Birdshot Podcast

#342 | Winter Birds, Running Roosters & the Making of a Dog Handler with Isaiah Osborne

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, Nick Larson sits down with Minnesota upland hunter Isaiah Osborne to talk pheasants, sharptails, German shorthaired pointers, and growing up hunting without a bird dog. Isaiah shares his journey from discovering wild birds with friends in high school, to serving in the Marine Corps, to learning bird dogs from professional trainers in Arizona. The conversation covers pheasant behavior, Gambel’s quail, tracking vs. true dogs, winter pheasant strategies, and building a reliable upland hunting truck setup. Isaiah Osborne is a dedicated upland hunter from New Ulm, Minnesota. Raised in a large family with no dogs allowed, he eventually found his way into upland hunting, served in the Marine Corps, trained with Gordon’s Gun Dogs in Arizona, and now hunts behind two German shorthaired pointers across Minnesota and the Great Plains. Expect to Learn * How Isaiah grew up pheasant hunting without dogs and how bird dogs changed everything * What he learned training quail dogs in Arizona with professional handlers * The difference between true dogs and tracking dogs in upland hunting * Why pheasants run early season and hold tight after snowfall * How Isaiah hunts Gambel’s quail, sharptail grouse, and Minnesota pheasants * Tips for public land hunting, dog handling, and winter bird behavior * Details of his truck, kennel, and gear setup for multi-dog upland hunting Episode Breakdown with Timestamps * [00:00:00] - Introduction and winter conditions * [00:03:26] - Growing up in New Ulm and discovering pheasant hunting * [00:06:11] - Bird-hunting article and Isaiah’s background * [00:12:15] - Hunting Gambel’s quail with and without dogs * [00:15:52] - How many birds did they walk past without dogs * [00:18:05] - Tracking dogs vs. true dogs in pheasant country * [00:26:14] - Snow conditions and birds holding tight * [00:32:27] - Ideal pheasant hunting weather * [00:40:08] - Sharptail grouse hunting in North Dakota * [00:40:51] - Adjusting pheasant dogs to big running prairie birds * [00:44:56] - Isaiah’s bird dog training setup with pigeons * [00:52:13] - Truck setup: F-150, topper, Decked drawers, Ruff Land kennels * [01:02:24] - Favorite shotguns and 28-gauge pheasant loads * [01:03:15] - Closing thoughts and hunt-swap idea Follow the Guest Isaiah:  * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isaiah_osborne10/ [https://www.instagram.com/isaiah_osborne10/] Follow the Host Nick: * Instagram: @birdshot.podcast [https://www.instagram.com/birdshot.podcast/?hl=en] * Website: https://www.birdshotpodcast.comwww.birdshotpodcast.com [http://www.birdshotpodcast.com] Listening Links: * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7 [https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7] * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609] * YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast [http://www.youtube.com/@birdshotpodcast8302] SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot [http://www.patreon.com/birdshot] Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app [https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app] Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/ [https://trulockchokes.com/] The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/ [https://www.onxmaps.com/] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

#341 | The Prairie Partnership: Ranchers, Wildlife, and the Grasslands We Stand to Lose

In this episode of the Birdshot Podcast, Nick Larson welcomes back Ted Koch, for an important conversation on prairie grouse conservation, grassland loss, ranching, and the future of upland habitat across North America. Ted also shares unforgettable elk-hunting stories, ruffed grouse parallels, and urgent insights into habitat fragmentation and the decline of gamebird populations. Ted Koch is a retired endangered species biologist and CEO of the North American Grouse Partnership [https://www.grousepartners.org/]. With decades of experience in western wildlife conservation, Ted works directly with ranchers, agencies, and conservation partners to protect prairie grouse species, including sharp-tailed grouse, greater prairie-chickens, lesser prairie-chickens, and sage-grouse. Expect to Learn * Why prairie grouse populations are collapsing across North America * How grassland loss and fragmentation impact sharptails, prairie-chickens, and sage-grouse * Why ranching is essential to upland bird habitat * How public-land and private-land management affect upland hunting access * What hunters can do to support prairie conservation and rangeland stewardship Episode Breakdown with Timestamps * [00:00:00] - Introduction * [00:04:36] - What’s keeping Ted Busy * [00:19:20] - Storytelling, memory, and the hunt * [00:20:42] - Introduction to the North American Grouse Partnership * [00:25:18] - Private-land rangelands and public perception * [00:37:05] - How Conservation Practices Create Real Value for Wildlife and Habitat * [00:43:37] - Rangelands, Cattle Production and Food Output * [00:56:12] - Comparing The Approach with CRP * [01:00:50] - National Grasslands Conservation Act and Its Role in Farm Bill Funding * [01:04:40] - Learn More about The North American Grouse Partnership and Membership Follow the Guest Ted * Website: grousepartners.org [http://grousepartners.org]  * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrousePartners [https://www.facebook.com/GrousePartners]  * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/na_grouse_partnership/?hl=en [https://www.instagram.com/na_grouse_partnership/?hl=en]  * Saving Ranching to Save Wildlife: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lxM6vvEoRgc [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lxM6vvEoRgc] Follow the Host Nick: * Instagram: @birdshot.podcast [https://www.instagram.com/birdshot.podcast/?hl=en] * Website: https://www.birdshotpodcast.comwww.birdshotpodcast.com [http://www.birdshotpodcast.com] Listening Links: * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7 [https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7] * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609] * YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast [http://www.youtube.com/@birdshotpodcast8302] SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot [http://www.patreon.com/birdshot] Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app [https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app] Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/ [https://trulockchokes.com/] The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/ [https://www.onxmaps.com/] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

#340 | The Truck-Camp Bird Hunter: Upland Adventures with Jimmy Lewis

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson reconnects with Jimmy Lewis, a passionate bird hunter and overlanding expert, for a deep dive into the world of upland hunting and the overlanding rigs that make it all possible. Jimmy talks about his transition back into guiding, his updated overlanding setup, and the challenges of hunting in varying conditions. From rooftop tents and truck bed caps to bird dogs and family adventures, this episode covers it all. Jimmy Lewis is an experienced bird hunting guide, outdoor enthusiast, and expert in overlanding rigs. After years of guiding in Montana and beyond, he recently transitioned back into full-time teaching while juggling his passion for guiding, bird hunting, and overlanding. His thoughtful approach to creating the ideal hunting and camping setup makes him a go-to resource for anyone interested in taking their outdoor adventures to the next level.  Expect to Learn: * How overlanding rigs can be built for upland hunting, including his latest truck setup for guiding. * The importance of a reliable vehicle and why Jimmy switched from a Dodge Ram to a Toyota Tundra. * The advantages of rooftop tents and what to look for when selecting one for your overlanding setup. * Tips for keeping your bird dogs safe and comfortable while traveling, including kennel ventilation and temperature management. * How camping in varying conditions (from extreme heat to snow) enhances the outdoor experience. * The mental and physical benefits of getting outside in different seasons, from early autumn hunts to late-season adventures.  Episode Breakdown with Timestamps * [00:00:00] - Introduction * [00:07:48] - Season in Montana * [00:14:28] - Jimmy’s Dog Blake * [00:23:22] - Old Rig and the Transition * [00:30:38] - Gen-Three Toyota Tundra and upgrades * [00:43:55] - Smart Cap and Overlanding Modifications * [00:53:58] - Advice for Setting Up Your Own Overlanding Rig * [00:58:44] - Roof-Top Tents * [01:14:47] - The Cooler vs. Fridge Tipping Point * [01:24:19] - Bumper Replacement Details for the Gen-Three Tundra Build * [01:27:45] - How to Reach Jimmy for Rigs or Guiding Follow the Guest Jimmy: * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jimmylewismt/ [https://www.facebook.com/jimmylewismt/]  * Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/finsandfeathersoverland/?hl=en [https://www.instagram.com/finsandfeathersoverland/?hl=en]  Follow the Host Nick: * Instagram: @birdshot.podcast [https://www.instagram.com/birdshot.podcast/?hl=en] * Website: https://www.birdshotpodcast.comwww.birdshotpodcast.com [http://www.birdshotpodcast.com] Listening Links: * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7 [https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7] * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609] * YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast [http://www.youtube.com/@birdshotpodcast8302] SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot [http://www.patreon.com/birdshot]Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app [https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app] Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/ [https://trulockchokes.com/] The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/ [https://www.onxmaps.com/] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

#339 | Hunting Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock North of the Border with Andrew & Mark

In this episode, host Nick Larson is joined by Andrew Lowles and Mark Symes of Ruffed Grouse Society of Canada, as they discuss the state of grouse and woodcock hunting in Atlantic Canada. They cover their unique experiences managing land for upland birds, their passion for conservation, and what makes hunting in their regions special. From forest management practices to the challenges and rewards of bird hunting in the varied landscapes of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Andrew and Mark share their wealth of knowledge, offer advice to hunters, and highlight the exciting potential for growth within the Ruffed Grouse Society of Canada. Expect to Learn: * The diverse forest types in Eastern Canada and how they contribute to grouse and woodcock habitats. * The role of the Ruffed Grouse Society Canada in promoting habitat management and conservation in the region. * How hunters can use modern tools like OnX to plan their hunts on Crown land and private property. * The unique challenges and opportunities of hunting in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, including woodcock flight patterns and grouse cycles. * Insight into how the Ruffed Grouse Society Canada is growing and how members can get involved in local conservation efforts. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: * [00:00] - Podcast Introduction and Welcoming Andrew and Mark from  * [03:40] - Andrew’s Background and Journey into Grouse Hunting * [07:53] - Mark’s Path from Moose Hunting to the Uplands * [09:24] - Managing Forest Lands for Upland Birds in Atlantic Canada * [11:30] - Public Land and Crown Land Access in Nova Scotia * [14:40] - Old Farmsteads, Wild Apples, and Hidden Grouse Habitat * [19:43] - Defining Good Grouse Cover and Forest Types in New Brunswick * [25:15] - Private Land Regulations and Trespass Law Differences * [33:01] - Regional Differences in Habitat Across Canada * [35:46] - Softwoods, Christmas Trees, and Grouse Habitat Impacts * [37:00] - The Mission and Growth of Ruffed Grouse Society Canada * [43:03] - Habitat Projects and Access Initiatives * [52:53] - Exploring New Covers and Hunter Observations * [57:08] - Training Dogs and Transitioning to Pointing Breeds * [01:05:00] - Hunting as a US Visitor and Guide Requirements * [01:10:35] - Promoting Awareness and Conservation Opportunities * [01:17:14] - Closing Remarks and Episode Wrap-Up Follow the Host Nick: * Instagram: @birdshot.podcast [https://www.instagram.com/birdshot.podcast/?hl=en] * Website: https://www.birdshotpodcast.comwww.birdshotpodcast.com [http://www.birdshotpodcast.com] Listening Links: * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7 [https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7] * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609] * YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast [http://www.youtube.com/@birdshotpodcast8302] SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot [http://www.patreon.com/birdshot] Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app [https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app] Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/ [https://trulockchokes.com/] The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/ [https://www.onxmaps.com/] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]

#338 | How A Bird Dog Transformed This Big Game Hunter into an Upland Obsessive with Brad Trumbo

In this episode of The Birdshot Podcast, host Nick Larson sits down with Brad Trumbo, business owner at Palouse Upland Media. Brad shares his journey from big-game hunting in the East to his deep love for upland bird hunting in the West. They discuss the unique landscapes of Eastern Washington, the challenges of hunting various upland birds, and Brad’s approach to bird dogs and land management. Brad Trumbo: A biologist, bird hunter, and author, Brad's experience spans from fish passage research to working in public land management. His passion for upland hunting, especially in the Palouse, has inspired him to write about both the birds and landscapes he loves. Expect to Learn: * How Brad transitioned from big-game hunting to upland birds * Insights into hunting in the Palouse region of Washington and Idaho * The challenges of hunting valley quail, pheasant, and Hungarian partridge * Brad’s approach to bird dog training and management * How to understand and enjoy the landscapes while hunting Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: * [00:00:00] - Podcast Introduction and Welcoming Brad Trumbo * [00:02:53] - Defining the Palouse Region's Landscape and Ecology * [00:04:03] - Brad's Path from Biology and Fisheries to Upland Hunting * [00:06:25] - The Transition from Big Game to a Passion for Bird Hunting * [00:07:01] - The Story Behind Getting the First Bird Dog * [00:08:59] - On Dog Breeds, Aging, and Adapting Hunts for Senior Dogs * [00:15:35] - Breakdown of Washington's Upland Bird Seasons * [00:21:17] - A Hunting Anecdote: The Giant Whitetail and the Covey of Huns * [00:23:06] - The Challenges of Archery and Ethical Hunting Considerations * [00:28:30] - How a Dog's Health Issue Catalyzed a Writing Career * [00:31:57] - The Journey to Publishing "Wing Shooting the Palouse" * [00:34:03] - Blending Natural History and Personal Narrative in Writing * [00:39:50] - Habitat and Strategies for Hunting Western Ruffed Grouse * [00:44:10] - Hunting for the Love of Landscape Over Bird Tally * [00:54:20] - Public Land Access and Hunter Programs in Washington * [01:02:10] - The Appeal of Covey Birds and Hunting Valley Quail Follow the Guest Brad Trumbo: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tailfeathers_upland/ [https://www.instagram.com/tailfeathers_upland/] * Website: https://www.birdshotpodcast.comhttps://bradtrumbo.com/ [https://bradtrumbo.com/] Follow the Host Nick: * Instagram: @birdshot.podcast [https://www.instagram.com/birdshot.podcast/?hl=en] * Website: https://www.birdshotpodcast.comwww.birdshotpodcast.com [http://www.birdshotpodcast.com] Listening Links: * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7 [https://open.spotify.com/show/17EVUDJPwR2iJggzhLYil7] * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birdshot-podcast/id1288308609] * YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@birdshot.podcast [http://www.youtube.com/@birdshotpodcast8302] SUPPORT | http://www.patreon.com/birdshot [http://www.patreon.com/birdshot]Use Promo Code | BSP20 to save 20% on https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app [https://www.onxmaps.com/hunt/app] Use Promo Code | BS10 to save 10% on https://trulockchokes.com/ [https://trulockchokes.com/] The Birdshot Podcast is Presented By: https://www.onxmaps.com/ [https://www.onxmaps.com/] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices [https://megaphone.fm/adchoices]