(Photos courtesy of Mossy Oak)
December 12, 2023
By Heath Wood
I was fortunate to spend my later childhood during a remarkable period in the hunting industry. At age twelve, I regularly visited Wal-Mart and other retailers every August, eagerly checking if the latest releases of Drury Outdoors' "Monster Bucks" or Hunters Specialties' "Primetime Bucks" VHS tapes were on the shelves. In the VHS era, hunting enthusiasts like myself had to exercise patience, waiting year after year to witness the successful harvests of professional hunters. Regrettably, our hunting entertainment was constrained by the limitations of that time. Fast forward 30 years, and today, we have hunting podcasts that deliver new episodes every week, some even featuring video recordings of their podcast discussions.
In the ever-evolving digital age, hunting enthusiasts are experiencing a transformative shift in how they consume their beloved hunting content. Traditional hunting videos, like the Drury’s and Hunters Specialties videos, which once reigned supreme as the go-to source for insights and entertainment in the hunting world, have gradually made their way from VHS to DVDs to know a new medium: hunting podcasts. To better understand how hunting entertainment has changed, let's embark on a journey through the world of hunting podcasts, exploring why they have become the modern alternative to traditional hunting videos. We'll also delve into two of my favorite popular podcasts, the "Gamekeeper Podcast " and "Fist Full Of Dirt Podcast " that are worth tuning into.
The Rise of Hunting Podcasts Podcasts have witnessed a swift rise in popularity across various niches, including sports, true crime, food lovers, and much more. So, you guessed it, the world of hunting is no exception. There are several compelling reasons for this shift. The first is accessibility. Podcasts offer a level of accessibility that traditional hunting videos cannot match. You can listen to a podcast on your commute to work, in the airport, cleaning house, and other tasks; I have recently spent my early mornings running to get into better shape, with my Air Pods in each ear and a hunting podcast playing to entertain my mind as I work out. Some hunters even listen to them while in the field. This versatility allows hunters to stay connected to their passion and gain knowledge even when they can't sit down to watch a video.
Next is the detailed content that hunters can learn from as they listen. Hunting podcasts are known for their in-depth exploration of various hunting topics. Unlike short videos that often only scratch the surface, podcasts allow hosts to delve into discussions, share personal experiences, and provide valuable insights and tips. Hunting podcasts cover various topics, from gear reviews and hunting techniques to conservation and wildlife management. This diversity allows listeners to tailor their content to their interests and needs. For example, recently, on my morning run, I searched for hunting scrapes during the pre-rut because that is happening now. A few seconds later, I was soaked into a podcast titled Hunting Scrapes 101. It was perfect for the information and entertainment I was seeking.
Another feature I love about the new age of hunting podcasts is the community building we, as hunters, have because of them. Podcasts foster a sense of community among hunters. Listeners can engage with hosts and fellow hunting enthusiasts through social media and online forums, creating a supportive and interactive environment. The days of having another hunter approach you and ask, “Are you seeing any deer?” have now been often replaced with, “Have you listened to this podcast?”
Gamekeeper Podcast The "Gamekeeper Podcast," presented by the Gamekeepers of Mossy Oak , explores the intricate relationship between hunters and wildlife. It serves as a valuable resource for wildlife habitat management and hunting expertise, offering science-based insights and best practices. The podcast features in-depth discussions on a range of topics, from whitetails, bobwhite quail, wild turkeys, and largemouth bass to migrating waterfowl, mast-producing trees, and tarpon in the Everglades. The show breaks down leading wildlife research, making it accessible for practical application in the field.
The hosts of the Gamekeeper Podcast include Bobby Cole, Lannie Wallace, Dudley Phelps, and Toxey Haas. You can find the podcast on various podcast platforms.
Fist Full Of Dirt Podcast Fist Full of Dirt, hosted by Ronnie "Cuz" Strickland, is a podcast dedicated to the outdoor lifestyle. This podcast holds a special place in my heart because, during my childhood, Cuz was one of the professional hunters I admired the most and eagerly anticipated watching. It feels like a complete journey has come to fruition by adding a podcast to his already impressive resume. Whether you're a small farm owner, land leaser, or simply an enthusiast of the great outdoors, this podcast provides insights into making the most of your outdoor experiences.
The show covers hunting and fishing strategies, often featuring conversations with industry legends like Harold Knight, Dave Pinhoti, Dr. Bronson Strickland, and Will Primos. Additionally, it includes interviews with veterans and engaging discussions with Cuz's grandkids about their outdoor adventures. The podcast also offers a retrospective look at the early days of Mossy Oak, featuring guests such as Bill Sugg and Toxey Haas.
In the era of digital content, hunting podcasts have emerged as a compelling alternative to traditional hunting videos. Their availability, comprehensive content, and capacity to cultivate a sense of camaraderie make them an excellent option for hunters at any skill level. The "Gamekeeper Podcast” and "Fist Full Of Dirt Podcast" are just two examples of the many hunting podcasts enriching the hunting experience for enthusiasts worldwide. So, whether you're an avid hunter or just getting started, consider tuning into these podcasts to gain valuable insights, tips, and entertainment to enhance your hunting journey.
