Blog
GEAR REVIEW: Initial Ascent IA4K Backpack
By Johnny Mack
When it comes to hunting gear, people often talk about a good pair of boots and a comfortable backpack as being the most essential gear to make or break a hunt (besides your weapon of course). After spending several seasons hunting and packing out animals, I was always left with a excruciating pain between my shoulder blades that would eventually beat me down and made me despise the pack I was wearing.
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Hunting 101: Part 6 – Choosing What Species To Hunt
by Johnny Mack
Once you make the decision to start hunting, it is easy to focus on just one animal as your target goal. Before you get locked in to any specific target animal, there are a few things you might want to consider. More often than not, new hunters focus on hunting one target species, rather than the art of hunting itself.
Continue reading “Hunting 101: Part 6 – Choosing What Species To Hunt”
Ep. 69 | Living the American Dream with Tyler Kath
Ep. 68 | Take Control of Your Mind & Life with Thomas Mifsud
Ep. 67 | What’s new with OnX Hunt & Catching Up with Dylan Dowson
Second Focal Plane (SFP) vs First Focal Plane (FFP) – What’s the difference?
By Johnny Mack
If you are new to hunting or shooting and you are in the market for a rifle scope, the amount of options available can be overwhelming at times. Do you go with locking/target turrets, adjustable parallax, what magnification, second focal plane or first etc.? Understanding the differences between second focal plane (sfp) and first focal plane (ffp) rifle scopes is very important.
Continue reading “Second Focal Plane (SFP) vs First Focal Plane (FFP) – What’s the difference?”
Ep. 66 | Finding Yourself & Learning to Hunt with Brittany Gaither
Ep. 65 | Untethering Your Soul with Johnny Mack
GEAR REVIEW: Vortex Razor HD Gen II
By Johnny Mack
The Vortex Razor HD Gen II is a power house of an optic. Whether you are competing in a PRS match or out in the wild pursing game, this scope has the ability to do it all. With all things in life, there are pros and there are cons. Hopefully this article will help you figure out if this is the right scope for you.
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Ep. 64 | Parenting and Hunting with Kate Small
Ep. 63 | Finding the Courage to Mentor with Justin Spruiell
Ep. 62 | The State of the Union with Ryan McMillan
We Need Your Help!
2020 has been a year like none other! At Washington Backcountry and The Soulful Hunter Podcast we believe and stand firmly upon the notion that YOU CAN’T OUT GIVE GOOD. With that being said, the kids at Seattle Children’s Hospital are taking the brunt of this pandemic as visitation and other things have been dramatically affected and cut. One of the biggest things that WE can do as a community to bring light and love to them is by contributing financially. We can circle around and support them during these trying times by contributing money to purchase toys and gifts for the children and to brighten their lives a bit this holiday season.
We sincerely ask that you would find it in your heart and wallet to help us reach our goal of raising $25,000 to buy toys for the children at Seattle Children’s Hospital. Every little bit helps. From a $1 donation to whatever you can afford, you cannot out give good. We also ask that you share this link with your community of friends, family and businesses and let’s create a legacy of love in this world. Thank you and be blessed.
For Tax deduction purposes:
Seattle Children’s Hospital Tax ID #911156519
CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO DONATE AND SHARE!!
Ep. 61 | Exciting News from Initial Ascent with Dennis Stokes & Kate Small
Ep. 60 | Hunting, Fatherhood & Nutrition – with Kyle Kamp
Ep. 59 | Energy, Connections & Positivity – with DeeAnn Servey
The Longest Two Minutes of Your Life | An Intro Into Waterfowl Hunting
Ep. 58 | Giving Back, Helping Others & Great Stories – with Chris Mann
Ep. 57 | Public Land Etiquette, Unspoken Rules and More – with Paul Servey
Ep. 56 | The Importance of Getting New People Involved – with Will Webber
Ep. 55 | Using Predator Hunting To Recruit New Hunters – with John Bair
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.
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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.
Continue reading “GEAR REVIEW: Work Sharp Guided Field Sharpener”
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.
Continue reading “First Aid Kits | From your vehicle to the backcountry”
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
Continue reading “Join Us At The Western Hunt & Conservation Expo”
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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”