The Watering Hole

Welcome back to The Watering Hole with your hosts, Todd Graf and Justin Zarr. In this episode, the team catches up while Todd is working remotely from the wilds of Montana. The conversation kicks off with a look at the latest scouting reports, including recent sightings of bucks starting to grow their summer velvet and the challenges of running trail cameras during the heavy growth period of late spring. We dive deep into recent legislative shifts in the hunting world, specifically focusing on the new cellular trail camera bans on public lands in Idaho and the potential ramifications of Michigan’s upcoming ruling on its one-buck tag regulation.The second half of the show transitions into practical land management and seasonal preparation. Justin shares his essential advice for maintaining food plots, emphasizing why early mowing and spraying in May and June are far superior to fighting head-high weeds in late July. We break down our preferred "budget" land management toolkit—consisting of an ATV-mounted boom sprayer and a mower—which can handle the vast majority of a hunter's needs. Finally, the guys discuss the stress of the spring application season, reflecting on the high costs of out-of-state tags and the agonizing wait to see if those preference points finally pay off for a dream hunt.www.bowhunting.com 

In this episode of The Watering Hole, hosts Todd Graf and Justin Zarr dive into a mix of land management updates and a trip down memory lane regarding the evolution of hunting technology. Todd shares the latest progress on his property, detailing the recent planting of hundreds of swamp white oaks and red oaks, along with various shrubs intended to enhance turkey nesting spots and deer bedding areas. The duo also discusses recent local news, including a tornado that touched down near Todd’s place and the exciting NFL draft news of local standout Jennings Dunker being selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers.The conversation shifts to a deep dive into how trail cameras revolutionized the hunting industry, as Todd and Justin recall the days of bulky 35mm cam-trackers that required manual film developing. They reflect on how this technology changed land ownership and hunting pressure, concentrating hunters into smaller areas as big-buck intel became more definitive. To wrap things up, the guys touch on the current surge in tick populations and the serious reality of Lyme disease and Alpha-gal syndrome, reminding everyone to stay protected while out in the spring woods.www.bowhunting.com 

Welcome to another episode of The Waterhole, where this week we tackle the ultimate debate: "Who would you rather fight?" We kick things off with a conversation about what is currently in stock, including our handmade rearview mirror accessories that look like shed antlers. We also take a moment to celebrate Brandon’s birthday and recap some wild recent outdoor footage, including a turkey hunt caught on camera and some interesting run-ins with local wildlife on our property.The main event for this episode is our discussion on the realities of tracking wounded deer across property lines. We get into the tactical challenges of hunting in areas with high traffic, the importance of maintaining good relationships with your neighbors, and the heated question of whether you would rather face off against a bobcat or a coyote. Whether you are curious about our perspective on predator encounters or just want to hear the latest from the field, this episode has it all.www.bowhunting.com 

In this episode of The Watering Hole, we sit down with Todd Graf and Justin Zarr to dive deep into a variety of topics affecting hunters today. We kick off the conversation with some lighthearted banter before getting into the serious business of land management and the ongoing debate surrounding nonresident hunting regulations. We break down the realities of navigating different state systems, the complexities of tag allocations, and why it is more important than ever to have a solid plan before heading out into the field.The discussion takes a fascinating turn as we share stories from our recent turkey hunts and reflect on the evolution of hunting technology. From the days of navigating with giant, cumbersome topo maps to the high-tech, GPS-integrated world we live in now, we explore how these tools have changed the game for hunters across the country. We also touch on the controversy surrounding baiting and the intense pressure currently being placed on our public lands, wrapping up with some final thoughts on the future of hunting and the importance of conservation.NEW MINI ANTLERS - https://shop.bowhunting.com/products/mini-antler-setwww.bowhunting.com 

Welcome back to the watering hole, where we are finally getting to the moment you have all been waiting for—the announcement of our big equipment giveaway. We have spent the last several weeks collecting entries from the local deer classics and expos, and we are beyond excited to award a high-performance, brand-new hunting bow to one of our lucky listeners. This isn't just any setup; the winner gets their choice of the latest 2026 model, including their preferred axle length, color, and specific draw specs to ensure it is hunt-ready the moment it arrives. If you entered at one of our recent show booths, listen closely, because we are diving into the results and explaining exactly how to get in touch with us to claim this custom-ordered prize directly from the manufacturer.Beyond the excitement of the giveaway, we’re digging into the realities of the spring season, from the persistent frustrations of turkey hunting to some serious concerns about local land use. We talk through a recent trip down to North Carolina that didn't exactly result in a filled tag, proving once again that even with the best gear, the birds don't always want to cooperate. The conversation also shifts toward the changing landscape here in Illinois, specifically how the rise of solar farms on adjacent properties might be shaking up traditional deer movement and habitat. We wrap things up by sending out some specialized gear kits to our runners-up as a thank you for keeping the community strong. It is a packed episode full of big wins and honest talk about the challenges we face out in the field.www.bowhunting.com 

In episode 71 of The Watering Hole, Justin returns fully recharged from his family vacation to the Disney and Universal theme parks to share his experiences from the trip. The crew dives into the grueling reality of walking nearly 40 miles in just a few days, debating the merits of different park experiences and the challenges of navigating massive crowds with young children. The conversation takes several humorous turns as the guys discuss everything from dash cams and traffic stops to the "rights" of filming interactions in public, making for a lighthearted and relatable start to the episode.Shifting focus back to the great outdoors, the team discusses the fast-approaching turkey hunting season and the importance of having a solid plan for the woods. They emphasize the value of using resources like the Hunting Lease Network to secure a spot for the season and encourage listeners to get their gear ready as the birds start moving. The episode wraps up with a look ahead at upcoming adventures, including fishing trips and a highly anticipated segment featuring players from the Carolina Panthers, so be sure to tune in and get ready for a busy season of hunting and fishing.www.bowhunting.com 

In this episode of The Watering Hole, we’re joined by Joe Coy from Fourth Arrow to break down the addictive world of self-filming your hunts. From budget-friendly phone setups and simple camera arms to advanced handycam, mirrorless, and remote zoom systems, we cover the gear tiers that help hunters capture better footage at every level.We also dive into real-world lessons from the field, including dead batteries, missed recordings, 360 cams, and why DJI action cams are becoming a go-to over traditional options. Whether you’re just getting started or ready to level up your production quality, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you film cinematic hunting memories without draining your wallet.www.bowhunting.com 

In this episode of The Watering Hole, we sit down with Skyler Bradley—the creator behind some of the funniest and most viral hunting content on the internet.What started as a few videos filmed on a job site turned into millions of views, a deer costume, and a completely different life.We dive into how it all started, the moment things took off, and the reality of balancing authenticity, hunting culture, and brand deals in today’s content world. Skyler also shares stories behind his most popular videos, close calls in the field, and what it’s really like going all-in on content creation.There’s plenty of laughs in this one—but also some real insight into how hunting media is changing.www.bowhunting.com 

Welcome back to another episode of The Watering Hole! In episode 68, hosts Todd Graf and Justin Zarr dive into a mix of wild stories and essential hunting updates. The show kicks off with a look at a unique 156-acre hunting lease in Iowa and a breakdown of a dramatic trail camera story involving wildfires in Nebraska. You’ll hear about a landowner who discovered a cellular camera melted to a crisp, only to find incredible footage of the blaze once the SD card was recovered. The guys also share a cautionary tale from friend of the show Paul Maser, who had a close call with a standing cornstalk while shed hunting that nearly cost him an eye, leading to a discussion on why safety glasses are a must-have in the woods.The conversation shifts to more lighthearted territory as Todd and Justin recount their own past mishaps, including Todd’s infamous "knife in the seat" accident during a pond build and the transition from the old days of film development to modern trail cam technology. With turkey season just around the corner, they discuss their upcoming plans for the spring and the challenges of hunting in multiple states. The episode wraps up with some nostalgic 90s hunting talk and a look ahead to next week’s special guest, Skyler Bradley. Whether you're here for the rugged outdoor advice or the hilarious personal stories, this episode has something for every hunter.www.bowhunting.com 

In this episode of The Watering Hole, hosts Justin Zarr and Todd Graf recap their recent trip to the Iowa Deer Classic and pivot toward their strategic plans for the upcoming spring habitat season. The conversation highlights the jaw-dropping rumors surrounding the legendary "General" sheds, including a polarizing million-dollar price tag, and leads into a debate about whether trail cameras act as "dream crushers" by removing the mystery of the hunt. Todd shares detailed logistics for his 190-acre farm, where he plans to use a mini-excavator to reconstruct water holes with rubber membranes and fabric, emphasizing the importance of non-negotiable practices like soil testing before starting any food plot.The duo also explores various gear finds and lighthearted interactions from the convention floor, ranging from custom orthotics for their aging feet to specialized "sneaky" lightweight stalking shoes and high-angle trail camera mounts. They recount the fun of meeting young hunters, specifically a group of kids participating in a "trade-up challenge," and offer some candid feedback for show organizers regarding earlier Sunday start times for the early-bird hunting crowd. The episode concludes with a shift in focus toward the upcoming Open Season Expo at the Kalahari Resort and a reminder to listeners to stay mobile by "shaking and moving" rather than relying on stagnant stand placements.www.bowhunting.com 

Welcome back to The Watering Hole! In episode 66, Todd and Justin dive into the tricky world of shared hunting leases and the delicate balance of hunting with friends. They break down a massive 300-acre lease opportunity in Wisconsin—which comes with a hefty $21,000 price tag—and debate whether splitting the cost between six or more people is actually a viable plan. The conversation covers the essential "gentleman’s agreements" every group needs, from deciding who gets first crack at the best stands to the controversial rule of counting a wounded deer as your one buck for the year. If you’ve ever considered going in on a property with your buddies, this episode is a must-watch to ensure your hunting season doesn't end up ruining a decades-long friendship.www.bowhunting.com 

In today's episode of The Watering Hole, Todd Graf and Justin Zarr catch up on some serious Iowa scouting and a few big things happening in the industry. Justin just got back from a 14-mile grind through the Iowa public woods, where he was prepping for his upcoming draw. He gets into the reality of hunting pressured ground—everything from finding "mega loads" of buck sign just a few hundred yards from the parking lot to stumbling over other hunters' locked trail cameras. They also talk about a 117-acre lease available in Wapello County and remind everyone to stop by their booth at the Iowa Deer Classic in Des Moines next week to talk big bucks and grab some new decals.www.bowhunting.com 

In this episode of The Watering Hole, Todd and Justin welcome back the infamous Tracker John to share the wealth of knowledge he has gathered from years of following thousands of blood trails. The discussion dives into the fascinating science of how tracking dogs process scent, specifically how they can distinguish between different types of blood—such as lung, liver, or gut—and how their behavior on the trail can help a tracker predict the likelihood of a successful recovery. John provides a professional perspective on the mechanics of deer recovery, explaining how environmental factors like moisture in the snow can impact a dog's ability to stay on a trail and why achieving two exit holes is a major advantage for arrow penetration and tracking.www.bowhunting.com 

In this week’s episode of the Watering Hole, we’re diving into that bittersweet post-season reality where the snow is melting and the itch for shed hunting is officially kicking in. We spend some time catching up on Ben’s recent outings in the mud—which didn't turn up any antlers—and discuss why Justin usually prefers to trade the antler search for some high-level spring scouting. There is also a pretty incredible update on a buck Jake shot back in November; it turns out the recovery was waiting for the guys just 50 yards from where they’d been parking their trucks all along. It’s a classic reminder that even with a dog tracker, these deer can pull a disappearing act right under your nose, leaving you to realize you've walked past them a dozen times.www.bowhunting.com 

We’re hanging out with 22-year-old archer and University of Pikeville student, who just came off a massive weekend at the Lancaster Archery Classic. Coming to us from Zanesville, Ohio, he opens up about what it was really like out there on the floor, from the nerves of switching divisions to the grit it takes to compete at the collegiate level. He’s been behind a bow since he was a kid, and it’s great to hear him reflect on how those years of practice—and even the tough second-place finishes—finally clicked into place for this big win.The best part of the conversation is hearing him describe that "flow state" where the world drops away and you just can't seem to miss a single X. But it’s not all serious target talk; he also lets us in on his favorite way to celebrate a major victory: buying a flashy new pair of cowboy boots. After his Vegas win, it was python, but this time around he’s eyeing some ostrich or alligator skins. It’s a fun, down-to-earth look at the person behind the bow, wrapped up with a sincere thank you to the Bowhunt or Die crew and the archery community that keeps the sport so much fun.www.bowhunting.com 

In this episode, we break down the high-stakes environment of the 2026 Lancaster Archery Classic, where a massive snowstorm forced the crew into a total rescheduling of the finals. Despite the record-breaking turnout, the pressure of the bright lights led to some unexpected performance struggles, including a "force field" mental block that kept arrows out of the center. We also dive into an unusual gear theory regarding stability on the line, exploring how "squishy" running shoes might be sabotaging your score compared to the rock-solid foundation of cowboy boots.The conversation takes a serious turn as we discuss the viral first-person footage of an hunter's controversial encounter with DNR officers. The incident, which sparked a lawsuit, allegedly involved a game warden harassing a driver for simply pulling over to look at a deer while having a weapon in the vehicle. We explore the fine line between legal "glassing" and illegal spotlighting, and how these high-pressure interrogations are impacting the hunting community. To wrap things up, we set our sights on the next year, aiming for the milestone 600 score, and tease a monster backlog of edited hunt footage dropping soon.www.bowhunting.com 

In this episode, the guys catch up on the bittersweet end of the football season, reflecting on how the Chicago Bears overachieved this year despite the tough finish. The talk quickly shifts to the woods after Todd shares a cool discovery—a vintage "artifact" Easton arrow found while scouting. This leads into a deep dive on the technical side of archery, breaking down what those old-school aluminum numbers like "2413" actually mean for arrow diameter and spine. Along the way, they share a few laughs over a heated debate comparing the simple perfection of oatmeal cream pies to the "bland junk" of sushi, while looking forward to hitting the Iowa Deer Classic and other big expos coming up this March.                                The conversation takes a more serious turn as they look at how technology is changing the way we hunt, specifically through the lens of 360-degree cameras. Todd talks about how reviewing wide-angle footage was a total eye-opener, showing him exactly how many deer he was missing while distracted by his phone. This sparks a bigger discussion on hunting ethics and the growing controversy surrounding drones and trail cameras on public land. They weigh the "mind-boggling" number of cameras found in the woods against the potential for new regulations and the backlash from social media warriors. It’s a candid look at the struggle to balance high-tech gear with the traditional spirit of the hunt.www.bowhunting.com 

n this episode of "The Watering Hole," the team recaps their experiences at the most recent Archery Trade Association (ATA) show. The hosts discuss the new shift in the event being open to the public for the first time, debating whether the move successfully drives value for vendors or if the show's glory days of massive foot traffic are in the past. They also dive into a series of candid product reviews, ranging from innovative climbing stick accessories to some of the most experimental bows on the market.Highlights from the floor include a breakdown of the "Skyhook" hands-free climbing system and a look at the "Revolution" bow, which leads to a debate on whether high-tech designs always translate to better performance. The guys also share their thoughts on the practical side of gear, such as new solutions for stripping arrow wraps and the latest 3D targets from Reinhardt. Whether you're a mobile hunter looking for a lighter setup or just want to hear the latest industry drama, this episode covers the hits and misses of the show.www.bowhunting.com 

In this episode of The Watering Hole, the crew dives into a heated debate over "light discipline" and whether headlamps actually spook deer. While Todd swears by creeping through the darkness or using only red lights to stay "sneaky," Justin argues that white light makes zero difference, citing footage of deer ignoring bright beams from just 20 yards away. They suggest the fear of using lights is mostly a mental hurdle for hunters, especially since deer are already accustomed to car headlights and trail camera flashes. To settle the argument once and for all, the team plans to consult a biologist to explain the science of deer vision and how they perceive different light spectrums. Beyond the headlamp talk, the guys prep for the upcoming Bowhunting and Archery Super Show in Indianapolis, defend their decision to use tracking dogs on recent hunts, and discuss the difficulty of finding mature bucks as the late-season weather shifts.www.bowhunting.com 

In this episode of The Watering Hole, the crew breaks down the hard-earned lessons from the late season, featuring everything from brutal weather survival to the nitty-gritty of nonresident tag logistics. We take a deep dive into the recent shifts in Illinois nonresident tags, discussing the skyrocketing demand that led to the state selling out of its 25,000-tag quota for the first time in memory.The conversation covers the frustration many hunters felt this year, particularly during the late season, as they realized the "over-the-counter" safety net in Illinois is no longer a guarantee. We also compare the Illinois system to the points-heavy grind of Iowa and the increasing pressure found in states like Kansas. Beyond the paperwork, we share stories of chasing "ghost bucks" through teeny corn patches, the gear that actually survives a sub-zero Illinois wind, and why a "low-key" approach to social media might be your best scouting tool.www.bowhunting.com 

This week on The Watering Hole, the guys celebrate a season of major success, from big bucks on the ground to paying off late-season strategies. The conversation highlights the ethical responsibility that comes with hunting, featuring a dramatic story from Todd about rescuing a wounded deer trapped on the ice. Whether it's making the right stand decisions or knowing when to step in for wildlife, the crew dives deep into the moments that define a hunter's season.Beyond the hunt, we address the controversy surrounding the sale of KUIU and its ties to a high-profile landowner. We break down the "Ruby River War" in Montana, where legal battles over public stream access have pitted private wealth against the North American Model of Conservation. The crew discusses the strange dichotomy of major conservation donors who simultaneously sue to limit public access, and the impact this "big money" influence has on the integrity of outdoor organizations.To wrap things up, we shift to the technical side of the late-season push, covering everything from Missouri's recent pause on CWD targeted removals to the evolution of trail camera technology. We debate the effectiveness of winter food plots like brassicas and winter wheat in deep snow, as well as the transition from SD cards to cellular memory. Plus, we hint at new tech features designed to help hunters filter through thousands of photos to find that one mature buck.www.bowhunting.com 

This week on The Watering Hole, the guys break down a season that truly had everything—big bucks on the ground, late-season strategy paying off, hard lessons learned… and an unforgettable moment when Todd stepped in to rescue a wounded deer trapped on the ice.The conversation starts with one of the most successful bowhunting seasons the crew has ever had, but quickly shifts into the responsibility that comes with success. From wind and stand decisions to waiting after the shot, the guys dive deep into the real-world choices that define ethical hunting.Todd shares the full story behind the deer rescue—what he saw, why he acted, and how moments like that remind us why hunters are often the first ones to step in when wildlife needs help. Along the way, the crew talks arrow and broadhead performance, late-season cold-weather gear, habitat improvements, and why sometimes the best decision is knowing when your season is done.www.bowhunting.com 

In this episode, Justin and Todd dive into one of the spiciest mid-season conversations hunters are having everywhere: Has Illinois deer hunting changed for the worse? From the rise of crossbows and modern rifles to the explosion of drones, trail cams, and extended seasons, the guys unpack how shifting rules and shifting ethics affect herd numbers, hunter opportunity, and the trophy-buck culture driving today’s whitetail world.www.bowhunting.com 

In this episode of The Watering Hole, we head straight into the timber to deal with the aftermath of a massive winter storm. With over 13 inches of fresh snow on the ground, the landscape looks perfect for big bucks—but we break down why these "dream conditions" can actually be a nightmare for bowhunters.We discuss the paradox of "dead still" days after a blizzard, where the woods are so quiet that even drawing a bow feels impossible without alerting every deer in the county. We also dive into late-season food source mysteries: why are mature bucks ignoring the secluded, "safe" food plots and hitting the standing corn in the wide open? We break down the theory on bedding proximity and dominance.Plus, we share a raw moment about the realities of filming and parenting in the tree stand. When fading light and an incoming storm forced a "no-shot" call on a feeding doe, it led to a heartbroken young hunter—and a critical conversation about ethics, tracking in the snow, and knowing when to let them walk.www.bowhunting.com 

Justin loses it as we dive into the total collapse of bowhunting ethics, calling out the channels that normalize terrible, long-range shots. We passionately debate why hunters are moving away from the "20 yards, perfect angle" standard and relying on recovery crutches like drones. If you care about the future of ethical hunting, this is a must-watch conversation!www.bowhunting.com 

This week on the Watering Hole Podcast, the guys are fired up—Justin is fresh off a Kansas public land buck, Todd is officially tagged out, and the rut chaos has taken over everywhere.Justin breaks down six straight days of grinding out Kansas walk-in ground, scouting miles of public, finding fresh sign, rattling encounters, running into other hunters, and finally getting the perfect rut shot on his biggest buck ever.Todd shares the story behind his double buck season, plus an unexpected coyote encounter that sent him down a gear-buying rabbit hole.www.bowhunting.com 

Todd Graf is fresh off one of his craziest ruts ever—tagging out on two big Illinois bucks in just a few days! In this milestone 50th episode, Todd and Ben recap both hunts, share how high winds, changing temps, and quick adjustments paid off, and dive into what’s still to come this November. The guys talk rut timing, trail cam patterns, gear must-haves for cold sits, and how to stay in the game mentally as the season wears on.www.bowhunting.com 

 The rut is here, and the chaos is real! Todd, Justin, and Ben dive into the highs and lows of November deer hunting — from early morning anxiety and e-bike adventures to public land struggles, scouting stories, and prepping for big trips out west. Justin’s headed to Kansas, Todd’s dealing with deer drama at home, and the guys debate everything from saddle setups to why hunters really search harder for a 150” buck than a doe. www.bowhunting.com 

The rut is heating up, and this week’s episode of The Watering Hole is packed with wild stories from the woods.With Todd still chasing mule deer in Colorado, Justin and Ben break down one of the craziest weekends of the season — from quiet sits and zero wind to back-to-back shots, bad hits, and a long night of tracking. Joey’s rollercoaster hunt has it all: a gut check moment, drone talk, and a tracking dog adventure that ends with one buck recovered and one still missing.Plus, Justin shares the story behind The Willand Buck, a 10-year-old Illinois legend finally tagged by his longtime hunting buddy, Mike. From over a decade of trail cam pics to shed antlers and countless encounters, this is a deer story you won’t forget.www.bowhunting.com 

The countdown to November is on, and the Bowhunt or Die crew is fired up for the pre-rut! In this week’s episode, Todd, Justin, and the guys dive into their late-October gameplans — from all-day sits and calling strategies to how cold fronts, trail-cam data, and shifting deer patterns are setting up for an incredible rut.They talk target bucks, travel hunts, and what it takes to grind through those long days in the stand. Plus, a few laughs about wild hunting stories, near misses, and even a nudist music festival you won’t believe!www.bowhunting.com 

In this week’s episode of The Watering Hole, the guys talk through one of the toughest parts of bowhunting — losing a deer. From shot placement and blood trailing to using tracking apps and recovery dogs, this conversation dives deep into what every bowhunter eventually faces.Plus, we look ahead to an upcoming Colorado hunt, talk drought conditions, early October movement, and even some ATA trade show news. Packed with real talk, lessons learned, and plenty of humor along the waywww.bowhunting.com 

In this episode of The Watering Hole, the crew breaks down Ben’s off-camera buck story, self-filming struggles, and the chaos of trying to balance hunting season with real life. From KFC dinners to GoPro fails, this one has it all.Plus, Mike Fitzgerald joins the table fresh from Minnesota as the guys talk about the cold front rolling in, Levi Morgan’s Pennsylvania giant, Paul Morrison’s Alaska moose, and why tree stand safety isn’t a joke.www.bowhunting.com 

Opening day is here, and the guys are gearing up for another deer season! In this episode of The Watering Hole, Todd shares the bittersweet story of pulling his last trail camera from the Stockton farm, along with some unforgettable footage from the waterhole. Justin and Todd dive into their favorite hunting gear they can’t live without—from trusty releases to the Mystery Ranch bow case—and how they’re tweaking their filming setups with DJI cameras, GoPros, and tree arm mounts.Along the way, you’ll hear scouting updates, fresh scrapes, acorns dropping everywhere, and even a hilarious story about Joey’s bow release mishap. The crew also covers early season strategy, wind and weather, scent control, and the anticipation of opening day success.www.bowhunting.com 

Welcome back to The Watering Hole Podcast! In this episode, the crew covers everything from acorns dropping and deer movement to trail camera frustrations and even a record-breaking raccoon. We dive into the final countdown to opening day, share stories about gear mishaps in the rain, and debate broadheads, arrows, and the never-ending conversation about lighted nocks.www.bowhunting.com 

This week on The Watering Hole Podcast, Ben shares the wild ride of his very first public land hunt — and it’s a weekend packed with lessons, laughs, and a few rookie mistakes. From saddle hunting in the dark to losing (and miraculously finding) his release, Ben’s trip had it all. He even gets up close with wary deer and learns the hard way about hauling one out of the woods.The crew also dives into gear talk — from camera arms and backpack setups to the pros and cons of different lighted nocks — plus a hilarious RV story you won’t believe. Whether you’re new to public land hunting or a seasoned bowhunter, this episode is full of insights and entertainment you won’t want to miss.www.bowhunting.com 

Todd is still off chasing the mountains of Colorado, so the crew holds down the fort and covers everything from farm sales and hunting leases to the bow vs. crossbow debate that never seems to die. We dig into what makes shooting a bow so addicting, why some hunters gatekeep crossbows, and how public land etiquette changes everything when trucks start stacking up in the parking lots. With Wisconsin’s opener right around the corner, we talk saddle hunting, ground setups, and how to survive long days in the stand with the right snacks and mindset. Along the way, we share some of our biggest hunting screw-ups, laugh about Waffle House adventures, and even squeeze in some Bears football talk. It’s hunting season, it’s story time, and this one’s packed with plenty of laughs and lessons.www.bowhunting.com 

Join Justin and Ben on The Watering Hole as they dive into the start of deer season and what’s on every bowhunter’s mind right now. From bucks finally shedding velvet and showing up hard-horned, to food plot struggles, hunting from the ground, and big out-of-state adventures — the guys cover it all.They swap stories about early season scouting, trail cam pics, and missed opportunities, plus debate the effectiveness of mock scrapes, food plots, and hunting strategies for 2025. Along the way, you’ll hear about some old-school bow nostalgia and what their personal outlooks are for this season.Whether you’re chasing your first buck, managing food plots, or planning a public land trip out west, this episode is packed with relatable laughs and practical insights for every bowhunter.www.bowhunting.com 

It’s almost hunting season, and the guys are fired up! In this week’s episode of The Watering Hole, Todd and Justin cover everything from poison ivy horror stories to prepping tree stands and blinds for the fast-approaching opener. They share lessons learned about handling vines in winter, trail cam updates as bucks shed velvet, and how early season weather shifts can make or break your hunt.The conversation also dives into arrow tuning, lighted nock testing, and the latest treestand reviews—including what gear is worth your money and what to avoid. Along the way there’s plenty of laughs, hunting philosophy talk, and even a debate about who’s going to tag the first buck this season.Whether you’re fine-tuning your gear, brushing in blinds, or just waiting for that first cool front, this episode will get you ready for October 1st.www.bowhunting.com 

For More information on Dream Genomics, visit:  www.dreamgx.comIn this episode of The Watering Hole, the crew sits down with Dr. Gary Pusateri to talk about a groundbreaking approach to tackling Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in deer. From his bowhunting roots in Buffalo County to his work in human medicine and gene expression diagnostics, Gary shares how his team is developing a simple blood test—and even a Covid-style field kit—that could change the future of wildlife management and deer hunting.We dive into the science behind it, the challenges with current testing, how deer farmers and hunters could benefit, and what this means for the future of whitetails. Along the way, the conversation covers hunting traditions, land management, and the bigger picture of keeping deer herds healthy for generations to come.www.bowhunting.com 

What starts as a lighthearted pizza debate quickly turns into a deep dive on food plots, wind strategy, and the unpredictable moments that make hunting so addictive. Todd and Justin swap stories about chasing bucks, the realities of playing the wind and thermals, and how young Ben survive a rabid bat attack — complete with a falcon cameo.You’ll also get practical tips for better food plot prep, from fertilizer choices to timing your planting, plus a behind-the-scenes look at improving water holes to keep deer coming back. It’s part hunting tactics, part off-season projects, and part pure chaos — just the way we like it.www.bowhunting.com 

This week on The Watering Hole, Todd and Justin dive deep into the heart of deer season prep — from planting food plots the right way to remembering the magic (and mayhem) of our first buck.We talk fall planting windows, why rotation matters, and the biggest mistakes hunters make with brassicas. Then we get nostalgic: check stations, old Walkmans in the blind, and how early is too early to take your kid hunting?www.bowhunting.com 

It’s hot, it’s humid, and the gear prep is in full swing! In this episode, the guys dive into everything from summer trail cam strategies and battery testing tricks to busted tree stand seats and rodent-repellent experiments. They talk about the grind of getting gear ready, the emotional rollercoaster of hunting access, and whether they’d sleep in a blind for a guaranteed buck. Plus — Illinois’ wild new predator reintroduction bill, a recent poaching controversy, and some million-dollar ideas you probably shouldn’t steal.www.bowhunting.com 

On this episode of The Watering Hole, the crew dives into everything from bachelor‑party fishing trips and sporting clays to summer food plot prep and camera tips. We swap stories about planting strategies, spraying and mowing mistakes, and even the latest debate on rope scrapes versus natural ones. There’s plenty of laughs along the way—plus talk about African hunting controversies, Coldplay’s viral kiss‑cam moment, and new products like EHD Defense for improving water quality to prevent EHD.www.bowhunting.com 

The guys are back this week with plenty of laughs and some seriously useful tips for hunters. They dive into new hunting apps that can help track blood trails, monitor spraying coverage with GPS, and even spot ticks on your dog. They also discuss Pennsylvania’s big news about Sunday hunting, Ted Nugent’s outspoken support for hunters, and share an incredible story about a kid who survived an arrow accident.Later, the conversation shifts to fall food plot strategies, planting tips, and gear talk—from blinds and saddles to favorite seed blends. Plus, Todd teases his upcoming Colorado mule deer hunt and the crew talks about the value of habitat work and hunting leases.www.bowhunting.com 

In this episode of The Watering Hole, Todd and Justin catch up after Todd’s trip to France – where the scooters are tiny, the cigarettes are plentiful, and the deer are... nonexistent?We dive into early season prep, including predator control, trail camera setups, and why Easton arrows still dominate after 100 years. Plus, we review the new flame and contour-line arrow wraps, share tips for killing stubborn mare’s tail, and talk about smart food plot timing in the heat of summer.Later in the show, the guys react to some wild hunting stories making headlines – including pen-raised bucks, poaching with helicopters, and the dumbest hunting-related decisions they’ve ever made.www.bowhunting.com 

Todd and Justin are back—sweating through heat waves, dodging granola mishaps, debating the reality of buck shaming, and recapping a killer weekend at the Tethrd Teach & Train event. From misread emails about “horse saddles” to saddle hunting gear hacks and hilarious misadventures, this one covers it all.Stick around for laughs, lessons, and a whole lot of bowhunting wisdom. Don’t forget to wish Todd a happy birthday this weekend!www.bowhunting.com 

🦌 This Saturday Tethrd Teach and Train Event at Coon Creek Hunt Club | 10AM–3PM | Free food + funIn this episode, Todd and Justin tackle the hot-button topic of Florida’s newly approved black bear hunt—the first in nearly a decade—and the backlash it’s stirred up. From anti-hunting tactics to population management facts, the guys break it all down.But that's not all…They also dig into off-season prep, trailcam placement, food plot frustrations, and why Sasquatch content might be taking over Instagram. It’s a wild mix of hunting talk, laughs, and gear updates—just like you’ve come to expect.www.bowhunting.com 

It’s a wild one at The Watering Hole! Todd and Justin kick things off with some laughs and dive into real talk about hunting access, predator management, and the crazy amount of time and money we all put into our hunting passion. From deer leases and trail cam surprises to heated debates over bow cases and state hunting regulations, this episode covers it all. They also preview upcoming hunting trips, public land strategies, and discuss controversial new baiting permits in Tennessee. Oh, and don't miss the invite to the Tethrd Teach & Train event — come hang with the crew!www.bowhunting.com 

In this episode of The Watering Hole, Todd and Justin cover everything from deer season debates and mowing mishaps to baiting laws and band drama. They weigh in on Illinois hunting legislation, share the saga of hunting influencer Mark Lester’s legal battle, and even tackle drone surveillance on private land. Plus, they talk food plots, dead fawns, Memorial Day fishing, and whether it’s worth going to small claims court for a stiffed band gig. It’s equal parts hilarious, heated, and helpful.www.bowhunting.com 

In this episode, Todd, and Justin, cover everything from spring food plot struggles and dry weather woes to surprising wildlife encounters and a deep dive into the growing pressure on public hunting lands. The guys swap stories about blown-away ground blinds, bass overpopulation, and a wild turkey visit during a backyard grill session.They also share thoughts on the controversial use of drones for recovering wounded game and give a heartfelt shoutout to a fellow bowhunter injured at a recent Total Archery Challenge event. Plus, big news about the upcoming Tethrd Teach & Train event at Coon Creek Hunt Club – complete with food, fun, and a challenge to outshoot Justin on the range.www.bowhunting.com