Glassing as a Skill: What Most Elk Hunters Get Dead Wrong

This week I sat down with Cody Nelson, a man who has spent the better part of 12–13 years in elk and deer camps across Arizona and the West, helping legendary hunters like Jay Scott and Steve Chapa put tags on bulls by doing one thing better than just about anyone alive: finding game before the hunt ever starts.Cody just made a move over to Tricer as their Director of Innovation — and if you've been paying attention to what Drew has been building over there, this hire makes a whole lot of sense. Cody has been quietly consulting and pushing ideas on Drew for years, and now it's official. Big things are coming from that crew.But this episode isn't a gear ad. This is a masterclass. We dig deep into glassing as a genuine hunting skill — not just a tactic, but a discipline that separates average hunters from the ones who consistently find and kill mature animals. Cody breaks down why most hunters are simply in too much of a hurry, what his three pillars of effective glassing actually look like in the field, and why patience behind the glass is the single most underrated skill in the hunting community.We cover the binocular debate that never gets old — 10s vs. 12s vs. 15s — and actually give you a real answer that depends on where you hunt and what you're doing. We get into the stabilized binocular conversation, and Cody shares an honest take that goes beyond the hype. We talk tripods, the micro pan head, the weight-versus-stability trade-off, and why Cody would rather forget his rifle than forget his tripod.And then there's the story. The Unit 23 bull. A bull over 430 inches that Cody found by accident, locked onto for an entire day without breaking, and helped orchestrate one of the most incredible archery kills I've heard in a long time. If that story doesn't make you want to sit behind your glass longer, nothing will.We also talk about hunting for tomorrow — the concept of letting your glass do the work so your boots don't blow up your opportunity — and why the hunters who consistently win are the ones willing to look into the dark, nasty, quiet pockets that everyone else drives past.This one is worth a second listen. Lock it in.SponsorsThis episode is proudly brought to you by three brands that actually make a difference in the backcountry. These are products I use personally and trust — no exceptions.Tricer TripodsFast, light, and simple — Tricer builds the best tripod system in the hunting space. From backcountry-ready tripods and bino mounts to panhead truck mounts and bipods, every piece of Tricer gear is engineered to make you a more effective glasser in the field. If you're serious about finding more game, your glass needs a home. Tricer is that home. Discount Code: TRO — saves you 10% at checkout Stone Glacier GearI've had my Stone Glacier Sky Archer 6,400 in Alaska, British Columbia, Wyoming, and Montana this year alone. Whether you're on a 10-day alpine backpack hunt or running a side-by-side along a canyon edge, Stone Glacier's full suite of mountain hunting gear is built minimalist, built light, and built to last. This is hardcore mountain hunting gear — no fluff, no filler. Discount Code: TRO — saves you 10% at checkout onX MapsI don't go anywhere without onX. From e-scouting potential glassing knobs before the season to navigating unfamiliar units during the hunt, onX is the single most powerful scouting and navigation tool available to DIY hunters today. Hunt smarter. Know where to go. Discount Code: TRO — saves you 10% at checkoutTimestamp Chapters0:00  Intro & Cold Open — Cody Rich welcomes listeners and introduces the episode topic — glassing as a skill.2:15  Sponsor Read — Tricer Tripods — Fast, light, simple. Use code TRO for 10% off at tricer.com.4:30  Sponsor Read — Stone Glacier — The Sky Archer 6,400 and a full suite of mountain hunting gear. Use code TRO at stoneglacier.com.6:00  Welcome Cody Nelson / Two Cody's Walk Into a Podcast — Introductions, backstory on past phone calls, and how Cody Nelson ended up at Tricer.10:30  Cody Nelson's Background — Arizona, Jay Scott & 12 Years in Elk Camp — How glassing shaped Cody's entire hunting philosophy and career.15:00  Why Most Hunters Suck at Glassing — The #1 problem: people are simply in too big of a hurry. The three pillars of effective glassing introduced.20:45  Hunting for Tomorrow — The Philosophy — Find the elk today. Hunt them tomorrow. How patience and observation beat boots-on-the-ground every time.26:00  How to Choose the Right Glassing Spot — Reading terrain, using timing, understanding elk movement pre-rut vs. rut, and looking into the dark pockets everyone else ignores.33:30  The Randy Ulmer Lesson — Looking Into the Sun — How flipping conventional wisdom opened up new opportunities and why big country rewards unconventional thinking.38:00  10s vs 12s vs 15s — The Real Answer — Field of view, brightness, exit pupil, and why the honest answer always starts with: where are you hunting?44:30  Stabilized Binoculars — Honest Take — What they do brilliantly, where they fall short, field of view trade-offs, and the pet peeve Cody can't shake on a glassing knob.52:00  Stabilized Spotting Scopes & The Wind Factor — Why stabilization matters more for spotters than binos, cutting wind shimmer on long-range glassing, and the Epoch Outdoors app.57:30  What Makes a Great Glasser — Muscle memory, terrain familiarity, patience — and why there are no real shortcuts to building this skill.1:03:00  Tripod Philosophy — The Force Multiplier — Why any tripod beats no tripod. The micro pan head, the AD vs. BC, LP for backpacking, and Cody's 30+ tripod collection.1:10:30  Chair vs. Ground — And Not Skylining Yourself — Eye fatigue, hours in the glass, and how your setup affects how long you can actually hunt.1:16:00  THE STORY — The Unit 23 Bull Over 430 Inches — A flat tire, a spike road, one bull of a lifetime, and a full day locked onto a single tree. Michael Parks. Jay Scott. One of the greatest archery bulls ever killed in Arizona.1:22:00  Cody Nelson's New Role at Tricer — Director of Innovation, what he's been consulting on for years, and what's coming next from the Tricer team.1:24:00  Wrap-Up & Outro — Final thoughts, where to find Cody Nelson, free hunt planner link, and thanks for listening.3 Key Takeaways: 1. Patience Is the Most Underrated Glassing Skill — and It's Completely FreeCody Nelson has three pillars of effective glassing: buy quality glass, put it on a tripod, and slow down. The third one is the hardest and the most important. Most hunters are in a hurry — they crest a ridge, look for 14 seconds, and move on. The elk are often right there. A methodical, unhurried approach to covering a hillside will reveal animals that the speed-hikers will never see. You don't need the best glass in the world if you're willing to be the most patient person on the mountain. 2. Stop Looking for a Giant View — Start Looking Into the Dark PocketsThere's a common assumption that good glassing means finding the biggest vantage point you can and looking at the most country possible. The hunters who consistently find mature bulls do the opposite — they look for the small, ugly, nasty pockets that are hard to see into. Late season bulls especially want to be left alone in deep timber, on north-facing slopes, in spots where most hunters won't bother to look. The goal isn't to cover the most acres. It's to look where the animals actually are — and they're usually not standing on a skyline waiting for you. 3. Your Tripod Is More Important Than Your Rifle — SeriouslyCody made a statement at a seminar that stopped the room cold: he'd rather forget his rifle than forget his tripod. Why? Because without a rifle, you can still find game, watch patterns, and come back tomorrow without disturbing anything. Without your tripod, you're fighting eye fatigue from the first hour, you're missing animals in terrain that requires steady glass, and you're giving up precious hunting time every time your eyes give out. A tripod isn't a luxury accessory. It's the tool that multiplies every other piece of glass you own — including your $50 binoculars from the garage.

What's up everyone! This week I've got Dillon Deitz back on the podcast—probably for the ninth time, which makes him the most requested guest in the history of Elk Hunt. And by "requested," I mean Dillon requests to be on the podcast. But honestly, I love having this guy on because he's genuinely one of the most passionate people I know about getting new hunters into the game. Dillon just dropped a new film series called "The Rookie Season," and it's honestly one of the coolest projects I've seen in the hunting space in a long time. The premise is simple but powerful: take grown adults with zero hunting background—I'm talking computer geeks, software engineers, people who've never even thought about hunting—and show them that hunting isn't some secret club reserved for people who grew up doing it. The tagline says it all: "Hunting is not for everybody, but it could be for you." Over the course of the series, Dillon takes three complete rookies—people who didn't even know why you have to check the wind—and teaches them everything from hunter safety to field dressing to making ethical long-range shots. And here's the wild part: all three of them filled deer tags within a couple days. We're talking a one-handed Asian kid named Brandon who almost died on a mile packout, a guy named Solomon who made a 600-yard shot on his first hunt and then packed a deer seven miles in five-degree weather (oh, and he forgot his inhaler because he has bad asthma), and a hundred percent disabled veteran named Steven who Dillon rattled in a buck for after scrambling to get him a tag at the last minute. This conversation is part tactics, part philosophy, and part Dillon being sick as a dog but refusing to quit (which is very on-brand). We dive into why deer hunting is the perfect gateway for new hunters, why Dillon is obsessed with mountain whitetails instead of the yard deer everyone else shoots, and his absolute deadly system for rattling in bucks during pre-rut. Spoiler: he's rattled in five or six bucks this year alone, and his method is shockingly simple. We also get into why Dillon believes taking new hunters into the field reminded him of the magic he'd been taking for granted—like watching a moose for the first time through someone else's eyes and realizing how cool this whole thing actually is. It's the same feeling you get when you invite someone to your house for the first time and suddenly notice everything differently. If you're someone who's ever thought about getting into hunting but felt intimidated, or if you've been hunting for years and want to remember why you fell in love with it in the first place, go watch The Rookie Season on Dillon's YouTube channel. And if you're already a hunter, share this episode with someone who's been on the fence about trying it. Dillon's proving that hunting is accessible to anyone willing to put in the work—and that's something we need more of. Sponsors OnX Hunt - If you're not using the new LiDAR feature on OnX yet, you're literally leaving elk on the table. LiDAR cuts through the trees and shows you micro terrain details—benches, contours, hidden pockets—that regular topo maps just can't show. It takes your mapping to the next level and makes you a better hunter. If you're not an Elite member yet, now's the time. Head to onxmaps.com and use code TRO to save 20%. Tricer - Big news from Tricer—they just dropped the updated AD and BC tripods with new TriTech technology. The center post is now a T-post, which makes it smaller diameter, packs down tighter, and a couple inches shorter. Drew is constantly innovating and coming up with new ideas, and this tripod system is cleaner and simpler than ever. If you're on the fence, check out the new setup. Head to tricer.com and use code TRO to save 10%. Timestamps 00:00 - Intro: The most requested guest ever (sort of) 03:30 - Dillon's new film series: The Rookie Season 08:45 - Why deer hunting instead of elk for first-timers? 13:20 - Do we put elk on too much of a pedestal? 18:50 - Teaching grown adults the absolute basics 24:15 - Brandon's story: One-handed Asian kid's first hunt 29:40 - Solomon's 600-yard shot and 7-mile packout with asthma 35:10 - Steven the disabled vet and the last-minute tag scramble 40:30 - Rattling in mountain whitetails during pre-rut 46:20 - Dillon's rattling system: Why 11 AM is the witching hour 52:15 - Mountain whitetails vs. yard deer: Why Dillon won't shoot his backyard bucks 56:40 - Calling black bears for 30-40 minutes straight 1:00:15 - Where to watch The Rookie Season and closing thoughts Three Key Takeaways Hunting Through Fresh Eyes Renews Your Own Passion - Dillon talks about how taking first-time hunters into the field made him hyper-aware of all the things he'd been taking for granted. Watching a grown man see a moose for the first time and say "if I don't see another animal this whole trip, this was worth it" reminded Dillon why he fell in love with hunting in the first place. When you teach someone else, you stop just doing and start seeing again. It's like inviting someone to your house—you notice everything differently. Pre-Rut Rattling is Deadlier Than You Think - Dillon has rattled in five or six mountain whitetail bucks this year using a simple system: hunt pre-rut (late October through early November), blind call for about two minutes, then wait 30 minutes and go harder. Bucks are curious but not committed yet, so they'll come check things out within a couple hundred yards. He's had way more success pre-rut than during the rut when bucks already have does locked down. Think of it like calling a bull that doesn't have cows yet versus one that's already got his harem. Deer Hunting is the Perfect Gateway, Not a Lesser Hunt - Dillon deliberately chose deer over elk for his rookie series because it's more accessible—tags are easier, success rates are higher, and the physical demand can be scaled to the person. But that doesn't mean it's easy. Solomon killed his first buck in some of the nastiest country Dillon hunts, made a 600-yard shot, and packed it seven miles. The lesson: don't gatekeep hunting by making people think they have to start with the "hardest" species. Meet people where they are, give them a win, and build from there.

Welcome back to the Elk Hunt Podcast, your go-to source for everything elk hunting. I’m your host, Cody Rich, and this week I’m joined by the legendary Bob Terilliger, a man who’s been living the elk hunting dream for over three decades. From his roots hunting whitetails and turkeys in New York to guiding full-time elk hunts in Colorado, Bob shares stories, wisdom, and hard-earned lessons from a lifetime chasing bulls in some of the toughest country out there.We dive deep into Bob’s journey—from moving west in the ’90s, killing his first bull, to guiding for nearly two decades, and how staying in shape and embracing the grind made all the difference. Whether you’re a DIY hunter or chasing your first bull, Bob’s insights on packing elk, learning the land, and hunting smarter will get you fired up for the season ahead. Sponsored By:Tricer Tripods — If you want gear that’s fast, light, and simple, Tricer’s your go-to. From tripods to bino mounts and bipods, their gear helps you glass better and hunt smarter. I’ve been using their bipod for years and it’s a game changer. Check them out at tricer.com and use code TRO for 10% off your order.Stone Glacier Gear — I’ve packed out more animals than I can count with my Stone Glacier Sky Archery 6,400 pack. Whether you’re day hunting or on a 10-day alpine trek, their minimalist, lightweight gear stands up to the toughest mountain hunts. Visit stoneglacier.com and use code TRO for a discount on gear that lasts.OnX Maps — The ultimate tool for elk hunters who want to own the mountain. OnX Maps helps you navigate private and public lands with confidence, so you can spend more time hunting and less time guessing. Head to onxmaps.com and enter code TRO for savings on your subscription.Time Stamp Chapters    00:00 — Introduction & Sponsor Shoutouts    05:00 — Bob’s Hunting Roots & Early Years in New York    12:30 — Moving to Colorado: The Dream Begins    20:45 — First Bull & Learning the Elk Country    30:00 — Transitioning from Corporate to Full-Time Guide    40:15 — Lessons Learned: Fitness & Hard Work in Elk Hunting    50:00 — Guiding Stories & Memorable Hunts    58:00 — Staying Active & Hunting Into Your 60s and Beyond    1:05:00 — Final Thoughts & Advice for Elk HuntersThree Key Takeaways:Fitness is your greatest asset — Bob’s success came from being in top shape, allowing him to access tough country others wouldn’t dare tackle. Elk hunting is as much about endurance as it is skill.Learn the land, pack smart — From horses to packing techniques, understanding your environment and how to move efficiently with heavy loads can make or break your hunt.Adapt and evolve — Bob’s journey from corporate life to full-time guide shows the power of following your passion and adapting your lifestyle to live the dream.

What's up everyone! This week I'm sitting down with Jerrod Lile, CEO of Hunting Fool and one of the most underrated elk hunters you've never heard enough from. Jerrod spent 14 years working alongside Dan Evans at Trophy Taker—yeah, THE Dan Evans—and the stories and lessons he picked up during that time are absolute gold. This conversation goes deep. We talk about how Jerrod went from being a good shooter to a great archer after Dan called him out on his bad habits, the mental game required to perform under pressure (spoiler: it's just like you to make a good shot), and why he's helped 15 first-time bowhunters kill their first elk. Jerrod breaks down his hunting philosophy into one simple mantra: get as close as you can for as long as you can, and good stuff will happen. But this episode isn't all tactics and tips. Jerrod gets brutally honest about the emotional rollercoaster of elk hunting—from getting too cocky after a string of successes and missing a giant bull at 35 yards, to the heartbreak of his father passing away in the middle of a 23-point Arizona hunt. That story alone is worth the listen. It's raw, it's real, and it's a reminder that elk hunting is about so much more than antlers. We also dive into the psychology of hunting with other people (spoiler: it usually makes you worse), why repeating the same game plan year after year is a trap, and how to pivot when things aren't working. Jerrod doesn't hold back on his mistakes—like setting up a comfy wall tent camp in Arizona and being too stubborn to relocate when the pressure got heavy—and the lessons he's learned from them. If you want to hear from someone who's been in the trenches for decades, worked with legends, and still gets humbled by elk every single season, this is the episode for you. Jerrod is humble, authentic, and full of hard-earned wisdom that only comes from putting in the work year after year. Sponsors Stone Glacier - If you're in the market for a new pack, Jerrod and I both run Stone Glacier gear. I packed out a lot of animals this year with the Sky Archer 6400, including a couple elk. The thing I love about Stone Glacier packs is they work whether you're on a 10-day backpack trip or day hunting from the truck. Minimalist design, tough as nails, and they collapse down so you don't need multiple packs. Built by mountain hunters for mountain hunters. Check out the Sky Archer 6400 at stoneglacier.com and use code TRO. Tricer - Tricer makes way more than just tripods. One of my favorite products is the RP Bipod—a legit hunting bipod with all the features you'd expect from a high-dollar setup. At 10.5 ounces, it's lightweight enough to take on any hunt. Comes with everything: long legs, short legs, works on Picatinny or Arca. For $350, it's a no-brainer. I've shot a lot of critters off mine. Head to tricer.com and use code TRO to save 10%. OnX Hunt - We didn't have an OnX ad in this episode, but if you're a Hunting Fool member or thinking about becoming one, OnX Elite members get Hunting Fool for free. Plus, OnX is running a giveaway right now through April 15th—a hunt for two, no charge to enter. Just visit the OnX website, click the single sign-on button, and you're automatically entered. Check it out at onxmaps.com. Timestamps 00:00 - Intro: The underrated elk hunter you need to hear from 04:30 - Working alongside Dan Evans at Trophy Taker 09:15 - Going to first and second grade together 14:20 - The story that changed everything: Dan circles a bull in New Mexico 19:45 - "Iron Elk Syndrome" and why calling is the default trap 24:30 - Helping 15 first-time bowhunters kill their first elk 28:50 - The mantra: Get as close as you can for as long as you can 32:40 - Managing the emotional rollercoaster of new hunters 37:10 - Dan breaking down Jerrod's shooting and rebuilding it 42:20 - "It's like me to make a good shot" - the mental game 46:15 - Getting cocky and missing a giant bull at 35 yards 50:30 - Arizona 2023: Hunting with his son and running into people 55:40 - The lesson: Don't repeat the same game plan year after year 58:20 - Hunting with multiple people makes you worse 1:02:15 - The 23-point Arizona hunt and losing his father mid-hunt 1:08:45 - Shooting the bull on the last night with 15 minutes of light 1:12:30 - Carrying his dad's ashes on every hunt 1:15:00 - Hunting Fool giveaway and closing thoughts Three Key Takeaways Master the Mental Game of Archery - Jerrod learned from Dan Evans that you can control every variable in elk hunting except whether you'll panic when the moment comes. He spent months blind bailing, shooting 5-spots, and reading books like With Winning in Mind to build his mental game. His mantra under pressure: "It's like me to make a good shot." Repeating that phrase in third person creates psychological distance from the pressure and keeps you focused on execution. Great elk hunters aren't just good woodsmen—they're elite archers who can perform when it counts. Hunting with Others Usually Makes You Worse - Jerrod's favorite way to hunt with buddies? Share camp, high-five in the morning, split up, and reconvene at night. When you're constantly consulting with a partner—should we go this way? Should we move?—you have 15 mini-meetings a day and 0.5x the decision-making power. Even worse, if your gut disagrees with your partner's call, you'll be less committed, step on a stick, or miss the subtle cues that lead to success. Pick a point person, trust them completely, or hunt solo. Don't Fall in Love with Last Year's Game Plan - Jerrod burned his Arizona hunt by repeating the same meal plan that worked the year before. Just because elk were in a certain spot last year (or the last three years) doesn't mean they'll be there this year. People change, pressure changes, and elk are nomadic. If you're consistently running into hunters or the elk aren't doing what they did before, pivot early. Don't lose four days being stubborn. The devil you don't know might be better than the devil you do.

What's up everyone! This week I'm sitting down with Chris Burandt—yeah, THE Chris Burandt. X Games gold medalist, backcountry snowmobile legend, and someone I've looked up to since the original Schooled videos dropped. If you grew up watching extreme snowmobiling, you know exactly who this guy is. But what a lot of people don't know is that Chris is also a serious elk hunter who's been chasing bulls with a bow for over 25 years. This conversation is incredible because we dive deep into what it takes to master a craft—whether that's throwing backflips at X Games or stalking a giant public land bull for 20 straight days. Chris breaks down his journey from hating hunting as a kid (sitting in the cold while his dad napped) to becoming obsessed with bowhunting after reading Cam Hanes' book and having his mind blown on his very first day in the woods. We talk about the parallels between high-level snowmobiling and elk hunting, why both require you to get comfortable being uncomfortable, and how Chris's ability to read terrain from a snowmobile gives him a massive advantage when hunting big country. He also gets brutally honest about the mistakes he's made—including missing a giant bull at 46 yards after spending an entire season prepping for that exact moment, and what he learned from it. One of the most fascinating parts of this episode is Chris talking about spending 20 days hunting ONE bull on public land in Colorado without making a single call until the moment he shot. We break down the chess match, the patience required, and whether he should've been more aggressive. This is a masterclass in strategic hunting, mental preparation, and the sacrifice required to be a true 10-percenter. If you want to hear from someone who's mastered pressure situations at the highest level and is now applying that same intensity to archery elk hunting, this episode is for you. Chris is real, humble, and just getting started in this game—and that makes his perspective incredibly valuable. Sponsors Tricer -  I run Tricer gear, and for good reason. They just dropped the updated AD and BC tripods with new TriTech technology—smaller diameter center post, packs down smaller, couple inches shorter, and a cleaner top. Drew is constantly innovating and pushing the limits on what a tripod system can do. From tripods to bino mounts, panheads, and bipods, Tricer makes gear that's fast, light, and simple. Head to tricer.com and use code TRO to save 10% at checkout. Stone Glacier - If you're a mountain hunter, you know gear weight matters. Every ounce counts when you're grinding up and down mountains all day. Stone Glacier was built by Kurt, a legit mountain sheep hunter who designed minimalist, lightweight gear that actually holds up in the nastiest conditions. No gimmicks, no BS—just mountain gear built by mountain hunters. Whether it's packs, sleeping bags, or shelters, they've got you covered. Check them out at stoneglaciergear.com and use code TRO at checkout. OnX Hunt - We didn't have an OnX ad in this episode, but if you're not using OnX, you're missing out on the most essential hunting tool out there. Detailed maps, property boundaries, offline access, and now weather data that takes topography into account. Become an Elite member at onxmaps.com and use code TRO to save 20%. Timestamps 00:00 - Intro: Meeting a childhood hero 04:15 - Why Chris kept elk hunting separate from his snowmobile career 08:30 - Growing up hating rifle hunting with his dad 12:20 - Reading Cam's book and the first day bowhunting (running at a bull) 18:45 - The path from beginner to deadly: Steps 1-5 24:10 - Signing up for Mountain Tough and learning you have to train 28:50 - Giving up three hunting seasons to guide for experience 33:20 - Why 10% of hunters kill 90% of the elk 37:40 - Reading terrain like a snowmobile rider vs. a hunter 42:15 - Hunting one mountain vs. bouncing around 46:30 - The 2023 hunt: Drawing a dream tag and going all in 51:00 - Missing the giant bull at 46 yards and what he learned 55:20 - The mental difference between X Games pressure and elk hunting 59:45 - 20 days hunting one bull without calling 1:03:30 - Should he have been more aggressive? Tactics breakdown 1:06:15 - Advice for new bowhunters and closing thoughts Three Key Takeaways Guiding for Experience is Underrated - Chris gave up three of his own hunting seasons to guide on private land, not for the money, but for the reps. Being around elk every single day, getting multiple "at bats" in a season instead of hoping for one opportunity on public land, accelerated his learning curve by years. If you want to get better fast, find ways to be around elk as much as possible—even if it means helping friends on their hunts or volunteering to pack out. Control the Controllables, Then Trust the Process - Chris went all-in preparing for his 2023 dream tag—quit drinking, worked out every day, scouted relentlessly, dialed his gear—but he neglected shooting practice. He had a 46-yard shot on a giant bull and missed because he split the wrong pins. His lesson: You can do 99% of it right and still fail if you don't master the fundamentals. Shooting your bow consistently, year-round, is non-negotiable if you want to capitalize when the moment comes. Reading Terrain Like a Snowmobiler Gives You a Massive Edge - Chris's ability to see mountains on a macro level (from snowmobiling hundreds of miles and connecting drainages) gives him a huge advantage over hunters who think micro. Most hunters pick a trailhead and hunt one drainage. Elite hunters understand how the entire mountain system works—where elk can move between basins, what routes they'll take, and how to cut them off. If you want to be a 10-percenter, stop thinking small and start hunting the whole mountain.

What's up, elk hunters! This week I'm sitting down with Jace Guymon, and holy crap—talk about a banner year. This guy drew a Nevada late rifle tag AND a Utah late archery tag in the same season, with hunt dates less than a week apart. Yeah, you read that right. Jace takes us through the entire journey of crushing a 394" bull on his Nevada hunt opening morning, then immediately pivoting to Utah where he arrows a massive late-season giant. We're talking about hunting two of the most coveted elk tags in the West back-to-back, and somehow making it all come together. What I love about this episode is how raw and honest Jace is about the process. He'd never even been to Nevada before, had minimal scouting time because of his guiding schedule, and still managed to execute on both hunts. We dive deep into his e-scouting strategy, why he focuses on covering massive amounts of country from glassing knobs, and how being aggressive—like actually jogging to close the distance on bulls—has been the key to his success. We also get into some real tactical stuff about late-season elk hunting: why north-facing slopes matter more than you think, how to move through crunchy snow without spooking bulls, and why patience behind the glass is non-negotiable this time of year. Plus, Jace drops some truth bombs about physical fitness and why most hunters aren't aggressive enough when it matters. Whether you're chasing premium tags or just trying to become a better late-season elk hunter, this episode is packed with actionable advice from a guy who's been guiding for years and knows how to close the deal when the pressure's on. Let's get into it. Episode Sponsors Tricer Tripods - Fast, light, and simple—that's what Tricer is all about. From amazing tripods to bino mounts and their new bipods, Tricer makes gear that just works. I've been using the heck out of their bipod and it's helped me kill a lot of critters. Head over to triceroutdoor.com and use code TRO to save 10% at checkout. Stone Glacier - The leaders in ultralight hunting gear. Whether you're on a 10-day backcountry sheep hunt or covering 10+ miles a day looking for elk, Stone Glacier's minimalist designs keep the weight down, which pays big dividends when you're covering lots of miles. But it's not just about light packs—Stone Glacier has the full setup now with tents, sleeping bags, and premium clothing. You don't sacrifice quality and durability with their lightweight gear. Check out their high-performance gear at stoneglaciergear.com. Chapter Timestamps 0:00 - Intro: Banner Year with Jace Guymon 2:15 - Drawing Nevada Late Rifle & Utah Late Archery Back-to-Back 5:30 - Zero Knowledge of Nevada: E-Scouting Strategy 9:00 - Limited Scouting Time: Making It Work 12:45 - Spotting the Bull: 4.6 Miles Away 16:00 - Nine Buddies Show Up: Decision Time 19:30 - Opening Morning Execution & The Miss 23:00 - 394" Bull Down: What Nevada Hunting is Really Like 27:15 - Was It Too Easy? Outfitters Struggled This Year 31:00 - Pine Nut Crop Impact on Nevada Elk & Deer 34:30 - Pivot to Utah: The Late Archery Grind 38:00 - Spotting a 10-Year-Old Bull Running Cows in Late November 41:45 - The Aggressive Stalk: 1.4 Miles in Under an Hour 45:30 - Seven Arrows, Rotator Cuff Injury & Dead Bull 49:00 - Late Season Bull Behavior: North vs. South Slopes 52:15 - Physical Fitness & Aggressiveness: The Two Big Mistakes 56:00 - Late Season Tactics: Walking vs. Sneaking 58:00 - Final Advice for Late Season Success Three Key Takeaways Be More Aggressive Than You Think You Need To Be - Jace's biggest piece of advice: 95% of the time, you should be going NOW. Most hunters wait too long to make a move, trying to let situations "develop" when they should be jogging uphill to close distance. You miss 100% of the shots you don't take, and even a 2% chance of success is better than watching a bull walk away at dark. The difference between successful guides and struggling clients often comes down to one thing: guides move FAST when it's time to move. North-Facing Slopes Are Critical for Late Season Bulls - While everyone focuses on south-facing slopes for feeding, mature bulls in late season are often bedded on north slopes where they can stay cool in their thick winter coats. Jace actually prioritizes glassing north-facing slopes because bulls will be bedded in cover there, whereas south slopes are easier to scan quickly. Look for trails leading over ridgelines to north-facing timber—that's where the big bulls are hiding. Patience Behind the Glass Will Outperform Covering Ground - Late season success comes down to being comfortable sitting on a glassing knob for 4+ hours straight. Bulls bedded in junipers disappear completely—you can scan right over a 400" bull for 45 minutes until he finally stands up. The difference between 0% success units and killing giants often isn't location or fitness—it's the willingness to sit and actually GLASS rather than covering ground. Pick big vantage points where you can see maximum country and commit to them.

$10,000 Elk Voucher Giveaway! Before we jump in, I've got to tell you about an incredible giveaway we're running with Hunting Fool Adventures. We're giving away a $10,000 elk voucher that's good for a landowner tag, a fully guided hunt, or credit toward whatever you want for next elk season. Here  Here's how to enter: For the last three years, I've been building a smartwatch specifically for hunters - the Reckon Founder Series. I was frustrated with the smartwatches out there and thought we could do better. Turns out, we can. If you're a smartwatch person, you're going to love this product. Trust me. Head over and hit the presale on the Reckon Founder Series watch right now and use code HF - you'll be automatically entered to win this $10,000 elk voucher from Hunting Fool. Whether you're looking for a landowner tag, a full guided hunt, or anything else, this voucher has you covered. If you've ever thought about getting a new watch, now's the time. Go check it out and throw your name in the hat! What's up, elk hunters! This week on the Elk Hunt Podcast, I sat down with my buddy Jared Miller, and man, this conversation went deep. We started talking about rifle hunting versus archery hunting elk (spoiler: Jared thinks rifle hunting elk in Montana is way harder than bow hunting), and somehow ended up diving into the mental game of archery, bow tuning secrets, and his insane Matthews hunt that we filmed this fall. Jared's one of those guys who's just obsessed with the process - whether it's shooting Vegas rounds every single day, torque tuning his bow, or working through Joel Turner's shot control process. We get into all of it. He shares some wild stories from this season, including a two-day Montana archery hunt that turned into one of the best films we've put out, and breaks down exactly how he stalked to 20 yards on a bedded bull in socks. If you're into archery hunting, this episode is packed with gold. We talk about grip pressure, forgiveness in bow setups, the mental side of executing under pressure, and why Jared shoots 30-60 arrows a day leading into season. Plus, he drops some serious knowledge on open country elk hunting and what he's learned about where these bulls actually bed. This one's a bit different from our usual episodes - less tactical talk, more mental game and archery deep dive - but I think you're gonna love it. Let's get into it.Jared's Matthews Film - Immersion  Tricer Tripods - These guys make gear that's fast, light, and simple. From incredible tripods to bino mounts, panheads, truck mounts, and now even bipods, Tricer has everything you need for better glassing setups. I've been running their bipod hard this season and killed a lot of critters with it. Head over to www.tricer.com and use code TRO to save 10% at checkout. Stone Glacier - My Sky Archer 6400 has been everywhere with me this year - Alaska, British Columbia, Wyoming, Montana. Whether it's a 10-day backpack hunt or day hunting from the side-by-side, Stone Glacier makes minimalist, lightweight gear that works for everything. They've got a full suite of hardcore mountain hunting gear, so if you're in the market, check out www.stoneglacier.com and use code TRO for a discount. Chapters 0:00 - Intro & $10K Hunting Fool Elk Voucher Giveaway 3:15 - Rifle vs. Archery Elk Hunting 8:30 - Montana Rifle Season Grind 12:45 - Wyoming October Rifle Hunt 18:20 - Getting the New Matthews Bow 24:10 - Bow Setup & Tuning Philosophy 31:40 - Joel Turner Shot Process & Target Panic 40:25 - Forgiveness in Bow Setups 46:50 - String Angle & Slow-Mo Arrow Flight 52:15 - Alaska Blacktail Mental Rollercoaster 58:40 - The Matthews Film Hunt Begins 1:02:30 - The Stalk & Kill Shot 1:07:45 - Zach's Seven by Eight 1:10:20 - Open Country Hunting Tips 1:12:00 - Outro Three Key Takeaways Trust Your Instincts Under Pressure - Jared talks about how he played it too safe on his first couple stalks trying to accommodate the camera crew, but once he went back to his aggressive, instinctual hunting style, he closed the deal at 20 yards on a bedded bull. The lesson: find what works for you and stick to it, especially when the pressure is on. Forgiveness Over Speed in Bow Setup - Instead of chasing maximum speed, Jared prioritizes forgiveness in his bow setup (shooting around 280-285 fps, lots of vane, torque tuning). He explains how you can find an "equilibrium" where your bow hits center even when you torque left or right - critical for real hunting situations when you're not perfect. Mental Reps Are Everything - Jared shoots 30-60 arrows a day, but not just for physical strength. He's training his mental process - getting comfortable operating in a state of awareness, managing shot anticipation, and executing controlled shots even when his pin is floating. He credits Joel Turner's process for helping him overcome severe target panic that had even started affecting his rifle shooting.

Alright, so Jeremy Gilbertson is one of those guys who just went all-in on elk hunting—and it worked. This dude studied elk hunting harder than he studied school, killed a bull on his first-ever trip 36 hours from his front door in Minnesota, and then spent the next few years guiding hunters and building maps for a living. Now he's joining the Bridger Watch team to help us build the absolute best maps for wearables, because turns out everyone who said "nobody wants maps on a watch" was dead wrong. We dive deep into Jeremy's journey from cold-calling Colorado OTC units to guiding on private ranches in New Mexico, and we get into the real tactics that separate the guys who find elk from the guys who wander around hoping. We talk about e-scouting secrets, micro terrain, efficiency versus effectiveness, why busy is lazy (shoutout to Cal Arnold), and how to hunt like a 301 even if you're happy shooting raghorns. Jeremy's got a unique perspective because he's both a hardcore public land DIY guy and a guide who's seen hundreds of hunters make the same mistakes. If you want to learn how to find elk in tough units, how to balance aggression with patience, and why you need way more than seven days to figure out a unit, this one's for you. Let's get into it. $10,000 ELK HUNT GIVEAWAY We're partnering with Huntin' Fool Adventures for an insane giveaway. When you preorder a Bridger Reckon Watch and use code HF at checkout, you're automatically entered to win a $10,000 elk hunt voucher. You can use this for New Mexico landowner tags, a fully guided hunt, or whatever elk hunting adventure you want. Here's the best part: we're talking single-digit entries right now, so your odds of winning are actually really, really good. This isn't one of those giveaways where you're up against 50,000 people—this is a legitimate shot at a dream elk hunt. Head over to bridgerwatch.com, preorder your Reckon, use code HF, and you're in. If you were already thinking about getting the Founder Series, this is a no-brainer. OnX Hunt - The ultimate tool for elk hunters and the app I absolutely won't go into the field without. Whether you're e-scouting from the couch or actually hunting elk, OnX gives you detailed maps, property boundaries, and over 50 layers of mapping data including satellite imagery, offline maps, and waypoints. It helps you make smarter decisions no matter where you hunt. Save time, avoid mistakes, and stay connected to your crew. If you're not an Elite member yet, you're missing out on a whole other level of tools. Head over to onxmaps.com and use code TRO to save 20% off your membership. Tricer - These guys make gear that's fast, light, and simple. From bomber tripods to spotting scope mounts, panheads, truck mounts, and now even bipods—Tricer makes gear that just works. I've been running their bipod hard this season and it's been rock solid. If you're looking to upgrade your glassing system, check out Tricer. Head over to tricer.com, use code TRO at checkout, and save yourself 10%. Stone Glacier - I've packed out a lot of animals with my Stone Glacier pack. This year, the Sky Archer 6400 has been with me to Alaska, British Columbia, Wyoming, and Montana. Whether it's a 10-day backpack hunt or day hunting from the side-by-side, Stone Glacier is minimalist, lightweight, and versatile. They make an entire suite of hardcore mountain hunting gear. Head over to stoneglacier.com, use code TRO, and get yourself some great gear. TIMESTAMPS 0:00 - Intro & Bridger Watch Announcement 2:30 - Jeremy's New Role at Bridger Watch 5:45 - Building the Best Maps for Wearables 8:20 - Jeremy's Elk Hunting Origin Story 11:15 - From Minnesota Deer Hunter to Colorado Elk Obsessed 14:30 - First Hunt: 36 Hours to a Bull on the Ground 18:45 - How Much Was Luck vs. Skill? 21:30 - Advice to Your Younger Self 24:15 - Learning When to Run and When to Crawl 28:40 - Hunting 101 vs 201 vs 301 33:20 - Understanding Herd Dynamics at the Macro Level 37:50 - What Guiding Teaches You About Elk 41:15 - Elk Bros Outfitting Model Explained 45:30 - Hunting the Nucleus vs. Chasing Satellites 49:00 - Teaching Hunters vs. Learning Yourself 52:45 - E-Scouting Secrets: Avoid the OnX Holes 57:20 - Looking for Micro Terrain, Not Big Features 1:01:30 - Turn Off Public Land Layers When E-Scouting 1:04:45 - Rifle Hunting: Finding Where One Elk Can Survive 1:09:15 - Efficiency vs. Effectiveness in Hunt Planning 1:13:30 - Decision Fatigue and Mental Management 1:17:45 - Whoop for Hunters: Managing Expedition-Level Stress 1:21:00 - Why You Need More Than Seven Days 1:25:30 - Time on Feet Beats Everything Else 1:28:15 - Patience is the Hardest Skill to Master 1:31:45 - Elk Bros Details & Who It's For 1:34:00 - Outro & Hunt Planner Download THREE KEY TAKEAWAYS Stop Looking for Perfect Spots—Find Where Elk Can Survive - Everyone e-scouts the same big features: burns, mega meadows, obvious north-facing slopes. Jeremy's secret? Look for the smallest pockets where elk could survive, not where they want to be. That 50-acre hidden basin above the highway? That's where the pressure-educated bulls are living. When you're looking at a unit, turn off the public land layers and ask yourself: if I could hunt anywhere, where would the elk actually be? Then figure out how to access those spots legally. The micro terrain beats the macro highlights every single time. You Need Way More Than Seven Days to Figure Out a Unit - Outfitters operate on seven-day hunts because they've already spent years figuring out where the elk are and what they're doing. When you show up as a DIY hunter with seven days, you're spending the first five just learning what the guide already knows. Jeremy's rule: plan for 10-15 days minimum if you're hunting a new unit. The hard units? Budget 12+ days just to figure it out, then another 3-4 to actually execute. If you only have seven days, you're gambling that you'll figure it out faster than average—and most guys are packing out on the drive home with all the knowledge they needed on day one. Hunt Like a 301 Even If You're Happy Shooting Raghorns - The difference between a 201 hunter and a 301 hunter isn't the size of the bull—it's understanding the entire system. A 201 hunter finds a herd and focuses on that six-point. A 301 hunter understands where all the herds are, how they interact, where the satellites are coming and going, and how pressure moves elk across the entire unit. Here's the secret: if you hunt the nucleus where the big bulls are, you'll magnetize all the smaller bulls trying to be there too. Understanding macro herd dynamics doesn't just help you find giants—it puts you in position to encounter way more elk, period.

What's up, elk hunters! This week I'm sitting down with Jayden Bales to talk about Idaho's brand new draw system—and honestly, this changes everything for how we think about western elk hunting strategy. If you've been following along, you know Idaho just flipped the script from their old over-the-counter system to a randomized draw. No more showing up at midnight to get in line. No more refreshing your browser hoping your number gets called. It's a whole new ball game, and Jaden and I are breaking down what this means for both residents and non-residents. We dive deep into whether Idaho is actually worth applying for, how it stacks up against other states like New Mexico and Colorado, and whether the new party application system makes this the perfect "backup tag" state. We also get into some real talk about draw strategy, why trophy quality doesn't matter as much as you think, and how to actually pick a unit that's going to make you a better elk hunter—not just feed your Instagram. Plus, we talk about dirt bikes, the death of honey holes, why flying into the backcountry isn't always the magic solution people think it is, and whether open country glassing is officially blown out. Jaden also drops the bombshell that he's officially a Montana resident again (told you he'd be back), and we wrap up talking about whether either of us are even going to apply for Idaho this year. This is a no-BS conversation about modern elk hunting strategy, where the opportunities actually are, and why guarding your Septembers is more important than ever. Let's get into it. Episode Sponsors Stone Glacier - The leaders in ultralight hunting gear. Whether you're on a 10-day backcountry sheep hunt or covering 10+ miles a day looking for elk, Stone Glacier's minimalist designs keep the weight down, which pays big dividends when you're covering lots of miles. But it's not just about light packs—Stone Glacier has the full setup now with tents, sleeping bags, and premium clothing. You don't sacrifice quality and durability with their lightweight gear. Trust Stone Glacier to help you go further and faster. Check out their high-performance gear at stoneglacier.com. OnX Hunt - If you're not using the new LiDAR feature on OnX yet, you're literally leaving elk off the table. LiDAR gives you the ability to see micro-terrain in your topo maps—it cuts out the trees and shows you micro benches and details on the side of mountains that are huge for finding elk. If you're not an Elite member yet, you need to be, because LiDAR is amazing. Better maps make you a better hunter. Head to onxmaps.com and use code TRO to save 20% off your membership. Tricer Tripods - Fast, light, and simple—that's what Tricer is all about. From amazing tripods to bino mounts and their new bipods, Tricer makes gear that just works. I've been using the heck out of their bipod and it's helped me kill a lot of critters. Head over to tricer.com and use code TRO to save 10% at checkout. Chapter Timestamps 0:00 - Intro & Sponsor Ads 2:15 - Idaho's New Draw System: What Changed? 5:30 - Are We Pissing Off Idaho Residents? (Probably) 8:00 - Party Applications: Game Changer or Overhyped? 12:45 - Where Does Idaho Rank for Elk Hunting? 16:00 - Draw Odds: Idaho vs. New Mexico Reality Check 20:30 - Should You Actually Apply? The Honest Answer 24:15 - Trophy Quality Doesn't Matter (Here's Why) 28:00 - The Panhandle, Frank Church & Hard-to-Hunt Units 32:30 - Becoming a Better Elk Hunter: At-Bats Over Inches 36:45 - Dirt Bikes, Four-Wheelers & the Access Advantage 40:00 - Why Honey Holes Die (Stop Being Married to Spots) 44:15 - Fly-In & Jet Boat Hunts: Adventure vs. Success 48:30 - Open Country is Blown Out (What's Next?) 52:00 - Are We Even Applying? The Hypocrite Dilemma 55:30 - Jaden Moves to Montana & Guarding September Three Key Takeaways Optimize for At-Bats, Not Trophy Quality - When picking an Idaho unit, stop filtering for the biggest bulls. The difference between a 270" bull and a 300" bull isn't worth sacrificing opportunities. Ten chances at 260" bulls will make you a better hunter than one chance at a 300" bull. Focus on elk density, huntable terrain, and getting as many encounters as possible to actually improve your skills. Assets Matter More Than Effort in Idaho - Idaho is one of those states where you almost need a dirt bike, ATV, or side-by-side to hunt successfully. The terrain beats up trucks, trails go deep, and most successful hunters are mobile. If you're planning to just park at a trailhead and hike, you're going to be severely limited. Build your hunt strategy around the tools you have access to—whether that's motorized access or focusing on lower-elevation glassing country. Party Applications Change Everything for Draw Strategy - With Idaho's new party application system, it's now the perfect "backup tag" state for groups who hunt together. Unlike Colorado (where point differences screw you) or other states with complex systems, Idaho lets you draw as a group with zero upfront cost beyond the license. This makes it ideal for having an elk tag in your pocket early in the draw season, which completely changes how you approach applying for other premium tags.

What's up, elk hunters! This week I'm sitting down with Jacob Winn, and let me tell you—this guy had an absolutely banner year. We're talking about a double bull season: a great six-point with his bow AND another six-point during rifle season. Jacob takes us through his entire 2024 elk hunting journey, from chasing big bulls in Idaho's rugged backcountry to navigating the ups and downs that come with archery season. We dive deep into his strategies, the mistakes he made (and learned from), and how persistence and putting in the days is what really separates successful elk hunters from everyone else. This episode is packed with action—we're talking multiple close encounters, blown opportunities, and some absolutely clutch moments that'll get you fired up for next season. Jacob breaks down everything from scouting tactics to reading bull behavior, hunting with buddies, and knowing when to leave elk to find better elk. Whether you're a DIY archery hunter grinding it out or a rifle hunter trying to find bulls in nasty late-season country, there's something in this episode for you. Let's get into it!   OnX Hunt - If you're not using the new LiDAR feature on OnX yet, you're leaving elk on the mountain. LiDAR gives you the ability to see micro-terrain in your topo maps—those hidden benches and terrain features that make all the difference in finding elk. Upgrade to OnX Elite and take your mapping to the next level. Better maps make you a better hunter. Head to onxmaps.com and use code TRO to save 20% off your membership. Stone Glacier - Jacob and I both run Stone Glacier packs, and for good reason. The new Sky Archer 6400 is versatile enough to handle an 8-day backpack hunt or work as a lightweight day pack for bow hunting. These packs are built tough but weigh almost nothing. Check out the full line of Stone Glacier packs at stoneglacier.com—they've got something for every style of hunter. Tricer - Fast, light, and simple—that's what Tricer is all about. From amazing tripods to bino mounts and their new bipods, Tricer makes gear that just works. I've been using the heck out of their bipod and it's helped me kill a lot of critters. Head over to tricer.com and use code TRO to save 10% at checkout. Chapter Timestamps 0:00 - Intro & Meat Processing Talk 2:45 - Jacob's Epic Double Bull Season 5:30 - Getting Started: Jacob's Elk Hunting Background 8:15 - First Archery Season (2021) - 25 Days of Learning 12:00 - Adapting Tactics: From Calling to Open Country 16:30 - The Banner 2023 Season & Double Bull Success 20:45 - Learning from Failure: The Tough 2024 Archery Season 24:00 - Planning for 2024: Scouting & Drawing the Control Hunt Tag 28:15 - Opening Day Drama: The 348" Bull 32:00 - Noah Tags Out in 30 Minutes 35:30 - September Gets Tough: Reading Bull Behavior 39:00 - The Move to New Country 42:15 - Discovering the Mother Lode Basin 46:30 - Ten At-Bats in One Evening 50:00 - The Final Morning: Persistence Pays Off 54:00 - The Perfect Shot at 43 Yards 56:30 - Rifle Season: Finding Elk After the Storm 1:00:00 - Last Evening Magic: Double Bulls Again 1:03:30 - Advice for Becoming a Better Elk Hunter 1:05:15 - Wrap Up & Where to Follow Jacob Three Key Takeaways Volume of Opportunities Matters More Than Perfect Execution - Jacob's success came from getting 10+ close encounters with bulls rather than making every shot count. The more you can put yourself in position with elk, the higher your odds of success. Hunt as many days as possible and stay persistent. Don't Be Afraid to Leave Elk to Find Better Elk - Especially in archery season, pressured or difficult-to-hunt elk aren't worth grinding on forever. Jacob's best success came when he was willing to move to new basins and find unpressured bulls that were actually killable. Combat hunting changes the game. Bulls Have Different Personalities and Situations Change Daily - Not every rutting bull acts the same way. Some go crazy on opening day, others stay cautious all season. Wind, cow cycles, pressure from other bulls, and even individual personality all factor in. Stay adaptable and don't expect bulls to behave like they do in hunting videos.