Upland Nation

Sharon Potter may be best known for her byline alongside Rick Smith in Pointing Dog Journal, where they pen a monthly column on dog training. She runs Red Branch Kennels in Wisconsin, where she trains all hunting breeds. An avid bird hunter, her insights go beyond basics to deeper, fundamental rules that serve a dog for its entire life.

We cover bird contact, instructional basics that we often ignore, puppy development, our biggest goofs in the field and critical gear. The Upland Nation Glossary hits "P," there's a public access destination and listeners confess their worst in-field habits.

Please visit our sponsors:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, the Ringneck Nation of Huron, SD, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; AudioCardio.com, FurFeathersFriends and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

One of the "first couples" of dog training ground us in a different way of looking at dogs: how they think, why they do what they do, and how to motivate them. Ronnie and Susanna work side-by-side every day and share a common vision of building each bird dog up to be the best possible hunting dog.

They do this from a dog's first day in the kennel or home, with sound socialization, bird introduction, and an over-arching focus on how a dog thinks.

We'll get practical tips and insightful advice, wisdom from decades of guiding, training, and seminars from half of the HuntSmith Silent Command System team, using methods developed by Ronnie Junior's dad and his uncle Delmar Smith.

The Upland Glossary hits the letter "O" and we'll look at another public access spot. Plus, your (family-friendly) names for those ^$%#%^&'in birds that you missed.

Please visit our sponsors:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, the Ringneck Nation of Huron, SD, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; AudioCardio.com, FurFeathersFriends and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Orvis-endorsed Montana outfitter Tim Linehan has been guiding in the grouse woods for more than 30 years. The deep, dark forest is his bailiwick, unusual for a Montana guide, most of whom roam the prairie. His wisdom is of value no matter where one chases forest grouse.

We cover habitat, what each species needs to survive, their habits. From being a good client to why bells don't scare birds ... strategies and tactics. We look at every aspect of a high-country hunt for blue, ruffed and spruce grouse including the mystique of these elusive birds, specific dog training tips he's picked up and why setters are his preferred dog. Tim offers some insightful shooting advice as well.

The Upland Nation Glossary hits the letter "N," we take a road trip to South Dakota for public-access hunting and a raccoon encounter, and you tell us some of the unwritten rules your fellow hunters might want to follow.

Please visit our sponsors:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, the Ringneck Nation of Huron, SD, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; AudioCardio.com, FurFeathersFriends and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Want to put more birds in your vest this season? Shut the heck up. Stealth isn't just for big game and turkey hunters - so here are 15 tips that will get you closer to birds and better shots.

From handling your dog quietly to managing all the stuff on your vest, I've put together all the great advice I've picked up over the years working with pro guides, elk hunters and others who, like me, learned their lessons the hard way.

The Upland Nation Glossary stops at the letter "M," we visit some of your special places shared in photos and videos and I'll hit one one of my favorite public-access regions.

Please visit our sponsors:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, the Ringneck Nation of Huron, SD, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; AudioCardio.com, the Ringneck Nation of Huron, SD, and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

We dig into the "why" of dog training ... deeply ... in addition to some of the "how's" in this interview with Jordan Horak, champion spaniel field trialer, and developer of the Cato Platform.

We go from cockers versus springers, to why a dog should master skills within a 10-foot radius first. We learn how and why a dog goes off the rails when confronted with distance, birds, new environments and gunfire. What motivates a dog at various ages, why birds are not the ultimate "reward" (sometimes), and generally why being more of a "dog listener" is often a better approach to training our hunting partners.

The Upland Nation Glossary hits the letter "L," we take a road trip to Wisconsin for public-access hunting, and you tell us who you wish you'd hunted with one more time.

Please visit our sponsors:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, the Ringneck Nation of Huron, SD, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; AudioCardio.com, FurFeathersFriends and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Why women make the best bird-dog trainers ... and other wisdom from a long-time trainer, trialer, judge and hunter Jerry Ray Cacchio. He's the Gun Dog magazine "Flush" columnist, too, and we'll cover everything from thinking like a dog to why so many trials gunners wait too long to pull the trigger.

While we celebrate flushing breeds, much of what Cacchio says is valuable to any bird dog trainer and hunter. Use of e-collars, keeping a dog close, training tips and hunting advice are all part of a fascinating discussion with this spaniel guru.

The Upland Nation Glossary hits letter "K," and we cover your comments on what to do when your dog trespasses. Plus, the new "Road Trip" feature puts another public-access wild bird destination on your map.

Please visit our sponsors:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, the Ringneck Nation of Huron, SD, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; AudioCardio.com, the Ringneck Nation of Huron, SD, and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

"I want one just like yours!" is the most common email I get about dogs. My response might surprise you.

I've gunned for, trained with, marshalled tests for, hunted for fun and on TV, and simply hung out with hundreds of hunting dogs of most breeds. Is mine, or any other breed, right for you?

It depends. On your personality, the dog's propensities, where you hunt and what your abilities and capabilities are. I'll bring up some key points to keep in mind as you search for your first, or your next, dog. Take them as mere suggestions, but somewhere in here is an idea or two that might help you better match yourself with your next hunting companion.

We'll also talk fellowship and a way to win stuff just for taking a friend hunting ... continue our Upland Nation Glossary with "J" and find out which bird species your dog says (via you) it loves the most!

Please visit our sponsors:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, the Ringneck Nation of Huron, SD, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; AudioCardio.com, and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

As a firefighter/EMT Alex Langbell patched up humans for 27 years, all the while using his skills on his hunting dogs too. As a guide, TV hunting show producer, avid hunter and gun dog owner he's seen his share of trauma and created what he believes is the ultimate Field Trauma Kit. We'll unbox the kit, go through the contents and their uses, talk field first aid, and even indulge in a little hunting chat.

We also cover symptoms of the most common health and safety threats to which our dogs are vulnerable.

The Upland Nation glossary looks at the letter "I" and we put a cap on the discussion about why someone wouldn't take a newcomer hunting - your Facebook comments make some good points and there's something to learn for everyone. You also have a shot at winning a Mossberg over/under shotgun, too just for nominating your hunting mentor.

Please visit our sponsors:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, the Ringneck Nation of Huron, SD, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; AudioCardio.com, and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Phil Swain is a NAVHDA judge, wild bird hunter, dog trainer and all-around upland guru. He started hunting in the 1970's and still wanders the hills for chukars when his knees will cooperate! He's mentored countless hunting dog owners, judged hundreds of dogs and has plenty to say about puppy development, dog training and testing.

We also talk the importance of survival gear and knowledge, including a chilling grouse hunting experience, plus how a dog thinks, and why praise is critical to a dog's development - and not just during puppyhood. Phil shares his thoughts on the right way to use an e-collar, and we celebrate the camaraderie of the hunt.

You tell me why you will - or won't - take a newcomer hunting, and I offer a gentle suggestion for those in the "no" camp. We also arrive at "H" in the Upland Nation Glossary and offer a way for you to win an over-under shotgun.

Please visit our sponsors:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, the Ringneck Nation of Huron, SD, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; AudioCardio.com, and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Breeder, hunter, guide Kent Shelton recounts his recent experience - still fresh - of the entire process. Whether you just got a pup, are considering one, want to become a breeder, or just want to understand the world of whelping we've got something of interest for you.

From why to breed a hunting dog, to genetic testing, to how a mom-dog cares for little ones, counting puppies in the womb and the best time to send those squirming balls of fluff to their forever home, I have the questions and Kent has the answers.

Listeners share their gripes about sportsmanship, and we also talk hunting in South Dakota: strategies, habitat, bird numbers and more. Plus, the Upland Nation Glossary gets to "G" and offer up a way to do a solid for one of your mentors.

Please visit our sponsors:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, the Ringneck Nation of Huron, SD, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; AudioCardio.com, and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Arguments for sticking to that first bird in a covey rise.

Want better fishing? Go when the critters are feeding. Here are some examples of how cows, among others, can give you the edge.

So many questions from my Pheasant Fest visit ... and as it's training season I thought sharing some of my observations, suggestions, tips and advice might, just might, be of use to you and your dog. From better hand signals to what a dog hears "down there," to when to give commands, here are some things that most other seminars, books and videos don't cover.

We also arrive at "F" in the Upland Nation Glossary and offer up a way to do a solid for one of your mentors.

Please visit our sponsors:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, the Ringneck Nation of Huron, SD, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; AudioCardio.com, and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Who pays for conservation? The answer may surprise you, and that's what the new organization Outdoor Stewards of Conservation is all about: hunters, anglers and target shooters. Executive director Jim Cucuruto outlines the creative and inclusive ways his new group are spreading the word ... and helping even more.

We also cover recruitment of new bird hunters, from how to invite someone on a hunting trip to what's required afterwards.

You also get to the letter "D" in our Upland Nation Glossary ... and a chance to honor one of your hunting mentors and improve their hearing in a new contest.

Please visit our sponsors:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; AudioCardio.com, and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

How was your season? My friend Ben Warner and I talk about our days afield, and we review some of your recollections too. Wild Hun, quail and chukar spots and how to find them, the joys of running multiple dogs simultaneously, how to share spots without spoiling the adventure ... we cover it all. We'll also talk puppy development, and the road to the NAVHDA Invitational test.

There's news, and the Upland Nation Glossary explores the letter "C."

And it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; AudioCardio.com, and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Dave Fiedler owns Mid-Valley Clays and Shooting School in Gervais, Oregon. He is a high level instructor, champion shooter and hunter. He offers us all tips on becoming better hunters, from gun mount to which clay target games we should practice and why.

Dave has insights and advice on cross-dominance, our biggest shooting mistakes and how to avoid them, transferring clay target skills to the field, and how to help a beginner start off on the right foot. And we continue our journey through the alphabet in the Upland Nation Glossary. Please visit our sponsors:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; AudioCardio.com, and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Mark Fullmer of Sarahsetter Kennels outlines his proven theories on building a pup's brain power starting on Day One, and how that turns dogs into bird finding machines. From why he feeds a puppy raw quail, to e-collar use, to positive and negative reinforcement, he'll turn your own thinking around and help you become a better trainer.

We talk training methods for everyone, bird introduction, and clicker training. And then, Scott introduces the first Upland Nation Glossary word, and we lick our wounds, literally, when you tell us how your dog was injured last season and where.

And it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

From dogs to habitat, tactics and strategies, Travis Warren has advice for anyone pondering pursuit of these diabolical birds. He spends considerable time in chukar country ... right outside his yard!

We'll trade notes, discuss gear, and everyone will learn something about how and where to hunt them, dog training and tactics, habitat, gun, choke and shot selection and more.

We take a look at your photos of the awesome views you found last season, and you could win a Scott Linden Signature Series Comfort Collar in our Upland Nation Puzzler question, all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Now that the season is finally over, you tell me your highest priority is taking your dog to the next level. I'm with ya there!

So, let's begin the journey to canine excellence with a look at what a dog wants from you, why he works for you, and how you can become a better trainer/handler. I'll offer a few suggestions and observations that might not be in your bag of tricks yet.

Plus, we'll find out what else is on your "to-do" list for the off season, you could win a Scott Linden Signature Series Comfort Collar in our Upland Nation Puzzler question, all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

With the season winding down, it's time to look ahead to training ... and thinking about how our dogs think. Anticipating a third printing of my book What the Dogs Taught Me in May (new title: Training and Hunting Bird Dogs: How to Become a Better Hunter and Dog Owner - available now on Kindle), let's take a look at some of the less-common tips and tactics.

From how a dog thinks, to little changes that have big impact, training methods and hunting strategies, we'll survey a number of subject areas, all with the goal of cultivating a better relationship between you and your dog.

You'll also have a chance to win a rare Signature Series Real Bird Bumper, and we find out why some of you are still out there slogging around in pursuit of birds and the dogs we love.

And it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

I met Joe Augustine in Montana, walked a few fields with him, and learned way more than I should have! Now, so can you. Author, athlete, and passionate public-lands hunter, Joe has learned a lot while covering thousands of miles on foot and driving there!

Joe has learned the hard way: hunting tactics, to dog care, packing advice, how to shoot better photos, conditioning dogs for heat, to "best practices" for learning how to find and access walk-in properties and public land. He'll talk about some of his favorite spots, too.

We'll also cover your own travel plans, and you'll have a chance to win a Scott Linden Signature Series Real Bird Bumper in our Upland Nation Puzzler question, all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Todd Agnew, pro spaniel trainer at Craney Hill Kennel, shares his decades of hunting and training experience, starting with "why spaniels?" and going through a litany of tips and tactics to help us train virtually any dog breed.

It gets down to rewards, he says. But how? We'll explore.

Plus, the last point of the season, an Upland Nation Puzzler question and prize, and your survey responses on favorite dog breeds and how to ensure there's hunting for the next generation brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Hunter and chief instructor for the National Sporting Clays Association, Don Currie teaches schlubs like us all year. He offers valuable advice on unboxing your gun, checking for straight barrels (seriously, it's a thing), and choke selection. He schools us on terminology, gun fit, how to fit in at the range, and then we go to the field.

From patterning your gun to foot position on pointed birds, Don has real-life advice, some history lessons on gun making, and how to mount your gun. You will be a better shooter - and shooting teacher - after this podcast!

You share your new year's resolutions, and you could win a Scott Linden Signature Series Real Bird Bumper in our Upland Nation Puzzler question, all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Friendship, adventure, and some pretty good dog work punctuate this adventure into the wild, public ground where Hungarian partridge dwell. You'll get a tour of some less-typical habitat, shoot a few and miss a lot, and hear about some cool finds and dazzling retrieves.

Huns are on the rise in the west, so if you're intrigued by this "bonus bird," we'll offer some tips and tactics as well.

And if you think your new year's resolutions are creative, wait until you find out what your dogs are saying!

You'll have a chance to win a Scott Linden Signature Series Real Bird Bumper in our Upland Nation Puzzler question, all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

For many, their bucket list includes a trip west ... for adventure, fun, and that bird specie you can't find near home. But just as in the old days, there is a "code" in the New West as well. From preparation to where to find them, how to approach the habitat and hunting strategies, we'll touch on all of it. (Want more details? Go here.)

Listeners share their challenges when finding new ground to hunt, and we'll offer up a Scott Linden Signature Series Jaeger lead in our Upland Nation Puzzler question, all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Wild valley quail hunting ... with a few pheasants thrown in too. Facebook - and now, personal - friend Mark Avolio shares his experience, strategy and tactics as we debrief our recent hunt in Northeast Oregon. Mark runs setters all over the west, and a chance meeting a couple years ago in a faraway chukar spot led to our becoming regular hunting partners.

In this hunt, lush creek bottoms, bunchgrass swales, great weather and wonderful dog work were the standouts. Versatile dog work was on display, working "wrong" wind and tough retrieves in tight quarters. 

Shotgun ammo and choke recommendations for mixed-bag hunts, dog care tips and a few high points from the dogs' work are all covered in this wide-ranging talk between friends. We explore the reasons for singles without a covey rise, where shot birds go, and how to mark downed birds a little better. There's also a little nostalgia ending at an historical sheep ranch.

We'll find out how your last hunt went, and there's a chance to win a Scott Linden Signature Series Jaeger lead, all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

You ask some fantastic questions on my websites, social media and my weekly newsletter. I've compiled some of the best - relevant to almost everyone - and pulled together some suggestions. With any luck, they're close to correct, and helpful to you.

From buying started dogs to marking downed birds, neutering and eye care, to best first dog breed to using frozen birds, you'll find something that applies to you or your dog.

Plus, a chance to win a Scott Linden Signature Series Jaeger lead, and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

And if you're so inclined to support the podcast and get in on some marvelous perks, investigate our Patreon page.

ENJOY OUR NEW FORMAT! More fun and easy to listen to ... but you can decide that for yourself.

My good friend and hunting buddy Tom Jenkins knows his way around the woods, pursuing elk and deer when he's not chasing his bird dog in the chukar hills. I've learned so much from him about wild bird hunting, public access, good habitat, and how to approach a bird hunt as more than a walk behind a dog.

So I made him come on and share some of his wisdom with YOU. We talk about our  shared hunt adventures, solo hunt stories, and I even relate a couple valley quail tips from last week's hunt.

There's also your own hunting stories from last week, and a chance to win a Chief Upland vest, all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, your online shotgun shopping resource; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

And if you're so inclined to support the podcast and get in on some marvelous perks, investigate our Patreon page.

Fascinating Mearn’s quail strategies from a former Arizona pro guide are the starting point, and from there we cover the waterfront!

Phil Wechsler shares why he left the pro guiding world ... the joys of hunting “for fun.” From the benefits to young dogs, to finding new places, there is a freedom to not guiding. Time of year to hunt, habitat and terrain, bird behavior … Gambel’s, scaled, Mearn’s. Why he loves Mearns the best. Hint: it involves bird dogs. In fact, they may be the perfect quail for steady pointing dogs.

Phil offers tips on developing young dogs, and the value of their bumping a covey, and how without paying guests every day is a training day. We discuss finding the “good spots,” how to take care of a kennel full of dogs, picking dogs, why he likes smaller dogs, the value of hunting each area just once, with a caveat.

Phil describes his “best year” of hunting … last season … not for the birds or dogs but for the friends he shared a hunt with. And, the best tip he ever got from a guide client.

You share how far you drive for a hunt, share your “regrets” and how we can all learn from them, a chance to win a Chief Upland hunting vest, and it's brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

He's a pro fishing guide, but this guy knows upland birds ... way upland. From snipe to blue grouse, Michael Salamone is in the woods and alpine valleys chasing some of those "bucket list" birds we covet all on public land. He'll offer strategy and tactical advice, habitat and behavior, and equip us for our first mountain hunt.

We'll go down some rabbit holes talking chukars and fishing, but the bottom line is, you'll want to climb higher and walk farther for these big birds, aka sooty or dusky grouse.

You'll also get a chance to win a Chief Upland hunting vest, and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

And if you're so inclined to support the podcast and get in on some marvelous perks, investigate our Patreon page.

One of your favorite guests returns for a summary of his seasons so far: prairie grouse, ruffies, and pheasants in some of the best coverts anyone has! Steve Grossman offers insights into bird populations, the drought's effects, tactics and strategy plus dog care advice learned the hard way.

The best way to approach a pointing dog? Steve has the lowdown. And the "problem" with cocker spaniels in the grouse woods. Plus, the importance of a "tailgate exam."

Scott takes everyone on a chukar hunt with a happy ending, and social media friends offer up their best lessons learned so far this season on everything from the wisdom of dogs, to second shots and gas prices!

You'll also get a chance to win a Chief Upland customizable vest, and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels; Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

And if you're so inclined to support the podcast and get in on some marvelous perks, investigate our Patreon page.

Hard experience and close calls from the field led my guest Tom Fiumarello to suggest we do a show on how dogs are affected by hot weather. Tom is a pro guide and shooting instructor who has seen the risks and indications of a dog verging on life-threatening heat illness.

We'll cover symptoms, preventive care, products that could help, and what you should watch for in the field. I asked listeners to chime in too, and got some creative and hard-won advice from how to cool off a dog, to where to put alcohol (not in your mouth, silly - rubbing alcohol!).

Tom shares his sporting-clays course design experience and advice, relates recent ruffed grouse hunts too.

Hunting stories, dazzling dog work described, a chance to win a Peet boot dryer, and it's brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels; UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Consummate quail chaser Rashawn Gordon joins me to explain his opening weekend philosophy, the current state of bird populations in Arizona, and to talk all things Southwest: his past and current season's high- and low-lights, dog and shooting safety, strategy, the habitat and scenery. We share camaraderie in the field, training, share some predator stories, and revel in the incredible world we dwell in: following dogs into the fields and forests.

Is there a place for "baby talk" in dog handling? We'll answer that question too. I'll also share your own insights on what you learned last weekend ... opening weekend for many. From your hunting buddy to bird behavior.

You'll also get a chance to win a Peet boot dryer, and it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

And if you're so inclined to support the podcast and get in on some marvelous perks, investigate our Patreon page.

One of the pioneers of bird hunting television and good friend Dez Young joins me in this remastered episode from way back when nobody was listening - yet. You'll enjoy his insights on puppy raising, get behind-the-camera insights, and learn more about his fascinating multi-dimensional life.

I'll also clue you into a place in Nevada with plenty of public access for chukars and valley quail, and give you a shot at winning a Peet boot dryer in the "Upland Nation Puzzler" quiz (message me at Facebook with your answer).

Brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

My music-school buddy Dave and I debrief our opening weekend in Northern Nevada ... wild chukars and valley quail, rugged ground, some pretty good dog work, and better shooting than usual from this guy! We talk habitat, tactics, eye-melting scenery, strategies, and keep our music insider chat to a minimum :)

You'll also get a chance to win a Peet boot dryer, find out how dogs warn us - sort of, and everyone chimes in on their own opening weekend - if they had one!

Brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Plus, your own suggestions on essential gear for your next hunt ... a chance to win a boot dryer, bird forecasts for Nevada and Missouri, too.

I'll share stories of how I learned many of these tricks, suggest some ways to make your hunting trips more enjoyable, memorable, safe, and productive. No shooting tips! Why would I have anything to offer there?

Brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

My boots, their ground ... I tip you to the four states that in my experience offer the best access, most wild birds, and an incredible total bird hunting experience. If you're looking for new country for this season, here's a good place to start. From bird species, general locations,terrain and habitats, towns to headquarter in, nightlife and culture too.

News on wildlife refuge hunting, pheasant numbers for Nebraska, and a chance to win a prize just for listening.

Brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, Pointer shotguns, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Start the season with a bang ... maybe a double!

"This Land is Your Land," and this primer on finding public access hunting grounds will take you from nowhere to unexplored (by you) territory that might become your favorite spot. From online and IRL information sources, to the people and apps that can help you find walk-in land and the birds you and your dog love to pursue.

A few warnings about who you can and can't trust or don't want to piss off (bureaucrats), whether you should trust your mobile mapping app (NO) and the main reason you should exploit every information source you can.

Then, don't leave home without it: the ultimate "10 Essentials." Call it a survival kit if you like, but these must-have, must-carry lifesavers should be in every hunter's vest.

And a chance to win a Peet boot dryer too!

Brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

My recent foray to public lands near Lewistown was enlightening and exciting. A celebration of wild birds, camaraderie, and wonderful dog work, I'll give you a brief rundown on what we saw, did, and shot ... plus tips on sharpie hunting strategy and tactics, habitat and the amenities available in the area.

We'll flank quivering pointing dogs, celebrate the wildest of wild, and revel in the big sky, get practical on important details and explore the Block Management Access system.

There's news on job openings in our world, plus pheasant population guesstimates from North Dakota and Kansas.

Brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Our most popular episode, remastered and worth another listen. Author of "Breeding and Training Versatile Hunting Dogs," NAVHDA judge, hunter, trainer and breeder, this guy has done it all ... including handling his dog to retrieve kicking tees for college football games! Bob Farris is well-respected for his dogs, training techniques, and insights that only come from judging hundreds of versatile hunting dogs.

We talk every aspect of dogs and hunting: wild bird strategies and tactics, puppy picking, socialization, training do's and don'ts. Bob covers the difference between breed clubs and the new Pudelpointer Alliance, and outlines the three most important skills you should teach to a dog and more.

Plus, advice on finding - and taking advantage of - public access ground, merchandise discounts and a chance to win a new Pointer shotgun.

(Can't wait for the discounts? Get 10% off and free shipping at Dogtra with the code SLUN10; 30% off your first order at Dr. Tim's performance dog food with the code UPLANDNATION. Win that gun by signing up for the mailing list at findbirdhuntingspots.com.)

How a beautiful dog in the field is like an operatic aria ... and other poetic observations. Those are part of this week's interview with Alaska hunter Christine Cunningham as we explore her state's iconic birds, the three species of ptarmigan.

From habitat to tactics, the joys of a household with eight dogs, uniquely Alaskan hunting challenges, Chris covers the vast spaces where ptarmigan dwell, rocky crags and spongy tundra and most of it home to brown bears!

Chris is an artist with words - in print and on this podcast - so get ready to be inspired by her descriptions of our shared lifestyle.

We also find out who mentored most of us, take a look at news and controversy over duck stamps, visit a public-access spot in Kansas, and learn what your dream about hunting dogs really means and the entire podcast is brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

She braved national television, putting her shorthair and herself to the test: agility, acrobatics and grueling competition. For her, it's about that magical bond between dog and human ... maybe you too?

Sara Chisnell is a lawyer, hunter, and she and her dog Sue are heading to the NAVHDA Invitational soon. She offers insights and advice to anyone ready to go to whatever is their "next level." For her, it was the TV show "America's Top Dog."

From favorite hunting quarry, to Shutzhund training, Sara's can-do attitude is an inspiration to us all.

Scott offers some less-likely candidates you might cozy up to if you're looking for more public-access hunting ground, three states' gamebird population estimates for fall, and a "found dog" story that will put a smile on your face.

And the entire podcast is brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Bird hunting podcast: From America's least-hunted bird on the summit of Ruby Dome, to a bird whose name is harder to pronounce than it is to shoot ... photographer/author Gary Kramer takes us on a continent-wide adventure in pursuit of every upland game bird. He personally chased and photographed - with a hunter's eye - every single one of them. His book GAME BIRDS - A Celebration of North American Upland Birds is the ultimate hunter's reference and conversation-starter. You can get it here.

Gary helps us take better photos with our cellphone, of birds, the habitat and our dogs, offering tips and advice that will make every nimrod a better "shooter." Oh, we'll also debrief his recent Amazon-basin fly fishing trip just for fun!

We look at lesser-known public-access ground in Oklahoma, get your thoughts on Opening Day (yay!), cover news you can use from a bright spot on the crowded fields we might be anticipating to another way for you to pay it forward and the entire podcast is brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

What do pro guides think of clients, and vice-versa? What are the most important things we should do in the field? Rich Knarr of Rrank Gundogs shares guide secrets on hunting strategy, habitat, tactics, and dog training this week.

Rich cites his most important training too, what's important for hunters in the field, and more. He helps us if we are going to work with a pro guide, and why he chose shorthairs as his breed of choice ... along with a few cockers! Strategic feeding and his go-to remedy for a dog's low-blood-sugar problem (luckily, seldom needed) are also covered.

You'll get news you can use, also: youth hunts, a mentored hunter program and even Queen Elizabeth's new venture into the dog world. Our public access feature directs you to the best sage grouse prospects in the West. And the entire podcast is brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Not just a great practical joke! There really is a snipe, and hunting it in the high elevation wetlands is an adventure, says Michael Salamone. He recently authored an article on the topic for Upland Almanac, and he'll spill the beans on the bird usually associated with burlap sacks and unsuspecting rubes literally holding the bag.

We'll get local intelligence on habitat, behavior, strategies, dog choices, tactics, and why this little shorebird hangs out in wet mountain meadows. Shot size and gun gauge are covered, as are the "real" reasons we go. We'll wend our way through fens and over beaver dams in pursuit of the jinking-juking-vexing migratory birds.

I'll offer two tips on making your dog's road trip as fun - and relaxing - as your own, and the entire podcast is brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Outdoor Life's Andrew McKean catches up with one of his former writers - me! We talk everything sage grouse, what he calls “America’s largest, most durable bird.” The myths, magic, mystique, and of course, how to hunt them. Except when you shouldn't hunt them - which might be this extreme-drought season.

We explore strategy and tactics, habitat needs, diet, and the importance of good boots. What you should look for, where to start your hunt, and why the type of sagebrush is critical. We cover dog choices, what he loves most about these iconic birds and their surroundings, and

Our public access feature covers a little spot in Nevada that is way off the beaten path but worth the effort. We also learn why dog food prices have risen four times as much as our own food, and why Jeff Bezos and Amazon are no friends of bird dog owners when it comes to dog food, and the entire podcast is brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

It still amazes me how many hunters believe hunting licenses ... or income taxes ... or property taxes fund wildlife management and conservation. Even at gatherings of long-time hunters, when I mention this topic in a speech, there are more than a few blank stares!

So, please bear with me as I get this off my chest once and for all: in the depths of the Great Depression, hunters went to Congress and asked to be taxed so all forms of wildlife could be more carefully managed and habitat acquired for it.

I'll explain how this magic funding mechanism works, who gets what, and who doesn't pay (hint: "non-consumptive" users from birders to kayakers, backpackers to mountain bikers). When you're done, I hope you'll agree that whether you're a vegan, anti-gun activist or fence-sitter, to help wildlife you should buy a gun, ammo, bow and arrows.

Our public-access feature covers some of my favorite North Dakota spots, and the entire podcast is brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Our featured guest is Rashawn Gordon, Gordon’s Gun Dogs and Guide Service, Wellton, Arizona. Rashawn, a new guide and seasoned dog trainer, shares his experiences and hard-won advice. Plus public access ground, and news you can use.

First, listeners’ advice to new hunters, from expectation management to what not to do, to how to train the retrieve, and where the heck is the Owyhee River?

Then, Rashawn’s advice: Gambel’s quail strategy and tactics … do hawk calls really work? Let a puppy be a puppy, and a dog be a dog … trust his nose.

Critical training commands, chukars in Arizona? Best dog breeds and why. A rabbit hole is gone down, talking about Bodo Winterhelt (R.I.P.). How his advice changed Rashawn’s life … and many others’ as well.

Rashawn covers developing a pup’s natural abilities, introduction to birds, range, his two most important commands. He likes “wing on a string,” but not for the usual reasons! Rashawn outlines the most common “re-training” problem we dog owners create, and defines the two kinds of dogs he trains: hunting dogs, and competition dogs.

Rashawn shares early on-the-ground observations on Arizona quail populations for this season, a hunting dog that outdoes Lassie when it comes to alerting its owner, tells us when a dog is right to road in on birds, and where to find chukars – and an alligator – in Arizona. We debate 28 gauge vs. 20 gauge, ballistics, and the value of giving away shotguns.

There’s news on the Vermont woodcock opener and when you can get your duck stamp, and our public access segment covers pheasant ground in Minnesota.

And it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

Get the entire podcast here.

The dumb things bird hunters do to our guns, and how to avoid them ... that's one of the topics Fred Bohm covers in this wide-ranging discussion. Fred is founder of Sage & Braker Mercantile, a gun care products company, so he's seen it all. (Host Scott Linden has probably done it all!)

We cover preventative maintenance, cleaning tips, simple ways to avoid making problems worse. But that's just the start. Fred's a big-time hunter, with a Pudelpointer and now, a Setter pup. We'll trade notes on hunting strategies, get the lowdown on ptarmigan hunting, talk scouting new ground, and of course, rejoice in the reasons he - and we - go bird hunting.

Fred is also an artist with a camera, and he'll give us some basic guidance on what makes a great bird hunting photo, whether it's with our cell phone or a fancy-pants SLR.

In "This Land is Your Land," Scott concludes his thesis on the economic benefits of public land hunting ... for the nearby communities.

And it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.

The dumb things bird hunters do to our guns, and how to avoid them ... that's one of the topics Fred Bohm covers in this wide-ranging discussion. Fred is founder of Sage & Braker Mercantile, a gun care products company, so he's seen it all. (Host Scott Linden has probably done it all!)

We cover preventative maintenance, cleaning tips, simple ways to avoid making problems worse. But that's just the start. Fred's a big-time hunter, with a Pudelpointer and now, a Setter pup. We'll trade notes on hunting strategies, get the lowdown on ptarmigan hunting, talk scouting new ground, and of course, rejoice in the reasons he - and we - go bird hunting.

Fred is also an artist with a camera, and he'll give us some basic guidance on what makes a great bird hunting photo, whether it's with our cell phone or a fancy-pants SLR.

In "This Land is Your Land," Scott concludes his thesis on the economic benefits of public land hunting ... for the nearby communities.

And it's all brought to you by:

Sage & Braker Mercantile, Dr. Tim's performance dog food, RuffLand performance Kennels; HuntHuronSD.com, UplandNationDeals.com, Happy Jack, FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.