Baxter Bowman Podcast: Recent Episodes
Baxter Bowman
Welcome to the Baxter Bowman Podcast! If you're looking for strategies, gear, and stories that will make you a better backcountry elk hunter, you're in the right place. We're independent, unsponsored, and unbiased so we can give you straight up, detailed advice about what works and what doesn't.
For our first series, I walk my co-host and mentee, Josh, through everything he needs to be successful on his first over the counter, public land bowhunt for Elk this fall. It's based on the "Hunt Elk in 2020" series of articles on BaxterBowman.com with even more detail.
While we focus on elk hunting, we can't help but talk about our other back country adventures like deer hunting, fly fishing, backpacking, upland game birds (chukar, quail, and more), and more. If you're a Western Hunter and you want to learn as much as possible, this is your show.
In this episode we check-in with progress towards preparation towards the 2022 Archery Elk season. We go over gear, fitness, planing, and other thoughts around preparation towards the upcoming season. We’re getting close!
In this episode, we have Sam and Jake back on the podcast! In episode 51 last year, we got to talk to Sam and Jake after their first bowhunt out in Hawaii. Since then they’ve gotten to hunt whitetail deer in Nebraska with Identical Draw and also moved to Hawaii! Lots of ups and downs … Continue reading "77 | Lesson Learned from Sam and Jake’s First Successful Bowhunts"
In this episode, we cover important tips for the Colorado Draw this year, how the effect of the drought is going to change hunting strategy this fall, a gear check-in, and Josh’s thoughts on his upcoming trip to Hawaii for some bowhunting this Spring. Hope you enjoy!
In this episode, we talk about Baxter’s late season archery mule deer hunt with his wife Margaret and the close call they had in the backcountry when the hunt went south. It’s a sobering and important episode, hope you enjoy.
In this episode, we review the 2022 bows yet again and Baxter goes over his decision making process in choosing the right bow for him. We also talk about questions that would help you find the right bow and a process to do so.
In this episode we kick off out monthly check-ins in preparation for the fall season! Today we talk about tag strategy, new gear that we’re testing out, Josh’s new bow set up and new set of arrows built.
In this episode we review thoughts on the new line of bows that came out for 2022. We review aspects such as weight, IBO, brace height, axle-to-axle, sound, and many more features to pay attention to when looking for a new bow. We geek out a bit here, hope you enjoy!
In this episode, we talk about the top lessons we learned from the archery elk season. After reflecting on the lessons from the 2020 season, we were more effective last year in 2021. Even so, this year there were many new lessons learned as the journey of improvement continues.
In this episode we continue to relive the story of Josh’s first elk from this past 2021 archery elk season. If you like the stories, lessons, and play-by-plays, this episode is for you!
In this episode we relive the story of Josh’s first elk from this past 2021 archery elk season. If you like the stories, lessons, and play-by-plays, this episode is for you!
In this episode we relive the story of Baxter’s bull from the 2021 archery elk season. If you like the stories, lessons, and play-by-plays, this episode is for you!
In this episode, we cover a few last minute questions from some of our listeners as well as a few Josh has on the way to elk camp. Topics we cover include making sure your pack is fitted, how to load meat, decisions around how much food/water to take with you, clothing and weather, and … Continue reading "67 | Last Minute Questions on the Way to Elk Camp"
In this episode we cover the last major step in preparation before heading out to your elk spot. Broadhead tuning is essential to make sure your arrow is flying straight to maximize penetration and set you up for success. In the episode we referenced Gold Tip Paper Tuning and Bow tuning make easy: 7 steps … Continue reading "66 | Why Broadhead Tuning is Critical Before Season"
In this episode we interview Hank Shaw! Hank is best known for his food blog Hunter, Gardner, Angler, Cook which won the James Beard Award in 2013! We cover various recipes and cooking methods for deer/elk, how to properly handle game meat in the field, thoughts on gamey meat, cuts people shouldn’t leave in the … Continue reading "65 | Wild Game Cooking with Hank Shaw"
In this episode we go over how to build great arrows for elk hunting from start to finish. There are a few small steps that a lot of people look over that truly can put your arrows at the top one percent in terms of quality, fit, accuracy compared to those you buy pre-built. Check-out … Continue reading "64 | Arrow Building 101"
In this episode we continue our series of monthly check-ins as we get closer to September. Topics covered include last minute gear updates, how we’re training one month out from season, and most importantly our plans for September and decisions that are critical to make ahead of time.
In this episode we interview Nate and Tom from Identical Draw who are twin brothers who have taken the new hunter recruitment problem into their own hands. We talk about the new hunters they took out for Turkey this past Spring, plans for the fall, and their new website newhunter.org that matches new hunters with mentors. … Continue reading "62 | How to Find a Hunting Mentor with Identical Draw"
In this episode we got a chance to talk to Dan from Elkshape. Dan is known as “the fitness man” and shared a lot of great advice on training for elk hunting, nutrition, mentorship, and what his journey has been like as he continues to master the craft of bowhunting. You can follow Dan on … Continue reading "61 | Fitness, Mentorship, and the Bowhunting Learning Curve with Dan from Elkshape"
In this episode we continue our series of monthly check-ins as we get closer to September. Topics covered include getting your vehicle and rig properly set up, which is often overlooked. Baxter shares a hilarious rough story that sparked this topic in particular, and we kick it off with Josh’s terrible elk calling.
In this episode we interview the ElkNut himself, Paul Medel. He has 30+ years of elk hunting experience and truly knows how to speak elk. We go over specific scenarios you’ll encounter during the season, how elk behave and communicate, and all the strategies and tactics you can learn and use this fall. Checkout the … Continue reading "59 | Everything Elk Calling w/ the ElkNut Paul Medel"
In this episode, we took a look at footage from two game cameras that were active from last September till this June. Comparing this footage to the three or four years of footage from previous years revealed interesting patterns in elk behavior during season and after season. Hope you enjoy as much as we did! … Continue reading "58 | Lessons from 9 months of camera footage"
In this episode we finish our series of condensing the 22 part hunt elk series we did last year. We cover the final stages of the elk hunt, strategies and tactics to get close, make the shot happen, and a few tips once the arrow leaves your bow. Hope you enjoy! Blog posts mentioned: Where … Continue reading "57 | Elk Crash Course Pt. 4 – Strategies & Tactics to Close the Deal"
In this episode we continue our series of monthly check-ins as we get closer to September. Topics covered include selecting and building arrows, what Baxter decided on for his new pack, decisions on meat (butcher vs DIY), taxidermy logistics, and of course physical fitness. Hope you enjoy it as much as we did!
In this episode we continue our series of condensing the 22 part hunt elk series we did last year into a handful of episodes. It’s meant to cover the main points to give you a good overview of what you need to know to prepare for this season. Hope you enjoy! Blog posts mentioned: Elk … Continue reading "55 | Elk Crash Course Pt. 3 – Gear Overview"
In this episode we continue our series of condensing the 22 part hunt elk series we did last year into a handful of episodes. It’s meant to cover the main points to give you a good overview of what you need to know to prepare for this season. Hope you enjoy! Blog posts mentioned: Guide … Continue reading "54 | Elk Crash Course Pt. 2 – eScouting & Boots on the Ground"
In this episode we kick off a new series where we condense the 22 part hunt elk series we did last year into a handful of episodes. It’s meant to cover the main points to give you a good overview of what you need to know to prepare for this season. Hope you enjoy! Blog … Continue reading "53 | Elk Crash Course Pt. 1 – Key Decisions, Logistics, & Planning"
In this episode we continue our series of monthly check-ins as we get closer to September. Topics covered include selecting and building arrows, Baxter’s thoughts on upgrading packs, how the draw is so personal, and of course physical fitness. Here’s the article on the best arrow for elk hunting that we referenced. Hope you enjoy it as … Continue reading "52 | May check in: arrows, packs, the draw"
This episode is a first of its kind here on the podcast! Sam and Jake are two new hunters who listen to the podcast and reached out to us with kind words about the show. We wanted to get them on the show to hear about their journey, answer questions, and promote more mentorship within … Continue reading "51 | Sam and Jake’s first bow hunt recap + Q&A"
In this episode, we recap Josh’s Axis Deer hunt in Hawaii last week. We cover the details of all the stories, lessons, mistakes, ups and downs of the trip and everything in between. If you’re interested in learning more about the guide Josh went with, email us at baxterhunting@gmail.com or hit the contact form on … Continue reading "50 | Josh’s first successful bow hunt"
In this episode, we reflect our absolute lowest points during last year’s elk season. Some were scary, some were frustrating, and some were downright depressing. Bowhunting is tough and we dig into our darkest moments and the lessons we learned from them. Our goal is to prep you so next season so you know more … Continue reading "49 | Lessons learned from our worst moments last season"
In this episode we continue our series of monthly check-ins as we get closer to September. Topics covered include archery and bow setup, camping, buying gear, physical fitness and a bowhunting trip Josh has planned this April. Here’s the article on bow tuning made easy that we referenced. Hope you enjoy it as much as … Continue reading "48 | April check in: archery, bow setup, and camping to prep"
In this episode, we look back on last season and reflect on each close encounter we had with elk, what went wrong, what went well, and most importantly, what we learned. Our goal is to prep you so next season you can close the deal when you get close. If you real life stories and … Continue reading "47 | Close encounters with elk from last season"
In this episode, we look back on last season and reflect on the most important critical decisions we made. We talk high level elk hunting strategy and hope you can learn a few important lessons to take with you next season. If you real life stories and lessons, this episode is for you.
In this episode, we go cover optics for elk hunting from start to finish. By the end of the episode you’ll know everything you need for rangefinders, binoculars, and spotting scopes to help you make the right decision when purchasing optics for elk hunting. If you’re gearing up for next season, this episode is for … Continue reading "45 | Optics – Rangefinders, Binos, Spotting Scopes and more"
In this episode, we go over clothing systems from start to finish. We cover topics like wool vs synthetic, how to layer properly, what to look for in each layer, and some of our favorite pieces of gear we wear. If you’re gearing up for next season, this episode is for you.
In this episode we continue our series of monthly check-ins to talk about what most people should be thinking about in their preparation for September. Then Josh and I share what we’ve been spending our time focused on. Hope you enjoy it as much as we did! Here’s the gear checklist Baxter put together.
In this episode, we try to end the debate on whether to go with 3 or 4 fletchings when building your arrows for next season. We dive deep into what fletchings are for in the first place, the debate between three or four, and touch on how to prioritize what’s important when thinking about building … Continue reading "42 | The big debate on fletchings: 3 or 4?"
In this episode we interview Nate and Tom from Identical Draw. Nate and Tom took my on my first archery public land hunt as well as a bunch of new hunters out for their first big game hunts last fall. They are twin brothers who are some of the most selfless guys out there. We … Continue reading "41 | Nebraska Mule Deer and the future of the industry with Identical Draw"
In this episode we talk about the upcoming draw(s), break it down state-by-state, go over pros and cons and talk about whether it’s worth entering depending on your unique situation. It goes deep, hope you enjoy!
In this episode we kick off a new series of monthly check-ins to talk about what most people should be thinking about in their preparation for September. Then Josh and I share what we’ve been spending our time focused on. Themes for this episode: gear, fitness, archery, and the draw. Hope you enjoy it as … Continue reading "39 | February check in: gear, fitness, archery, and the draw"
Wayne is the owner of Archery Only, the Pro Shop in Newark, CA. He has 45+ years of archery related experience. He’s won Retailer of the Year, California Bow Hunter of the Year, and the fourth person to complete the “California Grand Slam” along with many other awards and accomplishments. In this episode he shares … Continue reading "38 | Advice, stories, and lessons from industry legend Wayne Piersol"
In this episode we continue our new series called “Off-season Opportunities” where we cover great ways to train, stay motivated, and have fun in the off-season that will make you a better elk hunter come September. Today we cover the adventure that comes with hunting in New Zealand.
Roger Brown has participated in the Olympic Trials, coaches archery, and shares wisdom from his 20+ years of experience in the sport. In this episode we talk about what shapes and influences elite athletes, the unique challenges of shooting sports, the equipment vs shooter problem, common errors in archers and much more. You can find … Continue reading "36 | Wise words on archery mastery with Roger Brown"
In this episode we continue our new series called “Off-season Opportunities” where we cover great ways to train, stay motivated, and have fun in the off-season that will make you a better elk hunter come September. Today we cover the magic of hunting in Hawaii.
Christian Williams is an archer and bowhunter with over seven years of experience working in the field of Sports Performance/Injury. He is also a Strength and Conditioning Coach, Certified Movement and Corrective Exercise Specialist, and USA Weightlifting Coach. In this episode we talk about conditioning for Archery and best practices to keep you shooting injury … Continue reading "34 | How to get Archery Strong with Christian Williams"
In this episode we kick off a new series called “Off-season Opportunities” where we cover great ways to train, stay motivated, and have fun in the off-season that will make you a better elk hunter come September. Today we cover the unexpected learnings from Chukar hunting.
In this episode the tables are turned and Dan “The Fitness Man” interviews us. We cover the journey of mentorship, our September elk hunting season, and the lessons learned along the way. Hope you enjoy as much as we did!
In this episode we wrap up the Stories from September series with a big one: the top 3-5 lessons we learned from the entire season. Whether you’re brand new (like Josh) or slightly more experienced (like me), this is a can’t miss summary of a full month+ of learnings during elk season. Hope you enjoy … Continue reading "31 | September Stories: Our biggest lessons"
In this episode we go over all the gear we used for the 2020 Elk season and how it performed. We’ll break down the new favorites, the failures, and the pieces of gear that have been consistently impressive year after year. If you’re a great nut, or just want to perfect your setup for next … Continue reading "30 | 2020 Gear Retrospective"
This episode wraps up the story of my elk and the last part of the September season for Josh. If you want to learn about packing out, hunting the late season, and different hunting styles, this episode is for you.
In this episode Josh and I discuss our September elk hunt including several close encounters and the moment of truth on a big bull… make sure to listen until the end!
We’re back! In this episode Josh and I walk through Part 1 of our September elk season with a few very close encounters and a spoiler alert. If you’re looking to learn, this episode will put you right in the field with plenty of lessons.
In this episode Josh interviews Baxter to learn more about who he is, why he started this project, how he got into hunting, and what’s coming after the Hunt Elk in 2020 Series. Reminder: It’s the September Slowdown (aka we’re out hunting) so stay tuned for another episode in two weeks!
[Heads up: As part of the September Slowdown, we’ll only be publishing episodes every other week. Here’s to a successful season!] In this episode Josh and I cover all the last minute questions he has before his month of elk hunting. We cover everything from gear, to packing, to tactics. If you’re cramming for your … Continue reading "25 | Last minute elk questions"
In this episode Josh and I talk through the gear we’ll be using in 2020, what we’re testing, and last minute additions to make before elk season. You can find a full list of the gear I’m using on the website here.
In this episode, Josh and I discuss the mental difficulties of hunting in the backcountry, what situations he’s likely to face, and the tips & tactics to power through to the end of a successful hunt. We touch on the importance of a learning mindset, reframing bad events, visualization, and much, much more. We discuss … Continue reading "23 | The mental game: are you ready?"
In this episode Josh and I dive deep into how to track an elk after the shot, the best field dressing methods, and tips for packing out. This is a long episode, but it’s jam packed with lots of helpful details and questions you didn’t know you needed to ask. This podcast references my post … Continue reading "22 | Tracking, Field Dressing, and Packing"
This episode is all about the tips & tactics you need to make the shot happen. Josh and I discuss finding the “doorway”, picking the right position, limiting your movement, and detailed shot placement. If there is one episode that will increase your odds of bringing home an elk this fall, this is probably it. … Continue reading "21 | Making the shot happen"
Now that you’ve found the elk, this episode is all about getting close enough to make the shot. Josh and I cover everything from general elk behavior to my strategies for calling, stalking, and ambushing. If you’re looking for more shot opportunities, this is your episode. This podcast references my post from the Hunt Elk … Continue reading "20 | Closing the distance"
In this episode, Josh and I discuss selecting backpacking campsites and why they have such a big impact on elk hunting strategy. I go over just how close you can camp to elk, why should try to camp up high, and when if makes sense to camp lower. If you want to be confident that … Continue reading "19 | Where to camp and why it matters"
This episode is about finding elk as quickly as possible when you first get to a hunting area. Josh and I discuss general elk behavior, my strategy for “running the loop”, and go into detail about types of elk sign and how old they are. This podcast references my post from the Hunt Elk in … Continue reading "18 | How to locate elk quickly"
In this episode I talk to Josh about whether scouting trips for elk are worth it as a nonresident, who they do make sense for, and what to look for if you do go. If you’re thinking about going in the next few weeks, this one is for you. This podcast references my post from … Continue reading "17 | Boots on the ground elk scouting"
Does practice really effect your elk hunting success? Short answer: yes. In this episode I walk Josh through my 2019 hunt (and why practice made the difference), talk about the importance of shot sequence, go over why Josh should intentionally make bad shots, and finish with realistic elk hunting scenarios for him to practice. This … Continue reading "16 | Practice that actually helps you kill elk"
Bow tuning isn’t as hard as it sounds. In this episode I walk Josh through why he needs to tune his own bow, the 7 steps to a perfect tune, and how I tune my bow with only a foam target. This podcast references my post from the Hunt Elk in 2020 series on the … Continue reading "15 | Bow tuning in 7 easy steps"
In this episode, I walk Josh through backcountry nutrition, why he should buy most of his food from a grocery store (not just REI), and plenty of tips & tricks learned from 25+ years of backpacking. If you’re wondering what to eat this fall, this one is for you. This podcast references my post from … Continue reading "14 | Backpacking food and nutrition tips"
This episode is all about what makes a great broadhead for elk. We cover what matters, what doesn’t, fixed vs mechanical, how broadhead choice changes depending on your individual situation, my recommendations for Josh, and much, much more. This podcast references my post from the Hunt Elk in 2020 series on the website:–Best broadhead for … Continue reading "13 | Best broadhead for elk hunting"
This episode is all about sleeping bags, pads, pillows, and above all: getting a good night of sleep. We go over what works (and what doesn’t), general recommendations, and lots of tips + tricks even if you already own a bag or other equipment. If you want to learn everything about how to get a … Continue reading "12 | Sleeping bags and sleep systems"
In this episode I walk Josh through all the types of shelters, important things to consider when buying a tent, how different shelters work for different hunting styles, and wrap it up with some recommendations. The goal is to walk away with a clear idea of exactly what shelter (and possibly model/brand) you need to … Continue reading "11 | The best tent/shelter for backcountry hunting"
The most important piece of gear on your elk hunt is your boots. In this episode we go through what makes a good pair of elk boots, what doesn’t matter (aka save your money), and my recs for great elk hunting boots. Josh walks away (pun intended) with his selection for his boots this fall. … Continue reading "10 | Choosing an elk hunting boot"
Elk arrows. That simple. In this episode I walk Josh through what makes a great arrow, what he should spend money on (and what he shouldn’t), and what my suggestions are for good brands. This podcast references my post from the Hunt Elk in 2020 series on the website:–Gear Guide: The best arrow for elk hunting
In this episode we discuss what elk hunting gear you actually need (and what you don’t), what you can reuse, and when you should buy your gear. The goal is to save Josh (and you) money and allow him to focus on what really matters for his fall hunt. This podcast references my post from … Continue reading "8 | What gear do you actually need for elk hunting?"
Today’s episode is all about training: finding your why, what fitness elk hunting requires, and tips/tricks that were earned the hard way from training for an Ironman Triathlon. If you’re looking for a bit of motivation and some hard-earned tips for training for the fall, this is your episode. This podcast references my post from … Continue reading "7 | Elk training tips from an Ironman"
Picking great elk hunting spots is part art and science. Today we cover why eScouting is so powerful, what tools to use, and a step by step guide for finding great elk spots. This is a don’t miss episode if you want to lay the foundations for elk hunting success. This podcast references my post … Continue reading "6 | Picking the best elk hunting spots and eScouting"
Want to hunt 10 days on 5 days of vacation time? In this episode, Josh and I cover when to go elk hunting (rut, moon, weather), flying vs driving, and my strategy to maximize your time in the mountains. If you’re planning a trip, you definitely don’t want to miss this one. This podcast references … Continue reading "5 | When to hunt elk and flying vs driving"
Today we’re answering key questions to help Josh plan his 2020 hunt. We dive in to solo backcountry safety, how to choose a partner, the range of DIY/Guided options, and finish with why I think he should car camp and backpack at the same time (and the pros/cons of each approach). This podcast references my … Continue reading "4 | Solo vs Partner? Guided vs DIY? Backpacking vs Car Camping?"
Like the title says, this episode is all about picking the best OTC unit for bowhunting elk. We talk about what data is available (and why it’s flawed), my custom analysis/spreadsheet (that led to 3 elk in my first 4 years), and a 5 step guide to picking the best unit. This podcast references my … Continue reading "3 | Picking the best elk unit in Colorado or Idaho"
It all starts here! I walk Josh through the differences between Colorado and Idaho for OTC Elk hunting based on my experiences hunting (and killing elk) in both. We cover how to get a tag, where you can hunt, costs, season timing/length, terrain differences, pressure, elk behavior, gear requirements, and much more. Our goal is … Continue reading "2 | Colorado vs Idaho for OTC Elk Hunting"
So what’s this all about anyway? In this episode Josh and I talk about our backgrounds, why we created the Baxter Bowman podcast, and what it’s all about. We also introduce the “Hunt Elk in 2020” series and talk about Josh’s mission to go on his first OTC, public land bowhunt this fall. For more … Continue reading "1 | Why the Baxter Bowman podcast?"