The Flippin' Sticks and Throwin' Lead Podcast

Wisconsin hunter Noah Mott is heading west for a new challenge: archery pronghorn hunting in Wyoming.In this episode of Flippin’ Sticks & Throwin’ Lead, Noah joins us to talk about preparing for his Wyoming pronghorn hunt, from e-scouting public land and locating water sources to dialing in his bow, arrows, optics, and overall hunting setup.We break down the challenges of hunting unfamiliar western terrain, scouting pronghorn from hundreds of miles away, understanding seasonal patterns and animal behavior, and building confidence before stepping into a completely new hunting environment.Coming from a Wisconsin waterfowl hunting background, Noah shares what he’s learned while preparing for his first western adventure and why trusting your gear, preparation, and practice can make all the difference in the field.Topics include Wyoming pronghorn hunting, archery hunting, public land hunting, pronghorn scouting strategies, western hunting gear, spotting scopes, e-scouting, waterhole hunting, Wisconsin waterfowl hunting, and preparing for an out-of-state hunting trip.Whether you’re planning your first Wyoming pronghorn hunt or looking to tackle your first western public land adventure, this episode is packed with hunting stories, preparation strategies, and lessons from stepping outside your comfort zone.Keep up with Noah on Instagram: @noah_mott

This week on Flippin’ Sticks & Throwin’ Lead, Erik Tasker and Paul Wagner dive into a mix of waterfowl conservation, hunting season preparation, and what’s happening behind the scenes as fall gets closer.A major focus of the episode is the ongoing conversation surrounding waterfowl habitat legislation and the future of North America’s duck populations. Erik and Paul discuss the importance of the Prairie Pothole Region, an area responsible for producing more than half of North America’s ducks, and why decisions surrounding habitat protection today could impact waterfowl hunting for generations.They break down why protecting wetlands and nesting habitat matters, the role hunters and conservation organizations play in maintaining healthy waterfowl populations, and why hunters need to pay attention when legislation has the potential to affect critical breeding grounds.The conversation also shifts toward the upcoming hunting seasons. With deer season, archery season, and waterfowl season approaching, Erik and Paul talk preparation, hunting strategies, gear, and the anticipation that comes with another fall in the outdoors.Plus, the guys recap recent factory tours and company visits, share some behind-the-scenes experiences from the outdoor industry, and talk about upcoming events and opportunities to connect with the hunting community.Whether you're a duck hunter, bowhunter, whitetail hunter, conservationist, or simply someone who cares about the future of hunting, this episode covers some of the biggest conversations happening as another hunting season approaches.In This EpisodeWaterfowl habitat legislation and conservationWhy the Prairie Pothole Region is critical for North American ducksHow legislation could affect future waterfowl populationsWetland and nesting habitat conservationThe role hunters play in wildlife conservationFactory tours and outdoor industry experiencesPreparing for waterfowl seasonDeer and archery season preparationHunting strategies heading into fallUpcoming outdoor events and community involvement________The great HEAVY vs LIGHT Arrow debate comes full circle this week. Follow the ShowFollow Flippin’ Sticks & Throwin’ Lead for more conversations about bowhunting, whitetail deer, waterfowl hunting, wildlife conservation, hunting gear, outdoor industry news, and the issues affecting hunters across the country.

Whether you're getting ready for deer season, planting late-summer food plots, or just counting down the days until opening morning, this episode of Flippin' Sticks & Throwin' Lead is packed with hunting talk, personal stories, and plenty of laughs.Paul Wagner and Erik Tasker cover everything from current food plot conditions and preparing for the upcoming whitetail season to trail camera updates, velvet bucks, early-season hunting strategies, and what they're seeing across the Midwest. They also dive into their partnership with Physis Seed Company, discussing food plot seed development, product testing, and why experimenting with different planting methods could change the way hunters approach habitat management.Outside of hunting, Eric shares what it was like officiating his niece's wedding, the guys recap summer fishing adventures, discuss balancing family, work, and the outdoors, and look ahead to duck camp and a busy fall schedule.If you love whitetail hunting, habitat improvement, food plots, deer management, and conversations that feel like you're sitting around the campfire with friends, this episode is for you.In this episode:Preparing for the 2026 deer seasonTrail camera updates and velvet buck observationsEarly-season hunting strategiesLate-summer food plot planningPhysis Seed Company partnership and seed testingHabitat management across different climatesErik's officiating a weddingDuck camp plans and fall adventuresBuilding an outdoor community through the podcastWhether you're a hardcore bowhunter, weekend food plotter, or simply enjoy authentic conversations about the outdoors, there's something here for everyone.

Is Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) really the conservation crisis it's made out to be, or are hunters being misled?In this episode of Flippin' Sticks & Throwin' Lead, we dive into some of the biggest controversies in the hunting world. From CWD research and wildlife management to guided hunts, game farms, record books, and conservation funding, nothing is off limits.We discuss whether Mother Nature is already doing what wildlife agencies are trying to accomplish, how politics and money influence wildlife decisions, and where ethical hunting begins and ends. Along the way, we share personal experiences with CWD testing, thoughts on outfitted hunts, sandhill crane populations, and whether game-farm genetics have changed the future of hunting.Whether you agree with us or completely disagree, we'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.What do you think?Is CWD being handled correctly?Should guided hunts qualify for record books?Where should we draw the line on game farms and artificial breeding?Join the conversation below.

How far should an ethical bowhunter be able to shoot before stepping into the woods?This week on Flippin' Sticks & Throwin' Lead, we're back in the studio talking about one of the biggest debates in modern bowhunting: Should archery hunters have to pass a proficiency test before getting a tag?We dive into what ethical shot distances really look like, why practicing beyond your comfort zone matters, and whether a proficiency standard would improve the hunting community.We also break down a new food plot experiment where we'll be testing multiple seed brands under identical conditions to see what actually performs best. No marketing hype. Just real-world results.Plus, we catch up on hunting season preparations, discuss drought conditions and food plots, share a memorable turkey hunting story, and look ahead to upcoming waterfowl events as another Wisconsin hunting season gets closer.In This Episode:Should bowhunters pass a shooting proficiency test?Ethical shot distances and improving accuracyFood plot seed testing ideas and side-by-side comparisonsHunting season preparation and gear updatesA turkey hunting story with an important lessonWaterfowl festival plans and preseason shoppingWhy consistent practice makes better huntersIf you're passionate about bowhunting, food plots, deer management, turkey hunting, or waterfowl season, this episode is packed with practical discussion and a few strong opinions.👍 Like the episode, subscribe, and leave a comment:Should states require an archery proficiency test before issuing a bow tag? We'd love to hear your take.

July is one of the most important months of the year for whitetail hunters, and in this episode of Flippin' Sticks & Throwin' Lead, we're breaking down exactly what you should be doing right now to prepare for deer season.From checking trail cameras and maintaining food plots to bow practice, scouting, and getting your gear dialed in, we cover the essential July tasks that can set you up for success this fall. Whether you're hunting public land or managing private property, now is the time to put in the work.We also dive into this week's Campfire Controversy:Should baiting be legal everywhere?It's one of the most debated topics in the hunting world, and we discuss both sides of the argument while sharing our own perspectives. We want to hear what you think.In This Episode• July deer hunting checklist• Trail camera strategy• Summer food plot maintenance• Bow practice and gear preparation• Summer scouting tips• Campfire Controversy: Should baiting be legal everywhere?If you're getting ready for deer season, this episode is packed with practical tips, honest conversation, and a few laughs along the way.Leave us a comment and let us know:What's the most important thing you're doing this July to prepare for deer season?Should baiting be legal where you hunt?If you enjoyed the episode, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share it with your hunting buddies.#DeerHunting #Whitetail #WhitetailHunting #Bowhunting #TrailCameras #FoodPlots #SummerScouting #HuntingPodcast #OutdoorPodcast #ArcherySeason #WisconsinHunting #PublicLand #PrivateLand #FlippinSticksThrowinLead #Back40Media

This week after a 1 week hiatus... we jump into the new format of the show. We're trying to have a little more structure around the planning of the show so our listeners can expect some consistency throughout the show. The newest feature of the show - Campfire Controversies... will be a question that we pose and hope you chime in with your feedback... about something that will certainly upset someone. If you could run the Wisconsin DNR for a year - what changes would you make immediately for that year.

This week the fellas are back and we are jumping into chasing whitetails in warm weather. Are we OVER valuing cold fronts in the hunting community?! Quite frankly... YES. Tune in to see why and what to do in order to adjust and chase those giants before the rest of the community is chasing them!

Wagner returns from a long road trip and we get to catch up in person about whats happening, how the teams doing, and whats next for the guys. Red Snapper Fishing regulations changing... the TRUMP Admin on expanding 92 Million acres of new public lands... what could go wrong?!

This week, while Wags is on the road - we tell the story of Taskers first Tom. The final hour of Period E in Wisconsin.... made the previous 73 hours worth it. Should've been bird #2 for Tasker this year, but nonetheless.... there's a Fan going on the wall!Follow for more on our social pages:Tasker - @wiscobowhunting / @back40media_Wags - Pwags_1967

This week, Wags and Tasker relive the highs and lows from last weeks Turkey season for wags, including a couple other topics:Turkey hunting strategies and success storiesFirearm and choke optimization for long-range shotsBalancing outdoor passions with baseball commitments

Join the fellas this week as they continue on with their Turkey Seasons and jump into Wags second season and a few things about Does and fawns dropping soon. We wrap up with a Turkey True False Quiz and test the guys knowledge of the Gobbler!

Turkey hunting is not just about the hunt; it's about the journey. Wags and Tasker jump in to share about the last week of chasing birds in Wisconsin's Period B. Lot's of laughs, fun, and a couple good tidbits to learn from this past week that we dive into in this weeks episode. @wiscobowhunting @pwags_1967

The fellas take a break from the turkey woods and recap their week at Vortex last week with HHA USA. Seasons still in full swing and we got the episode in from turkey woods. Good luck to all the turkey hunters and we'll keep you posted on the successes and failures of the season!

Join us as we delve into turkey hunting strategies, call making, and the passion behind Weathered Oaks game calls with expert Matt Streim. Perfect for hunters looking to improve their skills and understanding of turkey behavior.Follow Matt here:https://www.instagram.com/weatheredoaksgamecalls/https://www.facebook.com/WeatheredOaksFind his Podcast anywhere you listen by searching "Okayest Fisher".

This week we jump into a packed episode as the fellas are joined by lifelong guide and hunter Zeke Espey of Espey Outfitters in Missouri. What to expect from a guided hunt?Managing 8,500 Acres of Hunting Land.Limiting hunting pressure across the property.Creating the most memorable experience for all that hunt with them.To follow Zeke and the Espey Outfitters crew: https://modeerhunts.com/https://www.instagram.com/espeyoutfitters/[email protected] for email!

Turkey season is almost here… and we’re breaking it ALL down. 🦃Wags and Tasker dive into everything you need to know heading into spring:• Spring vs Fall turkey hunting — key differences and strategy• How gobbler behavior changes as the season unfolds• A University of Wisconsin Master’s study on the psychology behind passing on bucks — and how decision-making shifts as days get longer• TSS vs standard turkey loads — performance, patterning, and whether the price is actually worth itIf you’re chasing longbeards this spring or just want to understand the strategy behind it all… this one’s for you. Follow along:@Back40Media_@Wiscobowhunting@Pwags_1967

Erik Tasker and Paul Wagner share insights on outdoor activities, food plot management, and seasonal preparations, blending personal stories with practical tips for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.Things we covered this week:Food plot acreage estimationSeasonal weather impacts on outdoor activitiesSpring preparation tips for huntersUse of technology in land managementFollow for clips and more insights on what's going on with our seasons:Tasker: Wiscobowhunting Wags: Pwags_1967

Ever wonder how to grow a thriving food plot for deer? Here’s what we learned from our conversation with Monster Buck Seed! 🦌Tag someone who needs to up their food plot game!Starting a food plot can feel overwhelming. We’ve been there, trying to figure out the right seeds and techniques. But here's the insight: it’s all about understanding your land and its needs. We learned that soil testing is crucial. Knowing your pH levels helps in choosing the right fertilizers and seeds. Don't just throw down what the package says—get to know your ground!Remember, it's about ROI—return on investment. Are you looking for a trophy buck on your wall? Then make informed choices about your food plots.Maybe that’s the real lesson: farming for wildlife is just as strategic as farming for crops. You have to think ahead about what will attract deer and keep them coming back.Want more tips? Link in bio for the full conversation! #FoodPlots #DeerHunting #MonsterBuck #WisconsinBrands #AgronomyInsights

This week, we sit down with Alec Bekker from Backcountry Hunters and Anglers to discuss public lands, wildlife management, and conservation issues in Wisconsin. Dove into topics like the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program, wolf and crane management, and the importance of unified advocacy for outdoor enthusiasts.To find more about Wisconsins BHA Chapter- https://www.backcountryhunters.org/Get-Involved/Chapters/WisconsinInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wisconsin_bha/Facebook: http://facebook.com/groups/WisconsinBackcountryHunters/about

Unlocking Deer Hunting Success with  @jaredmills  | Land Management, Scouting & Self-Filming InsightsJoin us as we sit down with Jared Mills, well known hunter and content creator, to discuss the mindset behind successful hunting, land management strategies, and the art of self-filming in the field. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting started, Jared shares actionable tips and personal stories that will elevate your outdoor experience.Follow Jared on InstagramConnect with Jared:YouTube http://www.youtube.com/@jaredmillsInstagram www.instagram.com/jaredjmillsFacebook facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063466309687

This week we jump into a variety of topics with former Milwaukee Wave Captain and all time leading scorer - Michael King. We talk balancing professional athlete life with enjoying the outdoors and how after his professional career, he continues to give back with his mentorship program for youth both with soccer / athletics and the outdoors. This was a fun one!

In this episode, Erik Tasker and Paul Wagner discuss various topics ranging from the perception of time, customer service experiences with Vortex Optics, and personal anecdotes related to outdoor gear and archery. They emphasize the importance of good customer service and share their own stories of positive interactions with brands, particularly in the outdoor industry. The conversation also touches on the significance of archery and hunting in their lives, highlighting the emotional connections and memories associated with these activities.

In this inaugural episode of the Flippin' Sticks and Throwin' Lead podcast, hosts Erik Tasker and Paul Wagner introduce their new venture, sharing their backgrounds in hunting and outdoor activities. They discuss the evolution of their podcast, the realities of hunting culture, and their excitement for the upcoming turkey season. The conversation also delves into brand loyalty in hunting gear, the challenges of filming hunts, and their future plans for the podcast, including sponsorships and collaborations.Follow us at the following:Tasker - @wiscobowhunting (tiktok, insta, facebook) & @back40stories on instagram and Back 40 Media LLC on FacebookWags - @pwag_1967 on Instagram

After years of covering hunting, fishing, and life outdoors, this show is evolving into something new. Same passion. Same roots. A fresh format and a new name built around deeper stories and the community behind them. Thank you for being part of Tailgate Talk. Make sure you’re subscribed to the new show so you don’t miss what’s next. Grab the new feed below and subscribe to the show. I'm in the midst of uploading all old shows to the new feed, but it's time consuming and we should be all up to date by Monday or tuesday next week.

This Week... Tasker & Wags jump in and talk a few different topics... Sturgeon Fishing, the INSANE COLD, and we might need a toe warmer sponsor after this one... Want to be a guest on our show?! DM me on Instagram; @wiscobowhunting and we'll get it set up!

After a little break - Wags and Tasker are back in the studio to recap the trip to Indy and their first experience at the ATA Show. The Archery Trade Association hosts their annual event where product releases and manufacturers come together to show off whats new this year!

Tasker jumps in quick for a brief episode and update this week. Back next week with a monster episode from the entire ATA show - one we wont forget!

Host Erik Tasker and his family discuss their passion for hunting, particularly waterfowl hunting. They share personal stories, insights on the differences between deer and duck hunting, and the importance of scouting and preparation. The conversation highlights the joy of hunting with family, the role of hunting dogs, and reflections on the past season while looking forward to future adventures.

This week Wags and Tasker are joined by Holt Watson - a NW Wisconsin guy that's giving us a masterclass in hunting whitetails. We wrap the show by talking about the balance of a busy life and still showing up for your family, while chasing our passions. This one, was a GOOD one. To find Holt on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holterdice22/ Merry Christmas to all... and to all a good night!

Chilly Morning in the studio this morning after a few nice days and Wags and Tasker jump into a few recent stories and headlines that relate to the Wolves being delisted (are we going to finally be able to get a wolf season again in WI) and the big waves that KUIU is making in the national headlines with the "Anti-Hunter" (allegedly) new owners bringing a case against public waterway users. Like, subscribe, and leave us a review! Anywhere you find podcasts!

This week, Wags & Tasker are joined for their first guest in the new era with a GOOD one! Chris Hamm from HHA Sports and HHA USA drops in to talk about the magical buck he harvested, the NEW HHA Sports XV3 sight that drops TODAY, and how the year panned out with HHA USA, the non profit helping veterans and first responders get into archery and fellowship. For more on any of these topics, find them below: www.hhasports.com the new XV3 Sight: https://www.hhasports.com/products/nytrx-pro-bridgelock-mount/ HHA USA - www.hhausa.org and keep tabs on their site for the release of the schedule for next years events!

This Week - Wags and Tasker jump in and chat Gun Deer Season numbers. The clickbait is that the numbers are DOWN... but how much? Maybe there's a reason for it. We also go down the rabbit hole of some other recent stories, catch up about the winter wonderland in Wisconsin - and a few teasers for what's to come!

This Week - Wags and Tasker get together mid-gun season and chat about how the Northwoods treated Tasker (not good, spoiler), what's been happening at the Wagner Ranch, and a plan for the rest of the season. Then - a little wild game spin on Thanksgiving dishes and whether or not we'd go for it or not! Sorry for the audio quality on this one - still working through some production things on our end!

We're really sorry for the delay... but we're back in action today to give a rundown on the past month of everything going on. Wags and Tasker are jumping in head first and the NEW era of Tailgate Talk is live for your listening fun! Follow us at @wiscobowhunting and @pwags_1967 for more!

Erik Tasker provides an update on the state of Tailgate Talk.

THE BIG 200 SHOW! Wags and Tasker take a walk down memory lane to revisit all of the cool experiences and people that we’ve met over the years of doing this crazy show. It’s been a hell of a ride and we don’t know what is in store for the future… but we’ll have some updates soon.

The guys get together and talk about a few changes with harvesting does and what some new studies show for when and what happens to the fawns. We also might be seeing RED HOT out at the Wagner ranch to help with Squirrel duty. Episode 199 is in the books!

This week… the curse for Tasker has finally been broken. A Giant Doe harvest on his third sit… AND Anew shotgun from the Gun Raffle? Things are looking up for the guys as we talk about some stands that needed to be moved at the wagner ranch, the chaos of the first harvest for the crew this season – and what’s to come!

The fellas recap the opening week of what was a HOT and BUGGY Bow Opener. Some close calls and some brutal heat make for some real fun conversation. PLUS – The WI DNR is contemplating a change to the rule on WHITE deer in a handful of counties…. Interesting!

Excitement is high for the crew this week as we make the final preps leading into Wisconsin Bow Opener. Tune in this week to hear what last minute changes and work that has to be done yet - and the fellas outlook on what’s to come. Here we go! Bow Season 2025!

The guys get together and talk about a significant mismanagement of funds by the Wisconsin DNR. Final prep is coming together and Wags had TWO special guests at the Ballpark this past week.

This week Tasker & Wags are joined by Customer Experience Manager (and Mr. Do It All) Mark Boardman from Vortex Optics. We got a chance to hear about a new product launch on August 7th and got the inside track on the R&D, features, benefits and everything you need to know about the new Laser Range Finder & Bino – The Ranger HD 3000! https://vortexoptics.com/ranger-hd-3000-laser-rangefinding-binocular.html Check out the Vortex Nation Podcast to hear more insights from Mark and his team + Guests wherever you listen to Podcasts. Find more information and follow Vortex Optics for all the latest in updated, products, and information. www.vortexoptics.com https://www.youtube.com/c/VortexNationPodcast https://www.instagram.com/vortexoptics/ https://www.facebook.com/vortexoptics

This week the guys catch up and make sure we have all 10 digits after the 4th of July holiday… some recent news stories from the week, including Wisconsin Man confesses to his record nontypical claim of harvesting during a muzzleloader. An Idaho man receives lifetime ban for illegal black market selling and buying of big game tags. And we jump into the final stretch of Summer leading into the 2025 Archery Season. The plans at the Wagner ranch and what we’re doing to prep in these final weeks! Join in on the conversation. If there’s a topic you’d like to hear about, email [email protected] or shoot a DM to @wiscobowhunting. Follow along for all things happening on Instagram: Tasker - @Wiscobowhunting

This week, Wags joins the show from Sunny and Hot Dallas. We dive into the changes proposed for the 2025-2026 Deer Season and the impacts on the Northern Zone. The biggest story in 2025 so far – the Sell off of Public Lands and what the public input has done to change that conversation. Then we jump into an unusual story regarding poaching… SHROOM POACHING. Join in on the conversation. If there’s a topic you’d like to hear about, email [email protected] or shoot a DM to @wiscobowhunting. Follow along for all things happening on Instagram: Tasker - @Wiscobowhunting

This week the guys catch up with Wags from Fargo Morehead as they are in the middle of a long road trip. World Record Grizzly taken in Alaska, by a Wisconsin Man. And a quick update on the Lawsuit that is making waves across the outdoor industry. Follow along for all things happening on Instagram: Tasker - @Wiscobowhunting

After a monumental trip to Mathews Archery for Erik Tasker, he breaks down and shares what it was like to visit a world class leader in Archery from the past weekend. A Case for CWD, Fearmongering or just cautiousness. What one state is doing to curb the issue of Baiting in the state. Follow along for all things happening on Instagram: Tasker - @Wiscobowhunting

The Guys get back together and check in with Wags on the Phone, discuss some trending news stories from the outdoors, and talk about the upcoming trip to Mathews Archery for Tasker. Follow along for all things happening on Instagram: Tasker - @Wiscobowhunting

This week, the fellas get together in the midst of a crazy Spring to catch up with Wags on scene at WCB Park and a short break in the hunting season. Tasker joins Tim's Family? Tim and Tasker discuss the newest addition to Erik’s patio that he got for his birthday. Connect with the crew here: Erik Tasker - @wiscobowhunting

As we look back on the first stretch of turkey season with Tasker and Wags – they’ll talk about the highs and lows, recap of the NFL Draft with Tim, and what’s up next for the crew as we start to inch nearer to Summer in Wisconsin! Find us EVERYWHERE you listen to Podcasts. Connect with the crew here: Erik Tasker - @wiscobowhunting