Deer Hunt

Poaching isn’t hunting. It’s theft of a public wildlife resource — and it hurts the animals on the landscape, the conservation dollars that manage them, and the reputation of lawful hunters who do things the right way. That’s why the Boone and Crockett Club launched its Poach & Pay effort: to put real numbers behind a problem that’s easy to underestimate because most of it happens out of…

Original Air Date: 2013 Re-release Date: 2025 Guest: Randy Gagne, Master Bow Technician – Morse’s Sporting Goods (Hillsborough, NH)

Episode Summary:

In this special re-release of Episode 15, we sit down with master bow technician Randy Gagne of Morse’s Sporting Goods to explore the fundamentals of compound bow setup, arrow tuning, broadhead prep, and ethical archery. Originally recorded in 2013, this episode is part of our Evergreen Series—timeless interviews remastered for today’s listeners, with fresh updates and modern context.

Randy has long been one of New England’s most sought-after bow techs. From draw length and string life to crossbows, rest types, and seasonal prep, this episode delivers a masterclass in bowhunting setup that’s just as relevant today as it was over a decade ago.

Now in 2025, we also revisit Randy’s journey—including his expansion into taxidermy, and how his role has evolved in preserving both the gear and the memories of a successful hunt.

🧰 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

How to determine correct draw length and poundage

The difference between fixed and mechanical broadheads

Why proper string maintenance is essential (and what can go wrong)

How to check your arrows for hidden issues

The evolution of whisker biscuits and drop-away rests

Why tuning matters more than brand

How crossbows have transformed the archery world

Randy’s real-world tips for storing, prepping, and practicing with your bow

What’s changed in bowhunting technology since 2013

How Randy's work has expanded into taxidermy and memory preservation

🏹 Modern Updates & References:

In the intro and commentary, Jay shares how the following have advanced since the original airing:

Cam tech (Bowtech DeadLock, Mathews SwitchWeight)

Carbon risers and flagship bows like the Hoyt RX-8, Mathews LIFT

Strings (pre-stretched, peep-alignment without tubing)

Arrows (micro-diameter, high FOC, spine consistency)

Broadheads (SEVR, Iron Will, Magnus, Rage, G5)

Crossbows (e.g., Ravin R500 @ 505 fps)

Smart tech (Garmin Xero, digital rangefinding, app-based tuning)

Influencer shoutouts include: 🧠 John Dudley 🏹 Levi Morgan 🎯 Chris Bee 📏 Tim Gillingham 🏔️ Cameron Hanes

🛠️ Featured Guest: Randy Gagne

Role: Master Bow Technician & Taxidermist

Business: Morse’s Sporting Goods – Hillsborough, NH

Website: https://www.morsessportinggoods.com

Specialties: Compound bow setup, string/cam tuning, gear fitting, ethical prep, and custom taxidermy

🎧 Subscribe & Share

Like what you heard? 📲 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you listen. 🌲 Visit us at BigBuckRegistry.com 📩 Share this episode with a hunting buddy. 💬 Leave a review to help more hunters discover timeless knowledge.

In this edition of the Big Buck Registry's Deer News, we bring you twelve key stories every hunter should know as we head deeper into 2025. From Washington D.C. to the backwoods of Wisconsin, this roundup covers everything from sweeping conservation wins and poaching crackdowns to predator control, CWD outbreaks, and controversial legislation. Congress wraps up the Biden era with major investments in wildlife and outdoor access, while states wrestle with issues like buck limits, deer tag programs, and firearm restrictions. Whether you're in the tree stand, driving the backroads, or tuning in from camp, this is the news shaping the future of whitetail hunting across America.

ACE & EXPLORE Acts (Washington, D.C.) Congress passes two bipartisan bills funding CWD research, wetlands restoration, and outdoor access—plus mandates broadband in public rec areas and shooting range construction. 

ESA Reform & Fish & Wildlife Director Nominee (Washington, D.C.) Proposed changes to the Endangered Species Act stir debate, and Brian Nesvik’s nomination to lead the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service raises concerns among environmental groups.

Wisconsin Poaching Crackdown Over 250 deer were illegally killed in one of the largest poaching crackdowns in state history. Offenders face jail time, steep fines, and decades-long license bans.

Texas Deer Smuggling Operation Texas Game Wardens file 1,200+ charges in a massive deer breeding and smuggling case. Violations include CWD testing failures and falsified records.

Maine Coyote Hunting Bill Rejected A bill aiming to restrict coyote hunting to a defined season is shot down. Officials say year-round control is vital to protect deer, pets, and livestock.

Ohio CWD Cases Increase Ohio reports 24 new cases of Chronic Wasting Disease this season. Wildlife officials expand surveillance zones and urge hunters to submit samples.

Oklahoma Buck Limit Proposal Lawmakers consider reducing the annual buck limit from two to one. Some hunters support the change; others want more data before backing the bill. 

 Florida Antlerless Deer Rule Changes Hunters in Deer Management Unit D2 can now harvest antlerless deer all season long on private land. The bag limit increases to better manage the herd.

Pennsylvania Deer Season Opener Debate A new bill seeks to shift the season opener back to Monday after Thanksgiving. The move would restore tradition but may limit access for some hunters.

Michigan Doe Tag Legislation Proposed legislation offers hunters two free antlerless tags with a base license, aimed at reducing herd size, crop damage, and deer-vehicle collisions.

Maryland Lead Ammo Ban Fails Efforts to phase out lead hunting ammunition stall in the state legislature. The debate over wildlife safety and affordability continues.

Colorado Gun Law Tightens Colorado passes a law restricting semiautomatic firearms with detachable magazines. Hunters express concern over how it may affect traditional sporting use.

In this episode, we explore the most pressing wildlife management issues across the United States, from record-breaking deer hunting seasons to groundbreaking conservation efforts. From Mississippi's legal battle over deer-dog hunting to Missouri’s fight against chronic wasting disease, we’re diving deep into the decisions shaping the future of hunting, wildlife preservation, and public safety. Whether you’re a hunter, conservationist, or just curious about how these topics affect your community, this episode has something for everyone.

Topics Covered

Mississippi’s Deer-Dog Hunting Debate: A tradition under scrutiny—can property rights and hunting heritage coexist?

Ohio’s Record Deer Harvest: What’s driving the highest deer harvest in 13 years?

Pennsylvania’s Proposed Hunting Rule Changes: How 2025 could redefine hunting across the Keystone State.

Missouri’s Chronic Wasting Disease Fight: Will new carcass disposal rules change the game for hunters and conservationists?

Montana’s Landfill Deer Culling Efforts: Why a landfill is at the center of the state’s disease containment strategy.

Maine’s Deer Dilemma: Lyme disease, car crashes, and the search for innovative solutions in Southwest Harbor.

Grand Rapids’ Urban Deer Hunt Proposal: Archery in city limits—could it work?

Ohio Poacher’s Record-Breaking Fine: The $43,000 trophy buck case shaking up the hunting community.

New York’s Venison Donation Program: Turning an illegal hunt into a win for families in need.

💬 Have thoughts on today’s stories? Share your opinions with us on social media using #BBR

Links and Resources

Mississippi Wildlife Regulations

Ohio Department of Natural Resources

Pennsylvania Game Commission

Missouri Department of Conservation

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks

Feeding New York State Venison Program

Big Buck Registry Links

Official Website: Big Buck Registry

Spotify: Deer Hunt - Big Buck Registry

Apple Podcasts: Big Buck Registry Podcast

iHeartRadio: Listen on iHeartRadio

TuneIn: Listen on TuneIn

Amazon Music: Listen on Amazon Music

Social Media Profiles

Facebook: Big Buck Registry on Facebook

Instagram: @bigbuckregistry2012

Twitter: @BigBuckRegistry

'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE RIFLE SEASON

Written by Tim Biebel

CUZ STICKLAND

'Twas the night before Rifle Season and all through my mind,

Were images of big bucks that were one of a kind.

My Gear was in a pile on the bench by the door,

The next morning I’d be wearing it at quarter past four.  

ROBBIE KROGER

I snuggled into bed but not a wink did I sleep,

For I only saw deer as I tried to count sheep.

My wife slept beside me and I thought, “Oh, how I’m blessed”,

She was excited for me, but still got plenty of rest. 

HEATHER JONES SHEPHERD

I laid awake for hours on end,

Able only to think of how the next day would trend.

My eyes were heavy but I couldn't seem to shake

Visions of a buck that only big dreams could make.

HAL BLOOD

Then suddenly in front of me was the buck of my dreams!

I brought my gun up but only heard screams.

My safety was stuck and I could not get it off,

And as the buck stood and stared he just seemed to scoff.

JOSH CARNEY

The safety was stuck and try as I might,

I fiddled and fiddled but couldn’t get it right.

At that moment it seemed that life was not fair,

And I succumbed to the fact that I didn’t have a prayer. 

MICHELLE SCHEUERMANN

Then oddly enough he looked at me with a grin,

And said with a smile “You’ll never win!”

I finally got it fixed but was just out of luck,

For by the time I was ready out of sight ran the buck.

JIM KELLER

When the woods settled down I heard a strange noise,

Ringing in my head was a sound that usually annoys.

Then I awoke to discover it all just a scare,

For the buck in my dreams was not even there.

DUSTY PHILLIPS

I sat up in bed and took a look at the clock,

My alarm was sounding loud and I was still full of shock.

I gathered my strength and hopped out of bed,

Threw on my clothes and buttered my bread.

JAY SCOTT AMMANN

Out in the forest the bucks were in wait,

And going back to sleep would only spell fate.

I smiled when I looked at the sky crystal clear,

For I'd soon be after the buck I dream't of all year.

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Big Buck Registry’s Deer Hunt Podcast, host Jay Scott Ammann welcomes former President Theodore Roosevelt, one of history’s greatest hunters and conservationists. Roosevelt shares captivating stories of hunting whitetail and mule-deer, delving into their unique behaviors, the challenges of the chase, and the importance of respecting the animals and the land. He also explains the principles of ethical hunting and his role in establishing game laws and preserving wild places for future generations.

Key Discussion Points:

Whitetail Deer Hunting

Why Roosevelt admired the adaptability and resilience of whitetail deer.

Memorable hunts across the Adirondacks, Dakota river bottoms, and Louisiana swamps.

Mule-Deer Adventures

Tracking mule-deer in the rugged Rocky Mountains and Badlands.

The unique challenges of hunting mule-deer versus whitetails.

Hunting Ethics

Roosevelt’s philosophy of fair chase and the importance of ethical hunting.

Stories of rejecting unfair practices like jacking and crusting.

Conservation Legacy

How Roosevelt’s experiences shaped his fight for game laws and protected lands.

The critical role hunters play in preserving America’s wilderness.

Notable Quotes:

“The true hunter is a man of ethics and honor.”

“The whitetail deer is a symbol of the wilderness that still endures.”

“Without conservation, the future of hunting—and the wild itself—remains at risk.”

Subscribe to the Big Buck Registry’s Deer Hunt Podcast for expert hunting tips, legendary stories, and conservation insights. Share this episode and help spread Roosevelt’s timeless message about ethical hunting and wilderness protection.

  Social Media and Website Links

Website: Big Buck Registry Podcast

Follow Us:

Facebook: @BigBuckRegistry

Instagram: @BigBuckRegistry

Twitter: @BigBuckRegistry

Tell Us Your Story: www.SpeakPipe.com/bigbuckregistry

Welcome to the October 2024 Edition of the Big Buck Registry's Deer News, news you might have missed over the last month.

In this edition, first Jim takes us to Michigan to explore a Michigan Bill that Seeks to Reverse Deer Hunting Restrictions for Youth, Veterans, and Disabled Hunters. Then Dusty covers a story in Wisconsin about the Wisconsin DNR Initiating a  Review of Deer Management Units Ahead of the 2025 Season.  Jay explores the New York DEC Transition to Electronic Deer Tags for the 2024-2025 Hunting Season.  Dusty covers the latest on CWD and Jay discusses deer overpopulation, both stories from Virginia.  Finally, Jim wraps up with a CWD story out of Texas.  

Show Notes for Big Buck Registry's Deer News - January Edition

Topics Discussed:

Nationwide Debate on Drones for Deer Recovery    - Exploring the ongoing debate across the United States regarding the use of drones in deer hunting and recovery.

Hawaii's DLNR Axis Deer Culling Program    - Discussing Hawaii's Department of Land and Natural Resources initiative to control the Axis deer population in Maui Nui.

Ohio's Record-Breaking Buck Investigation    - Delving into Ohio's investigation into the potentially illegal harvest of a record-breaking white-tailed deer in Clinton County.

The James Keel Dwarf Buck Story    - Unveiling the fascinating story of James Keel's harvest of a unique dwarf buck in Mississippi.

Deer Culling in Wildwood, Missouri    - Examining the deer culling efforts and their implications in Wildwood, Missouri.

Washington DC's Decade-Long Deer Snipe Program    - Reviewing the long-term deer snipe program in Washington DC and its impact.

Texas Deer Hunting Economy    - Analyzing the economic aspects and significance of deer hunting in Texas.

The Disappearance of Turbo the Deer in South Carolina    - Investigating the mysterious disappearance of Turbo, a well-known deer on an island in South Carolina.

NWTF Deer Hunt for Disabled Hunters in Virginia     - Highlighting the annual National Wild Turkey Federation deer hunt in Virginia, dedicated to disabled hunters.

New Wisconsin Legislation for Deer Hunting     - Discussing new legislative measures in Wisconsin aimed at improving deer hunting in the northern region.

**End of Show Notes**

  Topics Discussed 

Wisconsin Gun Deer Season: The 2023 season saw a decline in harvests, emphasizing safety in hunting practices.

Massachusetts Sunday Deer Hunting Debate: Legislators are considering lifting a century-old ban on Sunday deer hunting.

Minnesota's "Hunters For Hunters" Group: A new group is focusing on the impact of wolves on deer populations.

Unsolved Case of Hunter Terry Brisk: Minnesota still seeks answers seven years after the mysterious death of Terry Brisk.

Deer Hunting Expansion in Massachusetts: The Quabbin Reservoir sees an expansion of deer hunting to address rising deer populations and protect ecosystems.

Utah Hunting Regulation Changes for 2024: Significant changes to hunting regulations, focusing on modernization and sustainability.

Pittsburgh Pilot Deer Control Program: A successful pilot program in city parks has culled 64 deer, aiding urban wildlife management.

In this November Edition of the BBR Deer News, news you might have missed over the last month, we cover several stories from around the country.  Here are the stories we cover and felt were news worthy:

Controversial Sharpshooters: Discussion on sharpshooters hired to kill deer from helicopters on Catalina Island, California.

Kentucky Poaching Cases: Coverage of poaching incidents in Kentucky.

Urban Deer Hunting in West Virginia: A story about deer hunting in urban areas of West Virginia.

New Bow and Arrow Hunt in Rhode Island: Introduction of a newly sanctioned bow and arrow hunting method in Rhode Island.

Tree Stand Safety in Wisconsin: Advice on avoiding ash trees for tree stands in Wisconsin.

Chronic Wasting Disease in Minnesota: Examination of a CWD (Chronic Wasting Disease) story in Minnesota.

Spear Hunting in Arkansas: Discussion about the practice of spear hunting in Arkansas.

Potential Record Buck in Texas: Report on a potential new record-setting buck in Texas.

Major Changes in Utah: Discussion of significant changes in deer hunting regulations in Utah.

Deer Population Management Debate in New York: Insights into a debate over managing a growing deer population in Jamestown, New York.

Episode Overview: In this episode, we explore the multifaceted challenges and developments in deer populations and wildlife management across various regions.

Topics Covered:

TWRA Controversy: Unpacking the allegations against the Tennessee Wildlife and Resources Agency (TWRA) related to Chronic Wasting Disease.

Urban Deer Overpopulation: Discussing the deer population challenges in urban areas, spotlighting Washington, DC, and Dartmouth.

Hunting Season Updates: Highlighting the introduction of crossbows in Minnesota's archery deer season and Michigan's DNR's emphasis on antlerless deer hunting.

Digital Transition in Hunting: Exploring the modern shift to digital kill registrations and its impact on the hunting community.

Lake Winnipesaukee's Deer Hunting: A look at the decision to open all islands for deer hunting.

Controversial Proposals: Navigating the deer baiting ban debate in Kansas and the legal challenges faced by Mill Creek MetroParks' deer management strategy.

We've partnered with Wayne Saunders from the Warden's Watch podcast to delve into a gripping story that serves as a cautionary tale for hunters and conservationists alike. Ohio is a prime destination for white-tailed deer hunters, but unfortunately, it also attracts poachers. We'll explore the story of "Big Boy," a trophy buck that captured the attention of ethical hunters and law enforcement officers, only to fall victim to poaching.

Ohio as a Hunting Destination: Why Ohio is a hotspot for white-tailed deer hunting and, regrettably, also for poaching.

The Ethical Hunters: Ian Obenshain and Brad Bailey spot Big Boy in the summer of 2009 and plan to hunt it ethically in the fall.

Officer Gilkey's Involvement: The hunters specifically wanted Officer Gilkey to be involved in overseeing the hunting area.

The Disappearance: Big Boy vanishes from trail cameras just before the hunting season begins.

The Expo Revelation: Months later, Big Boy is displayed at an expo, claimed to be a Kentucky state record by a poacher.

The Confession: The poacher sticks to his story but eventually confesses, hoping to avoid prison time.

Legal Consequences: The poacher, with thirteen prior hunting convictions, faces a lifetime hunting ban and a $23,572.05 fine under Ohio's Trophy Restitution Law.

Recognition for Officer Gilkey: He receives the Ohio Bow Hunter Officer of the Year award for solving this case.

Role of Ethical Hunters: The hunters who initially spotted and documented Big Boy also deserve recognition for their ethical approach.

Reporting Wildlife Crime: The importance of reporting wildlife crimes through platforms like wildlifecrimestoppers.org.

The Emotional Toll: The loss of Big Boy was hard for the ethical hunters, but the case also brought them closer as friends.

Law Enforcement's Approach: The seriousness with which the case was handled is a testament to the importance of wildlife conservation.

  The tale of Big Boy serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by ethical hunters and the importance of wildlife conservation. While the story had a bittersweet ending, it also showcased the dedication of law enforcement officers like Officer Gilkey and the role of ethical hunters in preserving the integrity of the sport. The case also highlights the importance of reporting wildlife crimes, which can be done across all 50 states and Canada through wildlifecrimestoppers.org. Let's all take a moment to appreciate the efforts of those who strive to keep our forests and wildlife safe.

In this episode of Deer News for August 2023, we cover a variety of topics including the dispute over deer management in Arlington, new hunting regulations in Minnesota and Missouri, illegal hunting charges in Pennsylvania, crossbow impact debate in West Virginia, and an illegal hunting investigation in Ontario. Tune in for an in-depth discussion on these critical issues affecting deer population, hunting practices, and conservation efforts.

  NEW DEER NEWS FIRST SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH!

Every deer hunter has dreamed of owning their own hunting camp.  Most camps or hunting cabins are usually weathered, or shifted, or rotted. Not to worry though, the Maine Cabin Masters can turn a teardown into an almost-new deer camp palace in just a few months.  We hash out the details of finding and rebuilding a deer cabin with Dixie and Jedi, (aka Matt Dix and Jared Baker of the show Maine Cabin Masters.  And of course, we talk about Matt and Jared's Maine deer hunting adventures.

Special Guest Host: Wayne Saunders, Warden's Watch

Our Sponsors:

OnX Hunt

Here's What We Discuss:

Discovery Plus, I'm Not a Carpenter

Wayne Is a HUGE Fan Too!

Gotta Be A Deer Hunter in this Crew

We've Know Each Other Forever, U Maine Farmington

Chase Identified and Opportunity and Trapper Cabin

It Wasn't 16 Kids, but Quite a Few

Maine is Like New Hampshire

Working on Deer Camps

Big Woods, Hard Hunting, Legendary Trackers

Fuller Episode, 100 Acres in an 800 Acres Preserve

Central Maine Deer Population

Deer Living in Minus 20

The Alertness of the Maine Whitetail

Big Buck Get Big for a Reason

Cabins in Maine, Job Security

Swillin' Beers and Deer Camp

Soloist Hunting, Live Free or Die

Suzie the Dog Cameo

The Woodshed in Manchester Maine

Lab Family

Owning a Piece of Maine Heaven

Family or from Scratch

Fundamentals vs Ornamentals

Post and Piers, Off Level

1st Step, Clean out the Camp

Step 2, Jack it

The New Metal Post Digger Below the Frost Line

Frost Heaving

Drill and Pin Ledging

It's a Different Kind of Cold 

Hearty Individuals

Turning the Elements into a Playground

Too Much TV is Insanely Boring

Adjusting Camp Levels Every Few Years

Camera Shoots and Hours of Explanation

North Woods Law Wardens

Coffee and Talking 

Building Things 3 or 4 Times for Film

Get the Work Done after the Film Crew Leaves

No, we Can't Do This Camp

3 Camps at a Time Usually

Demo Is Fun

Demo vs Dismantling

Roof, Step 3

Metal vs Shingles

Patchwork, Eastern White White, No Sheet Rock

Shiplap Super Boards

Remote Renovations, Generators and Good Batteries

Chase's Shirt Designs

Letterkenny References 

Pitter Patter

Deer Hunting Grandfather

Trackers of Maine, Can't Sit

Upland Game Hunting

Pots and Pans, Filling the Freezer

Deer Like Elk Sounds

Duck Hunting on the Eastern River

Bear Season and Grouse

Bird Dogging

Chase Says High

Deer Stories

Rapid Fire Questions

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CREDITS:

This Show was Written, Edited, and Produced by Jason “Jay” Scott Ammann

Deer News Written and Recorded by Jim Keller

Deer New Contributors - Daniel Applebaum, Tim Donze, Jon Guice

Chubby Tines Tip of the Week Written by Dusty Phillips

Special Guest: Wayne Saunders from Warden's Watch