WTMJ Outdoors

Summer has arrived on WTMJ Outdoors, and this week we're celebrating vacations, getaways, and making the most of the season. Brandon McConnell from Lake Lawn Resort in Delavan highlights everything the historic resort offers, from golf at Majestic Oaks and lakeside dining at 1878 on the Lake to relaxation at the Calladora Spa. Rose Gray of Fox World Travel shares her favorite vacation destinations and tips for planning the perfect getaway. And local arborist Adam Passo offers advice on keeping your trees healthy and thriving through the summer months. Presented by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

WTMJ Outdoors kicks off summer and its second year on the air with a lineup full of outdoor living, grilling, and family adventure. Aaron and Eric Brown of Outdoor Living Unlimited join host Steve Scaffidi to discuss the latest trends in decks, patios, screen rooms, and creating the perfect backyard oasis. Derek Taylor, managing partner of Smokey Woods in Crivitz, shares how his company’s blended wood products can help take your grilling and barbecue game to the next level. And Jim Wojdyla of the Volo Museum in Illinois highlights one of the Midwest’s most unique family destinations, featuring classic cars, dinosaurs, military exhibits, rides, and more.

WTMJ Outdoors is celebrating its one-year anniversary on 620 WTMJ with a special episode featuring some of our favorite interviews from the past year. From musky fishing in Wisconsin’s Northwoods to the growing popularity of camping and glamping, plus the rise of pontoon boating across the state, this episode revisits some of the stories and guests that made our first year so memorable. WTMJ Outdoors is sponsored by Outdoor Living Unlimited and airs Saturdays on 620 WTMJ, or anytime on the podcast page.

Summer plans start here on this week’s WTMJ Outdoors presented by Outdoor Living Unlimited. Ted Telitz, owner of the Fred Thomas Resort in Birchwood, shares what makes Northwoods cabin life such a classic Wisconsin getaway — with plenty of modern comforts included. Andrea Wallace from Milwaukee County Parks highlights June events, outdoor activities, and the popular beer gardens across the county parks system. And Beth Handle from Milwaukee Kayak Company returns to talk about kayaking adventures and exploring Milwaukee’s waterways.

It’s opening weekend of fishing season in Wisconsin, and WTMJ Outdoors celebrates with two expert perspectives from across the state. Steve Heiting, one of Wisconsin’s top musky guides, joins Steve Scaffidi to break down the fishing opener, including walleye strategies and recent changes to musky regulations tied to spawning. In southeastern Wisconsin, Dave Duwe, a guide on Lake Delavan, shares insight into a cold opener and offers tips on where and how to find fish. And Eleni Jacobsen from Bublr Bikes highlights the continued growth of Milwaukee’s bike share program, expanding access and connecting riders across the city. Catch WTMJ Outdoors every weekend on 620 WTMJ, or anytime on the podcast page. Sponsored by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

Not every outdoor adventure needs a fishing pole — this week’s WTMJ Outdoors explores Wisconsin recreation on two wheels and four. Jason Manders of Fat Tire Tour previews Milwaukee’s oldest organized group bike ride, a seven-hour tour through the city with stops at local favorites, open to riders of all skill levels. From Walworth County, Bernadette and Eric Russow share the impact of the Cycling Without Age program, helping those living with dementia reconnect with the outdoors and their communities. And Keri Beck from the Langlade County Economic Development Corporation highlights the upcoming Antigo Off-Road Nationals (May 29–31), one of the premier short-course racing events in the country. Presented by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

With Wisconsin’s inland fishing season right around the corner, WTMJ Outdoors looks ahead to one of the state’s favorite traditions. Aaron Schiller, Senior Fisheries Biologist with the Wisconsin DNR, joins Steve Scaffidi to break down everything anglers need to know — from regulations on inland lakes and streams to trout fishing updates and important safety reminders. On the lighter side, Dusty Weiss of PodCamp Media shares memorable fishing stories and family traditions, from southeastern Wisconsin to Ontario. And Amelia Kegel from Wheel & Sprocket highlights the growing popularity of bicycling and how more people are getting outside on two wheels. Presented by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

As signs of spring begin to emerge across Wisconsin, WTMJ Outdoors brings you a fresh lineup of conversations focused on safety, recreation, and the outdoors. Pete Jensen, a State of Wisconsin Certified Emergency Manager, discusses the life jacket loaner program and how communities can create their own stations to promote water safety. Keri Beck from the Langlade County Economic Development Corporation highlights upcoming tourism events and why Langlade is known as the “County of Trails.” And Sara Windjue from UW–Stevens Point’s Extension Lakes program previews the upcoming Lakes and Rivers Convention, including new opportunities to attend virtually. Presented by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

Spring is in the air, and WTMJ Outdoors is celebrating with two conversations that highlight the joys of the season — gardening and fishing. Tim Tehan, owner of Tehan Nursery in Oak Creek, joins host Steve Scaffidi to share tips on growing healthy plants, from raising flowers to keeping your garden thriving all summer long. And best-selling author Mark Kurlansky discusses his new book “To Catch a Fish,” exploring the timeless appeal of fishing through stories, essays, and illustrations that capture why so many love time on the water. Sponsored by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

As April approaches, WTMJ Outdoors dives into spring hunting and fishing season in Wisconsin. Captain Mark Hering, owner of King of Kings Sport Fishing Charters, previews the upcoming Lake Michigan season and what anglers can expect when chasing trout and salmon on the big lake. Taylor Finger, Game Bird Ecologist with the Wisconsin DNR, breaks down turkey hunting season, including safety tips and what hunters need to know before heading out. And Brad Heidel, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Waterfowl Association, shares insights on habitat work and advocacy efforts supporting duck hunters across the state. Catch WTMJ Outdoors on 620 WTMJ or anytime on the podcast page. Sponsored by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

As winter winds down and spring approaches, WTMJ Outdoors looks ahead to warmer days and more time outside. Host Steve Scaffidi is joined by Eric Brown, owner of Outdoor Living Unlimited, to discuss how to transform your backyard into the ultimate outdoor space — from design to final build. Keri Beck from the Langlade County Economic Development Corporation highlights the many spring and summer activities waiting in one of Wisconsin’s top outdoor destinations. And Kelsey Murphy of Safe Catch shares tips on how to enjoy your ice fishing haul — or great alternatives if the fish weren’t biting this winter. WTMJ Outdoors airs every Saturday afternoon on 620 WTMJ, or anytime on the podcast page. Sponsored by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

This week’s WTMJ Outdoors covers everything from a major outdoor expo to the art of taxidermy and the science behind finding deer sheds. Brandon Censky previews the Open Season Sportsman’s Expo at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells, featuring 300 vendors, national exhibitors, and seminars for outdoor enthusiasts. Kyle Schmidt of Northwoods Taxidermy shares how experience and attention to detail help turn trophy deer into lifelike mounts hunters can treasure for years. And Lindsay Thomas, Chief Communications Officer for the National Deer Association, offers science-based tips to improve your odds when searching for deer antler sheds. Sponsored by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

It may only be March, but golf season is already on the minds of Wisconsinites — and this week’s WTMJ Outdoors goes all in on the game. Award-winning golf writer Gary D’Amato shares his perspective on the rise of Wisconsin golf, from world-class public courses to hosting major championships like the U.S. Open and Ryder Cup. Rob Jansen, Executive Director of the Wisconsin State Golf Association, discusses promoting the game statewide — from tournaments to helping everyday golfers manage their handicap. And Gabe Neitzel of 94.5 ESPN, who played more than 70 rounds last year, talks about his favorite public courses and why Wisconsin truly is a premier golf destination.

This week’s WTMJ Outdoors takes you to one of the biggest outdoor sportsman’s events in Wisconsin coming up in March, to the latest conditions on the ATV/UTV and snowmobiling trails of the state, to one of our favorite Wisconsin traditions, maple syrup season!

From trophy musky fishing to conservation efforts across Wisconsin and the return of one of the state’s most popular winter traditions, this week’s WTMJ Outdoors covers it all. Steve Heiting of Minocqua — Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame member, guide, and outdoors writer — shares insight on musky fishing and his work educating anglers across the Midwest. Stephen Buzza, Event Director of the 85th Annual Milwaukee Sports Show (March 6–8 at the Wisconsin State Fair Expo Center), previews this year’s show featuring more than 200 exhibitors, the lumberjack show, trout pond, and more. And Eric Norberg of the Milwaukee Audubon Society highlights conservation projects, including prairie seeding near Horicon Marsh. WTMJ Outdoors airs Saturdays at 2 p.m. on 620 WTMJ or anytime on the podcast page. Sponsored by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

Even if winter weather has you bundled up, WTMJ Outdoors is bringing the heat with a special “Summer in Winter” edition. From waterskiing and kayaking to Great Lakes surfing, this episode celebrates Wisconsin’s warm-weather adventures. Luke Raymer, President of the Wisconsin Water Ski Federation, previews major events including the Think Tank Water Ski Convention & Expo in Wisconsin Dells and the Wisconsin Water Ski Show Championships in Wisconsin Rapids. Beth Handle, owner of Milwaukee Kayak Company, shares her passion for kayaking and canoeing along Milwaukee’s waterways. And Shawn Knitt, owner of The Board Shack in Port Washington, talks Lake Michigan surfing and embracing beach culture on Wisconsin’s shores. Presented by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

On this week’s episode of WTMJ Outdoors, we explore the connection between conservation, fishing, and a lifelong love of the outdoors in Wisconsin. Aaron Schiller, Senior Fisheries Biologist with the Wisconsin DNR, provides an update on fish populations and explains how anglers help supply real-time conditions across the state. Paul Reith, Vice-Chair of the Wisconsin Conservation Congress, previews topics facing hunters and anglers and how Wisconsinites can share feedback at upcoming Spring hearings. And Dusty Weiss, President of PodCamp Media, reflects on returning to scouting and how parenting has renewed his appreciation for time spent outdoors. WTMJ Outdoors airs Saturdays from 2–3 p.m. on 620 WTMJ, or anytime at WTMJ.com. Sponsored by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

On this week’s episode of WTMJ Outdoors, we highlight the people and organizations that help connect Wisconsinites to the outdoors — from ATV and UTV trail volunteers, to veterans and first responders, to the heart of the Northwoods. -Randy Harden, President of the Wisconsin ATV/UTV Association, joins host Steve Scaffidi to discuss one of the state’s most popular recreational activities and the dedicated volunteers who make trail management possible across Wisconsin. -Tom Fischer, Event Coordinator for Wisconsin Hero Outdoors, shares how the organization connects military veterans and first responders with meaningful outdoor experiences, including recent ice-fishing outings on local lakes. -And we wrap up with Craig Kusick, owner of Bent’s Camp in Land O’ Lakes, who provides the latest snowmobiling and ice-fishing conditions in the Northwoods — plus a look inside his iconic resort (including the famous Bent’s Bobbers appetizer).

Winter is in full swing across Wisconsin, and WTMJ Outdoors is celebrating the season with an episode dedicated to hunting, skiing, and getting outside. Host Steve Scaffidi is joined by Jeff Adee, owner of Headhunter Bow Strings, who shares his expertise on archery and how testing and technology have helped his company become a leader in bow string manufacturing. Brandon Wagner, Marketing Director at Little Switzerland, provides an update on snow conditions, slope offerings, and introduces snow bikes as a new way to enjoy the hills. And Andrea Wallace, Assistant Director of Recreation for Milwaukee County Parks, highlights winter activities happening in local parks.

It’s winter in Wisconsin, and ice fishing season is underway — though conditions vary widely across the state. On this week’s episode of WTMJ Outdoors, host Steve Scaffidi checks in with fishing guides from around Wisconsin to get the latest on ice conditions, fish activity, and safety on the ice. Jim Stewart, owner of Rollie & Helen’s Musky Shop in Minocqua, shares what’s shaping up to be a more traditional winter for ice fishing in the Northwoods. Dave Duwe, a Walworth County fishing guide, breaks down ice depth, what’s working for walleye and perch, and why insurance matters when heading onto the ice. And Bret Alexander from Ice Fish Green Bay offers insight into variable ice conditions on Green Bay and Sturgeon Bay — plus tips on finding fish and staying safe in northeastern Wisconsin.

On this week’s episode of WTMJ Outdoors, we take a comprehensive look back at the 2025 Wisconsin whitetail deer hunt and look ahead to one of winter’s biggest traditions — the Milwaukee Boat Show. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Outdoors Editor Paul Smith joins host Steve Scaffidi to break down the final harvest and hunter numbers, and to discuss the important relationship between Wisconsin’s nine-day gun deer season and small businesses across the state. Author Brian Reisinger (Land Rich, Cash Poor) explains the environmental role of deer hunting and how conservation efforts help protect Wisconsin’s land and natural resources. And Ben Nielsen previews the Milwaukee Boat Show, running January 16–25 at the Wisconsin State Fair Expo Center, featuring 300 boats and 80 manufacturers — Wisconsin’s premier water sports expo. Listen Saturdays at 2 p.m. on 620 WTMJ, or anytime on our podcast page. WTMJ Outdoors is presented by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

As we close out a fantastic year exploring the great outdoors in Wisconsin, WTMJ Outdoors continues its Best of 2025 series. This week’s episode revisits some of our favorite moments from the year. Featured in this edition is a memorable live deer camp broadcast from Waupaca County, with Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Outdoors Writer Paul Smith and deer camp owner and avid sportsman Nate VanZeelen. Join us as we celebrate the traditions, people, and places that make Wisconsin’s outdoors so special, and look ahead to more great stories in 2026.

The calendar has flipped to December, the snow is here, and WTMJ Outdoors is still talking about the hunt — from Wisconsin’s whitetail woods to a once-in-a-lifetime African safari. Host Steve Scaffidi welcomes Cole Gander from the National Deer Association to discuss what makes a successful hunt and how new technology is changing the experience. Rose Gray from Fox World Travel shares the thrill of exploring Africa’s natural wonders, and author Brian Reisinger reflects on the deep connection between farming and hunting traditions in Wisconsin. It’s an episode that celebrates the spirit of the outdoors, near and far. Presented by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

The snow is flying across Wisconsin, and WTMJ Outdoors is diving into all your favorite winter activities! Host Steve Scaffidi talks with Rick Schmitz of Crystal Ridge Ski Area in Franklin about skiing, snowboarding, and family fun on the slopes. Then, Ken Leiviska from the Eagle River Chamber of Commerce shares the magic of the Ice Castle and why Eagle River is the snowmobile capital of the world. Finally, Shawn Connelly of Birkie.com previews the upcoming events in the Cable-Hayward area — home to one of the Midwest’s biggest winter celebrations. It’s a snow-packed, can’t-miss episode of WTMJ Outdoors, presented by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

It’s opening week of Wisconsin’s gun deer season, and WTMJ Outdoors goes live from a deer camp in Waupaca County. Host Steve Scaffidi joins Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Outdoors Editor Paul Smith and hunter Nate Van Zeeland for a behind-the-scenes look at the traditions, stories, and camaraderie that make this November weekend so special. Plus, two local chefs share how they fed more than a dozen hunters on Saturday night. Don’t miss this must-listen edition of WTMJ Outdoors, presented by Outdoor Living Unlimited.

As Thanksgiving approaches, WTMJ Outdoors celebrates Wisconsin’s great outdoors and local traditions — from deer hunting and skiiing to the 100-year legacy of Kegel’s Inn. Host Steve Scaffidi talks with Dusty Weiss about how social media shapes modern hunting, Greg Fisher on what’s new at Little Switzerland, and Julian Kegel on a century of great food and community in West Allis.

WTMJ Outdoors gears up for Wisconsin’s gun deer season and a midwinter escape at the Milwaukee Boat Show. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Outdoors Editor Paul Smith shares his 2025 plans, opening-weekend deer camp insights, and stories from 40 years covering Wisconsin’s wild places. Peggy Farrell of UW–Stevens Point’s Becoming an Outdoors Woman program explains how workshops open the outdoors to more women, and Ben Nielsen previews the Boat Show’s 56th year. Listen Saturdays at 2 p.m. on 620 WTMJ or on our podcast page.

As Wisconsin gears up for cold-weather adventures, WTMJ Outdoors host Steve Scaffidi talks with Outdoor Living Unlimited’s Eric Brown about his passion for the outdoors, Dave Schlabowske on blending biking and hunting, and USA Archery’s Rod Menzer on the competitive side of bow season.

From gear storage tips with Decked’s Bridget Noonan, to preserving Wisconsin’s lakes with Lake Tides editor Amy Kowalski, to exploring Eagle River’s Chain of Lakes with Kim Emerson — this week’s WTMJ Outdoors celebrates Wisconsin’s outdoor spirit from shore to shore.

As temperatures drop, outdoor adventures heat up on WTMJ Outdoors! Steve Scaffidi visits Lake Lawn Resort to explore winter getaways, gets an archery season update from the DNR’s Brooke VanHandel, and talks conservation with the Milwaukee Audubon Society’s Maggie Szpot.

WTMJ Outdoors heads north this week as host Steve Scaffidi explores the heart of Wisconsin’s outdoor culture. From innovative hunting gear to storytelling from the deer camp, and the complex legacy of the gray wolf, this episode dives deep into the people and passions that shape the state’s wild spaces. Steve chats with Jeremy Moore, co-owner of Hodag Outdoors, about tools that elevate the whitetail hunting experience. Ron Weber, DNR forester and writer, shares reflections on tradition and the spirit of Wisconsin deer camps. And filmmaker Rachel Tilseth discusses her documentary People and Wolves, shedding light on the lives of wolves and the people who advocate for them. Tune in Saturdays at 2 p.m. on 620 WTMJ for stories that celebrate Wisconsin’s great outdoors.

From turkey hunting tips with the DNR’s Taylor Finger, to supporting veterans through Wisconsin Hero Outdoors, and protecting local waterways with Milwaukee Riverkeeper — Steve Scaffidi explores Wisconsin’s great outdoors and the people who make it thrive on this week’s WTMJ Outdoors.

Deer camp is more than hunting — it’s a Wisconsin tradition. In this special episode of WTMJ Outdoors, Steve Scaffidi shares stories and memories from hunters who gather each year to celebrate the camaraderie, food, and experiences of the hunt.

From hunting season tips with onX Hunt’s Jared Larsen, to a deep dive into the culture of chainsaws with author James Card, and a toast to Oktoberfest on Milwaukee’s lakefront with Mike Sampson — this week’s WTMJ Outdoors celebrates the season in true Wisconsin style.

Fall has arrived in Wisconsin, and WTMJ Outdoors is here to celebrate it! From deer hunting traditions with Outdoor News editor Dean Bortz, to Milwaukee County Parks’ fall festivals with Andrea Wallace, to Sherpers’ 90th anniversary with Nate Scherper — Steve Scaffidi takes you on a tour of all things outdoors this season.

It’s hunting season in Wisconsin, and this week’s episode of WTMJ Outdoors leans in to the deer hunting seasons in our state. Paul Smith, Outdoors Editor at the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, walks through the traditions of deer camp with an emphasis on hunter safety as we head to the woods.  Dan Trawicki from the Southeast Wisconsin Bowhunters Chapter, on the specialness of the Deer archery and crossbow season which begins on September 13th in Wisconsin as the Fall weather begins to change the hunting environment. We wrap it up with Shawn Connelly, Marketing Director for the American Birkebeiner, which is not only America’s premier cross-country ski event, but also plays host to some fun trail and fat bike events in western Wisconsin in the Fall. WTMJ Outdoors airs every Saturday from 2-3 p.m. on 620 WTMJ. Steve Scaffidi is also the host of Point Taken, Monday through Friday, 10-Noon and the Scaffidiology Podcast, available on the podcast page at wtmj.com.

WTMJ Outdoors is rolling right through the summer, but there’s still time for camping, or the fancier version (glamping), here in Wisconsin. Plus, August nights make a lot of us think about cooler Fall mornings and the opening of the deer hunting seasons, and a local Conservation Warden with his observations on the tremendous response to recent record flooding in Wisconsin. Steve Spears, from Northern Tool & Equipment, joins the show to talk about upgrading your camping experience, summer or winter, with some great gear and tools to bring some of the comforts of home to your campsite. Jeff Pritzl, Deer Program Specialist for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, discusses the current state of the whitetail deer herd in Wisconsin and highlights some upcoming changes to deer management units across the state. And finally, Lieutenant Nick Miofsky, a DNR Conservation Warden, details his agencies response to recent flooding events in Wisconsin and its impact on our local waterways, and shares how he turned his passion for the outdoors into a career with the Wisconsin DNR. WTMJ Outdoors airs every Saturday from 2-3 p.m. on 620 WTMJ, and on the podcast page at WTMJ.com. Steve Scaffidi is also the co-host of Point Taken, weekdays from 10-Noon on 620 WTMJ.

There's some great things happening outdoors in Wisconsin - and beyond - and on this week's edition of WTMJ Outdoors Steve Scaffidi introduces Eric Brown, owner of Outdoor Living Unlimited, on his love of the outdoors and how his company helps shape people's outdoor living experience.  Also on the program, Steve talks with Malorie Paine, Executive Director of the Plover Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, about the great recreational opportunities in Central Wisconsin, including hiking, biking, and other great outside adventures.  Lee VanDenBrink, owner of Aerial Wildlife Solutions, on his innovative solution to help landowners and hunters assess their property, from the air!   And Lloyd Vogel, CEO of Garage Grown Gear, on his online store which features hundreds of innovative outdoor brands for backpacking and camping, specializing in ultralight gear.  Join us on Saturdays at 2 p.m., or find WTMJ Outdoors on our website, at WTMJ.com. Steve Scaffidi is also the host of Point Taken, which airs from 10-12, weekdays on 620WTMJ.

On this week’s Special Edition of WTMJ Outdoors presented by Outdoor Living Unlimited, Steve Scaffidi takes you to the 2025 Wisconsin State Fair! Featuring live at-the-fair interviews with State Fair CEO Shari Black, Midwest Farm Report’s Pam Jahnke, Alice in Dairyland Sarah Hagenow, and representatives from the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, WTMJ Outdoors takes you right to the West Allis fairgrounds for this favorite annual summer event. Steve Scaffidi is also the host of the Scaffidiology Podcast and Point Taken, which airs weekdays 10-Noon on 620 WTMJ.

Join Steve Scaffidi as this week he hears great stories of high-level fishing in the North Woods and Alaska! PLUS: Outdoors writer Paul Smith with some of his latest stories.

Steve Scaffidi explores the intricacies of gun ownership and what makes Wisconsin a great destination for golfing and water skiing.