Free Castin'
Hound rigs and the supplies you need!
HOUND RIGS & EQUIPMENT — WHAT DO YOU REALLY NEED?
What’s in your hound rig?
On this episode of Free Castin, we're talking about the trucks, dog boxes, tools, and equipment that houndsmen depend on when they head to the woods.
From the basics like a good dog box and plenty of water, to the things you may not think about until something goes wrong — CB radios, tire repair kits, tools, spare equipment, batteries, and emergency gear — we're breaking down what belongs in a dependable hound rig.
We also get into the differen...
Full Cry Magazine and the Man Behind it, Ben Sheets!
On this episode of Free Castin, we sit down with Ben Sheets to talk about who Ben is, his background in the hound world, and the story behind Full Cry Magazine.
Full Cry has been a part of the hound-hunting community since the 1930s, documenting the people, dogs, hunts, competitions, and stories that have helped shape the hound world for generations.
We talk about what Full Cry means to houndsmen today, how the magazine has evolved over the years, and why keeping the history and traditions of hound hunting alive still matters.
If...
Let's just talk dogs....always a rabbit hole!
Welcome back to another episode of Free Castin!
This episode is all about what houndsmen love most — DOGS!
Sometimes you don't need a big debate or a controversial topic. Sometimes you just need to sit down, talk dogs, and share a few stories. That's exactly what we're doing in this episode.
We're talking about the hounds that started it all, the best dogs we've ever hunted, the traits that make a truly good hound, and the memories that stick with you long after the hunt is over.
From old-school dogs to mo...
POSSIBLE WORLD RECORD LEOPARD — THE STORY BEHIND THE HUNT
On this episode of Free Castin, we’re taking you to Africa for an incredible conversation with the hunter behind what may be a world-record leopard.
We start with the hunt itself — how the leopard was found, the tracking, the preparation, the people involved, the challenges along the way, and what it was like when the opportunity finally came together.
But this episode goes much deeper than the hunt.
We also take a hard look at what happens when hunters travel to Africa and spend money on a safari. Where does that money go...
CHANGE IT OURSELVES OR LET THEM CHANGE IT FOR US?
On this episode of Free Castin, we dive into a subject that every Arizona hunter needs to think about: hunting regulations and who is going to shape them in the future.
Hunters don't always agree when it comes to changing rules and regulations. Many see new regulations as nothing more than government control—and sometimes that concern is justified.
But what happens when hunters completely disengage from the process?
If sportsmen aren't willing to identify problems, propose reasonable solutions, and work with the Arizona Game and Fish Department, there will always be...
2026 Arizona Hound Hunters Rendezvous recap
2026 Arizona Hound Hunters Rendezvous — The Recap
In this episode of Free Castin, we’re looking back at the 2026 Arizona Hound Hunters Rendezvous!
We’re talking about the people, the dogs, the stories, the laughs, the food, the music, the vendors, and all the memories that made this year’s Rendezvous one to remember.
But more than anything, we’re talking about why events like this matter.
Houndsmen from different backgrounds and different parts of the country came together to celebrate the lifestyle we love, share knowledge, build friendships, and help keep the tradit...
Hunters vs Hunters and that damn LAWSUIT!
Hunters vs. Hunters
In this episode of Free Castin, we're diving into one of the biggest issues facing the hunting community today: hunters fighting hunters.
Why are we so quick to attack someone because they hunt differently than we do? Houndsmen, archery hunters, rifle hunters, guides, DIY hunters, trophy hunters, meat hunters—we all have different methods, traditions, and opinions.
But when one group turns against another, are we helping protect hunting… or helping tear it apart?
We'll talk about the division between hunters, social media battles, defending legal hunting methods we m...
Should we only harvest the big boys?
Every houndsman dreams of turning loose on a giant mountain lion tom or a massive bear boar. But have you ever stopped to think about what happens after that dominant animal is removed from the landscape?
In this episode of Free Castin, we take an honest look at one of the most debated topics in predator hunting and wildlife management. We discuss the role mature tom lions and boars play in maintaining territories, how younger predators respond when those dominant animals disappear, and whether harvesting the biggest predators has impacts beyond the individual animal.
Drawing...
Who's really trying to save the dogs!
Who's Fighting for Hound Hunting?
We all enjoy turning our hounds loose, listening to a race, and making memories in the woods—but how many of us are actively helping protect the future of hound hunting?
In this episode of Free Castin, we dive into one of the most important conversations facing the hunting community today. Who represents houndsmen when regulations are proposed? Who speaks up at wildlife commission meetings? Who pushes back against anti-hunting campaigns? And why aren't more hunters, guides, and outfitters involved in supporting the organizations working to protect our way of li...
To CULL or not to CULL! That is the question!
Every houndsman has faced it sooner or later—the difficult decision of what to do with a dog that just isn't making the cut.
In this episode of Free Castin', we tackle one of the most controversial topics in the hound world: When is it time to cull a hound? We discuss what culling really means, the importance of being honest about a dog's ability, and how these decisions impact breeding programs, hunting success, and the future of hound hunting.
We also dive into questions every serious houndsman has wrestled with:
How long should yo...Myths and Legends of hound hunting!
Every houndsman has heard the stories.
The dog that never missed. The old-timer who could strike a track where no one else could. The bear dog that never quit. The lion hound that could trail across bare rock. But are these stories history... or have they grown into legends over the years?
In this episode of Free Castin', we dive into the campfire stories that have shaped hound hunting for generations. We discuss the legendary houndsmen, unforgettable dogs, and the myths that continue to be passed down today. We also ask some tough questions:
...Keep you and your hounds READY!
Summer doesn't mean houndsmen stop learning.
In this episode of Free Castin', we dive into what it takes to keep your hounds healthy, conditioned, and mentally sharp during the off-season. From roading, free running, and nutrition to foot care, kennel management, and preparing for the next hunting season, we share practical tips to help your pack stay ready year-round.
We also shift gears into a discussion on bear hunting and the role of hazing with hounds. We talk about how hounds are used as a wildlife management tool, the importance of responsible dog handling, and...
How do we keep kids interested in hounds!
The future of hound hunting isn't just about great dogs—it's about the people who will be turning them loose for years to come.
In this episode of Free Castin, we dive into one of the most important conversations in the hunting community: how do we get the next generation involved? We discuss the role of parents, grandparents, mentors, and hunting buddies in introducing young people to running hounds and building a lifelong passion for the outdoors.
From youth hunting organizations and community events to simple ways you can mentor a young hunter, this episode is...
Hounds and the $H!t we talk about them!
This episode of Free Castin, we're kicking back and talking hounds with a great group of houndsmen. Joining us are Cody King, Derrek, and Jeremy from the YouTube channel Louisiana Hunting for an unscripted conversation about the dogs we love and the lifestyle that keeps us coming back to the woods.
We'll cover everything from starting young dogs, breeding decisions, memorable hunts, dog handling, and what makes a true hound. Whether you're chasing coons, cats, bears, lions, or just enjoy listening to hounds work, this episode is packed with stories, experiences, and opinions from hunters who spend...
Making a hound: From the pup up!
Every finished hound starts as an 8-week-old puppy. This episode we're breaking down the entire journey—from bringing that pup home for the first time to turning it into a game-running hound.
We'll cover:
âś… Picking the right pup from the litter
âś… Building confidence and drive
âś… Socialization and early training
âś… Introducing scent and game
âś… Starting pups with older dogs
âś… Common mistakes that ruin young hounds
âś… When to hunt them alone
âś… Genetics vs. training
âś… What separates a good dog from a great one
...Hound Hunting: What a Waste!
The Most Overrated Things in Hound Hunting
On this episode we're opening a can of worms and asking a question that every houndsman has an opinion on:
What's the most overrated thing in hound hunting?
Are we spending too much money on gear, dog food, supplements, tracking systems, lights, dog boxes, trucks, and gadgets that don't actually put more game in the tree? Or are some of these investments worth every penny?
From social media-famous dogs to expensive equipment, we're separating what truly matters from what might just be draining our...
OHV or back of a MULE?
This episode we're diving into one of the biggest debates in the hound hunting world:
Mules vs. OHVs — Which is the better hound hunting rig?
From pack mules in the backcountry to side-by-sides on the trail, we're breaking down the pros, cons, costs, access, reliability, and hunting experiences that come with each. Has modern technology made us better hunters, or have we lost something by leaving mule power behind?
Whether you're riding a mule into rough country or chasing hounds from behind the wheel of a OHV, this conversation is for you.
...
What’s REALLY Killing Hound Hunting?
On this episode of Free Castin’, we tackle a conversation that’s been building for a long time…
What’s REALLY killing hound hunting?
From division inside the hunting community and social media drama to rising costs, disappearing mentorship, technology dependence, and public perception — we break down the biggest threats facing modern houndsmen and the future of hound hunting itself.
Are anti-hunters really the biggest problem… or are some of the issues coming from inside our own community?
This episode gets honest about the state of hunting culture, conservation, young hunters leaving the...
Young dogs and their handlers, who's the worst?
Tonight on Free Castin’, we dive deep into one of the most debated topics in the hound world — young dogs. From starting pups too early, genetics vs training, trash breaking, grit, brains, pressure, and the mistakes that ruin more dogs than people realize, this episode is packed with honest opinions and real experience from houndsmen who’ve lived it.
We talk about what separates average dogs from great ones, whether elite hounds are born or made, and how patience — or the lack of it — can completely shape a young dog’s future. The crew shares stories about pups that ex...
The problem with modern houndsmen!
Welcome back to another episode of Free Castin’! This one’s a packed house with stories, opinions, laughs, and straight-up houndsmen talk from across the country.
Joining the show:
Chris Watson from the YouTube channel Anecdote of a HoundsmanBrett Vaughn from Born 100 Years Too LateJeremy Purvis from Louisiana HuntingDustin with Cold Strike GearJarrod Fischer with South Ridge Guide ServiceLater in the episode, Cody King jumps on to talk about his recent hunting trip down in Mexico.
We cover everything from a jaw-dropping $100,000 mule sold at auction, to the reality of rattlesnake-bit dogs, and...
Ranch events, trespassers and gritty hound talk!
Welcome back to Free Castin’ on the Anecdote of a Houndsman YouTube channel — this episode is packed with hounds, hunting stories, and real talk from the desert Southwest.
Cody King joins the show to talk about the “Earn Your Spurs” event in Douglas and what folks can expect from the gathering.
We’re also joined by Brett Vaughn from the Born 100 Years Too Late YouTube channel to talk dogs, houndsmanship, and old-school outdoor culture.
Then Casey Fair from Young jumps in for a discussion about OHV drivers on both public and private land, the challe...
“The Perfect Dog: Wild, Tame… or Both?”
In this episode of Free Castin’, we dive into the hard truth about hounds versus wild canines—built to hunt vs built to survive. We break down the differences in drive, intelligence, grit, and instinct, and ask the question every houndsman has thought about… are we making our dogs too soft?
But this one takes a serious turn when Cody King jumps on and shares a real-life, gut-wrenching story about a hunt that went wrong—when a swarm of bees turned deadly and cost him his dog. It’s a powerful reminder of the risks our dogs face and t...
Wild Vs. Ferral Horses in the White Mountains
On this episode of Free Castin’, we sit down with Monte Williams to talk about growing up in Arizona’s White Mountains and the lifestyle that comes with it. Monty shares firsthand stories from his upbringing in the high country, where the land, wildlife, and tradition all play a part in shaping who you are.
We dive into the history and reality of the wild horses roaming the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests—how they got there, how they survive, and the ongoing conversations around managing them. From horseback experiences to life in the mountains, this episode is packed with r...
Bear and Lion Dogs Talk, or a attempt at it!
On this episode, we sit down and get into the gritty reality of running hounds in the West. From chasing bear and lion to the challenges that come with it, nothing is off the table. We talk about the ever-present danger of rattlesnakes—dogs getting bitten, how those encounters happen, and what you can do when it goes sideways.
We also dive into one of the oldest debates in the hound world: what dog truly works harder—a bobcat dog, a lion dog, or a bear dog? Each brings a different level of grit, endurance, and instinct, and...
Hounds in Texas
I went to Texas and hung out with Cody King, it wasn't all work!
Cold Strike Gear
https://coldstrikegear.com
Arizona Working Dog Alliance
https://azwda.com
Where we talk a lot of politics that effects the American Sportsman
https://www.youtube.com/@awda24
CMW Investigations, LLC
http://cmwpi.com
"Anecdote of a Houndsman"
https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman
Watch these podcast live every Wednesday night at 6PM MST!<...
Where to now....dang ol hounds!
Just a bunch of us not talking about a whole lot of nothing!
Cold Strike Gear
https://coldstrikegear.com
Arizona Working Dog Alliance
https://azwda.com
Where we talk a lot of politics that effects the American Sportsman
https://www.youtube.com/@awda24
CMW Investigations, LLC
http://cmwpi.com
"Anecdote of a Houndsman"
https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman
Watch these podcast live every Wednesday night at 6PM MST!
Social Media w/ Brett Vaughn
Brett Vaughn joins us and we talk a little trash, talk a little hounds and talk a little social media!
Cold Strike Gear
https://coldstrikegear.com
Arizona Working Dog Alliance
https://azwda.com
Where we talk a lot of politics that effects the American Sportsman
https://www.youtube.com/@awda24
CMW Investigations, LLC
http://cmwpi.com
"Anecdote of a Houndsman"
https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman
Watch these podcast live...
Dustin talks about Scott Allans hunt!
We talk to some Virginia boys about what's going on in that part of the country, and Dustin with Cold Strike Gear tells us how the hunt went with Scott Allan, our good ol' Englishman!
Cold Strike Gear
https://coldstrikegear.com
Arizona Working Dog Alliance
https://azwda.com
https://www.youtube.com/@awda24
CMW Investigations, LLC
http://cmwpi.com
"Anecdote of a Houndsman"
https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman
Watch these podcast...
We will always be on the defense!
Another episode of stories, politics and rabbit holes!
If you have any ideas or suggestions for topics or guest send us an email: anecdoteofahoundsman@outlook.com
Cold Strike Gear
https://coldstrikegear.com
Arizona Working Dog Alliance
https://azwda.com
CMW Investigations, LLC
http://cmwpi.com
"Anecdote of a Houndsman"
https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman
Watch these podcast live every Wednesday night at 6PM MST!
Politics don't belong out here!
Every once in a while we have to talk politics! Nobody likes it!
If you have any ideas or suggestions for topics or guest send us an email: anecdoteofahoundsman@outlook.com
Cold Strike Gear
https://coldstrikegear.com
Arizona Working Dog Alliance
https://azwda.com
CMW Investigations, LLC
http://cmwpi.com
"Anecdote of a Houndsman"
https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman
Watch these podcast live every Wednesday night at 6PM MST!<...
Scott Allan talks Dogs and cats!
Scott was in Arizona chasing mountain lion with Dustin from Cold Strike Gear and Jarrod with South Ridge Guide Service! And he has some stories to tell.
If you have any ideas or suggestions for topics or guest send us an email: anecdoteofahoundsman@outlook.com
Cold Strike Gear
https://coldstrikegear.com
Arizona Working Dog Alliance
https://azwda.com
"Anecdote of a Houndsman"
https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman
Watch these podcast live every Wednesday night at 6...
Todays Hound, Tomorrows Fight!
One of the most heated podcast we've ever head. We'll let you decide what the answer is!
If you have any ideas or suggestions for topics or guest send us an email: anecdoteofahoundsman@outlook.com
Cold Strike Gear
https://coldstrikegear.com
Arizona Working Dog Alliance
https://azwda.com
"Anecdote of a Houndsman"
https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman
Watch these podcast live every Wednesday night at 6PM MST!
Do you listen to your dogs!
How well do you read your dogs!
If you have any ideas or suggestions for topics or guest send us an email: anecdoteofahoundsman@outlook.com
Cold Strike Gear
https://coldstrikegear.com
"Valu Pak Dog food"
We dont endorse it unless we use it!
https://www.specialty-feeds.com/valu-pak.html
Arizona Working Dog Alliance
https://azwda.com
"Anecdote of a Houndsman"
https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman
Watch these...
The attack on Dogs!
A whole bunch of dog talk and a little bit of politics!
If you have any ideas or suggestions for topics or guest send us an email: anecdoteofahoundsman@outlook.com
Cold Strike Gear
https://coldstrikegear.com
"Valu Pak Dog food"
We dont endorse it unless we use it!
https://www.specialty-feeds.com/valu-pak.html
Arizona Working Dog Alliance
https://azwda.com
"Anecdote of a Houndsman"
https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman
<...Hounds and Huntin stories
We just go off about dogs and the world aroundthem!
If you have any ideas or suggestions for topics or guest send us an email: anecdoteofahoundsman@outlook.com
Cold Strike Gear
https://coldstrikegear.com
"Valu Pak Dog food"
We dont endorse it unless we use it!
https://www.specialty-feeds.com/valu-pak.html
Arizona Working Dog Alliance
https://azwda.com
"Anecdote of a Houndsman"
https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman
<...Are dog people the ethnic minority now!
We talk about some issues we have to deal with when having dog haters as neighbors and rabbit hole the rest.
If you have any ideas or suggestions for topics or guest send us an email: anecdoteofahoundsman@outlook.com
Cold Strike Gear
https://coldstrikegear.com
"Valu Pak Dog food"
We dont endorse it unless we use it!
https://www.specialty-feeds.com/valu-pak.html
Arizona Working Dog Alliance
https://azwda.com
"Anecdote...
Just a bunch of hound talk it is!
Another Wednesday night of rabbit holes!
If you have any ideas or suggestions for topics or guest send us an email: anecdoteofahoundsman@outlook.com
Cold Strike Gear
https://coldstrikegear.com
"Valu Pak Dog food"
We dont endorse it unless we use it!
https://www.specialty-feeds.com/valu-pak.html
Arizona Working Dog Alliance
https://azwda.com
"Anecdote of a Houndsman"
https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman
Watch these podcast...
Just some guys talking hounds and trucks!
Here's an oldy from first of the year! we just rabbit hole as usual!!!!
If you have any ideas or suggestions for topics or guest send us an email: anecdoteofahoundsman@outlook.com
Cold Strike Gear
https://coldstrikegear.com
"Valu Pak Dog food"
We dont endorse it unless we use it!
https://www.specialty-feeds.com/valu-pak.html
Arizona Working Dog Alliance
https://azwda.com
"Anecdote of a Houndsman"
...
Gotta like a Laika!
Lets take a break from the hounds and check out some these other dogs!
If you have any ideas or suggestions for topics or guest send us an email: anecdoteofahoundsman@outlook.com
Cold Strike Gear
https://coldstrikegear.com
"Valu Pak Dog food"
We dont endorse it unless we use it!
https://www.specialty-feeds.com/valu-pak.html
Arizona Working Dog Alliance
https://azwda.com
"Anecdote of a Houndsman"
https://www...
Males Vs. Females: Which is the better hound?
Just talkin hounds!
If you have any ideas or suggestions for topics or guest send us an email: anecdoteofahoundsman@outlook.com
Cold Strike Gear
https://coldstrikegear.com
"Valu Pak Dog food"
We dont endorse it unless we use it!
https://www.specialty-feeds.com/valu-pak.html
Arizona Working Dog Alliance
https://azwda.com
"Anecdote of a Houndsman"
https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman
Watch these podcast live every Wednesday...
