WCCO Outdoors: Recent Episodes

Audacy

Every Sunday 'WCCO Outdoors' talks hunting, fishing, outdoor recreation, and fun destinations for Minnesotans to explore.

View Details

There are a lot of headlines to catch up on for Rob Drieslein. He gives us the latest on the Outdoors. Plus, he talks with the following guests:MN DNR Red River Fisheries Specialist Nick Kludt discusses the new documentary focusing on efforts to rebuild the lake sturgeon population in the northwest corner of the state."Outdoors News" and Meateater contributor Tony Peterson joins the show as hunting seasons roll on across Minnesota.

View Details

During the busy time of the Outdoors calendar, Rob Drieslein is in to provide the biggest headlines of the industry (including these unusual weather conditions). He also chats with the following guests:

  • MN DNR game-bird specialist Nate Huck talks about the department's request for Upland bird hunters to log their catches dur the small bird seasons.
  • Outdoor News' South Dakota correspondent John Pollmann gives us the conditions west of our state line.

View Details

Rob Drieslein takes us through the headlines in Outdoor news. He also opens the up the line to chat with the following guests:

  • Captain Aaron Kahre from the MN DNR tells us how the department is enforcing the rules as Fall hunting seasons ramp up across the state.
  • Outdoor News web editor Eric Morken talks bow hunting ahead of next weekend's archery deer hunting opener.

View Details

As the State Fair winds down, some Outdoors sporting seasons are just beginning. Rob Drieslein updates the opening days for Minnesota hunting. Plus, we hear from the following guests:

  • MN DNR research scientist Eric Michel provides the latest on the elk population across the state.
  • Famed Outdoors columnist and author Phil Bourjaily talks about what ultimately drew him to shotgun hunting.

View Details

As his focus shifts from one Fair (Game) to another (State), Rob Drieslein takes some time to update the latest in Outdoors sporting news. He also welcomes the following guests on the show:

  • Jerry Ludwig explains some of the tips that helped earn him the honor of being named 2023 MN DNR Firearms Instructor of the Year.
  • MN DNR Fisheries Management Consultant Jon Hansen gives us the latest on some experimental and special regulations the organization's testing on the water.

View Details

During this edition of the program, Rob Drieslein wraps up the festivities from Game Fair 2024. For the majority of the time, however, he and Modern Carnivore founder Mark Norquist sit down with MN DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen to talk about several subjects, including the "Get Out More" campaign, who her boss may be after the November elections, and the new fishing regulations on Lake Mille Lacs.

View Details

On this week's episode, Rob Drieslein gives us the lowdown from the first weekend of the year's Game Fair event. He also welcomes the following guests on the program:

  • MN DNR Big Game Program Leader Barb Keller explains what to watch for during the 2024 Whitetail deer hunting seasons.
  • TheMeateater.com contributor Mark Kenyon previews what to expect when the Working for Wildlife Tour comes to the Pine Island Wildlife Management Area later this month.

View Details

August is here, which means a big event for Upper Midwest outdoors enthusiasts. Ahead of Game Fair (starting next weekend), Rob Drieslein chats with the following guests:

  • Sharon Stiteler (a.k.a. The Bird Chick) returns with the latest news about our feathered friends.
  • MN DNR Lake Superior Fisheries Supervisor Cory Goldsworthy tells us about what we'll find when we cast a line in the largest of the Great Lakes.

View Details

After a couple weeks off, Rob Drieslein is back to bring you the latest in outdoor news. He finally gets a chance to opine on the MN DNR's decision to sell parcels of the Boundary Waters area to the U.S. Forest Service. Plus, the following guests join the program:

  • MN DNR grouse project lead Charlotte Roy tells us about the promising rough grouse numbers across the state.
  • Outdoor News sales & marketing VP Josh Ahlberg provides a recap of the 2024 ICAST Fishing Show.

View Details

Over this long holiday weekend, there were plenty of chances to get out and enjoy the outdoors. Rob Drieslein is back on to discuss the latest news and welcome the following guests:

  • Mike Schrage, wildlife biologist for the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Ojibwe, talks about the group's efforts to grow the elk population in Northern Minnesota.
  • Outdoors journalist Ron Hustvedt recaps a recent trip he guided in Washington, D.C. and previews the 2024 edition of GameFair.

View Details

On this Father's Day edition of the show, Rob Drieslein gives his thoughts on this week's Supreme Court ruling on bump stocks, as well as pintail ducks. He also welcomes the following guests on the show:

  • MN DNR research scientist Eric Michel previews the upcoming deer population study set to start next month in Northeastern MN.
  • Dogtra trainer/consultant Pete Fischer tells us about training dogs to participate in the sporting events held during the Summer months.

View Details

Rob Drieslein is in for this week's edition of the show. He lets us know about an upcoming management change at the MN DNR. Plus, he lends time to some of our fine-feathered friends, including chats with the following guests:

  • Jon Mobeck, executive director of the National Loon Center, tells us about the new features being built to celebrate Minnesota's state bird.
  • Dr. Karen Waldrop (Chief Conservation Officer) and Mike Brasher (Senior Waterfowl Scientist) from Ducks Unlimited talk about what's happening this Summer at the organization.

View Details

Rob Drieslein starts off this week's edition of the program talking about the new Treetop Trail at the Minnesota Zoo. He then brings the following guests on the air:

  • Registered nurse Mary Beth Beseke tells us the why and how she makes homemade natural soap from bear fat.
  • Twin Cities Muskie, Inc. president Jim Doyle talks about the opening the 2024 season.

View Details

During this Memorial Day weekend, Rob Drieslein is in to help us enjoy those outdoor activities. He talks a bit about Bass fishing and Peregrine falcons, while also giving some time to this week's guests:

  • MN State Rep. Rick Hansen gives us a final rundown of the outdoors and conservation bills that passed during the 2024 session in St. Paul.
  • Bob McGillivray, MN Land Protection Director of the Trust for Public Land, explains the group's recent acquisition of the Moon Valley WMA near Byron.

View Details

Rob Drieslein is in to take us through the outdoors headlines of the week. Plus, he opens up the program to the following guests:

  • MN DNR Hutchinson area fisheries supervisor Scott Mackenthun lets us know how the opening of the inland season is going on Clear Lake.
  • Turkey hunting rolls on, and Meateater.com contributor Tony Peterson provides the latest information on how season's going.

View Details

It's a big weekend outdoors. Rob Dreislein dives in on the annual Walleye Opening weekend, with anglers taking to lakes all around the state. He also gets out on the water with the following guests:

  • MN DNR large lake specialist Nick Schlesser tells us how the jumbo perch are biting in the southeastern part of the state.
  • Birch Forest Lodge owner Adam Van Tassell details how a trip to South America is continuing his trek to catch the fish you'd want to brag to your buddies about.

View Details

After a week off (due to late-afternoon Twins baseball), Rob Drieslein is back to it. He brings us the latest outdoors headlines and welcomes a couple of guests to speak on some pressing topics:

  • Jim Siewert is the "local coordinator" for this year's Governor's Fishing Opener on Lake Pepin, and he tells us how the town is prepping for next weekend's festivities.
  • National Deer Association chief communications officer Lindsay Thomas, Jr. offers some clarity on Chronic Wasting Disease and whether it can infect humans.

View Details

On this week's edition, Rob Drieslein takes us through the latest outdoors headlines and welcomes the following guests on the broadcast:

  • Acme River Rides fishing guide Wendy Williamson gets us in the know about area fly fishing, especially when it comes to species other than trout.
  • Outdoorsman Mark Strand returns to the program to discuss conditions as Minnesota's turkey hunting season opened up this weekend.

View Details

On this week's episode, Rob Drieslein offers up the outdoors headlines that are making news. He also talks with the following guests:

  • Sharon Stiteler (a.k.a. The Bird Chick) is in studio to take your birding questions and discuss her viewing of last week's solar eclipse.
  • Patrick Berry tells us how his first few months as the new CEO of the Backcountry Hunters & Anglers organization are gong.

View Details

It's appropriate on a rainy Sunday that Rob Drieslein focuses on the water this week. Along with the latest headlines, he welcomes the following guests on the program.

  • Retired fishing guide Scott Thorpe tells us about the practice of casting for and catching Steelhead trout.
  • Leslie George, MN DNR Northeastern Regional Fisheries manager, discusses the organization's updates to Muskie management.

View Details

Rob Drieslein is in on this holiday weekend to preview a couple of upcoming events with Outdoors sporting in focus. He also welcomes the following guests on the show:

  • Sara Berhow, Public Relations Supervisor for the MN DNR's Parks and Trails Division, tells us about the state's variety of parks and explains why we should plan those Summer camping trips now.
  • MN-FISH executive director and former DNR Commissioner (and State Representative) Mark Holsten talks about some of the angling issues the group focuses on during the legislative session.

View Details

On this week's episode, Rob Drieslein updates us on some fishing headlines. He also chats with the following guests:

  • Wisconsin Outdoor News editor Dean Bortz tells us what's happening east of the St. Croix River, including their annual Conservation Congress meetings and a little Badger basketball reaction.
  • Author Tony Jones takes us behind the scenes of his latest book, "The God of Wild Places".

View Details

On this St. Patrick's Day, Rob Drieslein leaves us green with envy at his knowledge of the week's outdoors headlines. He spreads the love (and luck) to the following guests:

  • Minnesota Fishing Museum & Hall of Fame executive director Brenda Perlowski tells us about the organization's upcoming fundraiser (Friday, April 5th).
  • Lukas Leaf from Sportsman for the Boundary Waters previews the upcoming Public Lands Day rally happening at the State Capitol (Friday, April 5th).
  • MN DNR Wildlife Research Manager Seth Gorham goes into the detail of the state's latest moose survey.

View Details

Rob Drieslein has some updates to the week's big stories. He also invites the following guest on for a chat:

  • Retired U.S Fish & Wildlife biologist (and Rob's father) Bob Drieslein talk about his new passion...astronomy. This is all in a preview to the total solar eclipse on April 8th.
  • Jon Schneider, Manager of Conservation Programs for Ducks Unlimited, talks about receiving a Lifetime Achievement award from the organization.

View Details

During this week's edition of the program, Rob Drieslein brings on a full list of guests. They include the following:

MN DNR Capt. Jeff Johanson tells us about the department's drive to hire new conservation officers.

Rainydaze Guide Service owner Chris Granrud updates how ice fishing conditions are in northern parts of the state, along with his expectation for when open water season will being on the Rainy River.

MN DNR Fisheries Operations Consultant Mandy Erickson explains the changes to the department's state record fish program.

View Details

Rob Drieslein lets us know what's making news in the outdoors before heading into a very wild weather week. He also brings on the following guests:

  • Wood Duck Society president John Molkenbur talks about this lesser-known waterfowl species.
  • MeatEater.com contributor Tony Peterson tells us how this odd Winter season has effected rabbit and squirrel hunting, as well as its future effects on Whitetail deer.

View Details

We got a little blast of Winter this week. Rob Drieslein gives us a sense of how this effected the Outdoors sporting world. Plus, he sits down with the following guests:

  • Matt Ginter from Stearns County Outfitters gives us an outlook on the opening day of the Snow Goose hunting season.
  • The Aldo Leopold Foundation executive director Buddy Huffaker explains the importance of the late "A Sand County Almanac" author.

View Details

On this edition of the show, Rob Drieslein turns his eye towards the Mississippi River. Two guests with livelihoods connected to America's most famous waterway join in on the discussion.

  • Fisherman and broadcaster Eric Olson provides an update of the conditions this Winter on the Mighty Mississippi.
  • National Eagle Center marketing director Ed Hahn tells us about the organization located in Wabasha and why it's a good time of the year to visit them.

View Details

There's a lot to get to this week, as Rob Drieslein goes through some headlines and tiptoes outside of the world of hunting and fishing...but stays outdoors.

  • Team Birkie head coach Chad Salmela describes the difficulties of this unusually warm Winter on the sport of cross-country skiing.
  • Outdoor News Vice President of Sales & Marketing Phil Frebault reviews his trip to the annual NSSF (National Shooting Sports Foundation) Shooting, Hunting, and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show in Las Vegas.

View Details

On this episode of the show, Rob Drieslein turns more focus to activity on the state's lakes. He talks those through with the following guests:

  • Lindner Media Productions general manager and host Jeremy Smith reviews the recent DNR Roundtable and discusses some other hot topics in the world of fishing.
  • Angler Dan Steele talks about Winter lake trout fishing and the big catch he had recently.

View Details

This week, Rob Drieslein gets into current ice conditions and an update on Asian Carp. He also sits with the following guests:

  • Iowa DNR wildlife research analyst Dan Kaminski describes what's behind the recent decline of wild turkey populations.
  • MN State Representative Rick Hansen reviews this year's DNR Roundtable and previews the Outdoor topics he hopes to bring up during the 2024 legislative session.

View Details

On this week's edition, Rob Drieslein brings some focus to the waterways with the following guests:

  • Outdoor News contributor Joel Nelson provides an update on lake ice now that a good, deep freeze has shown up this Winter.
  • Friends of the Mississippi River Land Use & Planning Program Director Colleen O'Connor Toberman previews some upcoming meetings that will look at invasive carp making their way this far north.

View Details

Rob Drieslein is back for the initial edition of 2024. He welcomes these men on the line as the first guests of the New Year:

  • Famed angler and fishing guide Tony Roach gives us an update of on this most unusual ice fishing season.
  • MN DNR conservation officer Nicholas Prachar describes a recent incident that ended up with a trapper using CPR to save the life of a Northern MN pine marten.

View Details

On the last day of the year, Rob Drieslein reminisces on some of the most intriguing interviews of 2023:

  • Outdoor News contributor Ron Hustvedt speaks on Bud Grant's love of outdoor sporting and the impact of the Vikings legend in light of the former coach's passing.
  • Scott Bestul tells us about the large shed antlers that were claimed in Southern Minnesota and where they land on the all-time list.
  • Chuck Black explains his artwork that won the 2023 Federal Duck Stamp contest.
  • Trampled by Turtles guitarist and lead vocalist Dave Simonett tells us how the Outdoors and conservation have played a big part in his life.

View Details

Rob Drieslein is in to give us the latest scoop on hunting and fishing. He also chats with the following guests:

  • U of M postdoctoral researcher Ellen Candler discusses a recent study on deer responses to scents of their predators around bait piles.
  • MeatEater contributor Tony Peterson tells us how his deer hunting season is going.

View Details

Rob Drieslein is in to roll through the week's biggest outdoor headlines. The main focus of this week's edition, however, turns to fishing. The following guests join in of the fun:

  • Grace Loppnow and Kayla Zankle from the MN DNR provides the latest on efforts to combat Invasive Carp in the state's waterways.
  • Outdoor News fishing writer Glen Schmitt gives us an update on ice conditions as the weather is mainly staying warmer than normal across the state.

View Details

This week, Rob Drieslein has some thoughts on the deer hunt and some whispers about restricting it. Then, he catches up with the following guests:

  • Trampled by Turtles guitarist and lead vocalist Dave Simonett tells us how the Outdoors and conservation have played a big part in his life.
  • Lake of the Woods Tourism Bureau executive director Joe Henry tells us if the ice fishing season is being adversely affected by this warm spell we've been having.

View Details

As the Outdoors seasons transition, Rob Drieslein gives us a rundown of what's happening in the hunting and fishing worlds. He also chats with the following guests:

  • Sushma Reddy, Breckenridge Chair of Ornithology at the U of M's Bell Museum of Natural History, explains the American Ornithological Society's decision to rename dozens of bird species.
  • Pheasants Forever VP Emeritus Joe Duggan looks back on the passage of the 1998 amendment that forever preserved the right to hunt and fish across the state.

View Details

Rob Drieslein gears up for the holiday week by giving you the latest in Outdoor news. Plus, he chats with the following guests:

  • Sabina Chandler, manager of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge, gives us an update on the migration of tundra swans.
  • Erik Hildebrand, MN DNR Wildlife Health Supervisor, tells us about the department's monitoring of Chronic Wasting Disease in local deer.

View Details

Rob Drieslein brings us news as we continue through the firearm deer hunting season. He also devotes time to chat with the following guests:

  • MN DNR Wildlife Populations and Regulations Manager Leslie McInenly talks about the impact that exotic species (specifically feral pigs and released mink) are having around the state.
  • Big game hunter and outdoors writer Craig Boddington discusses the attraction to and misconceptions about subsistence hunting of larger animals in foreign countries.

View Details

It's another busy weekend in Outdoors sports, and Rob Drieslein goes through it with the following guests:

  • Backcountry Hunters & Anglers MN chapter board chair Eli Mansfield recaps the opening weekend of this year's firearms deer hunting season.
  • Outdoors writer Patrick Durkin provides an update on what's going on in Wisconsin, including a change in that state's DNR leadership, wolf management, their upcoming firearms deer hunting season, and more.

View Details

There's a lot of news that Rob Drieslein has to cover on this week's edition. He also talks with the following guests:

  • Pheasants Forever editor Tom Carpenter gives us a rundown on how the current season is going.
  • MN DNR Big Game program leader Barb Keller offers a preview of next weekend's Firearm Deer Hunting opener.

View Details

Rob Drieslein is back at it, going through the big stories of the week. Plus, he sits down with the following guests:

  • Outdoorsman Mo Vang talks about how he has encouraged his daughter's interest of hunting and fishing.
  • Sharon Stiteler (a.k.a. The Bird Chick) is back on the show to give us the latest happenings at Denali National Park in Alaska.

View Details

It's a full show this week, as Rob Drieslein welcomes the following guests on the program:

  • Outdoor News staff writer Brian Mozey provides a recap of this weekend's Governor's Pheasant Hunting Opener.
  • MN Deer Hunters Association executive director Jared Mazurek discusses why the organization put up billboards asking for more wolf management in the state.
  • Outdoors News and Modern Carnivore contributor Jamie Carlson offers up some tips for cooking wild game.

View Details

Leading up to Twins pregame we talk all things outdoors with waterfowl and duck hunting to start off the show talking with Graham Greseth, owner of Maxxed Out Guides. Checking in on how the duck hunting opener went and the different ducks he had come across in the field. We also talked to Mark Weber about hunting and cooking venison. We also talked to Joe Albert, who is in charge of Communications for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, he joined us to tell us about the K9 program at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Then we also talk about the upcoming statewide youth deer season during MEA weekend as well.

View Details

In this exclusive "web-only" edition of the program, Rob Drieslein packs the show with a ton of guests. They include:

  • Local bow hunter LeRoy Purrier describing his effort in bagging a large buck.
  • MN DNR Enforcement Division Communications Coordinator Joe Albert recaps the division's K9 training event.
  • MeatEater contributor Tony J. Peterson looks back on the opening weekend of the 2023 Bow hunting season.

View Details

Along with going over some of the biggest Outdoors stories of the week, Rob Drieslein welcomes the following guests on this week's program:

  • Chuck Black explains his artwork that won the 2023 Federal Duck Stamp contest.
  • MN DNR research scientist Tyler Obermoller tells us about a new study asking for deer hunters to describe what they're seeing with the nature that surrounds them.

View Details

This week, Rob Drieslein goes through some of the headlines as the annual Bow hunting season opens up. He also brings on the following guests:

  • MN DNR Fisheries Program consultant Jon Hansen goes through how the public can comment on special regulations that may need some adjustments before next year's Open Water season.
  • Ducks Unlimited Director of Science & Planning John Colucci gives us some of the national waterfowl numbers ahead of this year's hunting season.

View Details

On this edition of the program, Rob Drieslein addresses a couple of topics outside of the major Outdoors stories with the following guests:

  • Minnesota DNR Upland game research scientist Tim Lyons goes through the numbers of the recently completed Ringneck pheasant survey done for state of Minnesota.
  • U of M assistant professor Dr. Tiffany Wolf talks about how brainworm is affecting the moose population in the state's North Country.

View Details

It's the unofficial end of Summer, but the headlines don't stop for outdoors sports.  Rob Drieslein goes through the news of this Labor Day weekend and welcomes the following guests on the show:

  • MN-FISH executive director Mark Holsten describes some of the group's ongoing efforts and initiatives.
  • Melissa Wagner, the MN DNR's Lanesboro area fisheries supervisor, talks about how the state is handling strains of Brook Trout.

View Details

During this edition, Rob Drieslein digs into some intriguing topics:

  • Author Steve Knutson tells us the why behind his new book detailing the tradition of duck clubs in Minnesota.
  • Backcountry Hunters & Anglers MN chapter coordinator Aaron Hebeisen breaks some massive news on a big event coming to the Twin Cities.

View Details

Rob Drieslein is letting us know his thoughts on declining duck and mallard numbers in Minnesota.  He also connects with the following guests:

Modern Carnivore publisher and editor Mark Norquist tells us how the organization is providing opportunities for people without a family hunting tradition to get into these sports.

Outdoor News contributor John Pollmann talks about the declining pheasant numbers in South Dakota and why there could be a lack of information surrounding that news.

View Details

Rob Drieslein gives us his thoughts on the outdoor stories of the week.  Plus, we hear from the following guests:

  • Tom Glines, Midwest Director of Development for the National Wild Turkey Federation, recaps the group's celebration for 50 years of wild turkey restoration in the state.
  • Outgoing Backcountry Hunters & Anglers CEO/president Land Tawney talks about his reasoning for stepping down from the organizational leadership role he has held for a decade.

View Details

Rob Drieslein talks about the biggest stories in Outdoors news this week, including a big retirement announcement.  Then, he sits down with the following guests:

  • Outdoor News Vice President of Sales & Marketing Phil Frebault offers a review of this year's ICAST (International Convention of Allied Sport Fishing Trades) event in Orlando, FL.
  • MN DNR research scientist and Grouse Project leader Charlotte Roy explains some of the impacts of recent climate data on the habitat of this game bird.

View Details

Rob Drieslein goes through some of the biggest outdoors stories of the week, then speaks with the following guests:

  • Steve McComas, a.k.a. "The Lake Detective", is in to tell us about how he helps take care of the health of our lakes.
  • Taylor Bestor, President of the Bluffland Whitetails Association, discusses some of the group's efforts in regulating deer hunting and their new role in running this year's Governor's Deer Hunting Opener.

View Details

As we head into the Independence Day holiday, Rob Drieslein takes the time to bring up some of the headlines effecting outdoor activities.  He also chats with the following guests:

  • MN DNR Minnesota River Fisheries Specialist Tony Sindt goes through the organization's updated fish management plan on this particular body of water.
  • Outdoors journalist Ron Hustvedt offers us some insight into a recent excursion he took via house boat, as well as a preview of 2023 edition of Game Fair.

View Details

This week, Rob Drieslein goes through some of the headlines from the week.  He also catches up with a couple of Outdoor News contributors:

  • Joe Shead gets us up to date on the fishing conditions happening at Lake Superior.
  • Scott Bestul tells us about the large shed antlers that were claimed in Southern Minnesota and where they land on the all-time list.

View Details

Rob Drieslein takes us through some of the headlines of the week, including a new state record.  He also sits down with the following guests:

  • Bryonna Presing, Regional coordinator for the MN DNR's Loon Monitoring Program, talks about the official state bird.
  • Lukas Leaf, executive director of Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters, previews an upcoming fundraiser and concert for the organization.

View Details

Rob Drieslein gives you some sound advice when visiting Yellowstone National Park.  Then, he brings on the following guests:

  • Outdoorsman Mark Strand reflects on the life and impact of his uncle Roger, who passed away earlier this week.
  • U of M Voyageurs Wolf Project lead Thomas Gable gives us an update on this initiative studying wolves in the Northwoods area of this state.

View Details

This week, Rob Drieslein offers his thoughts on a recent Supreme Court decision on the Clean Water Act.  He also catches up with the following guests:

  • Three Rivers Park District associate superintendent Luke Skinner tells us about the opportunities around the area that offer great mountain biking trails.
  • Fishing guide Paul Hartman gives us a wrap on the opening weekend of the annual muskie season.  Plus, he chats about how live sonar could alter the future of fishing.

View Details

On this Memorial Day weekend edition of the show, Rob Drieslein (mainly) turns to the water.  He talks angling and more with the following guests:

  • John N. Maclean, author of the new book "Home Waters: A Chronicle of Family and a River", discusses his love of and research into the short stories of Ernest Hemingway.
  • Lake of the Woods Family Resorts general manager Jeff Anderson gives us the latest about conditions on some of the state's northern fishing destinations.

View Details

It's a busy weekend for the outdoors, and Rob Drieslein is in to guide us through the big stories:

  • Outdoor News contributor Brian Mozey lets us know how this year's Fishing Opener went.  Plus, what bills with ties to the outdoors could pass during the last week of the MN legislative session?
  • Jared Mazurek, executive director of the MN Deer Hunters Association, explains why the organization is now planning on boycotting the Governor's Deer Hunting Opener this Fall.
  • Darren Troseth, owner of 3 Rivers Fishing Adventures, describes his efforts to get the MN DNR to open two-line fishing up to inland waters across the state.

View Details

It's a special hour of the program.  Rob Drieslein welcomes veteran outdoorsman, writer, and broadcaster Tim Lesmeister in studio to talk fishing (including next week's Walleye Fishing Opener), hunting (including shotgun zones in Southern Minnesota), and more (including a note on this year's Rock and Rock Hall of Fame inductees).

View Details

Rob Drieslein takes us through a busy week of headlines around the Outdoors sporting world.  Plus, he chops it up with the following guests:

  • State Sen. Steve Drazkowski discusses about his efforts to eliminate shotgun deer hunting zones in Southern Minnesota.
  • MN DNR large carnivore specialist Dan Stark gives us the info we need to know ahead of bear hunting season.

View Details

Rob Drieslein gives us a rundown of some headlines from the past few days.  He also talks with the following guests:

  • Outdoors sports legend Ron Schara tells us some stories about his wild turkey hunting adventures.
  • MN DNR Regional Resource Specialist Molly Tranel Nelson explains the state's Bison Conservation Herd.

View Details

After Rob Drieslein goes through some of the headlines of the week, he chats with the following guests:

  • New Pheasants Forever president and CEO Marilyn Vetter discusses her selection to this top post and her history in hunting.
  • Outdoors writer Mark Strand explains what's going on with the opening of turkey hunting season.

View Details

It's Easter Sunday, but Rob Drieslein can't take a holiday when it comes to outdoors sporting news.  He catches up with the following guests:

  • Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz joins the program to talk about a plethora of topics, including the quibble over the Upper Red Lake fishery, building invasive carp barriers, and the Environmental & Natural Resources Trust Fund.
  • 4 Season Sports manager Travis Smerud dives into the open water fishing that's already underway in Southeastern Minnesota.

View Details

On this week's edition, Rob Drieslein connects with the following guests:

  • Brad Gausman, executive director of the Minnesota Conservation Federation, explains efforts to stop the advance of invasive fish species to the state's waterways.
  • John Devney, chief policy officer for Delta Waterfowl, tells us about hunting snow geese and what this Winter's snowpack means for duck breeding.
  • MN State Rep. Chris Swedzinski previews a meeting this week on the potential transfer of Upper Sioux Agency State Park to Upper Sioux tribal ownership.

View Details

This week, Rob Drieslein brings on the following guests for the sporting conversation:

  • Fisherman Brad Lila reviews his experience tying the state's Catch & Release record for Northern Pike during a January outing.
  • Outdoor News contributor Tim Lesmeister debates with our host about the crossbow bill being discussed at the State Legislature.
  • Outdoor News contributor Joe Shead gives us a primer on the practice of shed hunting.

View Details

Rob Drieslein goes through some of the headlines of the week.  Then, he welcomes the following guests on to the show:

  • Outdoor News staff writer tells us the latest happening at the State Capitol, including news on the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund and a bill to combat Chronic Wasting Disease.
  • Author and retired MN DNR official Carrol Henderson tells some stories of Bud Grant offering a side of the late coach and sportsman that even his fellow hunters may not have known about.
  • Chris Granrud of RainyDaze Guide Service lets us know how fishing conditions are going on northern Minnesota's Rainy River.

View Details

It's a packed show this week, with the following guests joining host Rob Drieslein:

  • Outdoor News contributor Ron Hustvedt speaks on Bud Grant's love of outdoor sporting and the impact of the Vikings legend in light of the former coach's passing.
  • MN DNR Upland Game Project Lead Researcher Tim Lyons offers a preview of the upcoming turkey hunting season.
  • Outdoor guide Jason Lesmeister tells us about the particulars of this year's snow geese hunting season.

View Details

On this week's edition, Rob Drieslein sits down for chats with the following guests:

  • MN DNR Fisheries Program Consultant Jon Hansen talks about a new state limitation rule for possession of rough fish.
  • Joe Albert, Communications Coordinator of the MN DNR's Enforcement Division, dives into the country's two major Bass fishing tournament circuits.  Could one of them ever land a tour stop in Minnesota?
  • Aaron Field from the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership discusses the importance of private lands to the practice of conservation.

View Details

Rob Drieslein brings up some of the latest headlines after a week that plunged the area back into that Winter mindset.  He also chats with the following guests:

  • Outdoor News writer Eric Morken explains the Winter Severity Index and the affect it presents on the outdoors sporting industry.
  • Famed hunter and broadcaster Melissa Bachman tells us about her journey to creating one of the most respected outdoors programs you'll find on television and how hunting was always second nature to her.

View Details

Rob Drieslein gives us a review of the just-completed National Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic.  He also goes through some of the headlines of the week and welcomes the following guests:

  • Croixsippi fishing guide Charles "Turk" Gierke discusses whether regulating Walleye fishing on the St. Croix River is a good idea and what to look for as the ice fishing season winds up.
  • Outdoorsman Keng Yang tells us how he got into hunting and what he hopes to bring to the table as a young, Hmong outdoors enthusiast.

View Details

Rob Drieslein goes through some of the week's headlines.  He also catches up with the following guests:

  • The annual Pheasant Fest and Quail Classic takes place next weekend in Minneapolis.  Jared Wiklund, PR manager of Pheasants Forever, previews the event.
  • Constance Cooke and Jordan Warren, winners of the Backcountry Hunters & Anglers annual cookoff contest for Minnesota, will talk about their victorious recipe and the opportunity to represent their home state at March's National Rendezvous.

View Details

Rob Drieslein finally got to see Falconry up close.  He tells us about his experience.  Then, Lukas Leaf, executive director of Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters, joins the program to discuss the impact of a recent conservation announcement from the Biden Administration concerning that area's watershed.

View Details

Rob Drieslein opens this week's edition by talking about the behaviors of some robins feeding around his home.  Then, he brings on the following guests:

  • MN DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen returns to discuss budgetary focuses surrounding the fishing industry (changes in fishing license prices, funding for an Invasive Asian Carp blocker, etc.).
  • MeatEater.com contributor Tony Peterson provides an update on the small game hunting seasons, specifically squirrel and rabbit hunting.
  • Eli Mansfield, President of the MN chapter of Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, comes on to discuss the organization's recent event.

View Details

Rob Drieslein brings us all of the week's headlines from the outdoors.  Plus, he catches up with the following guests:

  • Outdoor News editor Tim Spielman review the topics and issues that were discussed during the MN DNR's annual Roundtable event.
  • On The Fly Guide Service founder & guide Dave Anderson gives us a look into the current conditions for stream fishing.

View Details

We're back to a full episode this week.  Rob Drieslein goes through some of the week's biggest headlines from the outdoors.  He also chats up the following guests:

  • Author and National Parks Service Public Relations Officer Sharon Stiteler (a.k.a., the Birdchick) talks about birdwatching at this time of the year.
  • Lucas Schulze, Human Resources Consultant with the MN DNR, explains how students can apply for internships within the government agency.

View Details

On this shortened edition of the show, Rob Drieslein chats with fisher guide Tony Roach about the ice fishing conditions around the state.  How many problems have the recent snowstorms caused for the industry?

View Details

Rob Drieslein welcomes us into the new year with some information on a couple of staunch advocates for the Outdoors.  Then, he chats with following guests:

  • Outdoor News contributor Tim Lesmeister talks about some of the headlines going into 2023, including current ice fishing conditions and the goings-on over in Wisconsin.
  • MN DNR Fisheries Manager Shannon Fisher discusses potential changes the department might be looking into when it comes to the state's Record Fish Program.

View Details

On this week's shortened show, Rob Drieslein gets an update on Wisconsin's outdoors headlines from freelance writer and columnist Patrick Durkin.

View Details

There's a lot for Rob Drieslein to tackle this week.  He welcomes the following guests on the program:

  • Fisheries biologist and lake ecology scientist Paul J. Radomski describes what you'll find in his new book "Walleye: A Beautiful Fish of the Dark".
  • Paul Gentry, conservation director for the MN, IA, & MO region of Audubon, explains the latest State of the Birds report.
  • MN-FISH Sportfishing Foundation & Coalition executive director Mark Holsten provides a recap of the annual Ice Fishing show and tells us about the group's initiative through Toys for Tots.

View Details

In this abbreviated show, Rob Direslein talks about the ice depth and upcoming St. Paul Ice Show at the Riverfront Center with Matt Johnson from Clam Outdoors.

View Details

After a week off, Rob Direslein is back at it.  On this episode, he chats with the following guests:

  • Jared Mazurek, incoming Executive Director of the Minnesota Deer Hunters' Association, discusses what he hopes to achieve in the role.
  • Major Robert Gorecki of the MN DNR's Enforcement division tals about some of the most egregious deer hunting violations.
  • Outdoornews author Glen Schmitt digs into the early ice conditions.  Is it safe enough to be on any iced-out across the state?