No cameras. No preseason scouting. Just boots on the ground and fresh sign. This was one of the most exciting weeks of hunting I've had since I started in 2018. It all came together when I stopped doing what I thought I was "supposed" to do.
After struggling last season obsessing over trail cam photos and filling zero tags, I made a drastic change: I ditched the cameras entirely. Instead, I focused on exploring new public land in Tennessee and reading active sign.
I filled my first-ever solo public DIY tag, used my canoe to access hard-to-reach spots, and had one of the most exhilarating cat-and-mouse encounters with a buck I've ever experienced.
In this episode, I walk through each day of the hunt; the spots I explored, the mistakes I made, the lessons I learned, and why this week reminded me why I fell in love with hunting in the first place.
Get in touch.
Newsletter: https://endurhunt.com/newsletterInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680
Referenced Gear and Episodes
Day Six Evo X: https://www.daysixgear.com/collections/broadheads/products/evo-x
Easton 5mm Arrows: https://www.huntersfriend.com/Easton-50-Ultra-Lightweight-5MM-Hunting-Arrow-Fast-and-Slim-THE-FIRST-OF-THEIR-KIND-Finished-Arrows-Hand-Fletched-by-the-BEST-_p_3285.html
Why I’m Ditching Trail Cameras This Season: https://youtu.be/0vWc39fx-BA?si=btxyldYjoYhNSdRV
The Risk No One Talks About After You Fill a Tag: https://youtu.be/hpFdZ5y2HSw?si=p1dxCgL3dQEZj9eA
I’ve always relied on trail cameras to guide my whitetail deer hunts. As someone who started hunting later in life, I used them to make up for my lack of woodsmanship and knowledge of deer behavior. But this year, I’m taking a different approach—and on this episode, I explain why.After years of depending on trail cameras, I realized they were holding me back more than helping. Last season, I fell into the trap of chasing specific deer and missed the bigger picture. This year, I’m shifting focus to hunting fresh sign, in-season scouting, and staying mobile across multiple pieces of public land.What You’ll Learn:- How trail cameras shaped my hunting approach since 2019- The trap I fell into when I became fixated on certain bucks- Why I’m ditching day-to-day camera use this season- My new mobile, sign-based hunting strategy for whitetail deer- How I plan to use trail cameras differently in the futureIf you’ve ever felt too dependent on trail cameras or found yourself hunting photos instead of deer, this episode will hit home.Get in touch.Newsletter: https://endurhunt.com/newsletterInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680Referenced Episodes:- How I’m Balancing Hunting, Work, and Life Right Now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAaiC3x9IZs- The Risk No One Talks About After You Fill A Tag: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hpFdZ5y2HSw
Bow season is just weeks away here in Tennessee, and Western seasons are already rolling. In this episode, I lay out my goals for the year, share a quick Wyoming elk update, and talk honestly about life, work, and everything that has been going on over the last few months. This episode is more raw than my usual ones, a little less polished and I open up a bit about things. I don't expect virality or a lot of views, but that's okay. I am going for more consistency to fulfill the mission of this channel. What’s inside this episode:- Goals for hunting seasons (both Wyoming elk and Tennessee deer)- A change in my strategy for trail camera usage.- Updates on my Bear Whitetail INT and my trusty Savage .308 hunting rifle- A Life update: Discussing my new day job, long hours, my wife’s work, and what all of this means for EndurHunt.Thank you for following along this journey.
After five years of applying, I finally drew a Wyoming general elk tag and got the archery stamp. This is a September archery hunt I’ve been dreaming about. But life threw me a curveball.
Between starting a new job, finishing house projects, and my hunting partner losing vacation time, I won’t be able to chase elk in Wyoming this September.
In this episode, I share the story behind everything that has been going on behind the scenes. Why I haven’t been posting podcasts and why I can’t hunt the tag I’ve waited half a decade for.
Not all is lost, I’ll also discuss how I’m adjusting my plans, and what comes next. At the end of the day, hunting — like life — requires adapting and overcoming.
Get in touch.
Newsletter: https://endurhunt.com/newsletterInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680
In this episode, we're talking about the best hearing protection that I actually use while hunting. I’ve got permanent hearing damage from my time in the Marines, and I’ve been chasing the perfect hearing protection ever since.
Over the past 14+ years between military service and western hunting, I’ve tested a handful of hearing protection options in real-world conditions. I've used them in a variety of situations and environments—and consistently struggled to find ones that performed and were comfortable enough to wear all day.
I’ll share what’s worked for me, what hasn’t, and how you can figure out what might work best for your own style of hunting.
This isn’t a sponsored review—just real-world experience from someone who learned the hard way. That said, some of the links below may be affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through them, it won’t cost you anything extra, but I may earn a small commission.
Products:
Foam Earplugs: https://amzn.to/4lN6WOs
Howard Leight: https://amzn.to/4eAK0PO
Axil XCOR Pro: https://goaxil.com/products/xcor
Get in touch.
Personalized Coaching: https://endurhunt.comNewsletter: https://endurhunt.com/newsletterInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680
So you didn’t draw a tag this year, but you still want to hunt out West?After months of waiting and money spent, that “unsuccessful” email stings. The draws don’t always go the way we hope.But not drawing doesn’t mean your season’s over. There are still opportunities if you know where to look. Leftover tags or returned tags that are available and most hunters completely overlook.In this episode, EndurHunt host Andrew breaks down exactly how to find these tags, which states offer them, and how to be prepared when the opportunity arises.You’ll learn:- What terms like “second draw” and “leftover tags” actually mean- Which western states offer second-chance systems- When and where to find leftover tagsIf you're still hungry to hunt this season, there’s a way. Don’t miss this one.Get in touch.Newsletter: https://endurhunt.com/newsletterInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680
Andrew takes you through his process for planning a DIY public land elk hunt. Andrew shares how to build an effective hunt plan from start to finish. You’ll learn how to think about selecting your hunting dates and location, navigate regulations, research and e-scouting new areas, plan logistics, and prepare physically and mentally for the challenges of the West all while avoiding common pitfalls that can derail even experienced hunters.
After five years of building points and applying, Andrew finally drew a Wyoming elk tag. With every hunt, his process has evolved, and in this episode of EndurHunt, he shares the roadmap he uses to stack the odds in his favor on this elk hunt. Whether you’re just starting out or want to sharpen your approach, you’ll get honest, actionable advice and insight to help make your next hunt a success.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- How to choose where and when to hunt, taking into account regulations, moon phases, and hunting pressure
- The importance of flexibility and how to create solid backup plans
- E-scouting strategies and research methods
- How to approach logistics like travel, gear, and meat transport
- Fitness, shooting, and mental preparation tips
- Lessons learned from both successes and failures in past hunts
Get in touch.
Newsletter: https://endurhunt.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680
After six seasons of hunting with the same entry-level bow I bought at Dick’s Sporting Goods, I finally made the call to upgrade. This episode dives deep into why I stuck with that first bow for so long, what finally pushed me to make the switch, and how I found a setup that fits my goals without spending flagship money.
From missed shots and heavy arrows, I walk through everything that led to my new Bear Whitetail Legend Pro INT—and why I think it’s the right choice for the season ahead.
What You’ll Learn:
- Why my first bow lasted 6 years (and what it taught me)
- What gear mistakes I made along the way
- How I missed a Texas buck named Lopside—and what it cost me- What to look for when upgrading your bow
- Why a mid-range bow might actually be the best value for most hunters
If you’re a newer bowhunter, budget-conscious, or just wondering how much bow you really need… this episode is for you.
Referenced Gear and Items:
1. Trophy Ridge Precise Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50lKwZCM6gw
2. Trophy Ridge Precise: https://amzn.to/3Zffy7s
3. Bear Whitetail INT: https://www.beararchery.com/products/bear-archery-whitetail-int-rth-compound-bow
4. Trophy Ridge Hitman: https://amzn.to/3Zffy7s
5. HHA Optimizer Lite: https://amzn.to/3Zffy7s
6. QAD HDX: https://amzn.to/3Zffy7s
7. Bow Kwik Stand: https://amzn.to/3Zffy7s
8. THP Phone Mount: https://www.thehuntingpublic.com/products/thp-mag-pro-plus
9. Timberwolf Archery & Outdoors: https://www.timberwolfarchery.com/
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this description may be affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way to support the channel and the work I do — thank you!
Get in touch.
Newsletter: https://endurhunt.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680
What happens after you fill the freezer? Most hunters don’t think twice—until they’re forced to.
In this episode, I share how I lost over 200 pounds of wild game meat—axis, whitetail, aoudad—all gone because of one simple, preventable mistake.
After years of hunting, and butchering, I found myself doing something I hadn’t done in about four years… buying red meat at the grocery store.
This isn’t just a story about loss, it’s a wake-up call for every hunter who trusts their freezer without a second thought. I never thought this would happen to me and yet here I am. I break down exactly what happened, the hard lessons I learned, and the $40 tool that could save your entire season and all of your hard earned meat.
If you hunt, if you value every ounce of what you bring home don’t overlook this.
Resources Mentioned:
GoveeLife Smart Thermometer R1: https://amzn.to/4lIHfPG
This is the exact freezer alarm I use to protect my game meat. If you decide to pick one up using this link, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way to support the channel and podcast—thank you!
Get in touch.
Newsletter: https://endurhunt.com/newsletterInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680
In this episode of the EndurHunt Podcast, I’m joined once again by my best friend, Piotr—who just wrapped up what might be his best whitetail season ever. After years of grinding in Pennsylvania’s public land, Piotr punched his first-ever buck tag with a beautiful archery kill. But he didn’t stop there… A few months later, he followed it up with a second buck on a South Texas ranch.
We dive deep into the lessons, mindset shifts, and strategies that led to his success, as well as the stories behind both hunts.
Key Topics:
This episode isn’t just about two bucks on the wall—it’s about perseverance, learning from past mistakes, and embracing the journey as an adult-onset hunter.
If you’ve ever struggled with second-guessing your setups, felt stuck hunting the same spots, or wondered if trail cameras are helping or hurting your season, this one’s for you.
Get in touch.
Newsletter: https://endurhunt.com/newsletterInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680
In this episode, Andrew explores three major changes affecting Western hunting: Utah's fee increases for non-resident hunters, Colorado's upcoming draw system overhaul, and the landmark corner crossing ruling in the 10th Circuit Court. There are a lot of upcoming changes that you won’t want to miss.Andrew provides his thoughts and perspectives on how the upcoming changes may impact us all today as well as his personal plans for dealing with some of the changes. Key Topics Covered:- Utah's non-resident fee increases and why- Colorado's 2028 draw system changes and implications- Corner crossing ruling and its impact on land access- Practical considerations for hunters adapting to these changes- Strategies for navigating the evolving Western hunting landscapeGet in touch.Newsletter: https://endurhunt.com/newsletterInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680
Too many hunters keep saying they’ll “go out West someday,” but that day never comes.
In this episode, Andrew breaks down his top five states for Western big game hunting—specifically elk and mule deer—and explains why each one deserves a spot in your long-term strategy.
From over-the-counter opportunities to point systems and public land access, Andrew draws from personal experience and hard-earned knowledge to help you think beyond your current zip code and start planning that first (or next) trip out West.
Inside this episode:
- The state Andrew recommends if you’re brand new to Western hunting
- Which states are best for quick access vs. long-term payoff- How to handle complicated draw systems and avoid common mistakes
- Why hunting the West doesn’t have to wait until “one day”
If you're serious about making Western hunting a reality, this is the place to start. Get informed, get organized, and get out there.
Referenced Episodes:
Navigating Western Hunting Point Systems: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3bap3kCgOHi0fvPxpO8ngt?si=0f49065116b44d7d
Arizona Late Rifle Elk Hunt: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5n4FpudfPUbpadX0LNQWV1?si=8222ab41c155409b
Get in touch.
Personalized Coaching: https://endurhunt.com
Newsletter: https://endurhunt.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680
After six seasons of hunting, EndurHunt podcast host Andrew reflects on those seasons and the hard-earned lessons that came with them. Starting his journey as a complete outsider to the hunting world, Andrew shares the key takeaways that reshaped the way he approaches every hunt—lessons that many hunters, new and experienced alike, will relate to.
From the unexpected challenges of backcountry hunts to the mental and strategic shifts that lead to success, this episode breaks down the realities of hunting that most don’t discuss. Whether you're gearing up for your first season or looking to refine your skills, these insights will challenge the way you think about preparation, decision-making, and perseverance in the field.
Listen in as Andrew discusses:
- The hard truth about planning a hunt vs. reality
- A common mistake that holds new hunters back
- How to strike the right balance between patience and action
- The mindset shift that changed the way he defines success
Get in touch.
Newsletter: https://endurhunt.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680
In this deeply personal episode, Andrew shares one of the most difficult moments in his hunting journey - taking a shot he wishes he could take back. After misidentifying a buck as a management deer on a friend's South Texas ranch, he learned a painful but valuable lesson about trusting instincts and the true weight of decisions in the field. This story isn't just about aging deer; it's about responsibility, friendship, and the choices that shape us as hunters.
Key Takeaways:
This episode is for anyone who's ever made a decision they regret in the field, or those who want to learn from others' experiences. While the story centers on deer hunting, the lessons apply to all aspects of hunting and life: when in doubt, pause. Some decisions can't be undone.
Get in touch.
Newsletter: https://endurhunt.com/newsletterInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680
In this episode ofEndurHunt, host Andrew Lukosevic is joined byFirst Gen Hunter podcast host Kent Boucher to explore the world of shed hunting. Kent, an experienced shed hunter, shares how he discovered the activity even before he started hunting deer and explains why it has become such a valuable part of his annual routine.
Together, Andrew and Kent discuss how shed hunting improves scouting skills, reveals critical insights about deer movement, and enhances overall hunting success. They cover key terrain features to focus on, the best time of year to search for sheds, and common mistakes that new shed hunters often make. Kent also shares his approach to gaining permission for shed hunting and how it differs from traditional hunting access.
Whether listeners are new to shed hunting or looking to refine their approach, this episode offers practical advice and fresh perspectives on why shed hunting is more than just picking up antlers—it's an essential tool for any serious hunter.
Topics Covered:
✅ How Kent got into shed hunting before he ever hunted deer
✅ The best times of year to search for sheds
✅ Why shed hunting provides valuable scouting insights
✅ The terrain features most likely to hold sheds
✅ Common mistakes new shed hunters make
✅ How shed hunting contributes to late-season hunting success
✅ Why knocking on doors for shed hunting permission is easier than hunting
Connect with Kent:
First Gen Hunter Podcast:https://open.spotify.com/show/1FmS5zvBP3FW5XTccXjYv2?si=86bdfb69703649d9
First Gen Hunter Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/first.gen.hunter
Get in touch with Andrew:
Newsletter:https://endurhunt.com/newsletterInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680
In this episode of EndurHunt, Andrew shares his vision for 2025 - what he's calling "The Year of Firsts." Listen in as he discusses his hunting goals for Tennessee and Western hunting opportunities.
Andrew breaks down his local Tennessee hunting aspirations and delves into his strategic planning for Western big game hunts. He shares insights from past experiences and outlines how his multi-state application strategy creates new opportunities for the upcoming season.
Whether you're planning your own hunting season or interested in learning about different hunting opportunities across the United States, this episode offers valuable perspectives on setting and pursuing hunting goals.
Get in touch
Personalized Coaching: https://endurhunt.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680
In this episode, Andrew breaks down how he would start Western Hunting in 2025 if he was starting over with zero points. If you've been dreaming of chasing elk or mule deer and have been letting the years come and go, this episode is for you. Andrew provides what he thinks are the three states you should look at for hunting this year and what he would do. Get in touch. Personalized Coaching: https://endurhunt.com Newsletter: https://endurhunt.com/newsletter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/ Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680
In this reflective year-end episode of the EndurHunt podcast, Andrew Lukosevic takes listeners through his transformative 2024 journey.
From making a significant move to Tennessee and establishing a new home, to navigating personal challenges including the loss of family members, Andrew shares how these experiences shaped both his personal life and hunting adventures. He details his outdoor experiences this year, including first-time duck hunting experiences, pheasant and quail hunting for the first time, and the challenges of learning new public hunting grounds. Andrew also discusses personal milestones such as completing his first Spartan race and adapting to new hunting gear like a muzzleloader and saddle.
As the year closes, Andrew discusses valuable lessons learned about scouting, hunting strategies, and the importance of maintaining variety in outdoor pursuits. Looking ahead to 2025, he shares his excitement for future hunts and how he plans to apply these lessons in the coming year.
Referenced Content:
East 2 West Hunts Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2a5q0KgRh1ihp7tbEmFzJ0?si=0868f942555b4b55
Why I Switched to a Thumb Button: https://open.spotify.com/episode/22itFU8M4fCJawVnEwJZff?si=6f1aa8a625af4688
Why I Bought a Muzzleloader: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5KSy2e1phqYKD9ZabRzFCV?si=8cd44a78a9ee451b
Why I Bought a Saddle: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5tACSN5fYI5svxeFZepm3Z?si=1a2bf48a91f84a8c
Get in touch.
Personalized Coaching: https://endurhunt.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/ Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680
In this episode of EndurHunt, Andrew Lukosevic shares his journey transitioning from an index-style trigger release to a thumb button release for archery hunting. Discover the pros and cons of each release type and gain valuable insights for your bowhunting setup.
Episode Highlights:
Whether you're a seasoned bowhunter or just starting out, this episode offers valuable information to help you decide about the archery release you use in the field.
Gear Mentioned.
Trophy Ridge Precise: https://a.co/d/5ieQK9q
Tru-Fire Smoke: https://a.co/d/10yyYiZ
Spot Hogg Wiseguy: https://spot-hogg.com/wiseguy-rigid/
Get in touch.
Personalized Coaching: https://endurhunt.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/ Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680 GoWild: https://timetogowild.com/share/btSzAkFXDGCN.EjkAf6amw
Life only makes sense in reverse, when we have time to reflect on what has occurred. The small moments that seem insignificant play such large roles in who we become.
In this Thanksgiving episode of EndurHunt, host Andrew Lukosevic looks back on six years since his first hunting trip. That one trip, sparked by a question from his best friend Piotr, set him on a path he never expected. Now, hunting and the friendships he's made along the way have become a big part of his life.
Andrew talks about what he’s thankful for this season, from the support of his wife to the friendships he built while serving in the Marine Corps. He also shares his gratitude for the EndurHunt listeners and how connecting with others through the podcast keeps him motivated.
This episode is all about the small moments and choices that can change your life. Andrew hopes listeners will take some time to think about what they’re grateful for, too, especially during this season of giving thanks.
Key Points:
- Why Thanksgiving is the perfect time to reflect on gratitude
- How one question from a friend led Andrew to a new passion
- How the Marine Corps influenced his life and career
- The importance of family and friends in supporting his hunting journey
- Appreciation for the EndurHunt community, which inspires him to keep sharing his story
Get in touch.
Personalized Coaching: https://endurhunt.com
Newsletter: https://endurhunt.com/newsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endurhunt/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/endurhunt/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@endurhunt7680