Blog
Ep. 54 | Learn How To Backpack – with Emory Wanger
Ep. 53 | How To Take Pics & Video In The Field Like A Pro – with Clint Easley of Revol Entertainment
Ep. 52 | Brotherhood of the Traveling Pack – with Steve Opat & Dennis Stokes
Broadhead Review
By Johnny Mack
After spending all winter dreaming about the fall hunting seasons, I started to take inventory of my gear and look into what items I wanted to switch out or try. Broadheads were at the top of my list. Not because I didn’t like the head I was previously using, but because there is an abundance of cool technology and heads to choose from on the market these days.
Continue reading “Broadhead Review”
Ep. 51 | Carbon TV, Hunting & More – with Jules McQueen
Ep. 50 | Grayboe Gun Stocks and Hunting – with Ryan McMillan
Ep. 49 | All Things Arrow – with Garrett Weaver
Ep. 48 | 2020 Hunting Season Kickoff – with Johnny & Megan Mack
This Is How I Hunt – No. 41 Dylan Dowson
by Johnny Mack
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 41 Dylan Dowson”
Ep. 47 | Pursue Your Passions – with Steve Opat
This Is How I Hunt – No. 40 Lauren Hill
by Johnny Mack
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 40 Lauren Hill”
Ep. 46 | The Legacy We Create – with Todd Bumgardner
Dutch Oven Wild Game Roast
By Weston Alexander
A good pot roast is a staple of many families and definitely one of ours. Households across America have their own recipes that has been passed down from generation to generation. It’s the meal that warms our bellies and also our souls. It the center of where we gather for great conversations and to spend quality time with the ones we love. In this recipe I share my take on the pot roast but add my ow twist to it. This recipe is done with a Dutch oven in an open fire.
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GEAR REVIEW: Vortex Razor UHD 12×50 Binoculars
By Johnny Mack
In the spring of 2020 I had the privilege of using Vortex Razor UHD 12×50 binoculars on my bear hunt. I was beyond elated to be able to use them while hunting after looking through them at the Western Hunting and Conservation Expo. The first time I looked through them I was blown away with the quality of glass. Previously I was using Vortex Razor HD binos and even though those were very good, the UHD’s are hands far better and in a class of their own.
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GEAR REVIEW: Vortex Razor HD 4000 Rangefinder
By Johnny Mack
This past spring, I had the pleasure of using the Vortex Razor HD 4000 rangefinder on my Washington state spring bear hunt. I was super excited to finally have a rangefinder that matched my binoculars and rifle scope in optical clarity and sharpness. I have used multiple rangefinders in the past only to feel disappointed when trying to range an animal in low light and then not be able to find it.
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Ep. 45 | Backcountry Eats – with Seth Adams of Peak Refuel
Ep. 44 | Callin’ Coyotes – with Minor League Predator Control
Ep. 43 | Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors – with Brittany Waldman
COMING SOON: SOUL SEEKERS YOUTUBE SERIES
Back To The Basics of Elk Hunting
Ep. 42 | Let’s Talk Backpacks – with Dennis Stokes of Initial Ascent
This Is How I Hunt – No. 39 Chris Mann
by Johnny Mack
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special. Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 39 Chris Mann”
Ep. 41 | Talking Turkeys – with Matt Schmitz
Ep. 40 | Spring Bear Update Weekend 2
Dungeness Crab Stuffed Morel Mushrooms
By Tony Ellersick
On the first weekend of the 2020 spring bear season, we stumbled across a large harvest of morel mushrooms. Knowing that they are prized and still require skill to find, I found it fitting to throw a recipe together for everyone who is looking for a good morel recipe. In this recipe I’m combining land and sea to make an awesome spring time meal or appetizer. Dungeness crab and morel mushrooms pair together so well! Both texture and flavors explode and after making this dish it easily became a favorite combo!
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This Is How I Hunt – No. 38 Chase Harris
by Johnny Mack
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special. Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 38 Chase Harris”
Ep. 39 | The Price is Wrong – with Brian Lynn of Sportmen’s Alliance
Ep. 38 | The Art of Masculinity with Johnny Elsasser
Ep. 37 | Mule Deer Foundation with JJ Hinton & Steve Belinda
Ep. 36 | The Provider Life with Christian Armstrong
Ep. 35 | Spring Bear Update
Ep. 34 | Is Hunting a Right? – with Allen Ernst of SCI
The Soulful Series | Chapter 6 Rob Keating
Ep. 33 | Why You Should Join the Sportsmen’s Alliance – with Brian Lynn
GEAR REVIEW: Work Sharp Guided Field Sharpener
By Johnny Mack
This last year I decided to try out a fixed blade knife for processing game instead of constantly having to remember to refill my replaceable blades. Once I settled on the Benchmade Altitude, I knew that a fixed blade is only as good as how sharp you keep it. With that in mind, I set off to find a small, lightweight and convenient sharpener that I could trust and rely upon while hunting.
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Ep. 32 | Blacktail Hunting 101 – with Tom Ryle
Ep. 31 | Fuel The Pursuit – with Ryan Munsey & Mike Lum
3 Reasons To Rethink Your Backpacking Food
By Ryan Munsey & Mike Lum
Continue reading “3 Reasons To Rethink Your Backpacking Food”
GEAR REVIEW: Benchmade Altitude Knife
By Johnny Mack
A good knife is something to be valued, and in the words of Benjamin Franklin, “There never was a good knife made of bad steel.” This statement still rings true today and Benchmade delivered when creating the Altitude.
Continue reading “GEAR REVIEW: Benchmade Altitude Knife”
The Soulful Series | Chapter 5 Clint Easley
Ep. 30 – The Why Series | Chapter 5 – Predator Hunting
First Aid Kits | From your vehicle to the backcountry
By Dennis Deitchman
Being prepared for anything in the backcountry is vital. Whether it is equipment or learned skills, everyone should be prepared with some sort of medical kit. Even if it’s as simple as a couple bandaids (although you really should have a more thought out kit). I have two kits I use. One is for backpacking. It is very small, lightweight, and packs a punch in what it can do for me. The other is for my truck, and smaller outings where weight doesn’t matter.
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This Is How I Hunt – No. 37 Steve Opat
by Johnny Mack
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special. Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 37 Steve Opat”
Ep. 29 – Bear Hunting 101 with Clay Newcomb
Ep. 28 – Turning Tragedies Into Triumphs with Rudy Nunez of Tactacam
The Soulful Series | Chapter 4 Adam Kunz
Ep. 27 – From Washington to Wisconsin with Mark Boardman of Vortex Optics
Ep. 26 – OnX Hunt with Dylan Dowson
Ep. 25 – The Journey of an Elk Hunter with Jeff Winslow
Ep. 24 – From Bucks to Bears with Shane Vander Giessen
Ep. 23 – Becoming a Hunter with Ian Padron
The Power of Social Media
Johnny Mack of Washington Backcountry recently had the pleasure to talk with Chad Ryker, the host of the Backcountry Rookies Podcast about the power of social media and the influence it can have in today’s society. Give a listen and let us know what you think.
Wild Game Cassoulet
By John Brooks
IG:@jbrooks999
When people think of French food, they think of stuffy, complicated, unsatisfying cuisine: fragile sauces or soufflé that fail with the smallest inattention. This is sometimes true, but what is also true is the countryside in France is full of down to earth hard-working people who cook very good food with what the landscape provides. This recipe is just that. It incorporates waterfowl, some tougher chunks of critter, bacon, and beans. The ingredients in this recipe are less important than the process. Once you get the process down, you can make this dish personal, and use what you have.
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Why Societal Pressures Have Created an Aversion to Hunting
by Lou Lou Durant
Society wants to domesticate us.
Think back to when we were little kids. Unburdened by the plagues of everyday life – work, politics, social conflict… That was true, unadulterated freedom.
We were open books before our pages were written on. And, we weren’t the ink that originally wrote our story. It isn’t until we become adults where we truly begin to evaluate the belief systems that we learned as children.
This is all to say that before we had our instincts stifled by omnipotent societal pressures and the melodrama of everyday expectations, we were free.
Continue reading “Why Societal Pressures Have Created an Aversion to Hunting”
Ep. 22 – Hunting While Spiritually Intoxicated with Anna Lisa Brashear
Join Us At The Western Hunt & Conservation Expo
Mentorship, Conservation & Primal Adventure
What does the next generation of hunting look like?
February 13-16, 2020 • Salt Palace Convention Center • Salt Lake City
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Ep. 21 – The Why Series | Chapter 4 – Legacy
Ep. 20 – From Rookie to Mentor with Jason Grove
Ep. 19 – The Better Half of Hunting
Wild Game Avocado Burger with Rosemary/Sun Dried Tomato Mayo
By Dennis Deitchman
There’s a million burger recipes out there, but this is one of my favorites. It’s more than a plain ol cheeseburger, but not over the top and impossible to eat. For your burger, you are going to want to add fat to it, as most wild game has little to no fat content. You can do this with beef fat, pork fat, lots of oil, or even frozen butter cubes mixed in. I look for about 10% fat in my grinds, and you can even play with your grind and add different cuts to it.
This Is How I Hunt – No. 36 Dan Ness
by Johnny Mack
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special. Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 36 Dan Ness”
Ep. 18 – The Healing Power of Hunting with Chad Ryker of Backcountry Rookies
Smoked Elk Meatloaf
Smoked Elk Meatloaf by Weston Alexander
For those of you looking to do something a little different with your ground meat, give this recipe a try. I guarantee you will not be disappointed!
Continue reading “Smoked Elk Meatloaf”
Ep. 17 – The Why Series | Chapter 3 – Mentorship
The Soulful Series | Chapter 3 John Brooks
Ep. 16 – Facing Fears & Getting Dialed In with Josh Kirchner
This Is How I Hunt – No. 35 Clint Easley
by Johnny Mack
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special. Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 35 Clint Easley”
At least it’ll eat good…
by Johnny Mack
This last weekend I had the blessing of shooting my very first buck. Something that I had waited a very long time for. It was a wonderful late season rifle hunt for whitetail in the upper northeast part of the state of Washington. I was hunting in a game management unit (GMU) that was open for any buck (meaning if it has antlers, it was legal to shoot).
Continue reading “At least it’ll eat good…”
A NIGHT TO TALK HUNTING, CONSERVATION & BUILD COMMUNITY
Wild Game Shepherd’s Pie
Wild Game Shepherd’s Pie by Dennis Deitchman
If you find that your ground meat stash just never seems to go down, and you can only handle so many burgers, Shepherd’s Pie is a great recipe to use up some of that bulk game that can feed you and your family for a few days. This is similar to a chili or a stew, where you just throw in whatever ya got. It’s a great hearty meal for whenever the temps start dropping outside as well.
Continue reading “Wild Game Shepherd’s Pie”
Ep. 15 – What is Primal Adventure?
The Soulful Series | Chapter 2 Christian “Rev” Armstrong
This Is How I Hunt – No. 34 Paul Servey
By Johnny Mack
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special. Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 34 Paul Servey”
The Soulful Series | Chapter 1 Jeremy Sample
Inspiration vs. Motivation
by Johnny Mack
While doing some reflection as to why people choose to hunt, I kept coming back to this concept of motivation vs. inspiration. In a world driven by technology and social media, I wanted to know what are some of the deciding factors people need in order to begin a journey of something new.
Continue reading “Inspiration vs. Motivation”
Ep. 14 – The Hunting Narrative with Robbie Kroger of Blood Origins
This Is How I Hunt – No. 33 Rob Keating
By Johnny Mack
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special. Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 33 Rob Keating”
Ep. 13 – The Why Series | Chapter 2 – What Is Conservation and Why Do We Need It?
Wild Game Chili Recipe
Wild Game Chili by Dennis Deitchman
One of my favorite meals to cook with wild game is a big ol’ pot of chili. It’s versatile and you can feed a whole family on it for a few days. Plus the longer it sits the better it tastes. Overall, it is very simple to make, as long as you pay attention to a few key points in the process. When choosing a meat to use, you can go a few different ways, but the process stays basically the same. If you want all ground you can do that. If you like yours chunky you can use cubed or stew meat, or a combo of both. It really is whatever you have laying around. For my chili recipe I used ground antelope, and elk breakfast sausage. Let’s get started:
Continue reading “Wild Game Chili Recipe”
Ep. 12 – Balancing Purpose with Passion
This Is How I Hunt – No. 32 Dan Stanton
By Johnny Mack
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special. Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 32 Dan Stanton”
This Is How I Hunt – No. 31 Derek Depew
By Johnny Mack
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special. Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 31 Derek Depew”
Ep. 11 – Recruiting a Non-Hunter with Tucker Stine
This Is How I Hunt – No. 30 Dave Dowty
By Johnny Mack
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special. Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 30 Dave Dowty”
Ep. 10 – The Wild’s Call with Jess Patrick
Hunting 101: Part 5 – Packing For Your Adventure
By Johnny Mack
Anytime you leave your vehicle and head off on an adventure, you should always be prepared to answer 2 simple questions. Can you respond positively to an emergency or accident? And can you safely spend a night (or more) outside? Being able to answer those questions can be the difference between life or death.
Continue reading “Hunting 101: Part 5 – Packing For Your Adventure”
This Is How I Hunt – No. 29 Ian Burrow
By Johnny Mack
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special. Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 29 Ian Burrow”
Episode 88: East Meets West Podcast | Mentorship is Conservation with Johnny Mack
On episode 88 of the East Meets West Podcast, Johnny Mack joins host Beau Martonik for a interesting and reflective podcast. Rather than talking about tips and tactics, they talk about mentorship, adventure and the deeper meaning to hunting. Johnny ends by talking about his first successful elk hunt after 4 years of trying.
Continue reading “Episode 88: East Meets West Podcast | Mentorship is Conservation with Johnny Mack”
Ep. 9 – The Why Series | Chapter 1 – What It Means To Be An Ambassador For Hunting
Ep. 8 – Mentoring and Changing Lives with Jeff Barlow of Nimrod Outdoors
Ep. 7 – Elk Hunting with Sitka Ambassador Dan Ness
Ep. 6 – Waterfowl Hunting 101 with Tommy Sandoz
Ducks, Putts and Pints
Washington Backcountry’s next event is on the books and scheduled for August 11th from noon to 4pm at Flatstick Pub in South Lake Union (609 Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109). This event is focused on building community and recruiting new hunters. We are partnering with Ducks Unlimited and the Washington State Department of Wildlife to focus efforts in recruiting new waterfowl hunters but ultimately to get more people involved in hunting and the outdoors. If you have any questions, please reach out and get a hold of us. We look forward to seeing you there!
Ep. 5 – The Power of Purpose with Tim Corcoran
This Is How I Hunt – No. 28 Jeff Barlow
By Johnny Mack
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Ep. 4 – The Why with Jana Waller
Ep. 3 – Powderhook & The Power Of Hunting with Eric Dinger
This Is How I Hunt – No. 27 Jeff Lusk
By Johnny Mack
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
A Matter Of Legacy
By Johnny Mack
legacy | ‘legesē | noun:
A thing handed down by a predecessor.
Continue reading “A Matter Of Legacy” 
This Is How I Hunt – No. 26 Dustin Coy
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special. Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 26 Dustin Coy”
Mountain Hunter Box
If you are a hunter and active on social media these days, there is a good chance that you might be familiar with subscription boxes focused on providing items specifically tailored to the outdoorsman. Being someone that is very picky when selecting gear for my adventures, I was hesitant to dive in and see what the hype was all about.
Continue reading “Mountain Hunter Box”Ep. 2 – Lessons Learned with Tony Ellersick
This Is How I Hunt – No. 25 Ryan Lampers
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special. Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 25 Ryan Lampers”
Ep. 1 – The Beginning Of Primal Adventure
This Is How I Hunt – No. 24 Mark Huelsing
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 24 Mark Huelsing”
This Is How I Hunt – No. 23 Christian Armstrong
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt – No. 23 Christian Armstrong”
Hunting 101: Part 4 – Understanding Wind & Thermals
By Johnny Mack
Being a successful hunter requires a lot of grit, patience, knowledge and a little bit of luck. One of the ways to build your own luck, is to understand how and why wind and thermals play an important role in the success of your hunt. Luck is often confused with preparation and experience. In part 4 of our Hunting 101 series we are going to cover and explain the importance of wind and thermals while hunting. Applying this information while out in the field will not only help you but also explain why things did not go as planned .
Continue reading “Hunting 101: Part 4 – Understanding Wind & Thermals”
A Letter From The Soulful Hunter
By Johnny Mack
When was the last time you did something for the first time? Try to take yourself back to your mindset when you were there? Were you nervous? Unsure? Felt lost and maybe even overwhelmed?
Continue reading “A Letter From The Soulful Hunter”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 22 Chad Ryker
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 22 Chad Ryker”
Hunting 101: Part 3 – Optics & Glassing For Success
By Johnny Mack
If you have been following along with our Hunting 101 series, you should now have the knowledge and confidence to find land to hunt on (part 1) as well as be able to find animals (part 2). Part 3 is everything you need to know about the importance of optics and glassing for success. The term “glassing” is an action word to describe the use of binoculars or spotting scopes to look for animals.
Continue reading “Hunting 101: Part 3 – Optics & Glassing For Success”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 21 Travis Greenwood
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 21 Travis Greenwood”
Is Mentorship What’s Missing In Hunting?
If you are an old salty veteran or brand new to hunting, you might have heard that hunter numbers have been declining for some time now. Every year that passes, the hunting community loses more hunters than it gains and the trend is not looking good.
Continue reading “Is Mentorship What’s Missing In Hunting?”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 20 Jon Collins
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 20 Jon Collins”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 19 Wesley Smith
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 19 Wesley Smith”
Building Community with Washington Backcountry
On March 9th, Washington Backcountry hosted one of their social events to build community for anyone who loves to hunt or anyone wanting to learn how. It was a fun evening getting to know everyone and packed with great conversation. One of the highlights of the event was having representation from the Washington State Department of Fish & Wildlife there to partner with us on our mission to transform lives through primal adventure.
Continue reading “Building Community with Washington Backcountry”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 18 Tyler Nelson
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 18 Tyler Nelson”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 17 Kyle Kamp
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 17 Kyle Kamp”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 16 Lexi Hokett
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 16 Lexi Hokett”
Backcountry Rookies Podcast Ep. 28 – Mentorship & Recruitment with Johnny Mack
Johnny Mack of Washington Backcountry recently had the pleasure to talk with Chad Ryker, the host of the Backcountry Rookies Podcast about his vision and mission for the hunting community. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the Backcountry Rookies Podcast, it was developed to help new hunters learn ideas and hunting tactics, in order to have success in hunting the western states. The podcast can be found on iTunes, Stitcher as well as the Sportmen’s Nation Network.
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Seany Foundation Fundraiser
If you have ever been affected by cancer or know someone who has, you know how devastating and disruptive the battle is to everyday life. Not only for the person fighting for their survival and health, but for the family as well.
The Seany Foundation is a nonprofit charity that provides the opportunity for children who are battling cancer to go to camp so they can receive some happiness and relief from the storm. The foundation also sends the siblings of the cancer victims because when cancer strikes, it affects the whole family as well. My wife’s cousin attended a similar camp here in Washington as a child that suffered from a cancer diagnosis.
Washington Backcountry is on a mission to raise $3,000 dollars to help send these children to camp. We ask that you help us crush that goal by taking the time to donate and be a hero in the life of these children affected by cancer.
You can donate by clicking on the link below. Every gift, large or small, is going to make a difference in bringing happiness and relief to these kids! Thank you once again for making this world a better place. You cannot out give good!
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 15 Taren Weigandt
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 15 Taren Weigandt”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 14 Josh Kirchner
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 14 Josh Kirchner”
Episode 63 – Backcountry Mentorship with Johnny Mack
Johnny recently had the pleasure to chat it up with Emory Wanger of the By Land Podcast. The By Land Podcast is focused on better backpacking but breaches a variety of topics that take place in the backcountry. Whether you are a hiker, backpacker, hunter, or nature enthusiast, the By Land Podcast will have something for you. The podcast can be found on iTunes, Stitcher as well as other popular platforms.
Continue reading “Episode 63 – Backcountry Mentorship with Johnny Mack”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 13 Jared Larsen
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 13 Jared Larsen”
Join us in building community and hear why mentorship is conservation.
Whether you are new to hunting or an old crusty veteran, we would love for you to join us on Saturday March 9th at 6:30 pm to talk hunter recruitment, mentorship, share stories and much more. Representation from the Washington State Department of Fish & Wildlife will be present to engage in conversation as well. If you want to build community and friendships within the hunting community, be sure to attend. Feel free to message us if you have any questions.
Continue reading “Join us in building community and hear why mentorship is conservation.”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 12 Garrett Weaver
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special. Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 12 Garrett Weaver”
Ep. 33 – It’s never too late with Johnny Mack
Recently Johnny had the pleasure of chatting it up with Garrett Weaver of the On Point Podcast. In the episode, Johnny shared his journey of how he got into hunting, his first archery elk hunt, and a lot more.
Continue reading “Ep. 33 – It’s never too late with Johnny Mack”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No.11 Tom Ryle
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No.11 Tom Ryle”
GEAR REVIEW: MAVEN B.2 11×45 BINOCULARS
By Johnny Mack
If you are in the market for binoculars, spotting scope, or a rifle scope and have not heard of Maven optics, listen up. Maven jumped into the optics market in 2014, and is based out of Lander Wyoming. The company is built upon the idea that optics can be developed without compromise in quality or performance, all without the big box store markup.
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 10 Chase Gunnell
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 10 Chase Gunnell”Mentorship is conservation.
By Johnny Mack
Washington Backcountry was founded upon the belief that mentorship in all aspects of life is important and needed. Earning your stripes is paramount for reflection and growth. However, sometimes the concept of earning your stripes is put before the teaching and learning process. Continue reading “Mentorship is conservation.”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 9 Tony Wintrip
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 9 Tony Wintrip”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 8 Jeremiah Doughty
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 8 Jeremiah Doughty”
GEAR REVIEW: Hunter’s Blend Coffee
Do you smell it? The beautiful aroma of delicious fresh coffee being made in the morning. That wonderful sound of coffee dripping down into a pot, or percolating on the stove. These are the sounds that remind us that it is time to focus. That it is time to prepare.
Hunting 101: Part 2 – How To Find Animals
By Johnny Mack
Finding animals to hunt is difficult. I used to believe that if you simply walked into the woods, you would find them. Turns out, that is not the case. Over all my years of backpacking and hiking, I can count on one hand the amount of times I have come across deer, bear or any other game animals while in the wild. Hunting is difficult as proven by harvest statistics every year. In the state of Washington approximately 20% of hunters successfully harvest a buck yearly. To find animals you need to understand the three basic things needed for survival: food, water and shelter. Just like humans, animals would prefer not to travel miles and miles to get each one. If you can narrow it down to all three within a close distance, you are on the right track.
Continue reading “Hunting 101: Part 2 – How To Find Animals”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 7 Andrew McKean
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 7 Andrew McKean”
COME JOIN US AT THE 2018 SEASON CELEBRATION
Come join Washington Backcountry to celebrate the 2018 hunting season at Hellbent Brewing Company on December 8th @ 7pm.
Continue reading “COME JOIN US AT THE 2018 SEASON CELEBRATION”
GEAR REVIEW: Crispi Lapponia
By Johnny Mack
I have spent most of my life in the woods starting with backpacking when I was 7 years old. That first trip was a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail in northern Washington. Growing up I hiked in any pair of available athletic shoes that my mother wouldn’t kill me for ruining. Year after year, hike after hike, were spent stomping around the wilderness with some type of everyday rubber soled average athletic shoe. Although hiking in those shoes proved to be comfortable for the way they fit, they were by no means waterproof, durable or had enough support.
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 6 Beau Martonik
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 6 Beau Martonik”
Hunting 101: Part 1 – Finding Land To Hunt
By Johnny Mack
This last weekend Washington Backcountry had the pleasure of hunting mule deer with a new hunter who reached out to us for some help and guidance. It was the first time that we had the opportunity to practice what we preach when it comes to mentoring new and prospective hunters.
Continue reading “Hunting 101: Part 1 – Finding Land To Hunt”
GEAR REVIEW: Vortex Viper PST Gen II
By Johnny Mack
There is an abundance of optics companies these day all competing for your dollar and loyalty. Vortex Optics is one of those companies and they have developed quite the cult following in recent years. That following was built upon their “VIP” warranty. It states that no matter what happens, your Vortex product will either be fixed or replaced. In the world of hunting, if your optics fail, you are going to have a slim chance of success. Hopefully you will never have to test their warranty, but it is nice to know it is there.
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 5 Hannah Kycek
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 5 Hannah Kycek”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 4 Jana Waller
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 4 Jana Waller”
GEAR REVIEW: Seekins Precision SP-10
By Johnny Mack
Washington Backcountry recently had the pleasure of heading over to Lewiston Idaho to the home of Seekins Precision. If you have never heard of Seekins Precision before, one of the best “freedom manufacturers” in the country, they specialize in rifle and small parts manufacturing.
The 2018 season started off with a BANG!
The 2018 hunting season has been highly anticipated by the team here at Washington Backcountry. August marked the opening of fall bear here in Washington as well as the newest arrival to the Washington Backcountry family. Our team member Tony Ellersick welcomed his first child and baby boy Karsten to the world while team members Wes and Johnny hit the mountains for Wes’s first ever backpack hunt.
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 3 Jeff Winslow
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 3 Jeff Winslow”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 2 Jason Phelps
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 2 Jason Phelps”
This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 1 Jason M Grove
Hunting is hard. Flat out. It takes patience, courage, and grit. More often than not you are left with an unfilled tag in your pocket and a long walk back to the truck. So why do it? Why put in so much time, money and effort if percentages do not go in your favor? I know why I do it. I do it because the effort it takes to successfully harvest an animal is unlike any other feeling in life. Because with no risk there can be no reward. It is what makes hunting and harvesting your own meat so special.
Continue reading “This Is How I Hunt Series – No. 1 Jason M Grove”
The Use Of Social Media – Meeting Hunting Partners & Building Community
By Johnny Mack
Five years ago I met my best friend and now my wife through the power of the internet and social media. We didn’t know each other growing up nor did we even know of each other’s existence until we met using the free dating app Plenty Of Fish. It was love at first sight and it has been nothing but love ever since. The irony of it as it relates to hunting is, people have no problem using the internet to meet their spouses and significant others, but how many people will not use it to meet hunting partners or build community in the hunting world? Continue reading “The Use Of Social Media – Meeting Hunting Partners & Building Community”
Nutrition In The Backcountry – How To Eat For Success
By Johnny Mack
We recently had the pleasure of getting to know and talk with Registered Dietician Kyle Kamp of Valley To Peak Nutrition located in Boise Idaho. Kyle has been featured on the Hunt Backcountry Podcast presented by EXO Mountain Gear (https://exomountaingear.com/124/), and is an amazing person who decided to make a change in his own personal life after realizing how unhealthy he was and the hardships it was causing. Kyle decided to pursue nutrition and exercise to make a change in his own life, and after losing 140 pounds, he chose to become a licensed and registered dietician as a way to inspire and help others on their own journey. Continue reading “Nutrition In The Backcountry – How To Eat For Success”
More Than Meets The Eye – Using Scouting As A Recruiting Tool
By Johnny Mack
Summer is here and hunters are in full-blown scouting mode for this coming fall. Welcoming summer brings about velvet antlers, new adventures, and plenty of fresh air as people are looking forward to exploring the different parts of the country. As hunters are hitting the hills, there is another group of outdoor public land enthusiasts gearing up to do the same. Continue reading “More Than Meets The Eye – Using Scouting As A Recruiting Tool”
Hunting Answers The Call To Fulfill Our Need For Spiritual Health
By Johnny Mack
Have you ever been questioned about your passion or obsession with hunting? How about being told that all you focus on or talk about is hunting and chasing animals. My wife hounds me nonstop about how it is always on my mind and preoccupies my thoughts. She says it is the best worst thing to happen to me and our family. It might be sad to say, but I can’t help it. Fulfilling my innermost primordial call to hunt and be wild is at the core of my existence, and hunting answers that call.
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Wellness & Hunting – A Perfect Match
By Johnny Mack
Wellness & Hunting
How much thought do you put into health and wellness? Do you prepare every off season for your next adventure or does your health ebb and flow like the ocean tide depending on what you have planned? The term “wellness” is synonymous with health, and is a common word that most people would be able to understand or describe. Yet even with it being common, it is not something that is used in everyday language nor do people truly understand the full breadth of its meaning. Wellness is something that most hunters would associate with exercise and healthy eating, and for the most part, that is true. However there is so much more to the term than what the general public probably knows.
The Journey Begins
Thanks for joining me!
Who we are: Washington Backcountry came about out of an idea born in the heart of the Cascade Mountains. Hunting and the outdoors are not just a passion but also a way of life for us. We strive to be ambassadors for the hunting and outdoor community, while serving as a resource for those who are unsure about where to start. Continue reading “The Journey Begins”