The Western Rookie - Hunting Podcast

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian shares a jam-packed update covering point deadlines, land access battles, and the latest in public land politics. Brian dives into time-sensitive applications, the ongoing corner crossing legal saga, and a brewing storm over a federal land sale. If you're a public land hunter or building points across the West, this episode is a must-listen.

Key Takeaways:

• Applicat...

In this episode of The Western Rookie Podcast, Brian sits down with Adrian Guyer, owner of Ridgeline Athlete, to discuss getting physically prepared for western hunts. Adrian shares his extensive background as a strength and conditioning coach and explains why hunt-specific fitness training is crucial for success in the backcountry. From endurance and mobility to injury prevention, Adrian highlights the most important aspects hunte...

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs covers a triple-header of upcoming big game application deadlines. From overlooked opportunities in California deer, to trophy mule deer in Arizona, and the rising popularity of Montana antelope, this episode breaks down what to know before the early June deadlines. Whether you're expanding your rotation or just starting, these three states offer a mix of reali...

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie Podcast, Brian sits down with public lands advocate and conservationist Sam Soholt for a deep-dive conversation on the alarming federal legislation proposing the sale of nearly 500,000 acres of public land in Nevada and Utah. Sam shares the latest details on the bill’s progress, the potential impacts to access and conservation, and—most importantly—how every listener can help stop ...

In this episode of The Western Rookie Podcast, Brian is joined once again by Jeff Stringer and Alex Mader from Vantage Point Archery for a deep dive into broadheads and bowhunting setups! The trio gets into the weeds on fixed vs. mechanical broadheads, selecting the right head for elk and whitetail, how to gain confidence in your equipment, and some exciting new VPA product launches. Whether you're gearing up for your first archery...

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs dives deep into Nevada’s all-species applications ahead of the May 7th deadline. From record-book antelope to some of the toughest elk and sheep tags in the West, this breakdown covers the ins and outs of Nevada’s unique point system, trophy potential, and why this state is both a dream and a grind for Western hunters.

Key Takeaways:

Application Deadline: May 7, ...

In this episode of The Western Rookie Podcast, Brian chats with returning guest Dan Mathews about their recent western shed hunting adventures! Dan breaks down his annual elk shed hunt in New Mexico, the challenges they faced with heavy boot traffic, and how the trip wrapped up with a few big finds despite a slow start. Brian and Dan swap stories about shed hunting near home, coyote hunting, and Dan’s insane luck finding sheds at n...

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs wraps up the Utah all-species mini-series with a breakdown of Utah’s antelope and once-in-a-lifetime species applications. From archery pronghorn tags to bison, bighorn, and mountain goats, this episode covers all the lesser-known—but high-reward—opportunities Utah has to offer. Whether you're deep into the point game or just building a strategy, this is your f...

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs breaks down the 2025 Utah Elk Application, highlighting everything from over-the-counter opportunities to world-class limited entry tags. Utah remains one of the top states in the country for elk hunting, and this episode covers what makes it unique—including tag types, draw odds, unit quality, and current antler growth conditions. If elk is on your list this y...

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs breaks down everything you need to know about the 2025 Utah Mule Deer Application. From new rule changes to draw strategies and trophy unit potential, this episode is packed with insights for both seasoned hunters and first-time applicants. Utah continues to offer solid options for mule deer hunters—especially those looking for opportunity hunts in the West.

Key...

Ever pulled a monster walleye through 32 inches of ice without even expecting it? In this unique episode of the Western Rookie Podcast, Brian Krebs shifts gears from hunting to take you on an unforgettable ice-fishing adventure at Devil's Lake, North Dakota.

Brian shares an epic firsthand account of catching his personal best walleye while chasing jumbo perch, highlighting how spontaneity and curiosity on the ice can lead to lifelon...

Major changes are coming to Colorado’s big game draw—are you prepared to adapt your hunting strategy? In this episode of the Western Rookie Podcast, Brian Krebs breaks down the significant updates recently announced by Colorado Parks and Wildlife set to take effect in 2028, dramatically impacting how hunters apply for tags in the state.

Brian covers the shift from Colorado’s traditional preference point system to a new 50/50 split b...

In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode of The Western Rookie podcast, Brian Krebs dives into the 2025 South Dakota non-resident archery deer applications. With the deadline fast approaching, this episode covers everything you need to know to make an informed decision—whether you're chasing whitetails or mule deer. Brian breaks down public land availability, drought conditions, draw odds, and why South Dakota should be on your radar if you're...

Ever wondered if corner crossing from one public parcel to another is legal? In this episode of the Western Rookie Podcast, host Brian Krebs dives into the groundbreaking case involving four Missouri hunters in Wyoming, which has set a historic precedent for public land access. Learn about the history behind checkerboard land ownership, how corner crossing became a major legal battle, and the recent court decisions that could poten...

In this episode of the Western Rookie Podcast, Brian Krebs discusses the new predictive draw odds tool from Go Hunt, which aims to help hunters navigate the complexities of draw odds and point creep. He explains the concept of point creep, how it affects tag availability, and the importance of understanding these dynamics for successful hunting applications. The episode also highlights the features of Go Hunt Insider and encourages...

Host Brian Krebs breaks down essential details, including the April 1st, 2025 application deadline, significant changes to Colorado’s deer management and regulations, and tips on strategically applying to maximize your hunting opportunities.

You'll discover why Colorado remains the king of mule deer hunting despite recent population declines, explore the diverse season options from archery and muzzleloader to early high-country and ...

Host Brian Krebs provides a detailed walkthrough of everything you need to know, including the critical April 1st, 2025, application deadline, recent changes to Colorado's elk hunting regulations, and how these changes will impact your hunting strategy.

You'll learn about the significant shift from over-the-counter archery licenses to draw-only units west of I-25, tips on how to adapt your application strategy amidst these changes, ...

Welcome back to the Western Rookie Podcast for another GoHunt Bonus Episode! In this episode, you'll get essential insights into applying for Montana mule deer tags. Host Brian Krebs guides you through all the critical details, including the April 1st, 2025 application deadline, recent changes to Montana's preference point system, and practical tips on when and how you should strategically apply.

You'll explore the unique aspects of...

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On this bonus episode of The Western Rookie Podcast, Brian discusses the upcoming Montana Elk application for 2025, highlighting key changes in the preference points system, the importance of understanding the draw system, and strategies for successful elk hunting in Montana. He empha...