The Great Lakes Outdoors Podcast

In this episode of the Great Lakes Outdoors Podcast, hosts Chris Niemi and Travis discuss the intricacies of turkey hunting, sharing personal experiences and insights. They explore the challenges of overthinking hunting tactics, the impact of small mistakes like using a flashlight, and the importance of understanding turkey behavior. The conversation delves into the use of decoys, the significance of bird body language, and the role of curiosity in successful hunting. They also touch on the unpredictability of turkey movements and the importance of adapting strategies based on the environment and bird behavior. The episode concludes with reflections on the current hunting season and a light-hearted acknowledgment of the challenges faced

Join Kyle and Travis as they reveal the real secrets to successful turkey hunting. Forget the usual tips about calls and decoys—discover how understanding bird behavior and terrain can change your game.Hear stories of missed shots, close calls, and the lessons learned. Learn about the impact of weather, water levels, and legal tactics on your hunt. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a beginner, this episode offers practical tips and real stories to help you succeed.Tune in to rethink your approach and turn your luck around with insights from two experienced hunters.

Join Kyle and Travis as they dive into the world of hunting and outdoor adventures. This episode covers the excitement and challenges of turkey hunting, including humorous mishaps and insightful discussions on hunting regulations. Discover the passion behind the hunt, the camaraderie among hunters, and the thrill of the chase. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just curious about the outdoors, this episode offers a blend of storytelling, expert tips, and a touch of humor that will keep you engaged from start to finish.Timestamps:00:00 - Welcome and updates on being a day late02:17 - Introduction to Hunt Michigan Collab and its mission03:21 - Regulations for deer and turkey seasons, potential rule changes04:49 - Challenges of Waterfowl and Waterfall hunting05:03 - How to get involved with Hunt Michigan Collab06:21 - Travis’ role as Kalamazoo area hunt leader07:14 - Season timing for deer and turkey hunts08:04 - Impact of new regulations like the APR and one buck rule09:15 - Debating trophy hunting versus meat hunting10:08 - State land management and hunter density11:31 - Managing expectations for turkey hunting success12:53 - Season timing and weather implications14:09 - Hunting strategies, no decoy setups15:00 - Rethinking the use of rifles and muzzleloaders16:17 - Youth hunting regulations and mentorship strategies18:07 - The importance of hunting mature bucks19:45 - Storytelling about opening day turkey hunt mistakes22:18 - Social media’s influence on perceptions of size and trophy hunting25:41 - The frustration with online hunting communities26:28 - Spring weather patterns and their impact on bird behavior27:23 - Personal hunting stories: missed birds and near misses30:45 - Strategy for calling and setup for turkey hunting34:55 - Close calls with turkey shots and how birds react37:23 - The significance of respect and show in turkey hunting42:49 - The impact of no decoy hunts and initial bird responses44:54 - Balancing hunting pressure, weather, and bird movement48:19 - The future of turkey seasons and regulations in Michigan50:07 - Personal preferences for hunting showmanship and challenge54:00 - The cultural and spiritual connection to turkey hunting56:57 - Reflecting on the value of the hunt versus the trophy58:07 - Plans for the upcoming hunt and season expectations59:45 - Funny stories of missed birds and misfires60:49 - Spring fishing plans and upcoming tournamentsThank you for tuning in! Keep your spirits high and enjoy the season, whether in the woods or on the water. Don't forget to follow Kyle and Travis for more hunting tales and Michigan outdoor updates.

Unleashing Peak Performance for Working Dogs: The Retriever Fuel StoryIn this episode, we sit down with Chad Williams, founder of Retriever Fuel, to dive into the world of canine nutrition designed specifically for active working dogs. Chad shares his journey from a construction background to creating a revolutionary product that supports recovery, joint health, focus, and performance.

This episode features a lively conversation between Travis and Kyle, co-hosts of the Great Lakes Outdoors podcast. They discuss Kyle's recent trip to Mexico, where he enjoyed surfing and interacting with locals and tourists. The conversation shifts to their preparations for the upcoming turkey hunting season, including scouting properties and maintaining relationships with landowners. They emphasize the importance of communication and building personal connections with farmers to secure hunting permissions. The hosts also touch on the challenges of managing turkey populations and the impact of predators on wildlife. Additionally, they discuss their plans for future hunting trips and the camaraderie that comes with shared outdoor experiences. The episode concludes with mentions of sponsors and promotions for hunting gear and accessories.

Join Travis in his first solo episode with guest Ben Geiger, an outdoorsman skilled in DIY projects and land management. They discuss property improvements, hunting strategies, and share humorous stories. Topics include property management efforts like cutting and burning, food plot strategies, building relationships with landowners, and hunting tales. The episode also covers Ben's tractor project, firewood plans, and the upcoming turkey season.

In this episode, Kyle, Travis, and Ryan Burnett of Pattern Pros dive deep into the importance of patterning guns for turkey, waterfowl, and rifle hunts. Ryan shares insights on how detailed gun patterning can significantly improve hunting accuracy and confidence, and discusses upcoming product innovations.00:00 - Introduction and the importance of gun patterning in hunting success02:07 - Turkey and waterfowl seasons: reflections and challenges04:00 - How Pattern Pros started: innovating with multi-shell pattern packs05:42 - The evolution of turkey loads and TSS shot technology08:45 - How manufacturers support pattern testing and product development09:25 - The process of testing and choosing shells for optimal patterns12:31 - Challenges of expensive shells and the value of pattern testing16:38 - How firearm manufacturing differences affect patterns19:19 - The importance of patterning rifles for ethical hunting22:26 - The influence of ammo components like powder and primers on accuracy27:19 - Patterning tips for beginners: starting close and understanding impact points40:43 - Using steadiness and proper technique for pattern testing44:52 - The planned expansion of Pattern Pros’ product offerings55:33 - Future concepts like arrows, broadheads, and muzzleloaders61:10 - The wild ride of hunting shows, challenges, and growth plans64:40 - The upcoming presence in retail stores and target expos68:16 - How to connect with Pattern Pros for pattern testing and products69:22 - The value of patterning in turkey and waterfowl hunting70:45 - Planning hunts, testing gear, and the importance of preparedness72:29 - Wrap-up and gratitude for the support and future outlook

00:00 - Welcome and episode overview01:51 - Shed hunting adventures and tips02:22 - Trip to Southern Ohio for shed hunting and terrain terrain impressions03:43 - Sign from hunters and public land observations04:45 - Experiences with deer sign and tracking05:24 - Ohio deer hunting insights and land access considerations07:05 - Comparing Michigan and Ohio terrain and hunting pressure07:37 - Setting up on property, thermals, and stand placement tips08:17 - Property management: burning, replanting trees, and water features09:20 - Planning for waterfowl ponds and habitat improvements10:11 - Maintenance tips for tree stands and gear prep11:00 - Scouting strategies using leaves off and camera placement12:28 - Some discussion on stand location and deer behavior12:50 - Shed hunting efforts and finding antlers13:56 - Field sightings of deer and shed antlers, and late-season find15:08 - The challenge of shed hunting in crops and terrain16:27 - Tracking turkey sign and turkey activity patterns17:22 - Memorable turkey hunts and property features18:32 - Hunting tactics: blinds, calling, and decoy strategies21:02 - Gear prep: calls, shells, and practice tips22:04 - Turkey season preparations and licensing updates23:04 - The value of scouting apps and prior knowledge24:55 - Effective use of trail cameras for hunting success26:39 - Defensive behavior of wildlife and habitat transition areas28:30 - Bow hunting prep and gear maintenance29:02 - Strategies for turkey decoys and stand setups30:17 - The art of camouflaging and blending with turkeys34:09 - Memorable turkey hunt stories and surprises37:01 - Discussion on aggressive TSS loads and turkey hunting ethics38:04 - Dealing with hunting criticism and resource management39:01 - Creative use of decoys: geese over buck decoys!42:04 - Turkey tagging, e-tags, and harvest reporting45:46 - Deer and turkey population insights from harvest reports47:08 - Season outlook, draw systems, and conservation thoughts50:08 - Road safety, coyote and raccoon impacts on wildlife populations52:35 - The ongoing battle with predators and predators’ breeding habits54:02 - Upcoming outdoor gear releases and merch plans55:50 - Episode closing and upcoming topics

Key TopicsThe recent Michigan House bill on deer baiting and its implicationsPros and cons of one buck versus APR (Antler Point Restrictions) systemsThe impact of hunting regulations on deer herd health and geneticsThe role of social media in shaping hunting law opinionsWildlife conservation efforts, including turkey and dove regulation changesPractical tips for shed hunting and scouting techniquesTimestamps00:01 - Introduction to Michigan hunting laws and recent legislative updates00:24 - Michigan House bill passing to lift deer baiting across the lower peninsula00:52 - Different hunter types: habitat-focused vs. baiting advocates01:17 - Concerns around CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease) and baiting regulations02:24 - Impact of bait restrictions and the debate over natural vs. baited food sources02:53 - The economics of hunting: tags, tags costs, and management strategies03:38 - Managing hunting succession and exploring riskier management options04:36 - The potential benefits of a one buck system and its effect on buck genetics05:10 - The debate on whether to maintain or switch hunting policies, emphasizing herd health06:12 - The importance of herd ratios and genetic diversity in deer populations07:07 - The influence of antler restrictions and the discussion about shooting or waiting for bigger bucks08:09 - The concept of injured deer and ethical decisions during hunting with a one buck limit09:36 - The reality of social media influence and differing opinions among hunters10:05 - Hunting variety: managing deer seasons and exploring cross-state hunting opportunities11:20 - The challenges in changing hunting laws and the power of community advocacy12:53 - The significance of record-keeping and technological advances in scouting14:13 - The future of turkey hunting research and habitat management in Michigan15:57 - The politics of hunting regulations: funding, lobbying, and public opinion17:53 - The potential of new research projects, including geo-tracking and banding efforts20:40 - Engaging the hunting community for feedback and continuous improvement22:17 - Upcoming spring activities: shed hunting, turkey loads, and gear preparations23:09 - Personal experiences with bow hunting and gear investments24:08 - Ethical considerations: hunting with calls and respecting wildlife25:28 - The controversy over crane and dove hunting laws in Michigan30:40 - The economics of out-of-state hunting trips and their impact on local economies35:08 - Strategies for shed hunting and scouting during winter and early spring37:21 - Sharing shed photos and the importance of age estimation and genetics41:53 - Managing deer populations and understanding herd dynamics45:04 - The importance of strategic hunting pressure and habitat management48:14 - Final thoughts on proper hunting techniques and wildlife stewardship

Join Kyle and Travis as they share insights on shed hunting, deer management, and outdoor adventures. This episode covers effective shed hunting strategies, deer behavior, and tips for beginners, making it a must-listen for outdoor enthusiasts looking to improve their skills and enjoy the hunt. TakeawaysWalk the deer runs and field edges for the best shed hunting spotsUse weather conditions like overcast and post-rain days to find sheds more easilyGather intelligence from shed locations to understand deer movement patterns

On this weeks episode the guys sit down and talk about, ice fishing, late Deer season, late goose season and much much more!What do you want to see more content of?Let us know in the comments below!

On this weeks episode Ryan Emerson, from Emerson Archery stops by the studio. The Guys talk deer hunting, Archery, and how to get the youth more involved. Check out Emerson Archery on all social media.

Boys recap their 2025 seasons, and get down to the possible new laws to come to hunters in Michigan. Sit back relax cause this one gets heated! Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Kyle, Trav, and Chris get together and talk hunting. Kyle tells the guys about his exciting night, and how the season has been going. We talk about Michigan State laws and more. Give us a comment and share if you enjoy this podcast. Stay tuned for some more exciting things to come!

On this weeks podcast Kyle and Chris sit down with the owners of JE Waterfowl. We talk business, the success and struggles of starting a waterfowl lanyard company. They talk about their product and how its different from any other lanyard company. Check out JE Waterfowl on all social media.

On this weeks Podcast Kyle, Travis, and Chris jump on the podcast and talk deer hunting and the big peew peew opener this weekend! Stay tuned to see who gets the bigger deer this year!

On this weeks episode Kyle and Chris have do it all on the podcast. They talk industry, what it takes to be in the outdoor industry and the challenges that you face starting an company in the outdoor industry

On this weeks episode Kyle, Chris, and Trav had Joe from Fourth Arrow on the Podcast. Joe is the marketing director from Fourth Arrow. We break down fourth arrows products and talk industry and Deer Hunting!

On this weeks Podcast Justin, comes into the studio, we talk deer hunting, and all things hunting! Stay tuned for some excited things coming up from the Great Lakes Crew!

On this weeks episode Travis, Kyle, and Chris sit down and do a little recap on what the crew has been up to the last couple months. We also talk about all the new things to come. It's always a great time when the three of us all get together. Stay tuned we have some big things in the works.

Rich owner of Killer Food Plots Jumps on the Podcast. Travis , Kyle and Chris talk with Rich about how he how he got into the food plot industry along with all things deer hunting.

On this weeks episode Trevor, Owner of Cooler Guard Joins us in the Podcast Studio! Trevor tells us about his two amazing American Made Products and change the game for anyone who enjoys the Outdoors. Promo Code:@coolerguardspray- GLO for 20% OFF@huntproof- GREATHP25 for 25% OFF@hodagoutdoors- greatlakes for 15% OFFThanks for Listening and Stay tuned for more to come!

On this weeks episode, Kyle and Chris have the pleasure of having Pointe Mouillee Waterfowl Festivals Deputy Director, Rick Novak in Studio. They talk about the Festival and how it has changed for the better! With many new things coming to the festival this year its shaped to be one of the best ones yet! Come out to the Pointe Mouillee Waterfowl Festival September 13th and 14th. It's not a show you will want to miss!

On This weeks episode Kyle and Chris Sit down with the guys from Hodag Outdoors. We talk industry and deer hunting! Check out Hodag Products in your local Hunting Stores.

Nathan and Steve Owners of Hunt Proof join Kyle and Chris on this episode. Nathan and Steve explain what Hunt Proof is and break down what the App has to offer. Hunt Proof is a one of a kind app that will help every Hunter and dog trainer. Stay tuned for what's next with Hunt Proof.Check out Hunt Proof in your App store, Don't forget to use your promo code to get 25 % off your membershipPROMO CODE: GREATHP25 We Would like to thank all of our sponsors,HUNT PROOFGK CALLSPOINTE MOUILLEE WATERFOWL FESTIVALTURTLE BOXGIBRALTAR DUCK HUNTERS ASSOCIATION MIGRA AMMUNITION GIBRALTAR BOAT YARD

This weeks episode Carlson and Chris from Excel Boats comes onto the podcast. We talk everything and all things excel Boats. Check out excel Boats on all social media or on their website website! Chris Brent is coming to Michigan for a Hunt!

On this weeks episode, Brian Ellithorpe Jumps on the podcast. We catch up and touch on some of the great memories we have created within a year. From Turkey hunting to fishing to waterfowl hunting we talk about it all on this podcast! Stay tuned for part two!

On this weeks podcast we have a very special guest, Durk Stark. Durk owns a marketing firm that manages multiple outdoor industry companies. Kyle and Chris talk with Durk about industry and some of his favorite memories hunting. This episode breaks down the different challenges and the benefits of the outdoor industry.

Ryan, owner of Pattern Pros jumps on this weeks podcast. Kyle and Chris talk with Ryan about the importance of patterning ammo with your pew pew. They also talk about how unique Ryan's company and how important it is in the outdoors outdoor industry.

On this weeks episode Cameron, owner of Fowler Hide Supply jumps on the podcast and tells Kyle and Chris about how he started his company, the ins and outs of creating his lanyards, and industry talk.

On this weeks episode Jon Durtka from Purely Mi Spear Fishing joins Kyle and Chris at the podcast studio. Jon explains how spear fishing works in Michigan and what it takes to become a spear fishermen. Check out Jon on instagram @purelymispearfishing

This weeks Episode Kyle and Chris have Heath Hoogerhyde Owner of All Feathers Taxidermy. Heath does some amazing art work individually placing feathers into place to make a one of a kind memory. Check out All Feathers Taxidermy on all Social media. Another thanks to our amazing Sponsors,Migra AmmunitionGK CallsTurtle BoxPointe Mouillee Waterfowl FestivalGibraltar Duck Hunters AssociationGibraltar Boat Yard

On this weeks episode Mike from Flipping Bird Apparel comes into the studio with his new pup! Kyle and Chris talk to Mike about the challenges when it comes to training a new dog. They also Recap this past waterfowl season, and touch on what's what to come in the future!

On this weeks podcast Kyle and Chris talk with Zac Brown. They talk about this past turkey season, upcoming waterfowl season, gear and industry.

Kyle and Chris talk with Austin from Owner of Duck Kings Decoys. We talk Decoys, waterfowl, and the struggle of starting a company up in a flooded market.

Kyle and Chris Recap recap this past Turkey season, talk about future plans for this summer, and do an unboxing from our good friend Drew from Canards waterfowl!

Drew, owner of Canards Waterfowl jumps on the podcast this week. Drew explains his business and some of his future products. We also touch on the importance of being yourself in the outdoors industry.Check out Canards Waterfowl on Social media or visit their website at canardswaterfowl.comSpecial thanks to our SponsorsGibraltar Duck Hunters AssociationPointe Mouillee Waterfowl FestivalGK CallsMigra AmmunitionFireBolt Game CallsFlipping Bird Apparel Gator Decoys

Blake owner of Kustom Ammo jumps onto the podcast this week and talks about Kustom Ammo, the stories behind the business and much more!We would like to thank our sponsorsGibraltar Duck Hunter AssociationPointe Mouillee Waterfowl FestivalMigra AmmunitionGK CallsFlipping Bird ApparelFireBolt Game CallsGator Decoys

The Green Way Outdoors Crew comes into the studio and Chats with Kyle and Chris. They Touch on everything in the outdoors and talk about the Hot topics in Michigan regarding Goose Hunting.

On this weeks podcast Kyle and Chris have Caden Bellow, owner of Hunts Illustrated. From Hunting stories to talking about the highs and lows of the hunting industry. Caden and the guys touch on just about everything. Check out some of our amazing sponsorsMigra ammunitionGK CallsGibraltar Duck Hunters AssoicationPointe Mouillee Waterfowl FestivalFlipping Bird Apparel Firebolt Game CallsGator Decoys

Kyle and Chris sit down with Jennifer Davis From National Wild Turkey Federation. Jennifer is the Hunting and shooting R3 Coordinator in the state of Michigan. They talk about everything and all things turkeys this podcast. We would like to thank our sponsorsGibraltar Duck Hunters AssociationPointe Mouillee Waterfowl FestivalGK CallsMigra Ammunition Flipping Bird ApprealFirebolt Game callsGator decoys

Kyle and Chris sit down and talk about Turkey hunting and the preparation behind it, the Detroit walleye run, walleye tournaments and what to expect this spring. We would like to thank our awesome sponsors...GK CallsMigra Ammunition Pointe Mouillee Waterfowl FestivalGibraltar Duck Hunters AssoicationGator DecoysFlipping Bird ApparelFire Bolt Game Calls

On this weeks Podcast Kyle and Chris sit down with Tyler and Steve from Michigan United Conservation Clubs. They touched on the importance of speaking up and having a voice in conservation along with all the hot topics going on in Michigan. Check out some of our amazing sponsors Migra Ammunition GK CallsFlipping Bird Apparel Pointe Mouillee Waterfowl FestivalGibraltar Duck Hunters Association Gator DecoysFirebolt Game calls

Paul comes back on the podcast and brings his brother Phil, guide and owner of Waltercation Sportfishing. From talking about fishing the Detroit River to debates around fishing culture, this podcast has everything and all things fishing! Check out some of our great sponsors,GK CallsMirga Ammunition Pointe Mouillee Waterfowl FestivalGibraltar Duck Hunters Association Firebolt game calls Flipping Bird ApparelGator Decoys

Brad Tanner and I talk about everything from chasing turkeys state to state, to pigeons and waterfowl!

Todays pod cast we have the crew in to talk about the up coming season and what makes a good crew and what rolls are important to make a good crew!

Troy Stokes is a MLF fisherman that talks about his journey and how he got to where he is now.

Trav and I sit down after a long weekend out at the Point Mouillee Waterfowl Festival and Do a little recap

From Fish and Fowl, Gibraltar duck hunters association, to Flipping birds we sit down and scratch the surface at the festival!

My good buddy Dylan drops into the studio and we talk about it all from Ohio fishing and hunting to even up in Michigan and touch base on the Ohio dnr.