Wing & Tail Outdoors

Unlock the secrets that could dramatically change your deer hunting game in this deeper dive with seasoned expert Brandon Barlow, aka Mr. 70 Rule. Discover how years of trail camera data and meticulous scouting challenge myths about moon phases, attractants, and travel corridors—insights that could unlock more daylight bucks and healthier fawns than ever before.

Ever wonder why some land rich in sign produces little during the rut while others, seemingly less ideal, hit daylight consistently? Brandon reveals how focusing on bedding areas, natural scrapes, and understanding subtle terrain edges can turn your approach into a high-success, co...

Join us on "The Land Management & Habitat Strategy Podcast with Jason Michael," where we delve into the art and science of land management, habitat creation, and timber strategies. This podcast is perfect for hunters and landowners eager to enhance deer habitat and forest health. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned habitat creator, each episode is packed with actionable insights and practical experience to guide you in making informed decisions about your land.In our episodes, we explore the importance of small, deliberate steps in managing land for wildlife, planning timber harvests with future value in mind, and planting...

Most hunters are missing a major opportunity by not questioning the outdated, overly complex regulations governing wildlife in New Jersey. Dive into a candid conversation with Timberlife Outdoors’ Brian Melvin as we lift the curtain on how the state’s rules are doing more harm than good, sacrificing herd health for profits and bureaucracy.You’ll discover how New Jersey’s labyrinth of season tags, permits, and zone restrictions hinder sustainable management, and why the current focus on harvesting more deer or managing bears with flawed strategies is ultimately damaging the resource. We explore specific issues like unlimited antlerless tags in...

Most bow hunters and target archers alike overlook a crucial variable: string quality. In this episode, Brent Kenshin, owner of A3 Archery, reveals the secret behind building bowstrings that truly perform. From materials and build process to innovative stretching techniques, we cover it all! Discover why premium fibers like B99 and state-of-the-art services like pre-cycle technology could add years to your strings and boost your arrow speed.

We break down the nuances of string materials including what makes certain fibers last longer and perform better in tough conditions and how color and manufacturing quirks can impact consistency...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors Podcast, host Chris Romano dives into the fascinating world of titanium and its transformative impact on archery equipment. As spring approaches and turkey season looms, Chris shares his personal journey and aspirations for the upcoming hunting season, reflecting on past experiences and the excitement of new challenges. With a focus on innovation, he explores the benefits of incorporating titanium into bow setups, highlighting its ability to reduce vibration and enhance performance, offering listeners a unique perspective on achieving precision and power in their archery pursuits.

Listeners will also...

In this exciting episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors Podcast, host Chris Romano welcomes fellow hunter and comic Collin Chamberlin to explore the deeper meaning of success in the hunting world. When comedian Collin Chamberlin left the quiet woods of Pennsylvania to chase his comedy dream in NYC, he discovered that hunting isn’t just about the harvest — it’s about tradition, patience, and the stories that last a lifetime. Collin shares how stepping away from hunting for comedy led him back to the basics, reminding us that success isn’t measured solely by bucks or birds but by the m...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors Podcast, host Chris Romano welcomes Al Temechko from Vitalize Seed to explore the essentials of preparing successful spring and summer food plots. The discussion covers a range of topics, including the strategic timing of planting, soil health management, and the selection of seed species to optimize growth and attract wildlife.

Al also shares insights into the role of frost seeding as a valuable technique within the broader context of food plot management. Listeners will gain practical tips on how to leverage seasonal conditions to their advantage, ensuring a...

Unlock the secret to transforming your land into a deer magnet and wildlife haven with expert tree planting strategies you need to hear now. Whether you're new to habitat management or looking to refine your approach, this episode reveals the foundational principles that can make or break your success; from timing and soil prep to selecting the right tree species that thrive in your zone.

Discover why planting in spring outperforms fall, how to choose trees that attract deer year-round, and the underestimated power of soft mast for consistent food sources. Ryan Haynes of Blue Hill Wildlife...

In this episode, host Chris Romano sits down with Ben Coleman, a seasoned hunter and musician, to explore the transformative power of postseason deer scouting. With over 30 years of experience, Ben shares his expertise on interpreting deer signs such as scrapes, rubs, and trails to uncover hidden patterns that can significantly enhance hunting strategies. Together, Chris and Ben discuss the importance of offseason scouting to gain insights into deer behavior, security cover, and movement corridors, providing listeners with practical tips to prepare for the upcoming hunting season with confidence.

Chris and Ben's engaging conversation highlights the often-overlooked...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, host Chris Romano reflects on the aftermath of a massive storm and its varied impact across regions. He emphasizes the importance of safety and community support during such events. Transitioning into the main topic, Chris passionately discusses the need for accountability within the hunting community, urging hunters to uphold ethical standards and call out misconduct. He shares personal insights on the significance of self-reflection and planning for future hunting seasons, encouraging listeners to evaluate their past experiences and gear to enhance their preparedness and success.

Chris also...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, host Chris Romano delves into the complex debate of 'legal versus right' within the hunting industry. Chris explores various perspectives on controversial topics such as the proposed changes to Pennsylvania's rifle season, the use of crossbows during archery season, and the ethics of baiting and drone usage. He also shares personal insights and experiences, aiming to foster a respectful dialogue among hunters.

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In this engaging episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, host Chris Romano welcomes Rob Hommel, a fellow outdoor enthusiast and host of the Pursuit Live podcast. The two dive into a lively discussion about their shared passion for hunting, exploring topics such as the ethics of guiding on public land, the challenges of handling missed shots, and the intricacies of bear hunting. With personal anecdotes and insightful reflections, Chris and Rob offer listeners a candid look into the world of hunting, emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes and the thrill of the hunt.

Listeners...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors Podcast, hosts Chris Romano and Dorge Huang delve into the intricacies of the Tony Warden study, focusing on the performance of various arrow brands and their kinetic energy retention. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding arrow construction and weight distribution, as well as the impact of these factors on performance at different distances. Chris and Dorge share insights from their personal experiences, emphasizing the need for hunters to choose equipment that aligns with their specific needs and shooting conditions.

Listeners are treated to a detailed analysis of...

In this thrilling episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors Podcast, host Chris Romano welcomes back Brian Melvin from Timberlife Outdoors for an in-depth discussion about the highs and lows of the 2025 hunting season. As they recount Brian's exhilarating bear and deer hunts, listeners are taken on a journey through the challenges and triumphs of self-filming hunts, the intricacies of balancing family life with outdoor pursuits, and the camaraderie that fuels their passion for the wild. With vivid storytelling and candid insights, this episode captures the essence of the hunting lifestyle and the relentless pursuit of adventure.

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In this special Christmas episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, host Chris Romano reflects on the holiday season, sharing heartfelt wishes for listeners to enjoy time with family and loved ones. Despite technical setbacks with his GoPro, Chris dives into the science of archery, discussing his ongoing fascination with arrow dynamics and the Tony Warden study. He shares his personal experiences with different bow models, emphasizing the unique challenges faced by short draw archers like himself. Chris outlines his ambitious plans for summer tests, aiming to explore variables such as arrow diameter and FOC (Front of Center...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, Chris Romano welcomes Dave, a seasoned hunter and land management enthusiast, to discuss the intricacies of hunting and habitat management. As they navigate through the snowy landscapes of Pennsylvania, Chris and Dave share personal stories of their hunting experiences, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices and community involvement. Dave, who has transitioned from traditional hunting methods to a more strategic approach, shares insights on how land management has transformed his hunting success, culminating in the harvest of his personal best buck this season.

Listeners are treated to...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, Chris Romano and Dorge Huang dive into the intricacies of arrow dynamics and hunting strategies. As the winter chill sets in, they discuss the challenges of hunting in snowy conditions and the impact of environmental changes on deer behavior. Dorge shares insights from his conversations with fellow hunters and the surprising effects of agricultural shifts on wildlife patterns.

The conversation takes a scientific turn as they explore Tony Warden's comprehensive study on arrow builds, dissecting graphs and data to uncover the truth behind arrow performance. With a...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, Chris Romano and guest Dorge Huang delve into the intricacies of crossbow usage and maintenance. As hunting season approaches, they discuss common issues faced by crossbow users, such as string stretching and the challenges of tuning for accuracy. Dorge shares insights on the importance of understanding the equipment, emphasizing that many hunters underestimate the complexity of crossbows, often treating them like firearms. The conversation highlights the need for proper preparation and practice to ensure successful and ethical hunting experiences.

The episode also touches on the broader implications...

In this captivating episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, host Chris Romano dives deep into the world of broadheads with special guest Dorge Huang. As they explore the intricacies of broadhead design and functionality, listeners are treated to a wealth of knowledge on how different broadheads perform in the field. From the science of aerodynamics to the art of bloodletting, Chris and Dorge leave no stone unturned in their quest to educate and entertain.

Listeners will gain insights into the latest advancements in broadhead technology and learn how to choose the right equipment for their...

In this episode of the Wing and Thale Outdoors podcast, Chris Romano shares a personal look into his life as he navigates the challenges of balancing family responsibilities with his love for hunting. He opens up about the joys of watching his daughter Lily grow and the difficulties of managing time between work, family, and outdoor pursuits. Chris reflects on the importance of prioritizing family and offers insights for others facing similar challenges.

Listeners will also hear updates on the current hunting season, including success stories from friends and family, and Chris's plans for the Pennsylvania rifle...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors Podcast, hosts Chris Romano and Brandon Barlow dive deep into the intricacies of the "70 Rule," a method designed to help hunters determine the optimal time for deer hunting by analyzing deer biology and behavior. The conversation explores how the 70 Rule can be used to backdate deer signs and predict the rut, focusing on the importance of understanding fawn development and estrus timing. Brandon shares his experiences from hunting across the East Coast, emphasizing the significance of visual cues and historical data in refining hunting strategies. The discussion also touches on...

In this engaging episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, hosts Chris Romano and George Wong dive deep into the intricacies of compound bow issues, sharing insights and solutions for common problems faced by archers. From the critical importance of knock fit to the challenges of maintaining string tension, they explore the technical aspects that can make or break a bow's performance. With a blend of personal anecdotes and expert advice, Chris and George offer listeners a comprehensive guide to optimizing their archery experience.

Listeners will appreciate the candid discussions on the evolution of bow technology...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, hosts Chris Romano and Dorge Huang delve into the intricacies of bow setups for both long-range and short-range shooting. They discuss the evolution of bow technology and how it has influenced hunting practices, particularly the shift from short-range to long-range shooting due to advancements in equipment. Chris shares his personal experiences with tendonitis and how it affects his hunting season, emphasizing the importance of proper bow setup to accommodate physical limitations. The conversation also touches on the significance of axle-to-axle length, brace height, and let-off in bow performance, with...

In this engaging episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, host Chris Romano takes listeners on a thrilling journey through the recent hunting season's triumphs and challenges. The episode kicks off with a recount of the first mature deer harvests from the family property in New York, a milestone that has been years in the making. Chris shares the excitement of taking home two target bucks, a testament to the hard work and dedication put into land management and food plot development. The narrative is peppered with heartfelt congratulations to fellow hunters and friends who have also found...

In this episode, Chris Romano welcomes Brandon Barlow, the creator of "The 70 Rule," to discuss his innovative approach to hunting. Brandon shares insights into his method, which focuses on understanding deer behavior through the observation of fawn development and estrus cycles. He explains how the 70 Rule helps hunters identify optimal hunting times by analyzing fawn birth dates and backdating to determine when does were impregnated. This method allows hunters to predict rut periods and strategically plan their hunts for higher success rates. Brandon emphasizes the importance of using historical data and natural deer patterns to minimize hunting efforts and...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, Chris Romano dives into the opening days of the hunting season in New York. He shares his strategic approach to setting up in prime spots, aiming for the elusive big buck known as Duke. Chris recounts the excitement and challenges of his first successful harvest over a food plot, highlighting the importance of patience, observation, and adapting to the environment. His journey is filled with valuable lessons on scent control and the thrill of capturing the moment on camera, offering listeners a vivid glimpse into the dedication and passion...

This week on the Wing and Tail Podcast, Chris brings you a two-part hybrid episode. In part one, Chris discusses what he’s been seeing in the first few weeks of the season. He dives into what he’s seen in the woods, on camera, and how the bucks have been acting on camera at the family farm. With the New York season opening this week, Chris gives some insight on how he’s going to use both the camera information as well as historical data to try and pinpoint the right first sit for the buck they call “Duke.” A...

In this episode of "The Wing and Tail Boys," Chris kicks it off with some updates on his season and life all around heading into the heart of hunting season. He speaks on some intel he’s gathered, some mistakes he’s made, and some of the plans he has moving forward. Chris also shares his experiences with some new equipment he’s brought into the field this season. In addition, Chris goes on to tell about the first ever kill with the Truth-stiX Custom Arrows, and they didn’t disappoint! This is an all around quick breakdown of what thi...

In this engaging episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors Podcast, host Chris Romano sits down with Stan Courtnay of “SC Living Outdoors,” an avid outdoorsman and hunter, to delve into the intricacies of hunting across various terrains and species. Stan shares his journey from a young hunter in South Carolina to an experienced big game hunter who has traveled the world. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the challenges and strategies of hunting in different environments, the importance of understanding animal behavior, and the nuances of using technology like LIDAR and topo maps for scouting. Stan...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, host Chris Romano shares his excitement and preparations for the upcoming hunting season. With opening day just around the corner, Chris reflects on the challenges and changes he has faced over the past year, including the birth of his child, which has shifted his priorities and approach to hunting. He discusses his strategies for the season, emphasizing the importance of consistency and adapting to new tactics, such as hunting in thicker areas and utilizing historical data for scouting. Chris also shares insights from past guests on the podcast, highlighting...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, hosts Chris Romano and Mitchell Shirk delve into the intricacies of hunting strategies, focusing on the importance of wind and scent management. They discuss the challenges and techniques of hunting in different terrains, emphasizing the need to adapt to the environment and conditions. Chris shares his experiences with food plots and the importance of understanding deer behavior, while Mitchell highlights the significance of learning from past experiences and the value of patience and observation in the field.

The conversation also touches on the use of technology and...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, host Chris Romano welcomes back Mitchell Shirk from the Pennsylvania Woodsman podcast. The conversation delves into Mitchell's upbringing and his early introduction to hunting, highlighting the influence of his family and mentors. Mitchell shares his passion for hunting, which began at a young age, and discusses the skills he acquired over the years, such as understanding wind direction and deer behavior. The episode also touches on the challenges of balancing personal life with hunting, as well as the importance of maintaining relationships while pursuing one's passion.

The...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, host Chris Romano welcomes Ben Polcaro, a seasoned hunter from New Hampshire, to discuss the nuances of hunting in the northeastern United States. The conversation delves into Ben's extensive experience hunting in both Maine and New Hampshire, highlighting the differences in hunting styles and environments between the two states. Ben shares insights into his early hunting experiences, influenced by his father, and how he transitioned from a guided hunter to an independent one. The discussion also covers the challenges of hunting in high-pressure areas, the importance of scent control...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, Chris Romano and Dorge Huang delve into the intricacies of archery, focusing on the challenges and innovations in bow technology. Chris shares his personal journey of balancing arrow weight and speed, aiming to achieve a 300 feet per second mark with a 27.5-inch draw length. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding aerodynamics and the impact of different broadhead designs on performance. Dorge provides insights into the technical aspects of arrow flight, emphasizing the need for precision and the potential pitfalls of pushing equipment to its limits.

The...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, host Chris Romano celebrates the podcast's one-year anniversary and welcomes back Al Temechko, co-owner and founder of Vitalize Seed. The conversation centers around the challenges and strategies for managing fall food plots, particularly in the face of extreme weather conditions like droughts and heavy rains. Al shares insights on soil health, the importance of maintaining a balanced carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, and the benefits of using diverse seed mixes to enhance soil fertility and plant resilience. The discussion also touches on practical methods for planting and maintaining food plots, including the...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, host Chris Romano engages in a lively conversation with Jeremy Martin from X-Ring Custom Arrows. The discussion delves into Jeremy's journey as a hunter, exploring his early experiences in Southwest Pennsylvania, his time in the Marine Corps, and his eventual return to his roots. Jeremy shares insights into his hunting tactics, emphasizing the importance of woodsmanship and the evolution of his approach over the years. The conversation also touches on the challenges and rewards of hunting in different states, including Kentucky and Ohio, where baiting is legal, and the...

In part two of this NorthEastern Hunter Showcase, Chris and Matty B dive deeper into the world of hunting, sharing personal stories and expert insights on choosing and maintaining hunting equipment. Matty B, a seasoned hunter, discusses his experiences with various bows, emphasizing the importance of reliability and familiarity with one's gear. The conversation highlights the significance of building relationships with local shops for support and advice, ensuring hunters are well-prepared for any situation. Chris and Matty also explore the nuances of hunting strategies, from scouting and setting up stands to understanding deer behavior and adapting to different terrains...

In this installment of the NorthEastern Hunter Snapshots, Matt Buttermark shares his journey into the world of hunting, starting from a young age and evolving into a passionate hunter. He discusses the importance of learning from experienced mentors, the challenges of hunting in New Jersey, and the role of technology like trail cameras in modern hunting. Matt recounts his experiences with a notable buck, emphasizing the significance of scouting and understanding deer behavior. He also shares insights on baiting, hunting strategies, and the importance of building relationships with landowners for hunting permissions. In this conversation, Mattybutts_outdoors shares his...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, host Chris Romano interviews Gabe Denzine from Nested Tree Stand Systems. They discuss Gabe's background in hunting, his experiences with tree stand safety, and the evolution of hunting techniques over the years. Gabe shares insights on tracking deer, the importance of timing in hunting, and the differences between summer scouting and in-season scouting. The conversation also touches on deer behavior, the significance of scrapes, and effective hunting strategies during the pre-rut period. In this conversation, Chris Romano and Gabe Denzine discuss various aspects of hunting, including summer scouting, observation...

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, Chris Romano discusses various hunting regulations and changes across northeastern states, including Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Some states had some big wins, while others are still fighting for things like Sunday hunting and stocking programs. Youth programs are changing for the better, while multiple states also take action against the dwindling turkey population. Chris also shares personal reflections on the challenges of forgiveness and the importance of forest management for wildlife populations. The episode emphasizes community involvement in wildlife...