your first Western hunt or feeling daunted by elevation, heavy packs, and steep hikes, this episode is your inspiration to take that leap.Join Dan Johnson as he speaks with Jake Ramsey, a Pennsylvania hunter who transformed his approach from novice to mountain-ready. Despite never hunting elk before, Jake recounts his honest journey—mountain climbs with 90-pound packs, early failures, weather hardships, and the camaraderie that made it all worth it. He shares how physical fitness, mountain sign reading, and mental perseverance turned frustration into success, culminating in a memorable elk harvest.You’ll discover:The real challenges of high-elevation hunting, including how to physically prepare for mountains that crush your lungs and legsThe importance of mental toughness, teamwork, and managing setbacks on multi-day mountain huntsPractical advice on gear, terrain, and strategies that separate rookies from seasoned explorersHow weather, cattle, and unexpected obstacles can derail plans—and how flexibility makes successful harvests possibleWhy experiences and friendships matter more than trophies, and how hunting in wild places reshapes your perspectiveThis episode isn’t just about elk; it’s a guide for anyone feeling the call to the West but unsure how to get started. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes—physically, mentally, logistically—to hunt wild mountains with your own hands, Jake’s story will motivate you to plan, train, and embrace the challenge.Perfect for aspiring Western hunters, adventure seekers, or those simply craving stories of determination against rugged nature, this episode will leave you fired up for your own mountain journey. Your first or next hunt begins with the mindset you develop today.Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code SE for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.comCheck out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/hunting and enter EMPIRE25 for an awesome discount.Our Sponsors:* Check out Nathan and Sons at https://nathanandsons.com* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code EMPIRE for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com* Check out Troll Co Clothing and use my code EMPIRE25 for a great deal: https://www.trollco.com/huntingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy