The Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast (The Orvis Company)

Reid talks to James Beard Award-Winning Chef and avid Outdoorsman Gordon Hamersley about the beauty of Game Cooking.  Gordon goes into detail, not only about his own experiences in the Uplands, but also about the common mistakes about game care and preparation.  He further gives some simple tips and suggestions on how to make your next game dinner a success.

Reid joins Chuck Coolidge and Michael Vargas of Hunt, Hike, Hook in an evening session following a day in which Chuck and Michael covered some ground in search of Arizona Blue Grouse. Michael and Chuck use the Hunt, Hike, Hook Instagram platform to document their wanderings throughout the mountain west and southwest in search of upland birds and trout. In this podcast, Chuck and Michael discuss the prodigious bird resource available in Arizona, the opportunities for public land bird hunting throughout the west, and the breadth and depth of the upland experience. Throughout the season we will check in with Michael and Chuck as they explore the uplands and wetlands on a series of adventures. Enjoy!

Every now and then we find ourselves in a bit of a rut when we shoot. We cant seem to hit any thing. when this happens. Here are a few tips on getting yourself back on track and hitting more targets.

Reid spends an afternoon with his friend Keith Nord, an avid bird hunter and former captain of the NFL's Minnesota Vikings. Keith shares insights on life, hunting, dogs, and football in an inspirational podcast that is sure to be of interest to all.

Mark McConnell, Asst. Professor of Upland Birds at MS State, joins Reid to discuss Gentleman Bob, his distribution, habitat needs, and history in North America. Mark is a biologist and hunter who has been drawn to bobwhite quail research for his entire career, and he speaks to the different habitat types that sustain bobwhites, and the ways in which land use practice has impacted their range.

in honor of Mother's Day last week, Reid caught up with Els and Piippa Perkins for a quick podcast on the joys and challenges of hunting with small children.

Brett is joined by Orvis Shooting Instructor and former co-host Pete Kutzer to answer a question from a listener on how to get started hunting for both upland birds and waterfowl. Lots of details here. Grab a pencil as Brett and Pete cover everything from dog safety to preparing your boots.

Reid joins LD McCaa, Manager of Westley Richards Agency, U.S.A. in a conversation about fine guns, British doubles, and the remarkable innovations that have made Westley Richards one of history’s most beloved gunmakers. Having spent a lifetime in the fine firearms business, LD speaks to the finer points of Westley guns and rifles, and the history of the company’s storied success. Reid and LD discuss iconic designs like the droplock and the gold name, and they even dig into the longstanding misperceptions about quality difference between London and Birmingham gunmakers. LD is a font of knowledge and experience, and a great guy to spend an hour with. Enjoy!

Reid discusses, grouse hunting, bird dogs, and the writing life with Matt Soberg, Editor of Covey Rise Magazine. Matt abandoned a career as a small-town attorney nearly a decade ago and dedicated himself to the stories that celebrate hunting, fishing, and all that support the outdoor experience. This podcast explores his journey and his thoughts on print media in the outdoor space.

Reid speaks with Will Vogt and Tony Cadwalader, who work together to provide hunts for wild Bobwhites on Will's family ranch near Hebronville. The conversation explores the differences between quail hunting in South TX vs. South Georgia, the history of quail hunting in South Texas, and the unique qualities of hunting scrub desert bobs.

In this podcast, Reid and Del Whitman of D.C. Whitman Custom Gunsmithing go deep on the firing pins, discussing function, failures, and the related fixes. This podcast fleshes out a collaborative article the duo wrote for an upcoming issue of Shooting Sportsman Magazine, and Del lends his technical know-how to explain the inner workings of firing pins. For those double-gun enthusiasts interested in gaining a better understanding of how these beautiful machines work, this podcast walks through the sequence of hammer fall, impact, and detonation, making matters a bit more clear.

This is part II in “I want to hunt for…….”  which covers various topics for hunting in the Northeast, Great Lakes, Southeast, Prairie birds, Central US and Southwest. I interview Mark Coleman, editor of the Wingshot blog (wingshot.blogspot.com). He's been hunting birds behind pointing dogs in the southeast for the last 22 years. 

Reid and Orvis Gunroom Manager Greg Carpiniello take a moment away from the turmoil to reflect on some lighter subjects. Specifically, the two dig deep into the history of the iconic Winchester Model 21. A true American Classic, the 21 is among the most c

In this episode  guest Pat Berry joins Reid in discussing top tips for assessing likely cover and gaining access.  Pat, the former Vermont Commissioner of Fish and Game, has spent a career studying those places where grouse and woodcock collect, and he shares his thoughts on how best to find those spots, and how to successfully ensure that your presence in those spots is both legal respectful.

Reid takes to the podcast booth to answer some dog questions recently posed by listeners. He answers some questions about terminology, picking a breed, and how to select a methodology for training that ensures some degree of success. Somewhat off-the-cuff, and strictly informed by Reid's own experience and opinion, this podcast serves to illuminate some basic and oft-asked questions about gun dogs.

Reid spends some time during this episode addressing listener questions. He talks a bit about storytelling and the prospect of a creative essay collection, how to address the issue of ear protection in the grouse woods, and the feasibility of hunting without a dog. All of this and more on this installment of the Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast!

A number of things done well in the off-season can provide for more success in the field. Reid gives his top ten suggestions from proper gun storage to working with your dog to make sure you're ready to go when opening day comes around.

In shot gunning there are many different ways we can improve our hit percentage. Skeet, Trap, Sporting clay, or just going to the local sand pit with a hand thrower are all ways to have fun and perfect your shot gunning skills. In this podcast Brett and I attempt to explain the different shooting game’s we enjoy and think you will too.   

In this show Brett interviews Orvis Shooting Instructor and author of an upcoming book titled 101 Tips for the Winghsooter, Tom Deck. A great interview!

Reid is joined by Tom Roster for an in-depth look at shotshell performance and lethality based on shot type, load, shot size, and overall ballistics. In a career that has spanned 50 years, Roster has become THE definitive resource on reloading and shotshell ballistics. His studies of non-toxic shot lethality in waterfowl have become the definitive resource on the matter, and have informed generations of waterfowl and upland hunters. Roster describes his career and his findings and also weighs in on the future of shotgunning in the US. He offers his contact for questions and communications at tomroster@charter.net

Reid is joined by friend and fellow bird hunter Pat Berry to discuss late season grouse habitat. Pat is the former Commissioner of Fish & Wildlife for the state of Vermont. He is an avid grouse and woodcock hunter, and an active trainer and handler of flushing spaniels. Pat is also incredibly well-versed in the seasonal changes that face New England grouse, and therefore face New England Grouse Hunters. He and Reid discuss the best tactics for finding grouse throughout the season as the available food and cover types change.

On the eve of the South Dakota Pheasant Opener, Reid sits down in an office adjacent Mitchell’s storied Corn Palace with three staffers from Pheasants Forever. In attendance are Matt Morlock (SD State Coordinator for Pheasants Forever) Chris Kalis (Director of Corporate Partnerships) and Erica Yost (South Dakota Regional Representative). The group digs into the remarkable pheasant hunting culture in South Dakota, the role PF plays in upland conservation throughout the country, and how a hunter can go about planning a DIY trip to hunt in America’s heartland. Enjoy!

Reid spends some time catching up with his friend Aaron Schroder of Double A Gundogs in Lyons, Nebraska. The two explore the challenges of starting a training and outfitting business, the long and winding path that got Aaron back to his boyhood home in the rural Midwest, and why one should never order the conch chowder in Omaha. An interesting and honest take on pursuing one’s dream. Enjoy!

Reid spends a wonderful podcast with Lars Magnussen, owner of Idaho's Blixt&Co and international expert on Driven Shooting. Lars illuminates the nuances of driven shoots, from orchestration to dress to shooting technique, and all matters in between. If you have ever wanted to learn more about this time-honored sport, here is the ultimate resource.

Reid and his friend ‘Jerry’ Ray Cacchio discuss puppies, highlighting tips on socialization, foundation training, establishing boundaries, and the introduction of birds and gun.

Reid explores his thoughts on the ideal gun for a given application. With identity as a focus throughout, he considers how the gun used in a given environment must make sense both functionally, but also tonally. This podcast also wanders into a bit of a wish list, or something along the lines of “if money were no object…” Enjoy!

Reid answers some recent listener questions addressing gun fit, picking a preserve, hunting without a dog, and assessing cover.

Reid and Orvis Gunroom Manager Greg Carpiniello add yet another installment to the series on iconic shotguns, this time exploring the Browning Citori. The much-loved Citori was conceived as a lower-priced, Japanese-made alternative to its Belgian cousin the Superposed, but over time found widespread favor among hunters and target shooters alike. It remains one of the most beloved double guns of all time, and one that finds itself in regular use in the field and on the course. Enjoy the story of this classic double gun.

In another collaborative episode with Del Whitman of DC Whitman Custom Gunsmithing, Reid and Del discuss the oft-misunderstood topic of regulation. Regulating barrels is the process by which double gun barrels are aligned to shoot where pointed, and to deliver a payload of pellets from each barrel to the same point of impact. From a gunmaking standpoint this feat is easier explained than accomplished. Del works his magic to explain the process and to explore the treatment for barrels that are out of regulation.

In this episode we introduce our new host, Reid Bryant. Tom Rosenbauer of the Orvis Fly Fishing Guide Podcast introduces Reid and then the two of them have a great discussion on why we miss when we think we've done everything right.

Reid is joined by Hannah Leonard, Program Director for the nonprofit Sporting Lead-Free. Headquartered in Wyoming, Sporting Lead-Free is self-described as an initiative of hunters and anglers dedicated to maintaining our sporting heritage, wildlife populations, ethics, and rights. Leveraging education as a vehicle for change, and steadfastly avoiding a push for regulation or legislation, the org encourages sportspeople to use lead alternatives in hunting and fishing environments. Hannah uses data and storytelling to discuss the impact of that change and the challenges to broader acceptance. She also explores resources and tactics that can help sportspeople make the shift without detracting from success in the field, or significant impact on the pocketbook.

Reid speaks with Orvis Gunroom Manager Greg Carpiniello about 'first good guns'. The two identify guns of lasting value, quality, and aesthetics that can be had for less than a contemporary autoloader but will provide a lifetime of enjoyment. Basically, a couple of shotgun geeks talking about the guns they would buy if 1500 bucks fell into their laps. Enjoy!

Recorded live in Cabri Saskatchewan, Reid spends an evening at Bird Camp speaking with Dave Brown of Dave Brown Outfitters. The two discuss the day they spent afield for Hungarian Partridge and Sharptail Grouse, and Dave describes the nuances and history of hunting the region. A bit on guns, a bit on birds, and the sound of a few restless bird dogs underfoot. Enjoy!

In this episode, host Reid Bryant interviews Simon Perkins. Simon's family has owned Orvis since the 60's. They talk about what it's like to grow up in a family where hunting and fishing are not simply hobbies, but a way of life. 

Reid welcomes his colleague Julia Zema to the podcast to discuss the common questions facing new hunters as they attempt to enter the world of upland bird hunting. Julia and Reid discuss, firearm education, hunter safety, etiquette, access, and dogs, and so doing hope to answer common questions and break down some barriers of entry. Enjoy!

In this installment of the Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast, Reid spans two continents to talk guns with Tobi Nisse of Germany and Dr. George Inge of Mobile, AL. Tobi and George are the principals behind T&G Imports and Save the Fine Guns https://www.save-the-fine-guns.com/ which represents an effort to import guns from Germany that would otherwise be destroyed. Tobi and George, both of whom are passionate about the artistry and engineering represented by older continental guns (largely drillings), noticed some time ago that changing tastes in hunting guns as well as stringent legislation around gun ownership in Europe was bringing an excess of fine old guns to the market. These guns, were they not licensed to an individual or dealer, were destined for the scrap pile. The duo discusses the unique business model that has enabled them to save these guns and transfer them into the hands of hunters and shooters in North America. Enjoy!

On a March afternoon, Reid shares an hour with writer, hunter, upland historian, and Ruffed Grouse devotee Andy Wayment. Andy and Reid discuss Andy's recent book, Idaho Ruffed Grouse Hunting, which chronicles Andy's love affair with grouse, dogs, and days afield. The two discuss the book as well as Andy's work with brother Shawn Wayment on the Uplandways blog, but conversation wanders deep into the world of outdoor literature. Andy and Reid go deep into their shared passion for the great and timeless stories penned by such authors as Gorham Cross, Corey Ford, Bill and Tap Tapply, and Burton Spiller. A great listen!

Reid speaks with Al Stewart, Wildlife Biologist and Upland Gamebird Specialist and Program Leader for Michigan DNR. Al describes the life cycle and habits of the American Woodcock, based on a lifetime of study and conservation work.

In this episode Reid has the privilege of sharing an hour with acclaimed writer, rancher, hunter, angler, and conservationist Thomas McGuane. McGuane, whose career as a novelist and short story writer spans nearly 50 years, describes his thoughts on hunting, dogs, place, guns, and friends. For listeners who know and love McGuane's work, this podcast is a must.

In this episode, Reid spends some time housekeeping, and answering a smattering of listener questions that are long overdue. He also digs into some critical recommendations and reminders about gun safety in and out of the field. Finally, he provides some great resources for shooting enthusiasts, namely TGS. To cap it all off, Reid announces the launch of his updated website at www.reidbryant.com"

Greg Carpiniello joins the podcast again to dive into the contents of the Orvis gun racks, identifying 5 interesting guns currently for sale. Unsurprisingly, 5 guns became 7. Reid and Greg look at a few great Spanish offerings, contemporary and classic British guns, and a workhorse German O/U.

Reid spends an hour with Jordan Smith (Orvis Gunsmith) and Greg Carpiniello (Orvis Gunroom Manager) discussing nuances of guns and shooting. The trio explore shot size, chokes, dangers of steel shot in old guns, shotgun finishes, and recoil. The podcast is rife with opinions, some of which are even well-informed. Enjoy!

In the second collaborative effort between Orvis and Purina Pro Plan, Reid chats with Veterinarian RuthAnn Lobos about the myths and misconceptions that surround the pet food industry. RuthAnn is a dog owner, upland hunter, and Lead Veterinarian for Merrick Pet Care. Prior to her role at Merrick she spent 15 years with Purina Pro Plan, working closely with veterinary and scientific thought leaders to promote research into canine and feline nutritional science. Dr. Lobos calls addresses a list of common ideas about pet food, some true and some misguided. She also provides the following resources for additional reading:

o            https://wsava.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Selecting-a-pet-food-for-your-pet-updated-2021_WSAVA-Global-Nutrition-Toolkit.pdf

o            https://acvn.org/

o            https://vetnutrition.tufts.edu/petfoodology/

o            https://www.petdiets.com/

o            https://secure.balanceit.com/index.php

o            https://www.merrickpetcare.com/blog/getting-to-know-dr-ruthann-lobos/

Reid speaks with fellow bird hunter, dog lover, and podcast host Ron Boehme. From his home in Michigan, Ron describes his entree into the world of hunting and his affinity for the versatile pointing breeds. The two further discuss the unique opportunity of using digital media to share their sport, in Ron's case via the Hunting Dog Podcast.

In this installment of the podcast, Reid explores some dog training tips and misconceptions with Ronnie Smith and Susanna Love of Ronnie Smith Kennels in Pawhuska, OK. In response to listener questions, Ronnie and Susanna explore the definition of a ‘correction, while also dispelling some common myths and misconceptions about dog training. Reid, Ronnie, and Susanna also reference some of the insights discussed in their recent book Training Bird Dogs with Ronnie Smith Kennels which was published by Rizzoli last year. Enjoy!

Reid welcomes Kali Parmley, Editor in Chief of both Gundog Magazine and Backcountry Hunter Magazine. Kali is known to many as an accomplished editor, photographer, and media personality in the hunting space. In a relatively short career she has become an authority on backcountry hunting for both big game and birds. A late-onset hunter, Kali is passionate about sharing her knowledge with aspiring hunters while making the uplands more accessible. She and Reid discuss backpack hunting, her trajectory in the outdoor industry, and her fascination with gundogs. Enjoy!

Welcome to the first episode of the Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast! We are changing the show a bit. Obviously the name is new. Orvis Shooting Instructor, Pete Kutzer will be taking Bruce Bowlen's place. Let us know how you like the show by calling in at 802-362-8802.

In this episode we discuss the finer points of gun safety in the field.

Reid joins his friends Jonny Carter and Sasha Novakovic from TGS Outdoors to debrief their recent visit to the US. Known to most as the masterminds behind Youtube’s remarkable shooting channel, Sasha and Jonny are as talented as they are gregarious. The trio explores the comparative shooting cultures in the US and the UK, regional target types and presentations, and fried chicken. Learn more about the US Tour at TGS Outdoors on Youtube.

Reid uses a solo podcast to update listeners on his summer thus far and what is planned for the upcoming bird season. He also re-visits a story first published in Gray·s Sporting Journal called ·The Coincident Ecology of Birds and Men·. This piece describes the remarkable Valley quail resource found in central Patagonia, and two men, Rance Rathie and Travis Smith, who have pioneered a unique hunting program based in Trevelin. Rance and Travis are the owners of Patagonia River Guides and their story is one of friendship, adventure, and a commitment to being the finest hunting and fishing outfitters in South America.

Outfitter Tim Linehan joins Reid from the remote Yaak Valley of northwest Montana to discuss wild places and wild birds. Tim and Joanne Linehan have been operating a hunting and fishing business for nearly 30 years in one of the most remote communities in the Lower 48. The Yaak is home to huntable populations of Ruffed, Spruce, and Blue (Dusky) grouse, all of which occur in a vast and untrammeled wilderness. Tim and Reid discuss hunting and living in a remote place, and the cover types that the three species frequent. Enjoy!

With bird season in full swing, Reid meditates on his travels to date, his decidedly poor shooting, and the impending arrival of duck season. With that he reflects on duck hunts past, and shares a tale of one such day in northern Vermont. This story of that day was captured in the essay 'On the Black River', which was published in Shooting Sportsman Magazine in 2011. It is a tale of friendship, getting sick, and the imperfection of perfection. Enjoy!

In this installment of the Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast, Reid describes his recent hunting experiences and takes a moment to reflect on the season that has past. He also provides some new ways to connect with the Podcast, namely by sending questions

In this installment of the Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast, Reid describes his recent hunting experiences and takes a moment to reflect on the season that has past. He also provides some new ways to connect with the Podcast, namely by sending questions or comments via audio file (voice memo on a smartphone) to huntingpodcast@orvis.com. The plan is to share listener questions on the air in future installments. Reid goes on to read one of his stories, namely ‘Go West, Young Man…” which was first published in Shooting Sportsman Magazine in January/February 2013. The story harkens back to a time when Reid was considering a move to the mountain West, and what it might feel like to say goodbye to New England. Enjoy!

In this episode Reid talks bird hunting with one of his musical heroes, namely Evan Felker of the Turnpike Troubadours. Evan discusses his Oklahoma roots and a culture steeped in quail hunting, dogs, and workhorse shotguns. He also describes the references he makes to hunting in his lyrics and songwriting. Note that Evan refers to a few destinations, specifically G. Lake Guide Service in Arkansas, Jenkins Farms, and east bay rod and gun in tx. See more about Evan at www.turnpiketroubadours.com

Reid and his old friend Jeremy Hatch go deep in exploring the mysteries of buying (and selling) guns at auction. Jeremy comes at the topic after a career in wingshooting and firearms which has culminated in his current position as firearms consultant for Morphy Auction House. Morphy’s is one of the premier auction houses for exceptional and collectible sporting arms in the US, and Jeremy’s daily work includes assessing individual guns and collections, assisting would-be buyers, and supporting consignors. In this episode he deciphers the firearms auction process, and clarifies both the pitfalls and potential opportunities of buying guns at auction. See https://www.morphyauctions.com/

Reid interviews Jordan Smith, Orvis' shotgun expert from the Orvis Gun Room on what to look for and be careful of when buying a used shotgun at gun shows, on the Internet or at auction. 

On this episode of the Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast Reid talks hunting, ethics, food, and connection with noted game cook and author Hank Shaw. Hank, whose web presence at “Hunter, Angler, Gardener, Cook” (https://honest-food.net/) is a magnificent resource for any and all who are interested in a deeper connection to their food. In the course of this podcast, Hank describes his personal and culinary adventure into the world of wild food, and the deeper relationships that said journey has facilitated. He also offers a few choice tips on game cooking, game prep, and what the well-stocked hunter’s kitchen might require. Enjoy!

In this episode of the podcast, Reid is joined by Ryan O’Shaughnessy of West Texas Quail Outfitters. A regular on the podcast, Ryan brings a strong science background to his guiding and hunting. Ryan and Reid explore some sensitive questions, most notably how hunting pressure can impact limited populations of Mearns quail during challenging weather events, the pros and cons of hunting pressure on public lands, and how social media can impact the decisions we make in the field. It’s a conversation that is sure to elicit some opinions. Enjoy!

Reid chats with Courtney Bastian, host of The Bird Dog Babe Podcast. Courtney describes herself as a "Wife to Professional Gun Dog Trainer, William Bastian of Claddagh Kennel, Mom to two amazing kiddos, and a God-fearing, birddog-loving, sick-for-it wingshooter!" With a podcast, website, and instagram presence, Courtney is a driving force in welcoming more women into upland hunting. She and Reid discuss wirehairs, Bracco Italianos, life as a wingshooting mom in Montana, and most importantly the delicate process of giving hunting to your children.

Reid chats with fellow Vermonter, gun enthusiast, and shooting instructor Lars Jacob of larsjacobwingshooting.com. After a lifetime in the guns and wingshooting world, Lars has amassed an unrivaled knowledge of fine shotguns. He and Reid discuss lesser known Belgian, French, Prussian, and Scottish makers, odd-ball gauges and loads, and what makes a great gun. A fine conversation with a noted authority. Enjoy!"

In this episode, Reid reviews his top-five list of essential, upland wing-shooting gear.

Part 1 in a 5 part series, “So you have always wanted to hunt for………”

Part 1 starts off in the Northeast and Great lakes region, Brett interviews author and award winning free-lance writer Tom Keer to discuss NE hunting, game bird habitat and feeding, shotguns and shells, shooting techniques, and tips for a successful hunt in NE.

Tom Keer is an award-winning writer, columnist and blogger who lives on Cape Cod, Massachusetts.  He writes regularly for over a dozen outdoor magazines some of them being Covey Rise, the Upland Almanac, Sporting Classics, Gray’s Sporting Journal, the Bird Hunting Report, the Ruffed Grouse Society, Fly Fisherman, Fly Rod and Reel, and Fly Fishing in Saltwaters.  When they are not fishing, Keer and his family hunt upland birds over their three English setters.  His first book, a Fly Fishers Guide to the New England Coast was released in January 2011.  Visit him at www.tomkeer.com or at www.thekeergroup.com.

At the Intersection of Bird Hunting and Technology, with Rehan Nana of Garmin

On this episode of the podcast Reid welcomes friend Rehan Nana who serves as Senior Media and Sponsorship Specialist. Rehan is a well-known member of the upland hunting industry, and a student of guns, great dogs, and the finer points of chasing wild birds through the Midwest. He and Reid, explore his story and wander into a discussion about the interface of technology and bird hunting. With Garmin’s leadership in creating GPS collars for bird dogs, the safety and efficacy of following dogs in big or thick cover has changed dramatically. The two discuss the benefits, and costs, of such advancements. Enjoy!

Reid joins Tyla Kuhn of Sunsage Sporting Dogs to discuss the health and genetic testing criteria and standards that should accompany a new puppy. Tyla, a longtime breeder of both English Cocker Spaniels and German Shorthair Pointers explores how puppy buyers can best educate themselves, and so doing maintain the integrity and health of the breed. Some great resources and comments included in this discussion.

Brett is joined by Orvis sporting author Paul Fersen to answer a listener question on how to choose and train a hunting dog.

Reid is joined by Wes Butler, a friend and Warden for the Vermont Dept. of Fish and Wildlife. Wes, an avid bird hunter and outdoorsman, discusses his pathway into a career as a Game Warden. The two also discuss finer points of fish and game laws, access, and how to build a relationship with your local fish and wildlife officer.

In this installment of the Orvis Hunting and Shooting Podcast, Reid returns from his first hunting trip of the year, and reflects on how the bird season somehow snuck up on him. With an eye towards a season sprinkled with hunting travel, Reid explores the

In this second installment of Reid and Phil’s Libby Camps Odyssey, the duo sit sown one evening with Registered Maine Guides Jeff Labree and Ben Rioux. As the woodstove crackles in the background, Ben and Jeff describe the Libby Camps experience, noting the unique region where visitors have hunted and fished for generations. Jeff and Ben paint a lyrical history of the camp facility as well, and even discuss some of the folktales and superstitions that abound in the North Woods. Enjoy.

Reid spends some time with Michael Pepi of Jonas Brothers Taxidermy in New York. With more than a century's worth of experience, Jonas Brothers has been the taxidermist of choice for such noted hunters as Ernest Hemingway. Since the early 1980's the company has been owned by the Pepi family, and Michael carries on the tradition. He is an avid waterfowler and upland hunter, as well as a dog handler and guide. Reid and Michael discuss birds, dogs, and how to care for game you hope to have mounted.

In response to several listener emails, Reid spends an hour discussing how to get started in bird hunting. Using his own experience as a point of reference, he offers several tips on how one can enter into what can seem a challenging sport with significant barriers to entry.

Whit Fosburgh of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership is working hard in DC to guarantee Americans quality places to hunt and fish. Reid sat down with him in the podcast studio for a great interview about their work and how you can help.

Orvis product developer Jesse Haller returns to the podcast to chat about hunting, bird dogs, and gear. He and Reid swap questions in back and forth that explores favorite pieces of gear, most dreamt-about places to visit, and grail guns,

Reid joins up with Michael Vargas and Chuck Coolidge of Hunt, Hike, Hook once again to get a tale of life on the road. Chuck and Michael describe a recent trip to hunt a variety of birds in Eastern Washington state, arguably one of the finest and most diverse upland regions in the lower 48. Enjoy this second installment from the duo, who promise to keep us on the road this bird season, even if remotely.

With upland bird season already underway through much of North America, Reid chats with Durrell Smith of the Gundog Notebook, discussing all facets of hunting, shooting, guns, dogs, and the upland aesthetic. Durrell Smith is an artist, art teacher, and avid gundog owner who has immersed himself in his passion for all things hunting related. Reid and Durrell wander in and out of their shared stories of a late introduction to the sporting life, finding ample common ground and shared interests. Enjoy!

Brett Ference interviews Ducks Unlimited's Senior Communications Specialist and Producer of DU TV Mike Checkett about the status of the northern prairie region, breeding and population for 2012, effects of the drought and super storms on waterfowl habitat, predictions for the 2012 and 2013 waterfowl season and how you can get involved helping waterfowl and why it is important to everyone who enjoys the outdoors.