Nine Finger Chronicles | Sportsmen's Nation

In this engaging conversation, Dan Johnson interviews Jim Shockey, a renowned outfitter and author, who shares insights into his life, adventures, and the complexities of modern hunting. Jim reflects on his experiences over the years, the challenges of organizing expeditions in today's world, and the significance of storytelling through writing. He discusses the importance of artifacts and history, as well as his desire to change perceptions about hunting and promote tolerance for different lifestyles. In this conversation, Jim Shockey discusses the complexities of infighting within the hunting community, the profound impact of personal loss, and the journey of caregiving for his late wife, Louise. He reflects on the lessons learned from grief, the importance of cherishing every moment, and how these experiences have shaped his perspective on life and relationships. Takeaways Jim Shockey emphasizes the privilege of reaching an older age. Writing a book requires distilling a lifetime of experiences into a

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, Dan shares his excitement for the upcoming youth turkey hunting season with his son. He discusses the preparations and strategies for hunting with kids, emphasizing the importance of patience and creating memorable experiences. Dan reflects on the significance of passing down hunting traditions to the next generation and the joy of spending quality time outdoors with family. He also shares practical tips for turkey hunting, including strategies for calling and setting up decoys, while highlighting the importance of safety and setting a good example for young hunters. Takeaways: My son is fired up to go turkey hunting. I have learned patience while hunting with kids. It's about spending time with loved ones in nature. I want my daughter to be independent in hunting. Lowering expectations is key when hunting with kids. Teaching kids woodsmanship is important. Hunting is about the experience, not just the kill. I look forward to passing down traditi

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson speaks with Andrew Douglas about his journey into hunting, particularly focusing on the Field to Fork program offered by the Iowa DNR. They discuss the challenges of starting hunting later in life, the importance of mentorship, and the expectations surrounding hunting success, particularly the emphasis on shooting bucks over does. Andrew shares his experiences with the program, the role of mentors, and how he prepared for his first hunting season. In this conversation, Dan and Andrew discuss the journey of a new hunter, focusing on the challenges and experiences of hunting, the importance of mentorship, and the dynamics within the hunting community. Andrew shares his personal experiences, including his first archery kill, the emotional rollercoaster of hunting, and the significance of learning from mentors. They also explore the influence of the hunting industry on perceptions of success, particularly the emphasis on antlers, and the impo

On the last episode of Vortex Week on the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, Dan sits down with Maggie from the Vortex Optics social media team for a discussion about growing up in the outdoors and her love of fishing. From a family of all daughters, Maggie explains how her dad picked her as the tomboy and took her everywhere he went. With goals and aspirations of becoming a tournament bass fisherman, Maggie talks about how she is currently focused on getting her own boat and getting better at rippin' lips. Another fun episode We're sure you'll enjoy! Huge shoutout to Vortex Optics for the partnership and always welcoming me in to their facility like family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the second episode of Vortex Week, Dan interviews Graham and Eric from the Vortex Optics marketing department. Things get a little silly in the first segment when they visit the idea of Dan being Graham and Eric's father and what their life would be like. Then, as the guys change the direction of the conversation and dig themself out of a hole, Eric and Graham share the story of their hunting adventures in South Dakota. They cover hunting trip logistics, the terrain they were hunting in, deer behavior, flat tires, wild dogs and recovering a missing deer. Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Dan Johnson and Chris Urrutia discuss Chris's journey from growing up in the Bronx with limited exposure to firearms to becoming a firearms instructor at Vortex Edge. They explore the cultural differences surrounding guns in various regions, Chris's experiences in the Marine Corps and law enforcement, and his eventual transition into competitive shooting. The discussion highlights the importance of training, marksmanship, and the evolution of Chris's understanding of firearms and shooting competitions. In this conversation, Chris Urrutia and Dan Johnson discuss the critical aspects of firearm training, focusing on the balance between speed and accuracy, the importance of consistent training for home defense, and how to choose the right firearm. They delve into grip techniques, eye dominance, and the debate between red dot sights and iron sights. The discussion emphasizes the significance of muscle memory, the integration of live fire and dry fire training, and the necessity of training u

In this conversation, Dan and Justin discuss the impact of social media on hunting culture, the challenges faced by resident and non-resident hunters, and the displacement of local hunters due to non-resident land ownership. They explore the future of hunting culture, the role of technology such as trail cameras, and the evolution of hunting practices over the years. The discussion highlights the complexities of hunting dynamics and the need for a more inclusive approach to the hunting community. In this conversation, Dan and Justin Zarr explore the evolution of hunting, the impact of technology on hunting practices, and the increasing competition in public land hunting. They discuss the role of social media in shaping hunting culture, the responsibilities of influencers, and the challenges of accessing hunting grounds. The conversation reflects on the need for a positive approach to hunting and the importance of community in navigating the complexities of modern hunting. Takeaways: Scrolling through social

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson speaks with Andrew Wills, a passionate hunter and muzzleloader enthusiast. They discuss Andrew's upbringing in Ohio, his experiences as a father, and the challenges of parenting a child with special needs. The conversation delves into the significance of family traditions in hunting, the transition to muzzleloading, and the deep connection to American history that comes with it. Andrew shares his journey of learning to hunt, the influence of his grandfather, and the joy of being in the outdoors with his children. He reflects on the historical connections he feels while hunting, the traditions of hunting in American history, and how these experiences influence his music. Andrew discusses his evolution as a songwriter in Nashville, the challenges of the music industry, and the importance of authenticity in his work. He also highlights the impact of streaming on songwriters and the liberating nature of being an independent artist. The conver

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson reflects on the challenges of self-employment, particularly during the spring break season. He delves into the complexities of hunting, focusing on the significance of thermals and wind direction in deer hunting strategies. Johnson shares personal anecdotes about his experiences in the field, emphasizing the importance of understanding environmental factors that affect deer behavior. He concludes with practical advice for hunters, encouraging them to consider thermals and wind conditions when planning their hunts. Takeaways: Self-employment brings unique stressors, especially regarding income stability. Thermals can significantly impact hunting success, often more than wind direction. Understanding deer behavior in relation to thermals is crucial for effective hunting. Consistent weather conditions lead to more predictable deer movement. Access routes can greatly influence hunting outcomes and should be carefully planned. Cloudy da

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson speaks with Hunter McWaters about his life, experiences in hunting, and the influence of family and community on his passion for the outdoors. They discuss the differences between living in urban and rural areas, the importance of cooking in outdoor adventures, and the role of sponsorships in the hunting industry. Hunter shares his journey from childhood fishing trips to becoming an independent bow hunter, emphasizing the thrill of bow hunting and the need to protect wildlife and ecosystems. In this conversation, Hunter McWaters shares his profound journey through hunting, addiction, and personal transformation. He discusses the adrenaline rush of hunting, the psychological aspects that drive hunters, and how his experiences in the outdoors have shaped his life. From the thrill of the hunt to the struggles with addiction, Hunter emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and connection through nature. He recounts his life-changing first

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson and guest Jeremy Dinsmore share nostalgic college memories, discuss the impact of technology on daily life, and delve into the importance of prepping for unforeseen circumstances. They also explore hunting plans for the upcoming season and the rising costs of archery equipment, reflecting on the balance between personal passions and family responsibilities. In this episode, the hosts discuss various aspects of hunting, including the effectiveness and pricing of trail cameras, the traditions surrounding rifle season in Pennsylvania, and the implications of changing hunting regulations. They delve into the debate over Sunday hunting laws, the dynamics between public and private land hunting, and the importance of family traditions in turkey hunting. The conversation highlights the balance between maintaining traditions and adapting to modern hunting practices. Takeaways: College experiences can lead to lifelong memories and friendships. T

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson shares insights into his busy family life, balancing wrestling, baseball, and outdoor activities with his children. He discusses the importance of public lands and the potential impact of political decisions on access to these areas. Dan reflects on the challenges of balancing personal hunting trips with family time, emphasizing the joy of involving his kids in outdoor adventures. He shares his recent shed hunting experiences and plans for the upcoming hunting season, including scouting new properties and setting up for turkey and deer hunting. The episode highlights the excitement of passing on outdoor traditions to the next generation. Takeaways: Life is incredibly busy with family activities and sports. Public lands are at risk due to political decisions. Balancing family time with personal hunting trips is essential. Involving kids in outdoor activities enhances the experience. Shed hunting provides valuable insights into deer m

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson speaks with Patrick Wightman, a research scientist at the University of Georgia, about wild turkey research and conservation. They discuss the importance of habitat management, the impact of hunting on wildlife research, and the current state of wild turkey populations in North America. Wightman shares insights on the factors affecting turkey mortality, including habitat loss and predation, and emphasizes the role of both public and private landowners in conservation efforts. The conversation also touches on the challenges posed by federal funding cuts and the need for a broader understanding of wildlife management. In this conversation, Dan Johnson and Patrick Wightman discuss ongoing research at the University of Georgia focused on wild turkeys, including innovative technologies being used to study their behavior and population dynamics. They explore the importance of collaboration among researchers, the future of wild turkeys in North

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson welcomes back Brandon Ringwalski to discuss various topics, including their experiences with harsh winter weather, memorable road trips, and the intricacies of deer hunting. The conversation delves into the environmental factors affecting deer behavior, the terrain they hunt, and the strategies they employ to locate and track deer. Brandon shares insights on the unique agricultural practices in his hunting area and how they influence deer movement and bedding patterns. In this conversation, Brandon Ringwolski shares his insights on deer hunting strategies, focusing on the importance of understanding wind direction, managing hunting pressure, and the significance of timing in the hunting season. He discusses his personal experiences, including successful hunts and the emotional connections tied to them. Brandon emphasizes the need for building relationships with landowners to gain access to hunting properties and shares valuable lessons le

In this engaging conversation, Dan Johnson and Tony Peterson explore a variety of themes ranging from their bizarre dreams to pet peeves that annoy them. They delve into misconceptions in hunting, the importance of personal growth, and the impact of jealousy and comparison on one's happiness. The discussion also touches on the cultural differences observed in social settings and the often frustrating conversations about money. In this engaging conversation, Tony and Dan explore themes of generational wealth, cultural differences, and the value of humility in wealth. They discuss their musical tastes and how music connects to emotions, before pivoting to hunting stories and experiences. The conversation takes a humorous turn with hypothetical scenarios about life choices, including the implications of cutting off a hand for financial gain. Takeaways: Dreams can reveal our subconscious fears and desires. Pet peeves often reflect deeper personality traits. Misconceptions in hunting can lead to poor practices.

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson welcomes back Paul Campbell to discuss the upcoming turkey hunting season, the challenges of balancing life and hunting passions, and the importance of parenting. They delve into the significance of time management and the emotional aspects of giving to conservation organizations like the NWTF. The conversation also highlights the purpose of the NWTF convention and its historical context in turkey conservation. In this conversation, Paul Campbell and Dan Johnson discuss the evolution and significance of the NWTF Convention, highlighting its role as a major event for turkey hunters and a fundraiser for conservation efforts. They explore the unique culture of turkey hunting, the community it fosters, and the excitement surrounding the upcoming turkey season. The discussion also touches on the differences between turkey and deer hunting, emphasizing the camaraderie and shared experiences among hunters. In this engaging conversation, Dan John

In this episode of the Nine Finger Chronicles podcast, host Dan Johnson engages with Brandon Ringwalski, discussing the rich culinary traditions of Wisconsin, the transition into fatherhood, and the evolution of hunting strategies over the years. Brandon shares his experiences from pre-kids hunting to military life, and how these experiences shaped his approach to hunting and family life. The conversation delves into the challenges of balancing hunting passions with family responsibilities, and the importance of relationships in navigating these changes. Brandon reflects on his hunting successes and the realistic expectations of deer hunting in Wisconsin, providing insights into the hunting culture and personal growth. In this conversation, Brandon Ringwolski shares his journey of adapting his hunting strategies and mindset after becoming a parent. He discusses the challenges of balancing family life with hunting, the importance of learning from past mistakes, and how he has found success by reevaluating his

In this engaging conversation, two friends, both named Dan, share their experiences and thoughts on various topics, including the joys of day drinking, the challenges of duck hunting, the complexities of family life, and their reflections on work and entrepreneurship. They delve into personal stories that highlight the importance of balancing work, family, and personal passions, all while maintaining a light-hearted and humorous tone. In this engaging conversation, Dan Johnson shares his experiences navigating workplace challenges, reflecting on early jobs, and discussing the ethics of hunting versus factory farming. The dialogue flows through personal anecdotes, humorous moments, and serious reflections on the nature of work and life, culminating in a thoughtful examination of hunting ethics. Takeaways: Day drinking becomes more appealing with age. Outdoor activities provide a sense of relaxation and enjoyment. Duck hunting can lead to unexpected and humorous mishaps. Family dynamics change with the desi

In this engaging conversation, Dan Johnson and Danny Thompson reflect on their past experiences in the hunting world, discussing how Thompson's life has evolved since his first appearance on the podcast. They delve into the dream of land ownership, the lessons learned about deer behavior and hunting strategies, and the impact of technology on the hunting experience. The discussion highlights the balance between tradition and modern advancements in hunting, emphasizing the importance of understanding deer behavior and adapting to changes in the industry. In this conversation, Dan Johnson and Danny Thompson explore the evolution of hunting techniques, the impact of technology on traditional practices, and the personal growth that comes from diverse hunting experiences. They discuss the importance of passing down hunting traditions to the next generation and the balance between work and family life. The conversation highlights the joy of hunting, the thrill of new experiences, and the realization of what truly m

In this conversation, Dan Johnson and Jason Thibodeau share an engaging and detailed account of Jason's hunting experience with a unique drop-tine buck. They discuss the challenges faced during the hunt, including tracking the deer after a shot, interactions with landowners, and the lessons learned throughout the process. The conversation emphasizes the importance of patience, ethical hunting practices, and the complexities of deer management. In this conversation, Jason Thibodeau shares his experience of recovering a deer he shot, navigating the complexities of landowner relationships, and reflecting on hunting ethics. The discussion highlights the challenges hunters face when dealing with property boundaries, the importance of communication, and the emotional weight of hunting decisions. Jason's story serves as a reminder of the realities of hunting, the need for persistence, and the value of respectful interactions with fellow hunters and landowners. Takeaways: The importance of patience when tracking a w