Cracking the Elk Calling Code w/ Phelps Pro Team Member, Erik Berglund | Big Hunt Guys, Ep. 190

This week, the Big Hunt Guys are trading tags and tactics for tales that’ll make your hair stand on end. From eerie encounters deep in elk country to strange sounds in the dark timber, listeners sent in their weirdest, wildest, and scariest hunting stories — and we’re reading them all. Grab your headlamp, stoke the campfire, and get ready for a Halloween episode you won’t forget.

On the eve of many western rifle mule deer hunts, Lorenzo and Trail relive the stories of the most legendary mule deer ever taken — five typicals and five nontypicals that define the record books and the dreams of every western hunter. Trail and Lorenzo unpack the history, mystery, and controversies behind these incredible bucks, with a few laughs (and duck stories) from Lorenzo’s latest hunt along the way.

On this episode of the Big Hunt Guys podcast Trail and Lorenzo sit down in Lorenzo's office at GOHUNT HQ to take a trip down memory lane. Lorenzo shares stories from some of his most unforgettable mule deer hunts. Some hunts are about the animal, most are about what they teach you and the memories made that live forever. Lorenzo shares raw, unfiltered stories from his most unforgettable mule deer hunts — the highs, lows, and the moments in the field and life that he’ll never forget.

Trail and Brady unpack Trail's recent archery hunt. In this episode, they recap the hunt day by day, break down key takeaways, and discuss how weather and pressure impacted elk movement and bugling. They also dive into the biology of the elk rut: what drives it, how it progresses, and how understanding the rut can help guide future decisions. Finally, we talk lightning safety in the backcountry—what to do, what NOT to do, and how to avoid danger in the backcountry.

On this episode of the Big Hunt Guys Podcast, Brady and Trail talk with biologist and mule deer authority Jim Heffelfinger to dive into the future of mule deer management in the West. Jim breaks down what the latest science tells us about mule deer biology, how changing landscapes and habitat pressures are shaping herds, and what hunters and conservationists can do to ensure healthy populations for generations to come. Whether you’re a die-hard mule deer hunter or simply care about the future of wildlife, this conversation is packed with insights on behavior, biology, and interesting information about one of the West's most iconic species.

The boys are back together and sit down to discuss the season so far. We chat about the newly crowned “world champion” jerky contest winner, Brady scouting for big bucks, and his thoughts on the highs and lows of chasing giants, and finally, we discuss how Lorenzo’s archery deer season went and the rollercoaster of emotions that has caused him.

In this episode of the Big Hunt Guys Podcast, Brady and Trail sit down with Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Conservation Officer, Josh Carver. From chasing down poachers to checking hunters in the field, Josh shares what life is really like behind the badge. We cover everything from common mistakes hunters make to conservation success stories to the toughest situations wardens face in the backcountry. If you’ve ever wondered what a day in the life of a warden looks like—or how to stay on the right side of the law this fall—you won’t want to miss this conversation.

In this episode of the Big Hunt Guys Podcast, Brady and Trail dive into placements on elk. From anatomy breakdowns to real-world scenarios, we cover what it takes to make a lethal shot. They also cover recent news on the intent to repeal the Roadless Rule and how you can submit feedback. The podcast wraps up with a discussion on setting boundaries for yourself prior to setting foot in the mountains. Should you take a frontal shot, should you take a shot at a moving animal? Tune in for those discussions, do some soul searching of your own, and set your limits before you hunt!

Ever wonder what separates a world champion elk caller from the rest of us? Erik Berglund joins Brady and Trail on this episode of the Big Hunt Guys to share his strategies, secrets, and calling sequences that get bulls fired up. This is a masterclass in elk language. As we move into September, this is a must-listen for every archery elk hunter.

In this episode of the Big Hunt Guys podcast, Brady and Trail dig into the Instagram DMs to tackle your burning hunting questions from archery elk tactics to mule deer scouting strategies, gear setups, and even a few off-the-wall asks. Tune in for a mix of honest advice and practical opinions as you get ready to tackle your fall hunts!