Outdoor Ruhls

Episode 82: A Mother’s Love!In this Mother’s Day episode, Mike and Caitlin open with a family weekend in Glenwood, New Mexico, where the boys helped stock Gila trout, Robert caught his first Sonora sucker, and Caitlin had a true “mother’s instinct” moment when she jumped into a cold pool to help both boys after Emmit got in over his head.The episode then shifts into a conversation about mothers in the wild, including Caitlin’s close encounter with a grizzly sow and her yearling cubs while working in Yellowstone. From there, Mike, Poppy, and Aunt Beth sit down to remember Grandma June Gettle Ruhl — a talented artist, loving mother, proud grandmother, and deeply important presence in the Ruhl family, even for those who lost her too young to really know her.Aunt Beth shares stories of June’s artistic gifts, her work teaching residents at Cedar Haven to paint and do ceramics, her love of family, her calming presence, and the special bond they shared. The episode closes with reflections on how family traits, stories, love, and influence can pass through generations — even from people we barely got to know — and with gratitude for mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and the family friends who fill those roles in our lives.Find Outdoor Ruhls online:Website: www.outdoorruhls.comInstagram: @outdoorruhlsEmail: [email protected]

Episode 81: A Mother’s Love?In Part 1 of the Outdoor Ruhls Podcast Mother’s Day series, Mike sits down with Caitlin, Poppy, and his mom Karen for an honest and surprisingly emotional conversation about Mike’s grandmother, Elizabeth “Nutt” Hartlieb — a woman remembered as tough, stubborn, guarded, and often unable to show affection, even to the people she loved most.The episode opens with stories from a recent family turkey camp weekend, where kids, friends, and multiple generations gathered to hunt, laugh, and spend time outdoors together — a sharp contrast to many of the memories that follow. Through stories both funny and painful, the family reflects on Nutt’s difficult Depression-era childhood, her complicated marriage to the endlessly generous Pop Bud, and the lasting impact that emotional distance can have across generations. Along the way are unforgettable stories involving road trips that ended in Arizona, a surprise avocado-green refrigerator, family grudges, and the unique personalities that shaped the Hartlieb and McMinn families.But beneath the humor and storytelling is a deeper reflection about gratitude, affection, and choice. Mike reflects on how growing up around someone who struggled to express love ultimately taught him the value of warmth, kindness, and appreciation for the people who openly share those things. The episode closes with a heartfelt Mother’s Day message about family, resilience, and the importance of choosing to project love and positivity into the world — no matter where you came from.As always, find more episodes, recipes, and stories at www.outdoorruhls.com, email us at [email protected], and follow along on Instagram at @outdoorruhls.

Mike sits down with Uncle Sim and Poppy to explore the history of the Cornwall iron mines, from their role in early American industry to their impact on the local community. Uncle Sim shares firsthand stories of mining life and explains how iron ore was mined and processed in Lebanon County. The episode wraps with the mine’s closure after Hurricane Agnes and reflections on how it shaped both the region and the Ruhl family.

Episode 79: Love in the Time of Turkey SeasonIn this laid-back spring check-in, the crew gathers to catch up on life, family, and the outdoors during a busy and slightly chaotic time of year. From a full-on Ruhl family reunion back in Pennsylvania to a stretch of rapid-fire podcast recordings, the conversation reflects on recent episodes covering everything from zoos and conservation to Hershey history and Cornwall iron mining.Mike, Caitlin, Mark, and Rachel dive into the realities of spring: mower season vs. turkey season, weddings stacking up on weekends, and the challenges of finding time to get outside. At the center of it all is opening day of turkey season in New Mexico—Mike and Caitlin’s unofficial “Valentine’s Day”—where a close encounter with a stubborn gobbler turns into a memorable (if unsuccessful) hunt.The episode wanders in the best way, touching on gardening plans, Pennsylvania Dutch markets like Roots and Green Dragon, bass fishing updates from Matt, and the anticipation of upcoming family trips—including Cape Charles and dreams of getting the next generation fully hooked on deer camp life.It’s a mix of stories, laughs, and seasonal transitions—less about any one topic and more about the rhythms of family, tradition, and making time for what matters.🌐 Website: www.outdoorruhls.com📧 Email: [email protected]📸 Instagram: @outdoorruhls📘 Facebook: OutdoorRuhls🎧 Listen on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube

Episode 78: Pennsylvania Dutch Chocolate (The Hershey Story) — Show NotesIn this episode, the Ruhls are joined by Uncle Sim (94!) in the “Outdoor Ruhls East Studio” for a deep dive into the life and legacy of Milton S. Hershey—one of the most influential Pennsylvania Dutch figures in American history. The conversation traces Hershey’s unlikely path from repeated business failures to building a chocolate empire by perfecting the mass production of milk chocolate, transforming it from a luxury into an everyday treat. Along the way, the crew reflects on the values of perseverance, innovation, and learning from failure.What makes this episode especially personal is the direct connection to the Hershey story through Uncle Sim’s upbringing on a Pennsylvania dairy farm. He shares vivid memories of milking cows by hand, selling milk to the Hershey plant, and the strict quality standards enforced by Hershey inspectors—highlighting how the company shaped the entire regional economy. These firsthand stories bring to life the grit of farm life and the critical role local dairy families played in building the Hershey brand.The episode also explores Hershey’s broader legacy beyond chocolate, including his vision for a company town, the founding of Milton Hershey School, and his lasting philanthropic impact. From trolley systems and amusement parks to orphan care and education, Hershey’s influence still defines the region today. It’s a story of business, community, and generosity—told through family memories and local roots.Follow & Listen:Find more from the Outdoor Ruhls on your favorite platforms—Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube—and stay connected on Instagram for clips, updates, and behind-the-scenes content. For recipes, show notes, and more, visit outdoorrulhs.com.

Episode 77: Spring RuhlsIn this follow-up to the winter farm episode, the Ruhls gather in Quentin, Pennsylvania—joined once again by Uncle Sim—to bring the story into spring. As the thaw sets in, the work ramps up fast. March means one thing above all else: manure. From hand-forking frozen piles into spreaders to racing the mud and broken chains, the crew paints a vivid picture of just how physical and time-sensitive early spring farming really was. From there, the conversation moves into prepping fields—plowing, disking, harrowing, and planting—all powered by teams of horses that were as critical to the operation as any modern tractor.Sim shares detailed, firsthand accounts of life on a 100+ acre farm, including how different horse teams were used for specific jobs, the constant maintenance required to keep them working, and even the challenge of walking them miles to a blacksmith. The episode also dives into crop cycles—corn, oats, potatoes, and wheat—and the massive coordination required to harvest and thresh with neighbors. Stories of threshing crews, Depression-era laborers working for meals, and family cooperation highlight both the hardship and tight-knit community that defined the era.Beyond the work, Spring Ruhls captures the rhythm of life off the clock. From softball games (and the occasional church-league brawl) to Pennsylvania Dutch traditions like pitching quoits, the episode brings out the humor and culture of rural life. Sim also shares some legendary “kid behavior”—from billboard sabotage to late-night “serenading” of newlyweds in exchange for ice cream—offering a glimpse into how farm kids found their fun.The episode wraps with reflections on gardening, canning, and market life, emphasizing how nothing went to waste and everything had a purpose. As always, it’s a story about hard work, family, tradition, and the seasonal rhythms that shaped generations of Ruhls.Links & MoreFind more episodes, photos, and recipes at:🌐 www.outdoorruhls.comFollow along on Instagram:📸 @outdoorruhls

Episode 76: The Zoo Keeper ChroniclesIn this episode, Mike sits down with Dale and Denise Snyder—family members and lifelong animal people—for a wide-ranging conversation that blends family history, hard work, and an unexpected journey into the world of zoo keeping. From Dale’s upbringing on a Pennsylvania farm to a 40+ year career working with North American wildlife, the story unfolds as one of passion meeting opportunity in ways no one could have planned.Dale shares how a teaching degree and a summer job at a local park led him into a career caring for animals, eventually rising to a leadership role in a zoo focused on native species. Along the way, he and Denise recount unforgettable experiences—from raising mountain lions and rehabilitating injured otters to transporting crocodiles, alligators, and even a live bison across state lines. Denise adds her own perspective, including her path from certified welder to zoo volunteer and partner in the work, along with her deep appreciation for animals like reindeer and their remarkable adaptations.The conversation also explores the deeper purpose of modern zoos: education, conservation, and creating formative experiences that connect people—especially kids—to wildlife. Whether it’s helping a child overcome fear of snakes, supporting species recovery efforts, or working alongside state and federal agencies, Dale and Denise highlight the critical role zoos play in building the next generation of conservationists.At its core, this episode is about stewardship, family, and finding meaning in caring for the natural world. It’s a reminder that you don’t always have to follow a straight path to make a difference—and that sometimes, the most impactful lives are the ones that grow organically from where you start.Follow & Connect with Outdoor Ruhls:Website: www.outdoorruhls.comInstagram: @outdoorruhlsEmail: [email protected] you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform and sharing it with friends and family.

Episode 75: Disturbance by DesignThis week on the Outdoor Ruhls Podcast, Mike sits down with Karl Malcolm—conservation professional, lifelong outdoorsman, and one of the most compelling recent voices in the conservation space. Recently featured on the MeatEater Podcast, Karl brings a rare blend of deep scientific knowledge, field experience, and thoughtful perspective to a wide-ranging conversation about forests, wildlife, and the role humans play in shaping both.At the heart of this episode is a powerful (and sometimes misunderstood) idea: disturbance is not only natural—it’s necessary. From fire and logging to historic wildlife impacts like passenger pigeons and bison, Karl explains how healthy ecosystems have always been shaped by disruption. The absence of disturbance, especially in eastern forests, has led to declining habitat quality for species like ruffed grouse and American woodcock—and many others that depend on diverse, early successional habitats.Mike and Karl also explore:Karl’s unique career path, from the U.S. Forest Service to his current role as Vice President of Conservation for the Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock SocietyHis research on black bears in Wisconsin and China—and how those experiences shaped his worldviewWhy “habitat” is almost always the answer when wildlife populations declineThe tension between simple conservation messaging and complex ecological realitiesHow hunters—and non-hunters alike—can play a role in improving conservation outcomesThis is a thoughtful, big-picture conversation about conservation, one that challenges assumptions and reinforces a core truth: if we want better wildlife outcomes, we have to be willing to engage with the complexity of how ecosystems actually work.Reading List & InfluencesIf you enjoyed this conversation, here are a few works and authors discussed in the episode:A Sand County Almanac — Aldo LeopoldThe Lorax — Dr. SeussWildlife in America — Peter MatthiessenThe Search for the Genuine (featuring “Spring Coda”) — Jim HarrisonHow to Love a Forest — Ethan TapperGet InvolvedWant to support the kind of conservation work Karl is leading?Learn more or become a member: https://ruffed.orgListen to Karl’s recent appearance on the MeatEater Podcast:https://www.themeateater.com/listen/meateaterAs Karl and Mike discuss, conservation works best when more people are invested—whether through time, attention, or direct support. If you care about wildlife, forests, and the future of wild places, this is a great place to start.As always, you can find more from the Outdoor Ruhls Podcast at www.outdoorruhls.com and on Instagram @OutdoorRuhls.Thanks for listening.

Episode 74: A Picture’s Worth...In this episode, Mike and Caitlin are joined by GT for a conversation about old photographs, the memories they preserve, and the way a single image can instantly carry you back to a different time. What starts with digging through family photos for an Outdoor Ruhls social media project turns into a deeper reflection on family history, outdoor traditions, and the emotions tied to the pictures we keep.Mike shares a photo of himself as a teenager with his friend Dan after what he believes was each of their first Canada geese, a picture that prompted him to reconnect with Dan and relive the story behind it. GT brings a family photo from a California vacation at Convict Lake in the mid-1990s, using it to reflect on family trips, how different people show up in the same photograph, and how pictures can preserve not just faces but the feeling of being together. Caitlin shares a childhood photo from a canoe trip in Sylvania, remembering both the fun of the adventure and the frustration of being badly outfished by another kid in the boat.Mike then shares one of his most meaningful hunting photos: a candid shot of him, his dad, and Pop Grant after he killed his first doe as a 12-year-old in Pennsylvania. The picture captures more than the deer—it preserves a moment of pride, instruction, and connection between generations of family in deer camp. Later, Mike and Caitlin call Memaw and Poppy, and Memaw shares a remarkable old photograph of Aunt Lena’s store in Lebanon, Pennsylvania, where Pop Bud learned the baking skills that became part of his legacy. That conversation opens into memories of Pop Bud’s extraordinary baking, the family traditions that came from it, and the way recipes, like photographs, can carry family stories forward.This episode is about much more than photography. It’s about memory, legacy, family, and the small moments that become priceless with time. Some pictures are beautifully composed, some are candid, and some are technically nothing special at all—but the right one can still hold an entire world.Website: https://outdoorruhls.comEmail: [email protected]: @Outdoorruhls

Episode 73: Camping with KateMike and Caitlin kick off the episode by looking back at last week’s conversation with Mountain Hollow Game Calls and celebrating the new “official turkey call” status for the Outdoor Ruhls podcast. From there, they welcome one of their longtime Yellowstone friends, Kate Olsen, for a conversation that feels equal parts reunion, storytelling session, and tribute to the wild, formative years they all spent working in the backcountry.Kate shares how she grew up in central Pennsylvania, rowed in college at St. Lawrence, and drove west to Yellowstone almost immediately after graduation. What followed was a crash course in the realities of fieldwork in the American West: learning how to wear waders, carrying impossibly heavy packs, working with horses and mules, and diving headfirst into remote backcountry fisheries projects with almost no prior camping experience. The conversation revisits those early Yellowstone summers, especially the grueling work on Specimen Creek and Grayling Creek, where long hitches, huge loads, fire-scarred landscapes, and unpredictable conditions turned into some of the most unforgettable experiences of their lives.The episode then shifts into a fun “best, worst, and weirdest” camping conversation. Kate, Mike, and Caitlin swap stories about freezing nights, forgotten sleeping bags, violent storms, collapsing tents, sketchy backcountry moments, and the strange but unforgettable realities of life lived outside for weeks at a time. Along the way, they talk about the little pieces of gear they now consider essential, how their camping styles have changed over the years, and why those hard, messy, hilarious trips remain some of the most meaningful memories they share.At its heart, this episode is about friendship, resilience, and the kind of outdoor experiences that shape who you become. Mike, Caitlin, and Kate reflect on just how deeply those Yellowstone years still connect them—and why even after all the miles, jobs, and years that have passed, it still feels easy to pick up right where they left off.Website: www.outdoorruhls.comEmail: [email protected]: @outdoorruhls

Episode 72: The Legend of Mountain HollowSpring is creeping in, gobbles are echoing across ridges, and turkey season is officially on our minds. In this episode, Mike sits down with Jeremy Cressley and Adam Brewer of Mountain Hollow Game Calls, a small, family-run company with a 44-year legacy rooted in the hardwood ridges of Pennsylvania and New York. From booth days at the Harrisburg Great American Outdoor Show to the recent transition of ownership from longtime steward Ken Hamill to Jeremy, this is a conversation about tradition, craftsmanship, and keeping a hunting heritage alive.Jeremy and Adam share how Mountain Hollow grew from a regional Northeast following into a nationally recognized brand, fueled by loyal customers, NWTF partnerships, pro staff and field staff teams, and a whole lot of time spent talking turkeys at outdoor shows. Adam’s story comes full circle—from being a 13-year-old kid idolizing the guys behind the booth to becoming one of the faces of the company himself. It’s a reminder that sometimes the hunting community is built one conversation at a time.The guys break down the nuts and bolts of turkey calling—mouth calls (latex vs. prophylactic), box calls, double-sided friction calls, push buttons, locator calls—and how confidence and practice matter just as much as the call itself. They dive into public-land pressure, East vs. West turkey behavior, morning roost gobbles versus late-morning “lonely tom” action, and why sticking it out past 9:00 a.m. can change your season.Beyond the gear, this episode is about passion: the obsession that gets you up at 4:00 a.m., the heartbreak of slow seasons, the magic of a 10:30 a.m. shock gobble, and the bonds formed over shared hunts. We also touch on Mountain Hollow’s growing YouTube presence with their Hollow Ground series and their involvement with the One Wish Foundation, helping create unforgettable hunts for kids facing serious illness.If you love spring mornings, public land puzzles, and the sound of a gobble breaking the silence, this one’s for you.Links & ResourcesMountain Hollow Game CallsWebsite: https://mountainhollowgamecalls.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MountainHollowGameCallsOutdoor Ruhls PodcastWebsite: https://outdoorruhls.comEmail: [email protected]: https://instagram.com/outdoorruhls

Episode 71: A River Runs Through UsMike, Caitlin, Poppy, and Robert recap a family weekend trout trip to the world-famous San Juan River in New Mexico—one of the best trout fisheries anywhere, and only a few hours from home. Robert proudly reports on the highlights: cold mornings, frozen rod guides, lots of action early, and “pretty big” trout, while the adults compare notes on what they caught (mostly beautiful wild brown trout), how they fished (worms under bobbers, plus a jerkbait-style minnow lure), and why Robert is now lobbying hard for a pair of waders.The conversation dives into what makes the San Juan special: a cold, consistent tailwater below Navajo Dam that creates year-round trout habitat, an upper section with special regulations (single barbless hook), and the mix of stocked rainbows and wild browns—including the very real possibility of hooking a monster fish. Poppy shares some of his favorite moments from the trip: fishing by headlamp in 14-degree air, ducks and geese overhead, turkeys gobbling nearby, and that unbeatable feeling of being outside while the day wakes up.From there, Mike and Poppy take a nostalgic detour back to Pennsylvania trout culture—opening day traditions, 5:00 a.m. starts, claiming “your hole,” Dinty Moore beef stew on a camp stove, the Yellow Breeches pilgrimage near the hatchery, and the old deer camp weekends where a whole crew of dads and kids turned trout season into a family reunion. Along the way, they talk about the underestimated skill of bait fishing, reading the seam, dialing in weight and drift, and why trout fishing—no matter the method—has a way of anchoring you in the moment while still connecting you to family, memory, and time.The episode closes with a reflection on why trout fishing shows up so often in literature, capped by Mike reading the iconic A River Runs Through It passage about “the Arctic half-light” and how, eventually, “all things merge into one.” It’s equal parts trip report, family story, and love letter to rivers.Website: outdoorruhls.comInstagram: @outdoorruhls

Episode 70: Love RuhlsThrowback Episode: “Romancing the Spam” (Originally Episode 5)It’s been a busy week around Outdoor Ruhls. We’ve upgraded the Outdoor Ruhls West Podcast Studio, and Mark and Rachel have been hard at work on a special cooking project we can’t wait to share more details about soon. We’ve also scheduled a family reunion for the end of March, and Mike and Emmit are heading back to Pennsylvania to spend time with family—including Uncle Sim and Uncle Dick—with plans (hopefully) to record more stories about family history, the Hershey chocolate story, and the Cornwall Iron Mine / Cornwall Iron Furnace chapters. And with Valentine’s Day just behind us, Mike is excited to replay this throwback episode featuring his favorite person: Caitlin.In this special re-release, Mike and Caitlin revisit the early days of their story—how Caitlin grew up in Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin, spending summers outside, playing sports, and building an early connection to fishing and the outdoors through family trips and time on the water. Caitlin reflects on her student-athlete path, including her late start in track that turned into becoming a Wisconsin state champion in the 400 meters, and how her love for wildlife, with a big assist from Steve Irwin, helped steer her toward conservation.That conservation road leads straight to Yellowstone National Park, where Caitlin lands a Student Conservation Association internship and meets Mike. They talk about those intense early backcountry field days, learning the rhythms of wilderness work, and the now-legendary moment that inspired the original title: Caitlin’s first backcountry meal plan… featuring an unforgettable week of Spam.From there, the episode follows the path from coworkers to partners: Caitlin’s return to Yellowstone for the wolf program winter study, her work in wildlife health, the early days of building a life together in Montana, and Caitlin’s first big-game success—a Fort Peck mule deer stalk that ended with one of Mike’s all-time coaching moments: reload. The conversation eventually brings things home to New Mexico, where they’ve continued hunting, fishing, working in conservation, and raising two boys—Robert and Emmit—who are quickly becoming part of the Outdoor Ruhls story themselves.Website: outdoorrhuls.comInstagram: @outdoorrhuls

Episode 69 Show Notes: A Homestead Castle…In this episode, Mike sits down with his neighbor John Brown—one of the most industrious (and endlessly interesting) people in New Mexico—to unpack the wild, winding story behind their little corner of Santa Fe. What starts as a conversation about neighbors and an RV park quickly turns into a deep dive into homesteading, New Mexico history, family legacy, and the kind of DIY grit that built a life on a windy ridge south of town.Mike and John reminisce about the first time Mike and Caitlin drove out to look at a house—through an RV park, down a rough road, past a “junkyard,” and right into a welding-helmet introduction that somehow felt like home immediately. From there, John shares what life looks like today: helping run the 100-unit Santa Fe Skies RV Park, working as Safety Director for Bradbury Stamm Construction, supporting the family’s vacuum excavation business, and constantly building metal art sculptures out of salvaged scrap—from giant hearts to bottle trees and moving “pampas grass” sculptures that dance in the wind.Then the story goes way back. John explains how the property became Brown Castle Ranch, including his family’s connection to the Homestead Act, a deed signed in the era of FDR, and a “landlocked” parcel that most people didn’t want—until it became one of the most scenic spots in the region. Along the way, John tells stories about the ranch’s history, including his late brother Willie’s collection of antique machinery (hit-and-miss engines and WWII-era equipment), and the remarkable legacy of John’s grandmother—whose behind-the-scenes work in Forest Service public relations helped shape the early Smokey Bear era.The conversation also drifts into the bigger picture: Santa Fe’s growth, changing development pressures, and the never-ending puzzle of New Mexico water law—paper water vs. wet water—and how politics can shape everything from RV parks to suburban sprawl. And just when you think you’ve heard it all, John casually drops stories about being sent to Egypt at age 24 to rescue a million dollars’ worth of farm machinery from a port, and later traveling the world for motorcycle trials—from New Zealand to Namibia to scooters in Sardinia.It’s a classic Outdoor Ruhls-style conversation: local, personal, hilarious at times, and packed with the kind of stories you only get by sitting down with a neighbor who’s lived ten lifetimes—and still has time to weld art outside the window while you’re recording.Links & MentionsOutdoor Ruhls website: www.outdoorruhls.comInstagram: @outdoorruhlsSanta Fe Skies RV Park: SantaFeSkiesRVPark.comEmail: [email protected] always, thanks for listening—leave a review, share the episode with a friend, and send us your ideas for future guests and stories.

Show Notes — Episode 68: Expectation, Meet Reality…After a full year of anticipation, Mike and Caitlin finally get the crew up at 3:30 a.m. and hit the ice—only to get completely skunked. Not a bite, not a fish in sight… just one lone pike visible down the hole, like it was there purely to taunt them. Which sparks the episode’s theme: all those times the outdoors (and life) humbles your plans and hands you a totally different version than what you pictured.The Setup: Big Hype, Zero FishIce fishing season in New Mexico can be short and unpredictable, so when the lake opens you go. Mike, Caitlin, the boys, and Necie make the early push and fish hard for six hours—moving, changing tactics, running tip-ups, checking electronics… and still come up empty. The day becomes the perfect launch point for a classic Outdoor Ruhls tradition: turning disappointment into stories.Matt’s Classic: Getting “Marty’d”Matt joins the call and brings up the infamous Canada guided fishing trip—supposed to be muskie glory, but instead became the birth of a family phrase: getting Marty’d. Their guide Marty catches fish while the guys struggle, then drops the all-time unhelpful explanation: fish like the way some people smell better than others. The trip ends with Poppy requesting “no more Marty,” and Marty gets reassigned to wheelbarrow duty.Lake Erie Dreams… and Glass Water RealityMatt and Mike relive the trip where they chased Lake Erie smallmouth fame only to get pinned down by wind for days. When it finally lays down? The lake goes dead calm and crystal clear—so clear they can see their tubes on the bottom… and, conveniently, the total absence of fish. All the hype, none of the payoff.Mark’s Hunting Curveball: The E-Bike LetdownMark shares the story of buying e-bikes for deer camp—money spent, gear hauled, plans made—only to learn the trail they wanted to ride is off-limits. Instead of cruising in like futuristic backwoods commandos, it’s back to walking. It’s a perfect “expectation vs. reality” moment… with a side of Pennsylvania public land side-eye.Poppy & Meemaw: Snow, Stubbornness, and 52 Years of EvidenceMike calls Poppy and Meemaw, and the weekend’s “quick ice check” turns into a full-on snowbound adventure. Unplowed roads, blocked turnarounds, and a near-miss that has Meemaw flashing back to Cape Hatteras 1974—when a confident newlywed assured her the truck would be fine in the sand. The theme of the day becomes clear: no guts, no glory… but also, sometimes no guts, just stuck.Mike & Caitlin: Barbary Sheep and Corner-Crossing ConfusionCaitlin’s Barbary sheep hunt gets the full reality treatment: flat tire, brutal road, sheep spotted… and then two hunters magically appear ahead of them by crossing a questionable public/private corner. The sheep bed right on the boundary, forcing a tough decision and showing how unclear rules can change the entire outcome.Honeymoon Horseback Ride: The Worst Brochure Ever PrintedMike and Caitlin swap one of their best “we thought this would be romantic” stories: a Nicaragua horseback ride that looks dreamy in the pamphlet—but turns into a two-hour trotting marathon on skinny horses, on roads, through town, in heat and humidity, with maximum chafing and minimal joy. Three beach pictures later, it’s back to trotting like their lives depend on it.GT’s Houseboat Fiasco: Rainy Lake vs. RealityGT tells the legendary Rainy Lake houseboat trip: the brochure promised a Northwoods yacht experience, but the reality was a floating 1960s camper, mechanical issues, storms, brotherly shouting in rocky channels, and a DEET sprayer that blasted mosquito repellent over dinner like seasoning. The cherry on top: months later a “gift” arrives postmarked from Canada—a DEET sprayer—thanks to a perfectly executed prank.The TakeawaySometimes the outdoors doesn’t deliver the trophy—or even a bite—but it delivers stories you’ll tell for decades. Episode 68 is a reminder that “bad” trips often become the best memories… once you’re warm, dry, and far enough away from the moment to laugh about it.As always, you can find all of the Outdoor Ruhls content on the website www.outdoorruhls.com, and on Instagram @outdoorruhlspodcast. The podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube—and you can always reach out via email at [email protected].

Episode 67 Show NotesA Ruhl’s Best Friend…In this episode, Mike and Caitlin check in with Mark and Rachel from the Outdoor Ruhls East studio for a heartfelt (and funny) conversation about dogs—the ones we’ve lost, the ones who shaped our lives, and the ridiculous trouble they sometimes get into. The episode centers on saying goodbye to Hatch, Mark and Rachel’s beloved Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and spirals into classic dog stories: skunks, stolen treats, fishhooks, and the kind of loyalty you only get from a four-legged best friend.In This EpisodeTwo studios, two households, one theme: dogs as familyMark and Rachel’s goodbye to Hatch (and what made him so special)Why Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are built different: water-loving, tough, and emotionally tuned-inMike’s legendary dog Gus/Atticus stories—including the smoked trout “crime scene”Caitlin’s childhood cocker spaniel Murphy: Thanksgiving chaos, counter-surfing, and stolen treatsThe skunk incident that turned a pheasant hunt into a hazmat situationThe accidental lesson everyone learns eventually: you can’t go “just look” at puppiesThe truth about dog sunscreen (yes… including that part)Bonus: a St. Bernard + black lab “mystery litter,” groundhog wars, and a terrifying possum chaseFeatured Dogs (and Legends)Hatch (Chessie) – Loyal, gentle, empathetic, and the ultimate companionGus / Atticus – The obedient gentleman… except for that one smoked troutNewt (Lab x Chessie) – Sweet, sensitive, semi-feral, and occasionally on the wrong side of the lawMurphy (Cocker Spaniel) – Food-obsessed escape artist and treat thiefBarkley (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) – Learned to swim… then fought a muskrat and ate a hookTrigger (St. Bernard x Black Lab) – Gentle giant, groundhog terminator, possum-fearing sprinterMemorable MomentsHatch “ruing” one last time on his final dayMurphy eating an entire apple pie… and smelling like apples afterwardThe skunk mix-up: “That’s a cat… wait… that’s NOT a cat.”Barkley’s pond era: from “learning to swim” to “defending the koi pond”The dog sunscreen debate—settled once and for allQuotes Worth Remembering“We don’t deserve dogs… especially not the really good ones.”“You don’t go and look at puppies.”“If not friend, why friend-shaped?”Where to Find UsWebsite: www.outdoorrhuls.comInstagram: @outdoorrhulsListen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

Episode 66 — O’Hare? Oh No!Mike opens this episode with a rare confession: he doesn’t usually listen back to the podcast once it’s edited—but last week’s episode with Uncle Sim was different. After going back and listening as a fan, Mike reflects on just how special it is to hear firsthand stories from someone born in 1932, whose lifetime spans from horse-powered farming with barely any electricity to smartphones and space travel. He shares why that episode mattered so much, wishing Uncle Sim a happy 94th birthday and talking about the importance of preserving voices, stories, and a sense of community that feels increasingly rare.That reflection sets the tone for a thoughtful episode about community, perspective, and knowing when to keep going—or when to bail. Mike talks about how the family farm wasn’t just family-centered, but a hub for a broader community made up of different cultures, languages, and traditions, all coming together through work, food, hockey, and shared effort. It’s a reminder that what many people miss about “the past” isn’t the hardship—it’s the connection.The episode then shifts to the present, where plans don’t always work out as hoped. Mike and Caitlin recount their aborted attempt to fly to Pennsylvania for flintlock muzzleloader season—a trip derailed by mechanical delays, missed connections at O’Hare, sick kids back east, and a tough call at the ticket counter in Albuquerque. Disappointed kids, cancelled hunts, and a quick pivot back home lead into a broader conversation about outdoor judgment calls: when to push forward and when the signs are clearly telling you to walk away.Caitlin shares a vivid story from a turkey hunt near Abiquiú that perfectly captures the theme. Ignoring her gut feeling led to a dangerous cliff descent, a falling slab of rock, and Mike crawling out of the woods with a badly sprained ankle. It’s a funny story in hindsight—but also a powerful lesson in listening to instincts, especially in wild places.From there, the conversation opens up into what’s ahead for Outdoor Ruhls. Mike and Caitlin brainstorm future episodes inspired by recent conversations and family history, including deeper dives into Pennsylvania farm life by season, local mining and ironworks history in Lebanon County, and the story of Hershey and its connection to regional dairy farming. They also talk about honoring dogs as true family members following the loss of Mark and Rachel’s dog, Hatch, and tease a future episode dedicated entirely to dogs and the roles they play in outdoor lives.The episode wraps with practical updates and anticipation for the months ahead: New Mexico’s big game draw season is open, Mike and Caitlin explain the basics of how the draw works, and they hint at a future episode featuring an official Boone and Crockett/Pope & Young scorer measuring Caitlin’s elk live on the podcast. Despite cancelled flights and derailed plans, the takeaway is clear—sometimes bad luck leads to better paths, new stories, and deeper gratitude.In this episode:Why last week’s episode with Uncle Sim hit differentlyOne lifetime of change—from manure forks to smartphonesCommunity, culture, and what really gets lost over timeCancelled travel, O’Hare delays, and choosing to bailA turkey hunt cliff fall that still hurts when the weather changesNew Mexico big game draw basics and strategyUpcoming episode ideas: family history, mining, Hershey, dogs, food, and moreGood luck, bad luck… who knows?Follow along:Instagram: @OutdoorRuhlsWebsite: www.outdoorruhls.comEmail: [email protected] on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

Episode 65 — Winter RuhlsIn this mid-January “slow season” check-in, Mike, Mark, and Poppy look ahead to a quick Pennsylvania trip for the last week of flintlock/muzzleloader season—and hope for ice fishing that’s been spotty in PA and nearly nonexistent in New Mexico. To lean into the winter vibe, they call up Uncle Sim (born 1932, turning 94) to hear what winter meant on the Rexmont farm before TVs, freezers, and modern conveniences.Sim walks the crew through old-school farm life month-by-month: holiday traditions, New Year’s butchering, and the realities of preserving food without modern refrigeration—smoked meats, canned meat (including his legendary canned tenderloin), dried produce on the woodstove, and hauling water by hand. The conversation is packed with details about how much work went into keeping a farm running through winter: manure piling and spring spreading, milking routines, and making do with limited electricity and heat from a single stove.The stories really come alive when Sim describes the community that revolved around the farm—neighbors coming down for butchering weekends (and lively debates over pig weights), kids playing “boom sock” in the barn lofts, and entire mining towns forming hockey teams to play on the farm pond. He also dives into winter fun like sled riding from Rexmont down to the farm, and the grit-and-humor of growing up with a party-line telephone, Saturday-night baths, and a no-nonsense “wood chest” behind the stove for discipline.Sim’s memories spill into food and market life too—potatoes and apples stored in the barn and basement, cider and apple butter days, and his mom’s Saturday market routine in Lebanon selling cakes, cookies, eggs, and chickens (plus a classic hot-dog theft-and-getting-caught story). Before signing off, Sim touches on small-game hunting traditions—how the boys couldn’t hunt until the corn was husked—and how different the hunting felt back then compared to today.In this episode:Mid-winter hunting plans: flintlock/muzzleloader wrap-up + hoping for iceNew Mexico vs. Pennsylvania winter realitiesRexmont farm winters: butchering, preserving, and staying busyCanned tenderloin, smoked meats, dried produce, and life without freezersCommunity weekends: butchering gatherings, homemade wine, and farm “events”Barn games like “boom sock” and town-vs-town pond hockeySled riding routes, party-line phones, and Saturday night bath routinesLebanon market trips: baking, selling farm goods, and Sim’s hot dog storySmall game hunting and corn husking as the gatekeeper for fall huntingFollow along:Instagram: @OutdoorRuhls • Website: www.outdoorrules.com • Listen on Apple Podcasts / Spotify / YouTube

Episode 64 Show Notes Title: To Be Precise…Hosts/Guests: Mark Ruhl with guest Dan (Rachel’s brother)Main Topics: Precision/custom rifles, modern cartridges, optics, reloading, ethical range, and why Western hunts shouldn’t be put off.OverviewMark sits down with his brother-in-law Dan—an unapologetic precision-rifle nerd—to talk about how “custom rifles” have evolved from the old days of blueprinted Remington 700s to today’s world of high-end clone actions, carbon barrels, and purpose-built setups. They bounce between hunting and competition shooting, covering what matters most (and what doesn’t) if you’re trying to build a rifle that performs in the real world.Key Conversations & TakeawaysCustom rifles: then vs. nowDan explains how “custom” used to mean tweaking a factory action, but now includes a massive aftermarket of 700-footprint actions (Defiance, Terminus, Lone Peak, Impact, etc.) with features like DLC coating and shorter bolt throws. The takeaway: modern custom actions are generally excellent—it often comes down to preference.Hunting reality check: don’t wait to hunt out WestDan emphasizes that Western tags are getting more expensive and harder to draw, pressure is increasing, and conditions can change fast (winter kill, disease, predators). His advice is simple: if you want to hunt the West, do it sooner rather than later.Tree stand grind vs. mountain grindA fun comparison: Dan admits he’s wired for movement, so long, cold tree-stand sits are mentally harder than pounding miles in the mountains—even if the mountain is physically tougher. Still, they agree there’s value in the quiet headspace you get in a stand.Factory ammo is better than ever (for most hunters)Reloading used to be about saving money; now it’s often about precision. Dan says factory ammo can be “one-hole good” at 100 yards, but handloads shine when you care about SD/ES consistency for long-range steel. For hunting at normal distances, many shooters don’t need to reload if they find a factory load their rifle loves.Cartridges: don’t get paralyzed by the debateThey dig into why modern cartridges like 7 PRC are popular: they’re designed around long, high-BC bullets, good external ballistics, and manageable recoil. But they also stress that within ethical hunting ranges, many cartridges are plenty lethal—what matters most is practice, good bullets, and knowing your limits.Optics matter more than people thinkDan and Mark agree: if you’re spending big money, don’t blow it all on the rifle and cheap out on the glass. Quality scope + proper mounting (rings, torque, leveling) prevents a lot of “scope problems” that are really mounting problems.Suppressors and kidsA strong point: kids often fear the noise more than recoil. Suppressors reduce blast, make coaching easier, and can improve shooting comfort—even if brakes reduce recoil more.Competition shooting as hunter trainingDan says matches (especially NRL Hunter) expose what you don’t know—positional shooting, recoil management, building fast shooting platforms, and understanding wind/ballistics. His warning is blunt: a rifle marketed as “1000 yards out of the box” doesn’t mean the shooter is capable of ethical long shots on game.Memorable Quotes / Moments“Don’t wait” (about hunting out West)“The rifle may be capable… chances are you are not.” (about long-range marketing)Precision is fun, but the goal stays the same: shoot within your limitations—and actually know what they are.Links & MentionsDan on Instagram: Transient OutdoorsmanDiscussion of training resources and instruction (including Dan’s shoutout to precision-rifle coaching content)Outro / Where to FollowFind more Outdoor Ruhls content at outdoorruhls.com and on Instagram/Facebook at Outdoor Ruhls.

Episode 63 — “Pulpo Bob Goes Spearfishing”Setting: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico — last full day of the trip, sunrise coffee over the Sea of Cortez, private beach cove + pool life with the kids.SummaryThe crew recaps a week in Cabo built around family and fishing: striped marlin “combat” fishing close to shore, a slow tuna day, and then a smaller-boat trip that produced tuna, wahoo, and the main event—Robert’s spearfishing mission. Along the way: sashimi and ceviche on the boat, the arch + Lover’s Beach, Wild Canyon animals (lovebirds, macaws, guinea pigs), and a reminder that the best part was being together.Key BeatsCabo basecampAirbnb in the hills ~5 km from downtown; private pool + a private Sea of Cortez beach with a view of Cabo and the arch.Customs surpriseMike gets hit with a 19% tax on “professional” podcast gear after choosing the X-ray line.Fishing recap (4 different vibes)Striped marlin: not classic trolling—boats pile onto bait balls and free-line live mackerel; 4 hooked / 3 landed (~100–120 lbs).Dorado hunt: no dorado; bonito/skipjack; still ends up marlin fishing.Tuna day: eight-hour grind; a couple tuna lost; GT lands a marlin on a cedar plug.Small-boat troll (Diablo Loco): faster, deeper-running hard baits; captain “guns it” to set hooks—two yellowfin + one wahoo landed, plus a bigger fish lost mid-fight.Main event: Pulpo Bob SpearfishingRobert drives the whole plan. Snorkel + fins + speargun over a rocky reef ~25 ft deep.Robert wears a wetsuit top + life jacket for warmth/comfort and stays in the water a long time—guide calls him “a beast.”Fish spotted: parrotfish, triggerfish, butterflyfish, puffers, and eel-looking guys (morae vibes). No speared fish yet—Robert is determined for next time.Boat lunch + family funTuna sashimi + wahoo ceviche on the boat.Glass-bottom boat tour to the arch + Lover’s Beach (not Divorce Beach).Wild Canyon animals + surprise camel ride; kids’ favorites: pool, beach, guinea pigs, lovebirds.Wrap + CTA“No bad days” (except the tax-room hour).More at www.OutdoorRuhls.com and Instagram @outdoorruhls.Stormy Kromer orders / episode ideas: [email protected].

Episode 63 – “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year (Flintlocks Revisited)” – Show Notes (Medium)It’s Christmas week, and the Outdoor Ruhls crew is down in Cabo San Lucas with family—so instead of a brand-new episode, Mike replays a fan-favorite from last year: “Beautifully Imperfect,” the episode that captures why Pennsylvania flintlock muzzleloader season is the real “most wonderful time of the year” (and not Christmas). Mike opens with holiday wishes from the family to yours: Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, Happy Festivus, Happy New Year, and Feliz Navidad y Próspero Año Nuevo.Recorded live from deer camp (“the shanty”), Mike, Mark, and Matt revisit what makes flintlock season so special: it starts the day after Christmas, it’s uniquely Pennsylvanian, and it’s equal parts tradition, teamwork, and chaos. The guys break down how a flintlock works—flint strikes the frizzen, sparks ignite pan powder, fire runs through the touch hole—and why it’s so unreliable. Moisture, bad flints, powder leaking out, hangfires, misfires, and the infamous long lock time make follow-through essential. Even when everything works, flintlocks are harder to shoot accurately than modern rifles, and for most real woods hunting, 50 yards is a solid flintlock distance.They share how the Ruhls got into flintlocks thanks to a high school biology teacher, Mr. Jerry Stover, and why this season became their favorite way to hunt together between Christmas and New Year. Much of the magic comes from deer drives—less sitting all day, more moving, more teamwork, and (in the good years) snow on the ground for tracking and unmistakable blood trails. They also touch on the appeal of the season’s tag structure in PA, where flintlock can turn into a rare chance at a statewide antlerless opportunity with the right permit.Gear talk includes their evolution from patch-and-round-ball to conicals and eventually their go-to PowerBelts (around 295 gr), plus the hard truth that flintlocks generally need real black powder—substitutes and pellets can mean misfires or painfully slow ignition. And of course, they admit the obvious: they’ve missed plenty. Flintlocks have a way of failing at the worst moment… then firing perfectly five minutes later at a stump.The episode closes with classic deer camp humor and family lore—like Davey’s early flintlock success, the crew’s running jokes about muzzleloader terms, and the legendary moment when young Mark sat down as a “stander” and Poppy furiously tried to signal “STAND UP” as a buck slipped through. It’s frustrating, it’s hilarious, it’s tradition—and it’s exactly why the season is, in their words, beautifully imperfect.Connect with Outdoor Ruhls:Instagram: @outdoorruhlsEmail: [email protected]:www.outdoorruhls.com

Episode 62 – “Safety Third” – Show Notes Mike, GT, Mark, and Matt gather for a laughter-filled tour through decades of mishaps, close calls, and self-inflicted injuries that earned the family motto: Safety Third. After a quick recap of New Mexico whitetail hunting—highlighted by Robert’s impressive 8-mile day and his deep dive into the Hunter Ed manual—the crew turns to stories from Pennsylvania’s rifle season, upcoming flintlock plans, and their soon-to-depart trip to Cabo for striped marlin and tuna fishing. The centerpiece of the episode is a collection of outrageous (and true) injury stories: Matt’s greatest hits: a utility-knife knee stab, an ambulance ride after a toe-kick saw carved a half-circle into his leg, and countless stitches from 30 years in the trades.Tim’s “fire trilogy”: torching a tar-paper house after hornet spray ignited, setting a bathroom ablaze with paint stripper and a live outlet, and another exterior siding fire—followed by losing a house years later in a neighbor-caused garage fire.Ruhl childhood classics: Mark hatcheting his finger at age four, the infamous blender incident, and Mike nearly taking off his fingertip with a chop saw while working on a boat project.Bonus stories include Caitlin’s first pocket-knife wound at age seven, Robert running a log splitter responsibly at seven, and a teaser for future wildlife-encounter episodes—especially Grant’s legendary feral cat saga. The episode wraps with updates on Outdoor Ruhls’ viral reels, details on ordering Stormy Kromer caps, and how to connect with the show: Instagram: @outdoorruhlsEmail: [email protected]

Outdoor Ruhls Podcast – Episode 61 “Hell on Ice” A spray-painted “PET” deer, a viral MeatEater post, custom Outdoor Ruhls Stormy Kromers, and a 60-year-old wooden toboggan that refuses to retire—Episode 61 is full-tilt winter chaos. Mike and Mark open with the story behind the now-famous “PET” deer that wandered past their Pennsylvania blind, how the video ended up with Steve Rinella, and why it’s been viewed over 3 million times. They also welcome new listeners and describe what the show is at its core: a family-driven outdoors podcast built on storytelling, humor, and shared memories. Then comes the snow carnage. Memaw and Poppy recount how their massive wooden toboggan once helped spark two marriages, long before it started racking up injuries—like Memaw’s Christmas Day broken nose and Ron’s broken ankle at Log Hollow Camp. Mike, Matt, Davey, and Kate add their own chapters: the Fairview Golf Course jump that left Davey with a badly injured wrist; the infamous nighttime return run where Ann Boyer hit the same jump in the dark and bruised her hip so badly she remembered it for decades; and a reminder that once the toboggan claims one victim, it usually isn’t done. The episode wraps with more “hell on ice”: the Perry County canoe-sled crash, Kate’s one and only ice-fishing trip that ended with a fractured tailbone, her too-small snowsuit exploding in the Swiss Alps, and Hunter’s full-send ski and snowboard wrecks. Through all of it, the throughline is pure Outdoor Ruhls—family, laughter, and stories that last far longer than any trophy. Want an Outdoor Ruhls Stormy Kromer hat? 👉 Email [email protected] (R-U-H-L-S) with: Color choice (Blaze Orange or Forest Floor)Your head measurement or hat sizeAny questions about sizing or ordering

Episode 60: Seven for SevenShow Notes – Outdoor Ruhls PodcastSeven years old. Seven-point buck. First day of rifle season in Pennsylvania. In this episode, Mike sits down with brothers Mark, Matt, and Davey—and the kids—to relive a wild opening day that ends with Robert tagging his very first deer.It’s a full-family, full-circle kind of story: archery season recaps, arguments about Saturday vs. Monday openers, a half-tame deer literally licking the rifle barrel…and then an evening hunt in the “Squid Shootin’ Shack” where everything comes together for a perfect 160-yard shot.In This EpisodeStormy Kromer x Outdoor Ruhls Hats Are ComingMike kicks things off with an update on a special collab with Stormy Kromer.Two colors: Blaze Orange (perfect for rifle season) and Forest Floor (plaid).Custom Outdoor Ruhls logo on the ear flap.These are fitted, sized hats, not one-size-fits-all.Need at least 36 hats ordered to make it happen.👉 If you’re interested, email [email protected] (that’s R-U-H-L-S) with your color choice and size. Mike and the crew can help you figure out sizing using Stormy Kromer’s head-measuring guide and online calculator.Saturday vs. Monday Opener – The Great PA DebateThe Ruhl brothers and Davey wade into one of the hottest topics in Pennsylvania deer hunting:Did moving rifle opener from Monday to Saturday kill deer camp culture or make hunting more accessible?The old rhythm of heading to camp on Friday, hanging stands, telling stories, and then hunting Monday.How archery season, Sunday hunting, and changing deer numbers have shifted when and how deer get killed.Nostalgia, tradition, economics, and what they’d like to see the Game Commission do next.Archery Season RecapBefore rifles come out, the crew looks back on fall:Mark’s big-bodied 8-pointer with his compound bow and those wild flashing lighted nocks (“disco party in the woods”).Davey’s quick November 3rd bow buck on his parents’ small Lancaster property.How antler restrictions have quietly changed Pennsylvania buck quality and hunter expectations over the last 20+ years.Getting Robert Ready – BB Gun to 6.5 CreedmoorMike and Uncle Matt walk through how Robert went from:Red Ryder BB gun → air rifle → .22 → 6.5 CreedmoorPracticing at 100 yards with reduced-recoil 6.5 Creedmoor loads.Using Pennsylvania’s mentored youth hunting program so a 7-year-old can hunt with his own tag while an adult carries the rifle to and from the stand.The kids’ pre-season excitement, talking about dreams, not sleeping, and “going to sleep is like fast traveling” to opening morning.Deer Named “Pet” & The Weirdest Hunt EverOn the morning hunt, Robert and CJ sit in a ground blind with Mike, Poppy, and Uncle Mark…and things get bizarre:A doe walks in with “PET” spray-painted in bright orange on both sides.The deer walks right up, sniffs the muzzle, and licks the rifle barrel.Everyone realizes somebody raised this deer like a pet—and that it’s probably not equipped for real wild life.No legal bucks show up, but it’s a story none of them will ever forget.Seven for Seven – Robert’s First BuckThe evening hunt is where the magic happens:Mike, Uncle Matt, and Robert head to the elevated hard-sided blind that CJ used last year—the “Squid Shootin’ Shack.”Does feed out at about 160 yards. A good buck follows them into the cornfield.Uncle Matt and Mike quietly coach Robert: Can you hit him? Are you sure? Do you know where to aim?Robert settles the crosshairs behind the shoulder, squeezes…The buck runs 30–40 yards and tips over in sight.Chaos, hugging, shaking, and a very proud dad and uncle.It’s a big 7-point—perfect for a seven-year-old. Last year CJ shot an 8-point at eight years old, so now it’s officially “Eight for Eight” and “Seven for Seven.”Naming the Stand & Saving the StoriesThe kids brainstorm new names for the blind now that it holds two first bucks—maybe “Cousins’ Cracking Shack” or some mash-up of Squid and Bob. Mike reflects on:How special it is that almost the whole family was there—Rachel, Kaylee, Caitlin, Meemaw and Poppy—either watching from other blinds or helping with recovery and butchering.Why recording these stories on the podcast matters, so CJ, Robert, and Emmit (and their kids someday) can hear their own voices and family memories years down the road.How to Support Outdoor RuhlsPreorder a Stormy Kromer x Outdoor Ruhls hatEmail: [email protected] with your size and choice of Blaze Orange or Forest Floor.Listen & FollowWebsite: outdoorruls.comInstagram & Facebook: @outdoorrulsSubscribe & ReviewIf you enjoyed this first-buck episode, please follow the Outdoor Ruhls Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen, and leave a rating or review—it helps other hunters and families find the show.More deer season stories—and more from the kids—coming soon. 🦌🧡

Episode 59: German Roots, American Soil (Part 2)Hunting stories, canning venison, bone broth, and the legacy of an old-world OmaThis is the second half of our two-part conversation with Erika — Rachel’s mom and CJ’s Oma.👉 If you haven’t listened to Episode 58: German Roots, American Soil yet, go back and start there first.Mike opens the show from New Mexico, talking about their upcoming trip to Pennsylvania for Thanksgiving and the deer opener. From there, the episode turns over entirely to Mark, Rachel, and Erika as they pick up right where Part 1 left off.What’s inside (short & sweet):Erika’s three hunting experiences: a pressured one-and-done deer hunt, a Florida gator that turned out to be much bigger than she paid for, and a wild boar taken on the ride back from the stand.The legendary “giant gator board” that hung in their old house — and the Craigslist story that finally got it out the door.Oma’s role as the head of the butchering crew: deboning deer, directing the work, and teaching CJ to help from a young age.How Erika makes venison bone broth and canned meat: roasting bones, long simmering, straining, pressure canning, raw-packing venison cubes, and why canned meat stays tender for years.Wild game talk: antelope vs. elk, using the organs, keeping tongues, and why caul-fat meatballs are amazing on day one and questionable on day two.German vs. Pennsylvania Dutch food and culture: sweetened salads, chow-chow, dialects, and her infamous first hot-dog-and-sauerkraut experience at Hersheypark.What Erika hopes CJ carries forward: self-sufficiency, curiosity, old-world traditions, and her strong servant-hearted nature.Listen & FollowSpotify • Apple Podcasts • OutdoorRuhls.comInstagram: @outdoorruhls

Episode 58: German Roots, American Soil (Part 1)Erika’s Old-World Childhood, Multi-Gen Living, Gardening, Canning, and the Roots She’s Passing DownThis week, Mark and Rachel sit down with a very special guest: Erika — Rachel’s mom and CJ’s grandma (Oma). Erika grew up in a small village in southwest Germany where almost everything was homegrown, home-baked, home-butchered, and home-preserved. In this warm, funny, and deeply nostalgic episode, she shares those old-world traditions and the ways they’ve carried into her modern life in Pennsylvania — including multi-generational living, gardening with CJ, preserving food, and creating a home built around family and service.In this episode we talk about:Growing up in southwest GermanyLife in the village of Atmohausen where everyone knew everyone — sometimes before you got home.90% homegrown food: milk from the neighborhood milk house, sourdough from the village oven, vegetables from the garden, meat from family and neighbors.Why food was precious after WWII and how the Cold War years shaped frugal, no-waste habits.Sundays as true family days: stores closed, big hikes, and exploring the woods with her dad.Multi-generational households — then and nowLiving with grandparents, parents, and kids together under one roof, each with their own kitchen and living space.How everyone pitched in: babysitting, nursing someone back to health, sharing meals, combining resources.How Rachel and Mark have recreated that model today with their own multi-generational home — CJ upstairs, Oma and Opa downstairs, one shared laundry room, and lots of shared life.Village camping, Red Cross trips & the ‘thunder log’Summer trips with 50 village kids in old military tents with no floors.Breakfast choices: jelly bread, liverwurst, or “go without.”Downpours, floating air mattresses, and digging trenches in the middle of the night.The infamous story of Erika’s dad being carried, asleep on his cot, into the lake at dawn — and calmly walking it back out.Old-world butchering and food traditionsHelping her butcher uncle, learning nose-to-tail principles the old German way.Why pig tails, cheeks, and snouts were delicacies — and why cow tongue is still one of her favorites.School lunches of liverwurst and pickles on homemade bread and trading with “city kids” for factory-made white bread.How Erika met John and came to AmericaThe persistent American soldier who approached her at a train-station bistro.Giving him a fake name — and how he still managed to find her.Her father’s condition: he would fly to the U.S. with her, and if he didn’t approve, she’d be coming right back home.Falling in love with central Pennsylvania, cowboy hats, and a new life far from home.Early married life in Monterey, California, overlooking the bay while John served at Fort Ord.Gardening: old-world skill, modern joyWhy cucumbers, tomatoes, and lettuce are her favorites — and why cabbage is her lifelong gardening nemesis.Seed catalogs (especially heirlooms) as “a stroll through the candy store.”Gardening organically, fighting weeds, and the success of using tarp between raised beds.The special bond between Oma and CJ in the garden: picking seeds together, eating herbs straight off the plants, and spending hours outside together without screens.Why gardening is for every age — from toddlers with trowels to grandparents with wisdom.Quail, chickens, bees & rabbitsRaising meat rabbits as a child — and why she’s happy to eat rabbit now but won’t raise them again.Backyard chickens, broody hens hatching quail eggs, and the daily “Easter egg hunt” of finding tiny speckled eggs.The joys and frustrations of beekeeping and why they may try again in the future.Canning and preserving the old-fashioned wayWhy canning meat, vegetables, and broth is a deeply satisfying and practical tradition.Deboning meat with purpose: saving certain cuts, preparing others for future meals.Making rich bone broth the traditional way: roasting, simmering, straining, and pressure canning.Why learning to preserve food is a skill Erika believes every generation should carry forward.Passing on traditions to CJWhat Erika hopes CJ keeps with her for life:Self-sufficiency paired with a servant’s heartThe courage to try new skillsRespect for tools, sharp knives, and her own capabilitiesA love of gardening, canning, and homemade foodsGerman holiday traditions like Nikolaustag and Christmas Eve celebrationsWhy investing time with kids when they’re small is the key to staying connected when they're older.Next time…This episode ends right before Erika begins telling stories about her brief but unforgettable experiences with hunting, alligators, and wild boar, plus how she became the quiet general of the deer-butchering crew.Those stories — and the full deep dive into canning meat, raw-packing venison, and old-world food preservation — will kick off Episode 59.Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or at OutdoorRuhls.comFollow along on Instagram: @outdoorruhls

Show Notes — Episode 57: Long ExposureEpisode summaryMark takes the host chair for a heartfelt conversation with his wife, Rachel, tracing her path from Pennsylvania whitetails and waterfowl blinds to a thriving wedding & elopement photography career. They revisit her famed Illinois buck, the Potter County cabin coincidence, blue-hour imagery, documenting real moments (not just grip-and-grins), and a Cold-War love story that started on a German train and shaped a creative life.Chapters00:00 Cold open & intro — Mark’s couch-in-Montana story that led to “You should marry her.”05:30 The Illinois buck — inline muzzleloader, broadside at first light, tracking and the “ground grows” effect.14:00 Getting into hunting — following brother Dan, bringing Dad along, from deer to waterfowl and pro-staff trips.20:30 Guiding camp life — helping Cody & Kalis Carr in Montana; cameras, kitchens, and community.26:00 First buck in Potter County & the cabin connection — childhood roads that overlapped before they met.31:00 From PR to photos — learning manual, first weddings, scaling the business, Lancaster top-10 nod.39:00 Style & ethos — documentary approach, why blue hour > golden hour (sometimes), candid over staged.45:00 The “content creator” era — TikTok/IG trends vs. authentic wedding-day time.50:00 The power of photos — last dances, VA-hospital wedding, why memory > backdrop.56:00 Germany summers, solo road trips, Yellowstone elopements, and loving Wyoming’s rhythm.1:04:00 What’s next — video, reels, small-biz digital media, and staying creatively inspired.1:10:00 Family & Outdoor Ruhls — gratitude for the behind-the-scenes help, raising the next photographer.1:14:00 Wrap — links, thanks, and where to find more.Highlights & quotes“My bucks don’t shrink on the ground—they grow.”“It’s not the posed photo; it’s the in-between moments that become heirlooms.”“Blue hour is my playground.”About RachelWhitetail hunter & former waterfowl pro-staffer who’s field-dressed more than a few deer for the Ruhls.Documentary wedding & elopement photographer (PA & Wyoming/Yellowstone), known for blue-hour work and candid storytelling.Creative roots: Dad John was a U.S. Army photojournalist; Mom was born in Germany—cue the train-station meet-cute that started it all.Topics we coverInline muzzleloaders, tracking, and ethical shot choicesDocumentary vs. staged photography; why grip-and-grins aren’t the whole storyThe rise of wedding “content creators” and time tradeoffsFrom PR desk to 20–25 weddings/year—sustainable creative businessElopements out West, familiarity over FOMO, and serving clients wellVideo & digital media for small businesses (reels, storytelling, drone on deck)Gear & places (mentioned)Thompson/Center Encore inline muzzleloaderPotter County, PA cabins; Yellowstone/Wyoming elopement spotsLong-exposure night shots at deer camp (light pop technique)CreditsHost: Mark RuhlGuest: RachelProducer/Editor: Outdoor Ruhls crewMusic/FX: Outdoor Ruhls Sound KitLinks & followWebsite: OutdoorRuhls.comInstagram: @OutdoorRuhlsFacebook: Outdoor RuhlsCall to actionIf this episode resonated, share it with someone who loves a good blue-hour photo or a great deer-camp story. Rate & review to help more folks find the show!SEO tagsRachel, blue hour photography, documentary wedding photography, Illinois whitetail buck, inline muzzleloader, Potter County PA, Cody Carr Outfitters, Yellowstone elopement, candid wedding photos, Outdoor Ruhls podcast, family hunting stories, VA hospital wedding, content creator vs videographer, deer camp long exposure.

Episode 56 — Happy Birthday to Us!Guests/Voices: Mike, Mark, Matt, and Poppy (recorded in Quentin, Pennsylvania)SummaryThe Ruhl boys celebrate one full year of Outdoor Ruhls with a roundtable: remembering dear family friend Catherine Schott, swapping mid-season whitetail updates, plotting a mentored-youth hunt for Robert, and looking back on favorite episodes and lessons from year one—plus a big list of show ideas we’re excited to make next.Chapter Guide00:00 Cold open & intros from Quentin, PA02:00 Remembering Catherine Schott: leadership, service, and “100% effort”08:30 Mid-season deer report: rut signs, standing corn, and stand strategy14:30 Poppy’s shoulder replacement, recovery timeline, and rifle-season hopes18:30 Mark’s tag-punch with the compound & living with MG (myasthenia gravis)26:00 Mini-adventure: helping friend Bob Bridges recover his buck32:30 Mentored-Youth plan for Robert: licenses, tags, rifle fit, and range prep41:00 Year-one reflections: favorite episodes, why we’re doing this, and family voices on tape50:00 What’s next: episode ideas (Safety Third, Hell on Ice, Monkey Business, witticisms & mixed metaphors, FFA, Milton Hershey, photography, canning/gardening, San Diego sport fishing)58:00 Closing thoughts & Thanksgiving/ice-fishing chatterSeason HighlightsRut watch: Chasing starting in spots; movement muted by standing corn that should come off soon.Mark’s season: Passed a young 8; later took a big-bodied 8 with the compound after MG symptoms eased.Poppy: Two weeks post-op (left shoulder). Eyeing rifle season with caution (lead sled, muzzle brake).Pipeline stand tales: Doe standoffs, quick decisions, and a clean 30-yard shot.Mentored-Youth (PA) — Our Plan for RobertLicense path discussed: Mentored Youth permit; at age 7 the youth can hold their own tags.This year’s reality: Missed the antlerless draw → buck only for Robert.Antler rule (as discussed): Youth buck can be legal without standard point restrictions (≥ ~3" spike).Firearm handling (as discussed): Mentor carries during travel; one gun between mentor & youth; transfer only once settled.Rifle options: 6.5 Creedmoor vs. youth .243; priority is fit, comfort with recoil/noise, and range time first.Note: We’re sharing our understanding from chat—always check current PA Game Commission regs before hunting.Year-One Favorites & Why They MatterFamily history episodes: Uncles Sim & Dick (“it was perfect—family, family, family”), Pop Bud stories, and Norway diaries.Guest standouts: Pat Durkin, Ben Goldfarb, Bob Jacquart (Stormy Kromer).Why we’re doing this: Capturing voices and stories while we can—“priceless” for the family archive.Future Episode Ideas We TeaseSafety Third: Home-shop mishaps, tool tales, and hospital runs (special cameo ideas: Grant’s table-saw lesson).Monkey Business: Animal shenanigans (squirrel bites & rabies shots, plus broader critter capers).Hell on Ice: Toboggan carnage, ice-fishing wipeouts, and Potter County legends.Witticisms & Mixed Metaphors: Pop Grant’s classics (“nat’s ass over a nail keg”) and the kids’ best mash-ups.FFA & Milton Hershey: With Harold Burkheiser, Dan Kreider, and local ag history.Photography: Rachel + Tim (gear, field craft, storytelling).Canning & Gardening: Bone broth, pantry projects, and field-to-jar know-how.Sport Fishing: Dave Arnold & Capt. Matt Arnold (San Diego), plus a dream trip episode.People MentionedCatherine Schott, Bob Bridges (and daughter Anna), Davey, Sim & Dick, Beth, Dave & Matt Arnold, Harold Burkheiser, Dan Kreider, Rachel, Kaylee, CJ, Kate & Anne.Gear Corner (brief)Bows: Crossbow vs. compound (vision/eye-patch workarounds for MG).Rifles: 6.5 Creedmoor & youth .243 considerations for young shooters.Stability: Lead sleds, brakes, and smart recoil management for healing shoulders.Links & ThanksWebsite: OutdoorRuhls.comInstagram: @outdoorruhlsCooking page for future recipes: OutdoorRuhls.com/cookingBig thanks to our listeners—especially the Central PA crew—who’ve been with us through the first year. We’re just getting warmed up.SEO / TagsDeer hunting Pennsylvania, rut timing, standing corn deer behavior, mentored youth hunting PA, youth deer rifle fit, myasthenia gravis and archery, family hunting podcast, Outdoor Ruhls, Catherine Schott, deer recovery tips, pipeline stand strategy, ice fishing prep, Stormy Kromer story, FFA agriculture history, Milton Hershey, photography outdoors, canning bone broth.

Episode 55 — In Memoriam of Catherine SchottDedication:This episode is lovingly dedicated to Catherine Schott—a surrogate grandmother, steadfast friend, and bright thread in the Outdoor Ruhls family fabric. “Hey, lady—this one’s for you.”Episode Summary:On the one-year anniversary of the show, Mike and Mark press pause on the planned celebration to honor the life of Catherine Schott. As a tribute, they rebroadcast the marriage-advice roundtable episode Catherine inspired—full of stories about love, patience, togetherness, and doing life outdoors as a family.Chapter Guide00:00 – Cold Open: Hunting, fishing, cooking… and family.00:21 – Why This Episode: A change of plans; remembering Catherine Schott and why she mattered to the Ruhls.02:54 – Mike & Caitlin: 13 Years: “Choose wisely”—banter, what they’ve learned, and favorite outdoor memories as a couple.Argentina Dorado Story: Overnight buses, chocolate-milk water, and a leaping golden dorado—when adventure meets logistics.Calls for Wisdom:Catherine & Leonard Schott: 69 years of marriage—communicate, listen, never go to bed angry, do things together.Memaw & Poppy (Mike’s parents): 51 years—patience, make memories, variety, and lots of early-morning departures (plus the Cape Hatteras honeymoon “stuck truck” classic).Caitlin’s parents (Tim & Necie): Opposites who support each other, laugh easily, and learn from differences; Yosemite RV paradox and Irish honeymoon.Kate & Jed: Same vintage marriage—talk it out, avoid double kayaks, and invite kids into gardens, pools, and first adventures.Matt (Mike’s brother): The honest take—do whatever you can to keep her happy—and the reminder that even imperfect stories can raise great kids.Closing Reflections: Find what works for your marriage; struggle makes the sweet parts sweeter. “Happy anniversary, us.”Note: The rebroadcast centers on Catherine’s voice and presence; her name is Catherine Schott throughout.Themes & TakeawaysCommunication > Perfection: Listen fully, speak kindly, and don’t keep score.Togetherness Is a Choice: Make the outdoors a shared space—for couples, for kids, for extended family.Patience & Play: Laugh at the mishaps (stuck trucks, funky RVs, delayed buses); they become the best stories.Do Hard Things Together: Big adventures (and small chores) are glue for a marriage.Legacy of Love: Catherine’s life reminds us to show up for people like family—because they are.People in This EpisodeHonoree: Catherine SchottGuests by call: Leonard Schott; Memaw & Poppy; Tim & Necie; Kate & Jed; MattHosts: Mike & Mark Ruhl; Co-hosted segments with CaitlinNotable Moments to Clip“Hey lady—this one’s for you.” (tribute tag)“Never go to bed angry; learn to listen.” —Catherine & Leonard“We did family things—because we were a family.” —Memaw & Poppy“We’re total opposites—patience and support win.” —Tim & Necie“Talk it out, always. And skip the double kayak.” —Kate & Jed“Do whatever you can to keep her happy.” —Matt

Episode 54: Friendship in Paradise Where: Immigrant, Montana, in the shadow of Emigrant PeakGuests: Mike & Alison Himmelspach (dear friends, horsemen, hunters, and excellent storytellers)Theme: How a tight-knit Yellowstone community became lifelong hunting partners—plus deep cuts on horse packing, Montana wind, Fort Peck boat hunts, New Mexico Oryx, and the grind of unlimited bighorn sheep.SummaryMike & Caitlin return to their old home to sit down with friends Mike and Alison Himmelspach. We trace the thread from summer softball nights to ranch gates and trailheads, then dive into the craft (and chaos) of horse packing—Decker vs. Sawbuck saddles, strings up to 12+ animals, and what really counts as a “wreck.” We swap Fort Peck stories (including Caitlin’s genius blaze-orange life vest), relive Alison’s once-in-a-lifetime Oryx hunt on White Sands, and unpack the patience and scouting behind the Gardiner-area unlimited bighorn units where both Himmelspachs tagged rams. Bonus: an Alaska Dall sheep dream, fjord horses, and why Paradise Valley’s beauty is matched only by its wind.Highlights & TopicsYellowstone roots → lifelong friends: softball teams, dog-sled buddies, and the small-world web that ties park people and valley ranchers together.Horse packing 101 (and 9-1-1): balancing panniers and manis, reading mules and horses, using breakaways, and preventing “yard-sale” wrecks on sidehills.Guide life reality: 2:30–3:00 a.m. mornings, slick trails in the dark, keeping clients safe (and smiling) through weather and nerves.Paradise Valley primer: Gardiner Basin to Yankee Jim Canyon to Livingston—stunning country that can blow trucks off I-90.Fort Peck boat camp: deer and cow-elk plans from the lake, hot pike/walleye/smallie fishing…and a life jacket pressed into duty as blaze orange.Oryx on White Sands: a gritty, team-effort New Mexico pack-out; why shot placement differs from deer/elk; toughness of African antelope in the desert.Unlimited bighorn units: over-the-counter tags, 3/4-curl rule, tiny quotas, daily check-ins, and the sheer scouting it takes to notch a legal ram.Alaska sheep attempt: Brooks Range, grizzlies, and stout little mountain horses; why “big country” has a different meaning up there.Mule deer Thanksgiving buck: a wide, heavy three-point that kept getting bigger the closer we got.Turkey humility tour: lots of miles, one bearded hen sighting, zero gobbles—still a laugh-filled camp.Family vibes: kids in the hot tub, the “Ruhlnado,” and the kind of friendship that picks up right where it left off.Quotables“You’ve got to enjoy being a little miserable—and love solving problems in the mountains.”“If you could have three Septembers, it would be perfect.”“A wreck? That’s when your string leaves a trail of underwear for a mile.”Links & MentionsOutdoor Ruhls: outdoorruhls.comWatch/Listen: YouTube • Spotify • Apple PodcastsSay hi / ideas: [email protected] Guide (adjust to final timestamps)00:00 Welcome from Emigrant, MT06:00 Yellowstone friendships → ranch gates & trailheads16:30 Packing deep dive: Decker vs. sawbuck, manis, strings & wrecks29:00 Fort Peck boat hunt (+ the blaze-orange life vest)38:30 Oryx on White Sands: shot placement & pack-out47:00 Unlimited bighorn: quotas, 3/4-curl, and scouting grind58:00 Alaska Dall sheep attempt & fjord horses1:06:00 The Thanksgiving mule deer & turkey humility1:12:00 Closing: why this valley (and these friends) feel like home

Episode 53: Talkin’ Tangents — A Conversation with Pat Durkin Show Notes In this episode of the Outdoor Ruhls Podcast, host Mike Ruhl sits down with legendary outdoor writer Pat Durkin for a lively, free-wheeling conversation that covers just about everything from whitetails to wordsmithing. Over the past four decades, Pat has written and edited for some of the biggest names in outdoor media — including Deer & Deer Hunting, Outdoor News, and MeatEater — all while keeping his boots muddy and his stories honest. True to the name Talkin’ Tangents, this chat zigzags across topics the way a curious hunter roams a November ridge: How Pat got his start in outdoor journalism and the mentors who shaped his pathWhat he’s learned from a lifetime observing deer — their senses, behavior, and uncanny ability to survive usThe evolution of outdoor media — from print deadlines and typewriters to digital columns and podcastsConservation ethics, public-land access, and the delicate balance between science and storytellingWhy humor, humility, and curiosity still matter more than “hot takes” or trophy photos Along the way, the conversation drifts (in the best Outdoor Ruhls fashion) into side trails about writing discipline, memorable hunts, and the future of hunting culture. Whether you read Pat in the Sunday paper, scroll his MeatEater essays, or simply love thoughtful outdoor conversation, this one’s a keeper. Episode Highlights 00:00 — Intro: Mike sets the scene and welcomes Pat to the campfire.05:30 — From Newsroom to Northwoods: Pat’s early writing days and first big breaks.15:00 — How Deer Think: Sensory biology, research insights, and field observations.25:00 — Story Craft: Turning muddy boots into meaningful sentences.38:00 — Ethics & Access: The state of conservation, hunters, and public lands.50:00 — Rapid-Fire Ruhls: Gear favorites, dream hunts, and one lesson every outdoorsperson should remember. About Pat Durkin Pat Durkin is an award-winning outdoor writer and columnist based in Wisconsin. Over a 40-year career, he’s served as editor of Deer & Deer Hunting, contributed to numerous regional newspapers, and written hundreds of essays for MeatEater and other national outlets. Known for blending hard science with everyday woods-wisdom, Pat brings credibility, humor, and humanity to every story he tells. Connect with Outdoor Ruhls Follow Outdoor Ruhls on Instagram @outdoorruhls and visit outdoorruhls.com for recipes, travel stories, and new podcast episodes each week. If you like what you hear, leave us a review, share it with your hunting buddies, and help keep the Outdoor Ruhls conversation rolling.

Outdoor Ruhls Podcast — Episode 52Title: The Dale Earnhardt of Trout Fishing?Guests: The Brothers Ruhl — Mike, Matt (“G4”), and MarkRelease: October 2025Length: ~1:29Episode summaryA year in, the brothers finally give the mic to the oldest Ruhl: Matt (aka Grant Matthew, G4). From being “mildly radiated” near Three Mile Island to becoming the family’s Dale-Earnhardt-of-reading-water, Matt talks childhood fishing marathons, grandpa lessons (Pop Grant & Pop Bud), Western hunts, the 662-lb Pennsylvania bear, raising four kids, and running a flooring business where the motto is “Safety Third” and “Lunch at 11.” Expect brotherly chirps, heartfelt moments, and our first crack at an official-unofficial Stormy Kromer ad read.Chapter markers00:00 Cold open chaos: mics, phones, flux capacitors, and Bieber jokes04:17 Welcome + why this one’s special (Episode 52 milestone & new listeners)05:31 Who we are: three brothers, one R-U-H-L06:32 Matt 101: born ’78, G4 lineage, most athletic, best angler?09:57 Street hockey, broken leg, and powdered-donut grenade story11:05 Reading water like draft lines—why Matt “sees” trout lies13:58 Pop Grant lessons: independence, knife-table mishap, bee-log “situational awareness”21:38 One of the last days with Pop Grant on the river23:40 Pop Bud’s camp-cook magic & the “if you want it, he buys it” Nintendo26:36 High school → waterfowl era; liberal goose limits & decoy arguments32:07 52 episodes in a year (almost). Why we keep doing this33:49 Matt drifts from deer… then archery flips the switch39:24 First archery buck story (early 2000s, likely the new point restrictions year)45:17 The “whoops at the beginning”: four kids, seven-year head start on the rest of us52:12 Western hunts: two mule deer, one Montana whitetail53:19 The bear: 570 field-dressed / ~662 live weight in Pennsylvania55:57 Passing bucks, hunting with kids; Kaylee’s streak & goals57:31 Biggest whitetail (Kansas, mid-140s with an inline muzzleloader) + windy fence-row story1:03:30 What’s left on the list? Moose dreams, snook/tarpon, a true giant bass, halibut redux1:07:39 Planes are the enemy; road-trip fishing fantasies1:09:42 Work life: from helper to self-employed flooring pro since 20061:13:55 What folks don’t see about being self-employed1:20:03 Why mounts = memories (and why the memories are about people)1:24:52 Test ad read: Stormy Kromer (official-unofficial apparel of Outdoor Ruhls)1:27:54 Closing banter & how to reach usNotable moments & quotes“Fight nice, boys.” — Pop Grant’s evergreen coaching tip.“These five-hour days are killing me.” — Matt, driving home from another grueling shift.“If you can’t be a good example, be a horrible warning.” — Mike, lovingly, to Matt.“You can’t shoot a nice buck if you shoot the first buck that walks by.” — Matt’s deer logic.Bear stats: ~662 lb live-weight Pennsylvania black bear (one and done… so far).Safety Third / Lunch at 11: The Rules Flooring creed.Sibling lore: The shoe through the window; the powdered-donut fashion intervention.Stormy Kromer spot (as read)“From the deer stand to the high desert, the Outdoor Ruhls Podcast relies on great outdoor gear to keep our stories going. Built for comfort, warmth, and grip when the wind blows, Stormy Kromer has been tested in deer camps, on fishing trips, and family adventures for over a century. Check out Stormy Kromer—the gear that keeps Outdoor Ruhls adventures going.”Our “official-unofficial” apparel partner.Gear & tactics mentionedArchery: Climbers, close-range shot angles, learning wind & bedding the hard wayRifle/Muzzleloader: Inline muzzleloader setup in Kansas (wind breaks, fence-row ambush)Fishing: Reading micro-current seams; casting to hockey-puck-sized targetsPeople & placesGrandpas: Pop Grant (river rat & teacher), Pop Bud (camp cook & gift-giver)Kids: Grant (’00, working with Matt), Hunter (’04), Addison (’06), Kaylee (’08)Hunts: PA archery & rifle; Western KS whitetail; MT mule deer/whitetail; PA black bearFuture wish-list: Moose (maybe Newfoundland), snook & tarpon (Florida), trophy bass (El Salto?), halibut againTakeawaysThe trophy is the time together. The mounts are just bookmarks.Teach kids to fish/hunt by letting them do it—knots, bait, mess and all.You can build a life you love (even if your company motto is “Safety Third”).Links & supportWebsite: outdoorruhls.comInstagram: @OutdoorRuhlsEmail: [email protected] & review: Apple Podcasts & Spotify — your ratings genuinely help new folks find us.CreditsHost: Mike RuhlCo-hosts: Mark & Matt RuhlProduction: Outdoor Ruhls Media (Digital Media Manager: Mark… pending HR review by Matt)

Family Thread: A Stormy Tale Episode SummaryMike opens with the long-running campfire bit he’s done for years—reading the story stitched inside his favorite wool cap—and reveals how that hat (a Stormy Kromer) unexpectedly braided into his family’s own story. Joining Mike and Caitlin are Tim “GT” Dodge (co-founder of Hansen Dodge, the agency that helped relaunch the brand) and special guest Bob Jacquart, who revived and now stewards Stormy Kromer from Ironwood, Michigan. Together they trace the cap’s railroad roots, Ida Kromer’s crucial stitch, the Milwaukee relaunch, small-town factory pride, and the way one simple hat keeps showing up in hunting camps, weddings, and meet-cutes. It’s a nesting-dolls episode about craft, community, and family. Chapters 00:21 Intro + Mike’s Yellowstone hat storyThe line inside the brim: who was George “Stormy” Kromer—and why Ida mattersBob’s origin story: buying a discontinued product and rebuilding a brandFrom “grandpa’s hat” to 1,700 SKUs: growth, fabrics, and licensing (hello, collegiate caps)Factory tours, pasties, and Made-in-Michigan prideThe Hansen Dodge pivot: naming, story, and trademarking “Stormy Kromer”First Lite partnership & the outdoor communityFamily threads: Gina leading the company; heirloom repairs; the church hat vs. work hatField tales: the Rancher-as-rifle-rest mishap, Caitlin’s wolf-program mittens, and one lonely Milk DudClosing thoughts + open invite to tour the Ironwood factory Guests Bob Jacquart — Chairman, Stormy Kromer (Ironwood, MI)Tim “GT” Dodge — Co-founder, Hansen Dodge (brand relaunch partner)Caitlin Ruhl — Biologist, outdoorswoman, and frequent Outdoor Ruhls co-host Highlights & Takeaways The real hero stitch: Ida Kromer’s modification of a baseball cap for her railroad-engineer husband birthed a century-old cold-weather classic.Brand resurrection 101: Story > product > distribution. A local sewing shop + a great narrative + thoughtful trademarking turned a discontinued cap into a thriving American-made brand.Community impact: Factory tours, local lunches, and Made-in-Michigan pride keep dollars—and dignity—in small towns.Gear that lives a life: From wedding vests to backcountry hunts, SK pieces become family artifacts (and sometimes get bullet-adjacent scorch marks). Gear & Products Mentioned The Original Stormy Kromer Cap (the “hat with the story”)The Rancher (Mike’s well-loved, slightly singed version)Ida Kromer styles (Caitlin’s go-to, ponytail-friendly)Stormy Kromer mittens (work-palm hybrids Caitlin used on wolf surveys)First Lite x Stormy Kromer collaboration Resources & Links Stormy Kromer — brand, factory store, and free public tours (Ironwood, MI)Hansen Dodge — brand relaunch partner behind the “hat with the story” positioningOutdoor Ruhls favorites: caps, mittens, and ranch wear featured in this episode (Add buy/tour links on your episode page; keep affiliate tags if you use them.) Pull Quotes “I didn’t buy the name at first—I bought a discontinued hat. The story came next.” — Bob“There is no Stormy Kromer story without Ida.” — Caitlin“A frosty head only looks good on beer.” — classic SK line remembered by Mike Credits & Contact Hosted by Mike Ruhl with Caitlin Ruhl and Tim “GT” Dodge. Special thanks to Bob Jacquart and the Stormy Kromer crew in Ironwood. Website: OutdoorRuhls.comInstagram/Facebook: @outdoorruhlsEmail: [email protected]

Outdoor Ruhls Podcast — Episode 50 “From Sea to Shining Sea” Host: Mike Ruhl Guests/Co-Hosts: Matt Ruhl, Mark Ruhl, and Tim “GT” Dodge Episode Summary From the Chesapeake to Alaska to Ontario, the Ruhls recap a whirlwind late-season run of fishing adventures (and misadventures). Mark and Matt debrief a steamy, low-wind week in Cape Charles, VA—including a shredded trailer tire, a bunk falling off, and Matt’s personal-best redfish (~43 lb). GT heads to Alaska’s Alagnak River (ATA Lodge) for silvers, dollies, and rainbows—with fly-outs, bears at arm’s length, and the world’s coldest accidental wader bath. Matt closes with a four-day bass tournament on White Lake, Ontario, winning back-to-back with a mixed bag of smallmouth and largemouth, plus bonus walleye, pike, and a football-size perch. The crew talk salmon species and their many common names, splake (brook × lake trout hybrids), acid-rain recovery lakes, and what’s next: muskies, ice season, and a Cabo billfish Christmas. Chapter Guide (approx.) 00:21 — Welcome + why the “season wrap-up”… wasn’t02:20 — Cape Charles prep: Pro-Line starter fix, Honda water pump delay → Plan B: Poppy/Matt’s 19' Lund07:15 — Highway chaos: tire tread peels, fender skitters, bunk goes bye-bye (zip-tie rescue)12:40 — On-water results: keeper flounder, trout, croaker/whiting/grey trout; tough heat & no wind16:45 — Matt’s PB redfish on artificials (deep water jig bite)21:10 — Sheepshead plans vs. reality; why hot weeks hurt the bite24:00 — Looking ahead: earlier June week for cobia opener28:05 — GT’s Alaska week: Anchorage → King Salmon → ATA Lodge on the Alagnak31:30 — Jet boats, empty river miles, fly-out to the Kulik River (egg patterns for rainbows)35:15 — Salmon crash course: kings/chinook, sockeye/red, coho/silver, pink/humpy, chum/dog38:10 — Bears, brain-bites & roe snacks; GT falls in, still lands the silver42:59 — (Reconnect) Tournament fishing vs. fun fishing: why the pressure is addictive45:00 — Ontario: 4-boat, 4-day derby; big comeback to win by ~3–4 lb48:20 — By-catch highlights: walleye on a popper (!), giant perch, pike; rock bass ≠ green sunfish52:00 — Splake trip in NY; acid-rain recovery and cold-water fisheries56:10 — Musky dreams at Kalaniski (spring invite), fall plans, and Cabo at Christmas59:20 — Teaser: next episode = a special guest from the cold-weather gear world Notable Catches & Conditions Redfish (VA): ~43 lb on 1.5 oz jighead + 5" swimbait; deeper drift bite (~30–40 ft)Cape Charles week: extreme heat, minimal wind; inshore variety but picky redsAlaska (late Aug): silvers/coho wave mid-week; dollies, rainbows, grayling; sockeye spawning; “jack” kings presentOntario derby: tougher bite vs. prior year; more smallmouth weighed, largemouth for day-bigs; won overall by ~3–4 lb Gear & Techniques Mentioned Boats: Pro-Line (Honda outboard: starter & water-pump saga), 19' LundRigs: Heavy jig + swimbait for reds; egg patterns for Alaskan rainbows; topwater poppers (surprise walleye)Logistics: Trailer maintenance—tires, fenders, bunks, lights; lodge fish-boxing vs. DIY cooler game Species Roll Call Redfish (red drum), sheepshead, flounder, speckled trout, croaker, whiting, gray (weakfish) trout, all five Pacific salmon (chinook/kings, sockeye/reds, coho/silvers, pink/humpies, chum/dog), rainbow trout, Dolly Varden, grayling, splake (brook × lake trout), smallmouth & largemouth bass, walleye, northern pike, rock bass, yellow perch. Quotables / Episode Vibes “Say yes to fishing.” (new shirt idea)“Always something with boats.”“Tournament days are different—pressure makes it fun.”“Why am I standing in a river fishing for dying fish?” (salmon life-cycle perspective) Looking Ahead Cobia goals in late June at Cape Charles (before sharks show up)Muskies at Cownanesque Lake (spring)Cabo San Lucas over Christmas—billfish + spearfishing curiosityNext week’s guest: a heavyweight in cold-weather gear (perfect for ice season fans) Links & Mentions (for show notes) ATA Lodge (Alagnak River, AK)Kulik River fly-out (Queens of the egg-drift rainbows)White Lake, Ontario (west of Ottawa)Cape Charles, VA (Chesapeake Bay bridges/inner bridge) (Add your affiliate/outbound links as needed.) Call to Action 💬 Questions or episode ideas? [email protected]🌐 Show notes, recipes, & photos: OutdoorRuhls.com📸 Follow along: @outdoorruhls on Instagram and Facebook⭐ If you enjoyed this one, share it with a fishing buddy and leave a 5-star review—huge help!

Episode 49 — It’s Only Gotta Work Once, Part 2Show SummaryStorms, charcuterie, morale swings, and the relentless patience of a backcountry elk hunt. In Part 2, the crew recounts the second half of Caitlin’s season—highlighted by multiple bulls charging the wallow, tense full-draw standoffs, and finally, the encounter that brought it all together. From ethics and shot discipline to a gritty pack-out, this is a lesson in resilience, teamwork, and why elk hunting really is a community sport.HighlightsVillage support: again, gratitude to GT & Necie for holding down the fort.Wallow chess match: bulls charging in at full tilt, Caitlin at full draw multiple times, waiting for the right angle.Storm night: lightning directly overhead, tents nearly flooded, gear soaked—morale hits bottom.Backcountry hacks:The hose trick — short line pinned under a rock turns a trickle into a 3L/min fill station.Freeze-dry + bagels — calorie-dense food that packs small and keeps morale high.Battery strategy — headlamps and power banks rotated to stretch the week.The shot: mature 6x6 bull, huge thirds (~19"), Caitlin holds between pins and delivers a clean 30-yard arrow.Ethics on display: waiting for the right angle, ready for a follow-up, ensuring a quick, humane end.The pack-out: six heavy loads (quarters, trim, rack, gear) shuttled down in stages. Breakfast burritos = morale medicine.Score comparison: last year’s bull grossed 318; this one pushes the markTactics & LessonsSit the extra 15 minutes — encounters often happen just as you’re ready to give up.Water is king — reliable hydration makes or breaks a backcountry camp.Shuttle system — shortening brutal sections by caching and returning makes the pack-out safer.Community over individual — every successful elk hunt rests on teamwork.PeopleCaitlin — Archer, patient under pressure, makes the shot.Mike Ruhl — Caller, logistics, water-hack engineer.Hunter — Rookie turned workhorse, zingers and morale resets.Jeremy — Advisor, burrito hero, pack-out mule.GT & Necie — Enablers of adventure through childcare support.Quotables“Hunting is a community sport.”“Sit 15 more minutes.”“It only has to work once.”Links & ContactWebsite: OutdoorRuhls.comEmail: [email protected]: @outdoorruhls

Episode 48 — It’s Only Gotta Work Once, Part 1Show SummaryDraw lightning striking twice, rain jackets left on couches, vacuum-sealed underwear, and wallows hidden deep in the timber—this is the setup for Caitlin’s second consecutive New Mexico elk tag. In Part 1, Mike, Caitlin, Hunter, and Jeremy take listeners through the opening days: the long overnight drive, grumpy mornings, blown stalks, swirling winds, and the electrifying moments when bulls bugled back. It’s the foundation of a week that proves the old saying: it only has to work once.HighlightsTag of a lifetime (again): Caitlin draws the premier New Mexico archery elk tag for the second straight year—odds defied.Team assembled: Mike (caller/host), Caitlin (archer), Hunter (first-time elk hunter), Jeremy (newlywed guest & veteran elk hunter).Community support: GT & Necie taking care of the kids, making the backcountry hunt possible.Backcountry logistics: six days / five nights on the Valles Caldera with packs built for meat and camp crammed inside.Stormy start: soaked gear, sideways rain, lightning on the ridges, morale tested early.Hunter’s initiation: all-night drive, first elk hunt, hard fall in the dark timber, bruise for the ages.Early encounters:A five-point bull comes in to cow calls—too close for comfort.A solid six-point responds to bugles and branch-breaking but never closes the final distance.The wallow discovery: stumbling into a hidden water source that becomes the focal point of the hunt.Quote that sticks: “It only has to work once.”Tactics & LessonsPre-rut uncertainty: when cow calls fizzle, bugling + breaking branches can trigger curiosity.Wind roulette: swirling thermals on the caldera make patience and zig-zagging essential.Wallow strategy: elk will check water midday—sometimes at a sprint. Mark them, sit them.Mental grind: success often comes after days of “wrong” decisions.PeopleMike Ruhl — Host, caller, logistics lead.Caitlin — Tag holder and archer.Hunter — Nephew, first elk hunt, field bruises and new lessons.Jeremy Romero — Guest, advisor, extra rain jacket provider, veteran of the same tag.GT & Necie— Unsung MVPs at home with the boys.Quotables“I vacuum-sealed my underwear.”“Turkey isn’t big game.”“It only has to work once.”Links & ContactWebsite: OutdoorRuhls.comEmail: [email protected]: @outdoorruhls

Episode 47: Hell on Wheels From scraped knees to full-send disasters, the Ruhls (and friends) swap their best and worst bicycle wreck stories. This one’s all about gravel rash, handlebars to the ribs, stitches, e-bikes gone wrong, and even a runaway motorcycle. Highlights Mike’s solo crash – A pool bag in the spokes = upside-down in a gravel alley.Robert’s rite of passage – A sharp turn, a toppled bike, and a scraped knee. Lesson learned: helmets matter.Rachel’s Wyoming wipeout – Front-brake panic turns a mountain bike into a catapult. Plus her infamous forehead scar from a childhood BMX mishap (36 stitches!).Matt’s e-bike adventures – Two spills in 100 feet, a cartoon-style fence slide, and a soaking in Potter County.Snitz Creek fishing run – Protecting a brand-new Penn reel was more important than avoiding road rash.Mike’s tree collision – Clearing a tabletop jump… straight into a maple trunk 6 feet up.Kate & Poppy – A downhill “don’t ride the brakes” lesson ends with Poppy bleeding from the head (but still refusing a ride back).Sim & Pop Grant – The Indian motorcycle incident: unintended acceleration, two electric fences, and a miraculous escape.Mark’s revenge – Chased by older kid Paul Mettley, Mark circled back, blasted him with the Huffy Sledgehammer, ditched the bike, and ran inside. Little brother justice at its finest. Threads Life lessons on bikes: don’t hang bags on handlebars, check your bolts, and never underestimate a Ruhl plotting revenge.Generational echoes: from Pop Grant’s philosophy (“don’t ride the brakes”) to grandkids earning scars the same way their parents did.Bikes, e-bikes, and motorcycles—turns out “going over the handlebars” is a universal theme. 📸 Follow along on Instagram: @outdoorruhls 🌐 Full archive + show notes: outdoorruhls.com 📧 Share your best wreck stories: [email protected]

Episode 46: The Hunt Begins!Mike kicks off hunting season with Caitlin and Matt: GT is flying home from Alaska, Matt’s packing for Canadian bass, and Caitlin is (somehow!) holding another unbelievable New Mexico elk tag—archery opens tomorrow. The crew previews plans, tactics, gear, kids-in-the-woods logistics, and a little fishing season wrap-up to boot.HighlightsMatt’s Canada run: Driving 8–9 hours to White Lake, Ontario for a friendly bass derby (smallmouth + largemouth, with pike/walleye cameos). Trailer mishaps lore included.Elk draw déjà vu: Caitlin drew the same premier Valles Caldera archery elk tag two years in a row (~2% odds each year). Opening day family hike vs. “serious week two” plan.Prep & gear: New Hoyt bow, heavier confidence; seated/kneeling reps; drawing from behind cover; why “forgiveness” matters more than raw speed.Strategy talk:Elk: backpacking to spike out, dawn/dusk movement, calling, and realistic kid-day expectations.Whitetails: Matt’s PA playbook—stands prepped now, cameras over beans/corn, evenings favored, saving intrusive checks for hunt days.Philosophy & goals: Meat vs. antlers, being picky after last year’s bull, and not “ruining a perfectly good season by shooting a buck” too early.Family threads: Hunter’s first elk hunt (and his online classes 🤞), Emmett’s debut day, and why evenings feel better (until you’re quartering by headlamp).Community note: Congrats to Jeremy & Shannon on their wedding—elk season timing approved. Also: the infamous antique bear trap resurfaces in conversation.MentionedPlaces: Valles Caldera (NM), Alagnak River (AK), White Lake (ON), Chesapeake Bay, Yellowstone (cameo comparisons).Species: Elk, smallmouth/largemouth bass, coho, Dolly Varden, rainbow trout, whitetails.Gear: Hoyt compound bow, trail cams (cell & SD), tree stands, junipers (the original 3D targets).What’s NextA “Hell on Wheels” episode (bike/motorcycle mishaps with Uncle Sim).Cape Charles summer recap with Mark/Rachel/GT.GT’s Alaska debrief.Caitlin’s elk hunt report (fingers crossed and bugles blazing).📸 Instagram: @outdoorruhls🌐 Site: outdoorruhls.com📧 Email: [email protected]

Episode 45: The Googans’ Return The Norway Tetralogy comes to a close! Mike, GT, Poppy, and Caitlin reunite stateside to reflect on the trip of a lifetime, from puffins in Iceland to halibut in Sorøya. This episode ties it all together—what worked, what didn’t, what they’d do differently, and whether hauling fish halfway across the world was really worth it. Highlights: Iceland revisited – Puffins on the Westman Islands, tectonic plate hikes, secret lagoons, and a listener’s tip about farmhouse meals.Oslo surprises – Poppy’s encyclopedic navigation skills, museum hopping (Fram, Kon-Tiki, Maritime, and Natural History), and thoughts on city life.Tromsø tales – Cab rides, ice cream, late-night leg wrestling, and imagining a winter return for Northern Lights and dog sledding.Fishing reflections – The guides at Camp Halibut, big halibut vs. big cod, wolf fish, and why musky fishing is the right comparison.The great fish debate – The true cost (and stress) of bringing 80 pounds of fish home; was it worth it? Or would Whole Foods have been easier?Family takeaways – Making memories with Robert, bonding with Neil, Nate, Zach, and Emmy, and why the people made the trip as special as the fish.Looking forward – GT heads to Alaska, Caitlin preps for archery elk season, and the Outdoor Ruhls shift back into hunting mode. Closing Thoughts: Poppy: Fishing was the highlight.GT: The realization that making more of these trips with family is the real prize.Mike: Pride in Robert hauling up a redfish from 1,000 feet and gratitude for all the people who made the journey unforgettable.Caitlin: Content to sit this one out, but already scheming future trips closer to home. 📸 Follow the adventure on Instagram: @outdoorruhls 🌐 Show notes, recipes & more: outdoorruhls.com 📧 Email us: [email protected]

Episode 44: So Long SørøyaMike Ruhl, Jacob (Camp Halibut Guide), Nate Weise, Neil McCullum, GTJoin Mike on the final days of his Northern Norway adventure at Camp Halibut! This episode kicks off with an in-depth interview with Jacob, one of the guides who helped make the week unforgettable. Later, Mike sits down with Nate, Neil, and GT to share stories, reflections, and hard-earned lessons from a week chasing Arctic halibut and cod.Why Listen:Discover insider tips for Arctic fishing from a seasoned guide.Hear the story behind Poppy’s 161 cm halibut—trip record!Learn about gear, tactics, and teamwork that make a remote fishing trip a success.Get practical advice for planning your own Northern Norway adventure.Episode Highlights:Jacob’s top tips for landing halibut and cod.Stories from the guides and anglers about the week’s challenges and triumphs.Reflections from Nate, Neil, and GT on technique, preparation, and camaraderie.Mike’s closing thoughts on the trip and gratitude for the incredible guides and organizers.Next Up:The final Norway episode wraps up the adventure with lessons learned, ideas for future trips, and reflections on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.Connect with the Outdoor Ruhls Podcast:Website: www.outdoorruhls.comInstagram: @OutdoorRuhlsEmail: [email protected]

Episode 43: Fiske, Endelig (Fishing, Finally)!Mike Ruhl, Zach Klein, Poppy, RobertIn this episode, we kick off the Norway fishing adventures at Camp Halibut on Sørøya Island, deep in the Arctic Circle. Mike is joined by first-time guest Zach Klein, along with Poppy and Robert, as they recount their experiences fishing for a variety of species in this unique and remote location.Topics Discussed:Norway Fishing Adventures: The group talks about their time fishing at Camp Halibut and the diversity of fish they caught, including halibut, cod, redfish, wolf fish, placie, and ling.Fishing Techniques: From using paddle tail baits to cranking up redfish from 1,000 feet of water, the group shares stories of the fishing methods they used and what they caught.Camp Halibut & Sørøya Island: A look at the small, remote village and the fishing camp where they stayed, including insights into the local culture and what it’s like fishing so far north.Robert’s First Big Fishing Experience: Mike reflects on how Robert, at only six years old, handled the long days and challenging fishing conditions.Fishing with Zach Klein: Zach shares how he and Mike became friends in New Mexico, how they started hunting together, and now they’re experiencing a new fishing adventure in Norway.Key Highlights:A variety of fish were caught including halibut, cod, coalfish, and redfish.Fishing days averaged 10-12 hours, with some stretching to 14 hours.The group reflects on the gear used, including custom-built rods made by the guides at Camp Halibut.A behind-the-scenes look at life on the island, including boat rides, wildlife sightings, and fishing techniques in both shallow and deep waters.Next Week’s Preview:Next week, we continue our Norway fishing adventure with a special guest interview with Jacob, one of the guides at Camp Halibut. Stay tuned as we discuss more fishing stories with Neil McCullum and Nate Wiese.

🎙️ Episode 42 – Chasing the Midnight Sun Guests: Poppy, GT, and Robert Host: Mike Ruhl Length: ~90 minutes Recorded in: Reykjavik, Iceland & Tromsø, Norway In this jam-packed kickoff to the "Norway Adventure" trilogy, Mike, his son Robert, Poppy, and GT set off on a multi-generational journey across Iceland and Norway in pursuit of puffins, pastries, and (eventually) halibut. 🛫 TRIP ORIGINS: GT and Mike's group fly from Santa Fe to Denver, then direct to ReykjavikPoppy flies from Pennsylvania to Reykjavik via BWIThe crew reunites, loads into a diesel Toyota Land Cruiser, and starts their Icelandic road trip 🏔️ ICELAND HIGHLIGHTS: Whale Museum in ReykjavikThe Hallgrímskirkja church and top-tier seafood dinnersWaterfalls you can walk behindPuffin spotting on the Westman IslandsBlack Sand Beach and tern attacks (ask Poppy)Secret Lagoon hot springs (shhh!)Geysir and tectonic plate hikesSeveral bakeries – one was life-changing 🍲 ROBERT’S RANKINGS: Robert (age 6) offers a full list of favorites and not-so-favorites, including: 🥇 Secret Lagoon🥈 Second bakery🥉 Whale museum and mussels dinner🥄 Least favorite: not being allowed to ride a scooter 😆 🔥 SPECIAL ICELANDIC MOMENT: On the drive to the airport, the crew unexpectedly witnesses a volcano eruption near the Blue Lagoon — a surreal farewell from Iceland. ✈️ ONWARD TO NORWAY: Flight from Reykjavik to OsloChaos at baggage claim delays their escape from the Oslo airportThey discover the Oslo Pass, which unlocks a packed itinerary of museums, ferries, and public transport 🏛️ OSLO MUSEUM BLITZ: Fram MuseumKon-Tiki MuseumNobel Peace CenterMunch Museum (yes, The Scream)Norway’s Maritime & Natural History Museums 🌊 ROBERT SWIMS AGAIN: Swims in the Oslo harbor near the opera houseLater, tricks GT into letting him swim in a fountain 🥵 DOWNSIDE: Oslo was hot, with no A/C in their 7th floor AirbnbAlso, tiny coffee cups 📈 GT’s FISH-SHIPPING COST METER: A running joke/theme emerges: how much will it ultimately cost GT to bring fish back to New Mexico?Current tally: $230 and counting... 🌄 TROMSØ ARRIVAL: The group flies to Tromsø, 200 miles north of the Arctic CircleReindeer roam the beaches while Norwegians swim in the icy waterMountains rise from sea level, and the setting stuns the entire group 🎣 FISHING ANTICIPATION: The whole crew, especially Robert, is ready to fishBut they haven’t even started yet… 💬 Quotes of the Episode: “It’s a sheep in wolf’s clothing!” – Mike “No, it’s a wolf in sheep’s clothing.” – GT “I think he chafed his nipples on the bottom of the fountain.” – Mike “The biggest problem in Iceland? Tiny coffee cups.” – GT 📍Where We’ve Been (So Far): ReykjavikSecret LagoonWestman IslandsOsloTromsø 📦 Next Up in Episode 43: The crew finally arrives in Hasvik, Norway for Camp Halibut and the fishing adventure begins! Expect big catches, late-night fileting, and the most expensive fish per pound you’ve ever heard of. 📲 Follow along on Instagram and Facebook: @OutdoorRuhls 📬 Got comments or a verdict on the sheep/wolf debate? Email us: [email protected]

Episode 41: Joeski, Part 2 – What Doesn’t Kill YouGuest: Joe SkorupskiHost: Mike RuhlDescription:In Part 2 of this conversation, the story continues from the Alaskan wilderness... but quickly turns in an unexpected and deeply personal direction. Not long after returning from one of the greatest hunts of his life, Joe began a battle that nearly cost him everything. What follows is a raw and emotional account of surviving liver failure, undergoing a transplant, and finding strength through family, friends, and sheer will.Joe opens up about the grueling physical and mental toll of waiting for a donor, the shock of a rare diagnosis, and the long road to recovery. This is a story about resilience, perspective, and gratitude.Topics Covered:Final days and drama of the Alaska float huntLife-threatening health collapse and rare liver diseaseMisdiagnoses, dry runs, and weeks of uncertaintyThe gift of a transplant—and what comes afterFinding meaning in survival, service, and second chancesWhat matters most: family, community, and the drive to live fullyTeaser:If you’ve ever questioned what you’re capable of enduring, Joe’s story offers a stunning reminder. And next week, we’ll shift gears with the first of our Norway fishing episodes—travel tales, family memories, and big fish from the far north.

Episode 40: Joeski, Part 1 – From Fly Rods to Float Planes Guest: Joe Skorupski Host: Mike Ruhl Description: In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Mike sits down with longtime friend and fisheries biologist Joe Skorupski for a conversation that spans decades of friendship, public lands work, and unforgettable hunts. From their first meeting in Yellowstone National Park to shared river time in Montana and a legendary pheasant hunt in a Lewistown blizzard, this episode is full of storytelling gold. The highlight is Joe’s epic DIY drop-camp Alaska hunt with two friends, chasing caribou and moose across the tundra and down a wild river. You’ll hear about monster bulls, failed crossings, and everything that can—and did—go wrong on a backcountry expedition. Topics Covered: Joe’s early years fishing Pennsylvania’s Schuylkill River Yellowstone work and wild stories from the field Grad school hustle and macroinvertebrate research Western big game hunting, bird dogs, and backcountry mindset DIY Alaska float hunt: planning, caribou success, and moose close calls Lessons from the woods, the water, and the people who chase both Teaser: Come back for Part 2, where the story takes a powerful turn. You won't want to miss what happens next. Also, watch for upcoming episodes from our Norway fishing trip—stories, misadventures, and hopefully some giant halibut.

Episode 37: A Pair of Bassholes Guest: Bob Bridges Hosts: Mark & Matt Ruhl Theme: Bass fishing stories, unforgettable trips, and a lifetime of laughs In this episode, longtime friend and die-hard bass angler Bob Bridges joins Matt and Mark Ruhl to share decades of stories from the water. From childhood fishing memories in Texas to legendary boat trips across Pennsylvania, New York, and Canada, the guys trade tales about tackle obsessions, muskie mayhem, bear encounters, and one epic bass tournament win. They break down their favorite gear, favorite lakes (including Cowanesque, Gaston, and Raystown), and what keeps them coming back year after year for topwater blowups, late-night crappie bites, and the occasional kidney stone. 🐟 Episode Highlights: Bob’s Fishing Origin Story: Bluegill in Missouri, bass in Texas, and the purple worm that started it allConodoguinet Creek & PA Roots: Smallmouth and rock bass in backyard watersCollege Connection: Meeting the Ruhl crew at Mansfield University in 2000The “Green Weenie” Boat: DIY bass rig and a symbol of simpler timesAnnual Trips to Cowanesque Lake: 20+ years of tradition, big bass, and rotating camp spotsLake Gaston: Exploding spotted bass population and a 2.6 lb crappie on a jerkbaitTopwater Magic: Canada tournament win and the best smallmouth popper bite of their livesTackle Addictions: TRDs, poppers, Shimano reels, and overflowing basement pegboardsAnimal Antics: Bear vs. honey buns, raccoon snack theft, and deer camp dogs with ticksFishing Philosophy: Don’t leave fish to find fish. Unless you’re Bob. 🎯 Gear & Go-To Tactics: Bob: G. Loomis rods, Shimano reels, TRD (Ned Rig & Drop Shot)Matt: St. Croix rods, Shimano reels, Topwater poppersFavorite species: Largemouth, smallmouth, crappie, spotted bass, and stripersNotable catches: 6.9 lb bass, 20+ lb striper on topwater, 2.6 lb crappieLeast favorite move: Watching Bob leave biting fish to try something “interesting” 🛶 Favorite Fishing Spots: Cowanesque Lake, PALake Gaston, VA/NCRaystown Lake, PATioga & Hammond Lakes, PACanadian Shield LakesFuture Goals: St. Lawrence River, Thousand Islands, and maybe even chasing 10-pounders down south 🦫 Bonus Stories: The kidney stone that didn’t stop Bob from fishingThe “bear break-in” that left nothing but a trail of Entenmann’s wrappersThat time Bob caught his own lost lure… inside a fish’s throatLegendary bass tournament win powered by topwater chaos and bug hatches 📸 Follow & Explore: Instagram: @OutdoorRuhlsWebsite: www.outdoorruhls.com – listen, read, and grab wild game recipes 🎧 Listen Now: Stream A Pair of Bassholes and every episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen.

🎣 Episode 37 – “The Bass Bug: From Snitz Creek to the Bassmaster Open” Mark, Matt, & MikeSpecial guest: Matt Goudie (@mgoudie1756) Overview: In this special bass-centric episode, Mark introduces his oldest fishing friend, Matt Goudie, for a deep dive into lifelong fishing memories, bass boat obsessions, and tournament prep. From catching sunfish with cigarette butts to prepping for the Bassmaster Open on the Upper Chesapeake, this episode covers it all: stories, laughs, strategy, and obsession. Highlights Include: 🎣 Fishing Origins: Childhood days chasing trout in Snitz Creek and outlaw fishing at Gretna Lake🐮 Bull Encounters & Rat’s Nests: Stories of sprinting from cows and chucking tangled rods🚤 Bass Obsession: How Matt caught the bass bug and built a year-round habit around it🧠 Bass vs. Variety: The debate between mastering one fish or being a jack-of-all-trades📅 100+ Days a Year: How Matt balances work and over 100 fishing trips annually🎯 Favorite Techniques: Jerkbaits, frogs, Ned rigs—and why tubes made a comeback🏆 Tournament Life: Local opens vs. the Bassmaster Open, how it works, and why he’s fishing it🧭 Home Water Advantage: Insight into the Upper Bay, tidal nuance, and grass as the X-factor🌊 Dream Destinations: From Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River to peacock bass in Florida🎣 Funny Memory Lane: The “Set the Hook” trip with Phil Steinke and the legendary baitless sunfish episode Follow Along: Follow Matt Goudie on Instagram: @mgoudie1756Watch the Bassmaster Open leaderboard and weigh-in at bassmaster.comMore Outdoor Ruhls episodes and recipes: www.outdoorruhls.comInstagram: @outdoorruhls

🎣 Outdoor Ruhls Podcast – Episode 36: “From Pickled Pike to Po' Boys” Guests: Rachel, Mark, Caitlin Host: Mike Ruhl Summary: In this deliciously detailed episode, Mike is joined by Rachel, Mark, and Caitlin to talk about one of the Ruhls’ favorite topics: fish and food. The crew recaps rainy days at deer camp, trout fishing adventures with their kids, and plans for their upcoming trip to Cape Charles. They dive deep into their favorite fish recipes—from smoked trout dip and pickled pike to air-fried fish tacos and salmon fusion bowls. Along the way, they share laughs, family traditions, and some truly mouthwatering ideas. Topics Covered: 🎣 Rainy trout fishing at Ole Bull State Park and Stevenson's Dam 🧂 Smoked trout prep and dip recipes 🐟 Trout cleaning (CJ’s moment of fame), filleting tips, and pin bone tricks 🍽️ Rachel’s sourdough journey: discard rolls and venison pot pies 🌮 Fish taco how-to: seasoning, battering, and air frying 🐠 Walleye vs. saltwater species – the crew debates favorites 🧪 Pickling pike and plans for pickled trout (video pending!) 🥫 Pressure canning venison (stroganoff, taco meat, and stew ideas) 🍓 Camp jelly making with Pop Grant and wild strawberries 🦀 Crab-stuffed flounder, soft shells, and family ceviche nights at the beach 🍚 Cajun po’ boys, poke bowls, and the cult of Japanese BBQ sauce 🧳 Norway prep, fish freezer strategy, and packing old clothes to throw away Recipes Mentioned: Smoked Trout Dip Sourdough Discard Rolls Brown Sugar Garlic Air-Fried Salmon Chimichurri Grilled Halibut Mayo-Lime Baked Walleye with Panko-Parmesan Pickled Pike (BHA style) Fried Fish Tacos with Kinders seasoning Blue Crab Deviled Eggs and Crab-Stuffed Flounder Trader Joe’s Chimichurri and Truff Mayo recommendations Listener Shoutout: 👋 Special thanks to Dan Stoltzfus for the Japanese BBQ sauce rec! Don’t forget to visit: 🌐 www.outdoorruhls.com 📸 Instagram: @outdoorruhls

🎙️ Episode 35: For Better or For Worse? Description: On the eve of their 13th wedding anniversary, Mike and Caitlin sit down for a candid, funny, and heartfelt conversation about what they've learned from marriage—especially in the context of outdoor adventures. From backcountry days in Yellowstone to an epic (and slightly disastrous) fishing trip for golden dorado in Argentina, they reflect on how the outdoors shaped their relationship and continues to teach them about partnership, parenting, and perseverance. Along the way, they call on loved ones to share hard-earned marriage wisdom—including both sets of parents, family friends married nearly 70 years, Mike's sister and brother-in-law, and Mike’s brother Matt. The result is a warm, real, and often hilarious tapestry of stories and advice. 🔑 Key Topics: Reflections on 13 years of marriage Spam, side-eyes, and backcountry bonding in Yellowstone An unforgettable golden dorado trip in Argentina (bus delays included) Marriage advice from family: 165+ years of combined experience Outdoor memories with kids and the evolution of a relationship The importance of patience, laughter, and choosing wisely 💬 Guest Voices & Advice: Catherine & Leonard Schott – Married 69 years: "Learn to communicate. Don’t go to bed angry." Mike’s Parents (Memaw & Poppy) – Married 51 years: “Patience. Do things together as a family.” Caitlin’s Parents (Necie & GT) – Married 45+ years: “Support each other. Learn from each other. And laugh.” Kate & Jed – Married 13 years: “Communicate constantly—and avoid double kayaks.” Matt (Mike’s Brother) – Divorced, father of four: “Do whatever you can to keep her happy.” 🐟 Adventure Spotlight: 🎣 Golden Dorado in Argentina A wild ride featuring midnight buses, mystery guides, big fish, broken reels, and last-minute hotel miracles. Lesson: Not every genius plan feels like a good one while it’s unfolding. ❤️ Final Takeaway: Whether it’s fishing flooded rivers, parenting young kids, or navigating life's messy logistics—partnership is about persistence, good humor, and showing up for each other again and again. 📸 Photos & Recipe: Check out the golden dorado catch and anniversary pics at: outdoorruhls.com Wild game and outdoor-inspired recipes: outdoorruhls.com/cooking 📱 Follow & Subscribe: Instagram: @outdoorruhls YouTube: Outdoor Ruhls Podcast Website: outdoorruhls.com

Episode 34: Why Did the Beaver Cross the Road? Guest: Ben Goldfarb, award-winning environmental journalist and author Hosts: Mike and Caitlin Ruhl Duration: ~1 hour 10 minutes 🦫 Episode Summary: This week’s episode of Outdoor Ruhls brings together old friends for a heartfelt and fascinating conversation about fish, fieldwork, writing, and the creatures that shape our landscapes. Mike and Caitlin are joined by Ben Goldfarb, renowned environmental journalist and author of Eager and Crossings, for a wide-ranging conversation that starts with shared memories of working in Yellowstone National Park and travels through fisheries science, book writing, and beaver admiration. Ben talks about freezing nights electrofishing on the Madison River, lake trout battles on Yellowstone Lake, and the epic ecological significance of the humble beaver. The crew also explores the deeper reasons why fish captivate us, and Ben shares insights into his upcoming book on fish movement. There’s even a little Mets-Phillies banter to close things out. 📚 Topics Covered: How Mike, Caitlin, and Ben met working fisheries in Yellowstone (2009)Electrofishing for brown trout at night on the Madison RiverThe ecological war against lake trout in Yellowstone LakeWhy Eager became a breakout conservation book — and what Dan Flores had to do with itCrossings: the surprising and devastating ways roads affect wildlifeWriting with humor and heart about dark ecological subjectsFish as tactile gateways to the wildMussels, minnows, mystery, and ichthyophiliaBen’s upcoming book on fish movementAnd yes… Mets vs. Phillies 📘 Featured Works by Ben Goldfarb: Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They MatterCrossings: How Road Ecology Is Shaping the Future of Our Planet 🏆 Winner: Banff Mountain Book Award for Environmental Literature 🏆 E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation Award (shortlisted) 🧠 Quotables: “You can hold a fish in your hand and feel the wild.” – Mike “We’re all just trying to figure out why we love fish.” – Ben “Roadkill is the carnage of modernity.” – Ben “Writing with joy about hard things is the way in.” – Caitlin 🔖 Tags / SEO Keywords: Yellowstone National Park, Ben Goldfarb, beavers, road ecology, electrofishing, brown trout, lake trout, native fish, conservation writing, fish movement, freshwater mussels, Eager book, Crossings book, Aldo Leopold, Dan Flores, outdoor podcast, fisheries, Mike Ruhl, Caitlin Ruhl 📸 Follow & Connect: Website: www.outdoorruhls.comInstagram: @outdoorruhlsFacebook: Outdoor RuhlsEmail: [email protected] 🎧 Listen + Share: Love the episode? Leave a review, share it with your favorite fisheries nerd, or tell us why you think beavers matter.

Episode Summary: Mike sits down with his brothers Mark and Matt for a spring catch-up covering all things Outdoor Ruhls. They swap stories about this year’s turkey season—Mike’s morning in the woods with Caitlin, close calls with Poppy, and the joys and struggles of chasing thunder chickens. Mark breaks down his spring bass trips to North Carolina and northern PA, shares thoughts on lure selection and spawning cycles, and explains how tubes made a comeback. The guys also talk about Caitlin’s lucky elk tag draw, summer fishing trips (Norway and Cape Charles), and tease some exciting episodes ahead. Topics Covered: Turkey hunting stories from New Mexico and PennsylvaniaIntroducing kids to turkey hunting (CJ and Robert updates)Caitlin’s perfect hunt and turkey enchilada recipesMark’s bass trips: Lake Gaston & Northern PA lakesSpring lure tactics: finesse vs. power fishingBoat issues, dreams of LiveScope, and catching citation sheep’s headSummer plans: Deer Camp, Cape Charles, and NorwayCaitlin draws her premium elk tag againFuture episodes teased:Conservation writer Ben Goldfarb“Hell on Wheels” bike crash episodeBassin' with BobNorway travel recordings Recipes Mentioned: Turkey Green Chile Enchiladas (similar to Mike’s pheasant version)Turkey Green Chile Corn Chowder Connect with Us: 🌐 OutdoorRuhls.com 📸 Instagram: @OutdoorRuhls 📧 Email: [email protected] 🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts & Spotify