Early antlerless in Minnesota finally clicked. Abby and I walk through a week where we tagged two clean, quick does and—maybe more importantly—felt in control of the process. We cover why the backyard “test plot” worked, slug choice and hold (hug the shoulder), and how Abby’s doe cartwheeled and dropped while mine sprinted 100 yards before a solid blood trail told the truth. We break down the hitch-carrier + RTIC 145 cooler system, then make the case for the gutless method when temps are 65–70° and the shop would turn into a mess.
From there, we pivot to public-land run-and-gun: first hangs with the XOP Roam setup, the shelf-lock backpack carry, and partner safety (bring the extra lineman’s rope). We wrap with a much-needed range day—good bags, good bench—and Abby’s best groups yet at 100/200, plus why we ditched the lead sled. Colorado rifle mule deer is next, camper in tow, and we’re feeling ready.
Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow @getdrawnwest on Instagram. If you enjoyed this, leave a 5-star rating and share the show with a friend.
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Sponsorsand Discounts:
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GOHUNTGear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
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OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
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FirstMonth FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save$150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10%on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
In this episode of Drawn West, Brian catches up with returning guest Dan Matthews to finally tell the full story of his wild first archery elk hunt — a hunt that went from no tag, to a perfect bull, to floating a 700-pound elk down a river with the help of an excavator.
Dan shares how a “poorly timed pregnancy” changed his Colorado rifle plans and pushed him into archery season, how he taught himself to bugle on the drive out, and how one perfect morning turned into an elk-hunting roller coaster. The guys also swap stories about calling strategies, blood-trailing logic, elk language, and why hunting styles — from process-driven engineers to pure chaos improvisers — both somehow get the job done.
This one’s packed with laughs, elk talk, and plenty of chaos that only makes sense if you’ve ever tried to call in a screaming bull at daylight.
🔑 Key Takeaways
• How Dan’s first archery elk hunt turned into a wild success
• Learning to elk call on the drive out — and somehow making it work
• What happens when your bull dies in a river (and an excavator saves the day)
• The difference between “Team Chaos” vs “Team Structure” hunting styles
• Breaking down elk language — chuckles, glunks, nervous grunts, and what they really mean
🎧 Listen anywhere you get podcasts, and make sure to follow @getdrawnwest on Instagram for new episodes and elk gear drops.
Free resource: Grab the Drawn West Gear Checklist — my complete elk and mule deer packing guide (link in description).
Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow @getdrawnwest on Instagram.
FREE Gear Checklist:
https://www.getdrawnwest.com/gear
FREE Drawn West Application Calendar
www.getdrawnwest.com/freeproducts
Connect with Brian Krebs
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HaveQuestions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!
Sponsorsand Discounts:
GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code DRAWNWEST
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RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
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OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
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FirstMonth FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save$150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10%on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code DRAWNWEST https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
Dial in your western-hunt clothing the smart way. Brian breaks down a brand-agnostic layering system that actually works together: lightweight base, a true mid, a windproof shell, and a compressible thermal (puffy) you can mix-and-match from August heat to November glassing temps. He covers why “systems > single pieces,” how to stretch a few core layers across elk, mule deer, and antelope, and when to add vests, rain plans (hello, tarp/rain fly), and Blaze for rifle seasons. Bottoms get the same treatment—light/med pants, merino or heavyweight base bottoms when you’re stationary, plus the forever MVPs: Kenetrek boots, good socks, and gaiters to keep water out. Lots of real-world tips (glove hacks, do-more-with-less gear choices) and where to save vs. spend.
Subscribe wherever you get podcasts and follow @getdrawnwest on Instagram.
Want the free, mobile-friendly Pack Lists? Grab them at GetDrawnWest.com and never forget a critical piece again.
FREE Gear Checklist:
https://www.getdrawnwest.com/gear
FREE Drawn West Application Calendar
www.getdrawnwest.com/freeproducts
Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!
Sponsorsand Discounts:
GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code DRAWNWEST
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNT GearShop – 10% off most items with code DRAWNWEST https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTIC Coolers– Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
Okuma Fishing– Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
First MonthFREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save $150 onSteelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10% onMaverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code DRAWNWEST https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
FREE Elk Hunt Gear Checklist
https://www.getdrawnwest.com/gear#rifle-elk-gear-list
Nine years of hunts, hundreds of lessons learned, and now it’s all in one place — the brand-new Drawn West Pack List. In this episode, Brian breaks down the launch of his free digital and printable gear checklists for every major western hunt — starting with Rifle Elk, and soon expanding to Whitetail, Mule Deer, and Antelope.
He shares how years of forgotten gear, trial-and-error, and long drives back to town inspired him to finally create an all-in-one tool for hunters to pack smarter, travel lighter, and never forget a tag again. From building lists on Google Drive in his early elk-hunting days to crafting a mobile, interactive PDF you can save and check off from your phone — this project has been years in the making.
Brian also walks through the must-have gear categories — clothing systems, hunting tools, and camp essentials — while explaining how each piece fits into a real-world hunt. Whether you’re a new hunter prepping for your first trip or a veteran who still forgets a knife every season, this episode gives you everything you need to stay organized and ready when the mountains call.
Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and follow @getdrawnwest on Instagram for more western hunting tools, stories, and free resources to help you stay drawn west.
https://www.getdrawnwest.com/gear
FREE Drawn West Application Calendar
www.getdrawnwest.com/freeproducts
Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
HaveQuestions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!
Sponsorsand Discounts:
GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNTGear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
FirstMonth FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save$150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10%on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
This episode dives into the highs, lows, and lessons of chasing an early-season giant. From scouting new ground in North Dakota to taking a chance on a fresh stand, the story unfolds with all the emotion and intensity that comes when everything has to come together in a single moment. You’ll hear how mobile gear choices, reading trail cam data, and a split-second shot window shaped the hunt, plus the perspective shifts that come from balancing life, faith, and the realities of chasing mature whitetails. This isn’t just another deer story — it’s a look into why we hunt and the mindset behind making it count.
Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow @getdrawnwest on Instagram for more.
FREE Drawn West Application Calendar
www.getdrawnwest.com/freeproducts
Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
HaveQuestions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!
Sponsorsand Discounts:
GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNTGear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
FirstMonth FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save$150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10%on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
What happens when you mix open-sight muzzleloader hunting with wide-open Nevada pronghorn country? Well, Layton found out this fall — and the result was an unforgettable antelope hunt that tested patience, gear, and strategy. In this episode, Brian sits down with Layton to unpack the challenges of hunting with primitive weapons, what it takes to draw Nevada tags, and how the stalk of a lifetime ended in a 60-yard shot on a great buck. Along the way, the guys dive into the quirks of antelope behavior, why muzzleloaders can be both frustrating and rewarding, and how hunting evolves once you start raising a family.
Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and follow @getdrawnwest on Instagram for more hunts, stories, and behind-the-scenes content.
FREE Drawn West Application Calendar
www.getdrawnwest.com/freeproducts
Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
HaveQuestions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!
Sponsorsand Discounts:
GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNTGear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
FirstMonth FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save$150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10%on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
Two Georgia kids, a Kia Sorento, and the biggest antelope a Wyoming unit had seen in 17 years. Carter McKenzie from the Hunt Lift Eat podcast joins Brian to share the wild story of his first Western hunt — a trip that started with cheap gear and no clue, and ended with a monster pronghorn in the back of a rental car. From tents blowing across the prairie to flying with rifles out of Atlanta, Carter opens up about what it’s really like to figure out Western hunting as a nonresident, and how those early lessons shaped the Hunt Lift Eat community today.
Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and don’t forget to follow and leave a 5-star rating to help more hunters find the show. For more hunts, gear, and stories, check out @getdrawnwest on social.
FREE Drawn West Application Calendar
www.getdrawnwest.com/freeproducts
Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
HaveQuestions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!
Sponsorsand Discounts:
GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNTGear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
FirstMonth FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save$150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10%on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
What happens when whitetail tactics collide with world-class elk country? Bennett Bradford of DC Outfitters joins Brian to break down how they target once-in-a-lifetime Utah bulls using tree stands, trail cams, and early-season patterning. From running 200+ cameras to setting stands 40 feet high in quaking aspens, Bennett explains how a whitetail mindset can unlock opportunities most elk hunters never see.
The conversation dives into the realities of premium Utah units—25+ year draw odds, 400-inch bulls, and why client expectations can make or break a hunt. Brian and Bennett also tackle gear choices like saddles vs. platforms, fixed-blade vs. expandable broadheads, and the challenges of blood trails and recovery on bulls that don’t stop running. Add in stories of family hunts, 390-class legends, and bulls that disappear for years only to show back up, and you’ll get a real look at what chasing giants is all about.
Follow the podcast for more western hunting stories, drop a 5-star rating if you’re enjoying the show, and join the conversation at @getdrawnwest on social.
FREE Drawn West Application Calendar
www.getdrawnwest.com/freeproducts
Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
HaveQuestions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!
Sponsorsand Discounts:
GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNTGear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
FirstMonth FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save$150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10%on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
Buying and selling bows has always been a mess—used racks with slim pickings, eBay fees that eat your profit, and Facebook meetups that feel sketchy at best. Enter Bow Tackle, a brand-new platform built by archery shop owners and hunters for the people who live this stuff every day. Dan Ellyson from A1 Archery and Perry Bowers join the show to talk about how they’re reshaping the archery marketplace, why pro shops need a way to move used and close-out gear without getting crushed by fees, and how Bow Tackle is connecting everyday hunters to trusted dealers across the country.
This episode dives into the headaches every bowhunter has faced—what to do with your old flagship, how to score a deal without getting burned, and why keeping small archery shops alive matters for all of us. Whether you’re upgrading to the latest Matthews or looking for a solid starter rig, you’ll want to hear how Bow Tackle could change the game.
Follow the podcast for more western hunting stories, drop a 5-star rating if you’re enjoying the show, and connect with us on social @getdrawnwest.
FREE Drawn West Application Calendar
www.getdrawnwest.com/freeproducts
Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
HaveQuestions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!
Sponsorsand Discounts:
GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNTGear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
FirstMonth FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save$150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10%on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
This is the episode everyone’s been waiting for — the official draw of the Mathews Lift X giveaway. What started as a goal to get 70 listeners turned into over 1,800 signups, 2,500 emails, and more than 53,000 total entries. Along the way came stories that hit harder than expected — dads who sold their bows to cover medical bills, hunters chasing a dream bow they’ve waited 20 years for, and families entering to give someone else a shot at something they couldn’t swing on their own.
In this episode, Brian pulls back the curtain on how the giveaway worked, the behind-the-scenes grind of sorting thousands of entries, and the moment we’ve all been waiting for — announcing the winner. He also looks ahead at what’s next: future giveaways, new digital tools, and even some limited-run merch for listeners only.
Hit play to hear the full story, find out who won, and see where Drawn West is headed next. Don’t forget to follow the podcast, drop a 5-star rating, and follow @getdrawnwest for more hunts, gear talk, and western hunting stories.
FREE Drawn West Application Calendar
www.getdrawnwest.com/freeproducts
Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
HaveQuestions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!
Sponsorsand Discounts:
GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNTGear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
FirstMonth FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save$150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10%on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
From fish houses to four-season hunting rigs, Team Lodge has been reinventing what “camp” looks like for outdoorsmen. Brian sits down with Tanner Thompson-Moad to talk about how the company evolved from plywood shanties in 2003 to some of the most versatile hunting and fishing trailers on the road today.
They cover the full story — from solving pain points like cramped trailers and freezing nights to building furniture systems like the Bunch and the Sleater that turn any enclosed trailer into a real hunting camp. Tanner explains why durability and comfort matter more than hype, how Team Lodge builds gear that fits both ice season and elk season, and why a good night’s sleep can be the difference between tagging out and heading home early.
Whether you’re running a $1,500 Facebook Marketplace special or speccing out a fully loaded toy hauler, this episode will get you thinking about how to build the right basecamp for your hunts.
Hit play, and don’t forget to follow the podcast, leave a 5-star rating, and follow @getdrawnwest for more western hunts, gear talk, and stories from the road.
FREE Drawn West Application Calendar
www.getdrawnwest.com/freeproducts
Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
HaveQuestions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!
Sponsorsand Discounts:
GOHUNTInsider - $50 Gear Shop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNTGear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
FirstMonth FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save$150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10%on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
Getting your bow tuned doesn’t have to be complicated. In this Bridge Lock Bonus episode, Brian walks through how to set your left/right zero—starting with a five-foot rest alignment shot, then backing out to 20 yards to fine-tune your sight. He breaks down how to chase or correct arrow groups, when to trust a group vs. a single arrow, and how to make micro-adjustments without overcorrecting.
Whether you’re shooting broadheads before season or just setting up a new bow, this step-by-step process will give you a clean, centered setup to build confidence on every shot.
And don’t forget—this is the final episode with a Mathews Lift X giveaway code word. The code is Mathews, and entries close August 31st, so make sure you’re signed up before it’s too late.
Hit play, get your bow dialed in, and don’t forget to follow the podcast, leave a 5-star rating, and follow @getdrawnwest for more hunts, gear tips, and western hunting stories.
FREE Drawn West Application Calendar
www.getdrawnwest.com/freeproducts
Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
HaveQuestions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!
Sponsors and Discounts:
GOHUNT Insider - $50 GearShop Credit with code WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items with code WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with code ROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save 10% on OllinDigiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
From pheasant country in the Midwest to prairie chickens on the grasslands, this episode dives deep into the world of upland hunting with Tim Brown — better known as The Bearded Uplander. Brian and Tim swap stories about growing up in bird camps, the bond between hunters and their dogs, and the unique obsession that keeps upland hunters chasing feathers across state lines.
They cover everything from managing CRP and cattail habitat, to the difference between sharptails and prairie chickens, to how dogs adapt to each bird species. Tim shares how his passion grew from his first dog, Gus, to hunting over 100 days a year, and why he builds his life around watching dogs work. If you’re an upland hunter — or just want to understand why bird hunting can take over a life — this one will hit home.
Hit play, and don’t forget to follow the podcast, leave a 5-star rating, and follow @getdrawnwest for more western hunts, upland stories, and gear talk.
FREE Drawn West Application Calendar
www.getdrawnwest.com/freeproducts
Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!
Sponsors and Discounts:
GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit withcode WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items withcode WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with codeROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes withcode WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10% on Maverick HuntingBlinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save 10% on OllinDigiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
Hunting and golf might look like worlds apart, but when it comes to gear, costs, and obsession, hunters know they’ve got the upper hand. Brian and Dan dive into why hunters spend far more than golfers, the never-ending rabbit hole of gear, and the unique stories that keep hunters talking long after the hunt is over. They swap tales from Alaska moose hunts gone sideways, the dream of drone pack-outs, and the grind of traveling hunts when you only get a few days to make it happen. Along the way, they explore what makes hunting so addictive compared to other pastimes, from the challenge to the payoff, and why the struggle is often the very thing that makes the success worth it.
Key Takeaways:
• Why the average hunter spends 4x more than the average golfer
• Lessons from an Alaskan moose hunt that almost ended with a world-class bull
• Drone technology and the future (or not) of backcountry pack-outs
• The difference between locals’ hunting strategies and traveling hunters with limited time
• How “easy hunts” can kill the magic, and why the grind matters
If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to hit the follow button so you never miss an episode. And for more stories, hunts, and behind-the-scenes content, check out @getdrawnwest on Instagram.
FREE Drawn West Application Calendar
www.getdrawnwest.com/freeproducts
Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!
Sponsors and Discounts:
GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit withcode WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items withcode WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with codeROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes withcode WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10% on Maverick HuntingBlinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save 10% on OllinDigiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
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Leveling your bow isn’t just a detail — it’s the foundation for consistent, accurate shooting. In this Bridge Lock Bonus Episode, Brian walks through how to set your arrow rest height, dial in your second and third sight axis, and avoid the mistakes that can throw your shot off in the field. From using a Baker Archery bow vise at home to checking for micro arrow rest changes with drop-away rests and outserts, this is a practical, step-by-step tune-up you can follow in your own garage.
Whether you’re chasing whitetails from a treestand or glassing elk on a mountainside, proper leveling ensures your pins stay true on flat shots and steep angles. Brian breaks it down so you can do it yourself without a trip to the shop.
Hit play, get your bow dialed in, and be ready for whatever your hunt throws at you. Don’t forget to follow the podcast, leave a 5-star rating, and follow @getdrawnwest for more hunts, gear tips, and western hunting stories.
Win a FREE Mathews Bow
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https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!
Sponsors and Discounts:
GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit withcode WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items withcode WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
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OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
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First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with codeROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes withcode WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds &Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters withcode TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
Rack Hub just dropped one of the slickest euro mount systems I’ve ever laid eyes on — and it’s built to handle everything from your first whitetail to a moose that barely fits through the door. I sat down with Keegan Bruner to talk about the brand-new RHE mount, why it’s “wife-approved,” and how it solves the headaches we’ve all dealt with when trying to get a trophy on the wall.
We dig into the design secrets that make this mount bulletproof, the challenges of hanging giant racks without wrecking your wall, and a few wild hunting stories along the way. From knocking down bulls to chasing big whitetails, this one’s a mix of gear talk, big game dreams, and a couple laughs you don’t want to miss.
If you’ve got a euro mount collecting dust or a head in the freezer waiting on taxidermy, this episode will get you fired up to get it on the wall fast — and make it look damn good doing it. Smash that play button, leave us a 5-star rating, and follow @getdrawnwest for more western hunts, gear deep dives, and stories from the road.
FREE Drawn West Application Calendar
www.getdrawnwest.com/freeproducts
Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!
Sponsors and Discounts:
GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit withcode WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items withcode WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with codeROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes withcode WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10% on Maverick HuntingBlinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save 10% on OllinDigiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
Think you need five grand and a closet full of Sitka to chase elk out West? Think again.
In this GOHUNT Bonus Episode, I break down exactly how to plan a real elk hunt for under $1,500—without cutting corners or eating freeze-dried meals all week. We’re talking real numbers: tag costs in Idaho, Colorado, and New Mexico, how to split up gas costs with your buddies, where to camp (or crash), and how to avoid spending thousands on gear you don’t even know if you’ll like yet.
If you’ve got the basics—a bow or rifle, some camo, and a willingness to rough it—you can make an elk hunt happen this year. You don’t need top-tier gear, a new truck, or four years of saved-up PTO. Just a plan.
We cover:
• What states offer affordable non-resident tags
• How to travel smart (and split fuel four ways)
• Gear you actually need vs. what can wait
• DIY lodging and food setups that don’t suck
• How to prep for taxidermy and meat processing without killing your budget
Bonus: Listen for the Mathews Lift X code word to get 20 extra entries in the giveaway.
Enter the Mathews Giveaway:
FREE Drawn West Application Calendar
www.getdrawnwest.com/freeproducts
Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com!
Sponsors and Discounts:
GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit withcode WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items withcode WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with codeROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes withcode WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10% on Maverick HuntingBlinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Matt Waldron is a master at finding giant crappies through the ice, but today he talks about another one of his passions - western big game hunting. While Matt is best recognized for his work on the Crappie Chronicles, he opens up about his growing obsession with elk and mule deer, his first western hunting trip to South Dakota, and how his drive to chase big crappies mirrors the ambition many hunters feel when heading west for the first time. Whether you're a die-hard ice angler or dreaming of your next elk tag, this conversation bridges both worlds with laughs, tactics, and relatable moments from two guys who just love the chase.
Key Topics:
• Matt’s transition from ice fishing to big game hunting
• How western hunts compare to chasing giant crappies
• The gear shift: saddle hunting vs. hub houses
• Matt’s first DIY archery mule deer trip in South Dakota
• The shared mindset between hardcore anglers and western hunters
If you’ve ever thought about heading west but haven’t pulled the trigger, Matt’s story might just tip the scales. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and follow along for more episodes like this one. For behind-the-scenes content and more, follow us on Instagram @getdrawnwest.
Connect with Brian?
linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
Have Questions or Comments? Send an email to Brian@getdrawnwest.com
Sponsors and Discounts:
GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit withcode WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items withcode WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with codeROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes withcode WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10% on Maverick HuntingBlinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save 10% on OllinDigiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
Music provided by: Slipstream Musichttps://slipstreammusic.com
Stieg Phillips is the man behind the famous Muley Maniacs brand and is on the podcast today sharing one of the wildest hunting stories you’ll ever hear. Stieg opens up about his 2023 Nevada elk hunt — a dream tag he waited nine years to draw — that took an unbelievable turn when a landowner and his friends allegedly started shooting in Stieg’s direction to prevent him from harvesting a giant 380-class bull on public land. From dealing with cross-state law enforcement to the frustration of failed hunter harassment charges, Stieg gives a raw, firsthand account of what happened that night and how it’s shaped his perspective on hunting, landowner conflicts, and perseverance in the field.
You’ll also hear about:
• The challenges of hunting giant bulls that cross public-private boundaries.
• The legal and ethical battles hunters face in high-stakes units.
• Why Canady Tripods and Muley Maniacs are raising the bar for serious glassers.
• How Stieg balances content creation, entrepreneurship, and hunting big mule deer.
• Lessons learned from a near-deadly confrontation that could happen to any public land hunter.
If you’ve ever hunted close to private land or wondered how to handle a tough landowner situation, this is a story you don’t want to miss. Listen now, subscribe to Drawn West, and share this episode with your hunting crew — because these are the conversations every public land hunter needs to hear.
Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/getdrawnwest
Have Questions or Comments? Send an email toBrian@westernrookie.com!
Sponsors and Discounts:
GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit withcode WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items withcode WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with codeROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes withcode WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10% on Maverick Hunting Blinds &Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save 10% on Ollin Digiscoping Adapters withcode TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb
Save 20% on your firstorder at Bull Elk Beard Oil with code TWOBUCKS https://tr.ee/X4mp2wWCRK
Welcome to the first episode of the Bridge-Lock Bonus Series brought to you by Mathews Archery and Drawn West. In this kickoff episode, Brian unboxes his complete 2025 bow setup—including the Lift X 33 in shale fade to black—and walks through every piece of gear he’ll be running this season. From sight to stabilizers, quiver to rest, you’ll get a full behind-the-scenes look at his complete build and the strategy behind every component.
This episode also includes a special giveaway code for bonus entries to win your own Lift X—don’t miss it.
________________________________________
What’s Covered in This Episode:
• Full unboxing of the Mathews Lift X 33
• Why Brian chose green strings, 80 lb limbs, and a 30.5” draw
• Deep dive on the Bridge-Lock compatible UV Slider and IMX Rest
• Front and back stabilizer strategy for balance and performance
• Quiver setup, dampeners, and other small custom touches
• Bonus code word for 20 extra entries in the Lift X giveaway
________________________________________
To enter the Lift X Giveaway, head to getdrawnwest.com
Follow the podcast and content series on Instagram: @getdrawnwest
New episodes of the Bridge-Lock Bonus Series drop throughout the summer as Brian sets up, tunes, and dials in this full 2025 bow build.
FREE Western Rookie Application Calendar
www.westernrookie.com/freeproducts
Connect with Brian Krebs
https://linktr.ee/thewesternrookie
Have Questions or Comments? Send an email toBrian@westernrookie.com!
Sponsors and Discounts:
GOHUNT Insider - $50 Gear Shop Credit withcode WESTERN
https://alnk.to/g3aa8L4
GOHUNT Gear Shop – 10% off most items withcode WESTERN https://alnk.to/e75Pm4u
RTICCoolers – Keep Your Meat Cold!
https://bit.ly/RTICCoolers
OkumaFishing – Rods and Reels for Serious Anglers!
https://alnk.to/31sVDzF
First Month FREE at MTNTOUGH Fitness with codeROOKIE https://bit.ly/MTNTOUGH_ROOKIE
Save $150 on Steelhead Outdoors Gun Safes withcode WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/fbNvbFXX6Q
Save10% on Maverick HuntingBlinds & Accessories with code WESTERNROOKIE https://tr.ee/vWHcxHKo4u
Save 10% on OllinDigiscoping Adapters with code TWOBUCKS
https://tr.ee/ZE1XcQ-fbb