Wing & Tail Outdoors
The Wing and Tail Boys…who are they? They’re a group of family and friends with a story to tell and a dream to chase. Hosted by Chris and Angelo, join THE BOYS through their journey as they learn and share their experiences in hunting, fishing, woodsmanship, bushcraft, hunter safety, and so much more. While THE BOYS aim to cover topics specific to the Northeastern region of our country, the information and experiences they share can be applied and related to anywhere someone could enjoy the outdoors. With Angelo being a carpenter specializing in custom fabrication, and Chris a math...
Mastering The Hunt: Stan Courtnay's Global Pursuit

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...
Hunting Season Kickoff: New Tactics and Personal Reflections
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...
NE Snapshot: Putting Wind in YOUR Favor w/ Mitchell Shirk (pt 2)

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...
NE Snapshot: Scent Control, Family, and Faith w/ Mitchell Shirk (pt 1)

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...
NE Snapshot: Finding ANNUAL SUCCESS in ME and NH w/ Ben Polcaro

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...
Fast Bows DEMAND Perfect Arrows w/ Dorge Huang

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...
Mastering Fall Food Plots: Insights and Strategies w/ Al Tomechko

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...
NE Snapshot: From Mountains to Flat Land w/ Jeremy Martin

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...
NorthEastern Hunter Snapshot (Pt. 2) - Matt Buttermark

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...
NorthEastern Hunter Snapshot - Matt Buttermark

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...
How Valuable is Summer Scouting? w/ Gabe Denzine

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...
Northeast Regulation Changes

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...
Summer Prep and Brand Updates

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Outdoors podcast, Chris Romano discusses the evolution of the podcast, including changes in direction and focus. He shares updates on his personal hunting gear, including bow reviews and challenges with equipment. The conversation shifts to summer planning for food plots and scouting strategies, emphasizing the importance of e-scouting and understanding deer movement. Chris also contrasts public and private land hunting strategies, concluding with a call for listener engagement and future plans for the podcast.
Takeaways
-The podcast is shifting focus from gear-heavy content to tactics and stories.-Chris...Summer Scouting New Public Ground w/ Ben Coleman

Join the Wing and Tail Podcast as Chris welcomes back Ben Coleman to discuss summer scouting a new piece of out of state public land, the challenges and joys of fatherhood, the realities of pursuing a full-time music career, and the evolution of hunting in the age of technology. They explore the importance of woodsmanship, the strategies for scouting new hunting grounds, and the impact of pressure on deer behavior. The discussion highlights the significance of sharing knowledge with the next generation of hunters and setting personal goals in the hunting journey. In this conversation, Ben and Chris delve i...
Broadhead FLight, Selection, and More w/ Dorge Huang

The 44th Episode of the Wing and Tail Boys Podcast welcomes Dorge Huang back to continue discussing various aspects of broadheads. They explore the differences between broadhead types, the importance of weight matching and arrow balancing, and the unique features of the Dagger broadhead. The discussion also delves into the implications of arrow variance and the performance of single versus double bevel broadheads, providing insights for archery enthusiasts and hunters. In this conversation, Dorge and Chris delve into the intricacies of broadhead design, focusing on the differences between titanium and steel broadheads, the evolution of designs like the Trauma...
Beginner Waterfowl and Food Plots w/ Brian Halbleib

This week, the Wing and Tail Boys welcome Migration Waterfowl’s Brian Halbleib to discuss their experiences in podcasting and food plot management. They share insights on the challenges of starting a podcast, the intricacies of managing food plots, and the importance of soil health and weed control. The conversation also touches on the benefits of no-till farming and diverse planting strategies, providing valuable advice for both seasoned and novice food plotters. In this conversation, Chris Romano and Brian Halbleib discuss various aspects of soil management, food plot strategies, and the challenges of property access for hunting. They delve in...
Broadheads, Tuning, and More! w/ Tooth of he Arrow

The 42d episode of the WTB podcast welcomes Leigh Hauck to discuss the intricacies of archery, focusing on bow selection, tuning techniques, and the importance of hand form. They discuss the nuances of arrow dynamics, the significance of paper tuning, and how to effectively tune broadheads. The conversation emphasizes the need for customization in archery equipment and the importance of understanding one's own shooting style. In this engaging conversation, Chris Romano and Leigh Hauck delve into the intricacies of bow tuning, the importance of broadhead selection, and the impact of arrow balance and FOC on performance. They share personal...
All Things Broadheads w/ Dorge Huang

In this conversation, Chris Romano and Dorge Huang delve into the intricacies of broadheads in archery, discussing their history, design, and the importance of kinetic energy and arrow speed. They explore the various types of broadheads, their applications for different game, and the impact of environmental factors on arrow performance. The discussion also touches on the differences between serrated and straight blades, as well as the implications of using illuminated nocks on energy transfer during a shot. In this conversation, Dorge Huang and Chris Romano delve into the intricacies of archery, focusing on energy transfer, the mechanics of broadheads...
Vanes and Arrow Control (Pt. 2) - w/ Dorge Huang

In this episode, Chris Romano and Dorge Huang delve into the intricacies of arrow veins, their effects on arrow performance, and the science behind arrow flight. They discuss the importance of understanding penetration, broadhead effects, and the role of arrow design in achieving optimal performance. The conversation also touches on traditional versus modern archery techniques, the significance of front-of-center (FOC) weight distribution, and the dynamics of arrow speed and vane interaction. Through testing and real-world applications, they aim to provide insights into how archers can enhance their shooting experience and effectiveness. In this conversation, Dorge Huang and Chris Romano...
Behind The Scenes of WTO and Truth-stiX Custom Arrows

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Boys podcast, Chris Romano discusses the excitement of turkey season, shares personal updates about becoming a new parent, and outlines his plans for his first turkey hunt. He reflects on the changes in his life since the birth of his daughter, the importance of property management for hunting success, and highlights upcoming summer goals. Additionally, Chris teases a new product launch and expresses gratitude towards his sponsors and community. In this episode, Chris Romano discusses innovative hunting products, including unique scents and custom arrows. He emphasizes the personal touch in product...
Vanes and Arrow Control w/ Dorge Huang

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Boys, Chris Romano and Dorge Huang delve into the science of arrow flight, focusing on the components that make up an arrow, including shafts, feathers, and veins. They discuss the history and evolution of arrow components, the importance of broadheads in arrow control, and the dynamics of arrow flight at high speeds. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding how different components affect arrow performance and the aerodynamics involved in archery. In this conversation, Dorge Huang and Chris Romano delve into the intricate relationship between aerodynamics and archery. They explore how...
A Tale of Persistence w/ Steve Milosh (NE Hunter Showcase 2)

This week’s episode brings you the Second installment of the NorthEastern Hunters’ Showcase series! Host Chris Romano welcomes Steve Milosh, a passionate hunter and YouTuber from New Jersey. They discuss the often-overlooked hunting opportunities in the Northeast, Steve's journey into self-filming his hunts, and the challenges he faces while trying to capture his experiences on camera. The conversation also delves into a specific hunting story involving a deer named Trickster, highlighting the pressures of hunting in a densely populated area and the emotional rollercoaster of missed opportunities. Throughout the episode, both Chris and Steve share insights on the impo...
The Man Behind Rack Getter Scents: THE Gerard

This week on the Wing and Tail Boys, Chris and Gerard from Gerard of Rack Getter Scents discuss personal updates, the journey of starting a scent business, and the joys of hunting and fishing. They explore the balance between family life and entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of outdoor activities and fostering a love for nature, especially in the next generation. This conversation delves into the respect for nature and the culture of hunting, emphasizing the importance of ethical practices. It explores innovative hunting products, particularly focusing on scent techniques and their impact on deer behavior. The discussion also highlights...
Northeastern Hunter Snapshot Series pt. 1: Brian Melvin

In this engaging conversation, Chris welcomes back Brian Melvin for the first installment of the “Northeastern Hunters Snapshot” Series. The new series aims to showcase hunters of the Northeast spanning from Virginia to Maine. In this episode, Brian and Chris discuss the anticipation of spring hunting season, updates on Brian's record-breaking bear hunt, and the dynamics within the hunting community. They delve into the creation of Timber Life Outdoors, a platform for average hunters to share their experiences, and the art of filming hunts. Brian shares personal stories about his hunting journey, including strategies for scouting and managing deer popu...
The HARD TRUTH about .166 and Smaller Arrows w/ Dorge Huang

In this episode, Chris and Dorge continue with the Science of Arrow Flight Series, focusing on the evolution and characteristics of micro diameter shafts, particularly the .166 arrow. They discuss the historical context, manufacturing challenges, and the implications of using such thin arrows in archery. The conversation also covers the structural integrity of these arrows, the importance of inserts and outserts, and the techniques required for fletching and gluing. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the need for precision and understanding of the materials involved in arrow construction. In this conversation, Dorge and Chris delve into the intricacies of arrow construction...
SPRING. FOOD. PLOTS. w/ Al Tomechko

In this conversation, Chris welcomes Al Tomechko to discuss the journey of Vitalize Seed, focusing on the development of seed mixes for food plots, the importance of soil health, and the balance between tillage and no-till practices. They explore the challenges of managing properties for wildlife, particularly deer, and the significance of understanding carbon to nitrogen ratios in soil management. The discussion emphasizes the need for simplicity in food plot management and the adaptation to regional climate challenges. In this conversation, Chris and Al discuss innovative food plotting techniques, emphasizing the importance of diversity in crop planting and adapting...
The Boys go Country (Pt 2) feat Ben Coleman

In this engaging conversation, Chris Romano and Ben Coleman explore the intersection of hunting and music, sharing personal experiences and insights from their respective journeys. They discuss the differences in hunting across various states, the challenges of public versus private land, and the importance of adapting tactics based on the environment. Ben shares his recent experiences on a radio tour promoting his music, highlighting the excitement of hearing his song on the radio for the first time. The conversation delves into the thrill of the hunt, the strategies employed, and the lessons learned from years of experience in the...
"Habitat Talk" with Dan Johnson

In this engaging conversation, Chris Romano and Dan Johnson discuss a variety of topics ranging from the unpredictable weather on the East Coast and the rise of girls' wrestling to lessons learned in the field and ongoing habitat improvement. They share personal stories about their families, including Dan's daughter's success in wrestling, and delve into their hunting experiences, highlighting the lessons learned from both successes and failures. The discussion transitions into habitat management, where Dan shares his journey of improving a property for wildlife, focusing primarily on deer, through timber management and creating bedding areas. They explore various forest...
The Boys Go Country w/ Ben Coleman

In this episode, Chris interviews Ben Coleman, an up-and-coming country star from Texas, who shares his journey of balancing his passions for music and hunting. The conversation delves into Ben's experiences performing live, the stories behind his songwriting, and his deep-rooted connection to hunting, shaped by his upbringing on a private farm in South Carolina. Ben reflects on the challenges and joys of pursuing a music career while maintaining his love for the outdoors, creating a rich tapestry of experiences that resonate with listeners. In this conversation, Ben and Chris explore the deep-rooted traditions of hunting within families, the...
Characteristics of .204-Class Arrows w/ Dorge Huang

In this episode, Chris and George Huang delve into the intricacies of the .204-class arrow and their impact on performance in archery. They discuss the evolution of arrow design, the importance of concentricity, and the challenges faced when working with smaller arrow sizes. The conversation also touches on the metric versus standard measurement debate in the archery industry, providing insights into how these factors influence arrow building and performance. In this segment of the conversation, Dorge Huang discusses various aspects of archery equipment, focusing on innovative materials, the design of E-nocks, the benefits and challenges of tapered arrows, and...
Catching Up w/ an Old Buddy, Steven Dauster

In this engaging conversation, Chris and Steven Dauster reconnect after losing touch through the years, sharing their journeys into hunting and the experiences that shaped their passion for the outdoors. They discuss the thrill of the hunt, the importance of preparation, and the joy of family traditions in hunting. The conversation highlights the connection to nature that hunting fosters and the lessons learned through trial and error in the field. As they reminisce about their past and look forward to the future, they emphasize the significance of passing down hunting traditions to the next generation. In this conversation, Chris...
The Pro's Of Large Diameter Arrows

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Boys, Chris and Dorge discuss the challenges of winter weather while diving deep into the intricacies of arrow construction, focusing on the evolution of arrow diameters from the standard 246 to the increasingly popular 300 size. They explore the differences in durability between target and hunting arrows, the benefits of larger diameter arrows, and the dynamics of arrow flight. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding arrow specifications for both hunting and target shooting, providing insights for archers looking to optimize their setups. In this conversation, Chris and Dorge delve into the intricacies...
The STANDARD ARROW Class (.246) w/ Dorge Huang

In this episode of the Wing and Tail Boys, Chris and Dorge delve into the intricacies of arrow science, focusing on the importance of the arrow shaft as the foundational component of archery equipment. They explore various arrow shaft sizes, the evolution of standards in the industry, and the pros and cons of the widely used 246 arrow size. The conversation highlights the technological advancements in materials and design, as well as the significance of strictness and durability in arrow performance. In this conversation, Chris and Dorge delve into the intricacies of arrow manufacturing, discussing the components, the economics behind...
Turkey Hunting for the ABSOLUTE BEGINNER with Kevin Creeley

As we reach the end of the deer hunting season here in the North East, we are SUPER EXCITED to start diving into some uncharted territory for us…TURKEY HUNTING! In this episode of The Wing and Tail Boys, Angelo and Chris are joined by Turkey Enthusiast Kevin Creeley to discuss the beginnings of turkey hunting for the ABSOLUTE BEGINNER. The speakers discuss the importance of understanding turkey behavior, common mistakes beginners make, and the significance of pre-season preparation. They emphasize the need for diverse habitats to support turkey populations and provide practical tips for locating and hunting turkeys ef...
Early Stages of NO-TILL FOOD PLOTS w/ Mitchell Shirk

In the 24th “Wing and Tail Boys” podcast episode, Chris and Angelo discuss property management and food plotting with Mitchell Shirk, a row crop agronomist. They explore the complexities of agricultural practices, the shift towards regenerative farming, and the challenges faced by farmers in transitioning to no-till methods. The conversation also touches on public land management, the role of technology in agriculture, and the educational gaps that exist in understanding modern farming practices.
Throughout the conversation Chris, Angelo, and Mitchell discuss the complexities of modern farming practices, particularly focusing on the use of glyphosate, the importance of under...
Let's Talk Carbon Arrows w/ Dorge Huang
Join the Wing and Tail Boys This week as Chris sits with Dorge Huang to discuss the evolution of arrows, specifically carbon fiber arrows, the upcoming ATA show, and the intricacies of arrow materials.. They delve into the history of carbon fiber arrows, the advantages and disadvantages of different materials when compared to one another, and the manufacturing processes that affect performance and safety. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding materials in archery and the impact of design on arrow effectiveness. In this conversation, Dorge Huang discusses advanced techniques in arrow manufacturing, touching on processes such as cryogenic me...
The Progression of Arrow Materials w/ Dorge Huang

In this episode, Chris and Dorge explore the evolution of arrow materials, discussing the historical context of arrows and bows, the art of arrow making, and modern arrow technologies. They delve into the advantages and disadvantages of various materials such as bamboo, cedar, fiberglass, and carbon fiber, emphasizing the importance of understanding the specific applications and contexts in which each material excels.
The conversation highlights the ongoing evolution of archery and the significance of consistency in arrow performance. In this segment, Dorge and Chris discuss the intricacies of arrow manufacturing, focusing on the extrusion process, the significance o...
5 Stages of Arrow Flight w/ Dorge Huang

In this episode, Chris and Dorje delve into the intricacies of arrow flight and arrow dynamics, discussing the various stages an arrow goes through from the moment it leaves the bow to its impact. They explore the power cycle, the importance of cam design, and how these factors influence arrow recovery and stabilization.
The conversation also touches on the differences between impact and penetration, the significance of arrow design and materials, and the role of spine alignment in performance. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the complex interactions between the bow, arrow, and the forces at play during f...
Is Hunting Culture Changing?

The 20th installment of the Wing and Tail Boys begins with your hosts doing a bit of “housekeeping” work. They catch you up on some of the things they’ve had going on in their personal lives as well as what their plans are moving forward with the little bit of hunting season remaining. They touch on their experiences with hunting dogs, the changes they've observed in hunting practices, and the importance of courtesy among hunters. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by hunters in today's society, including the impact of non-hunters and the need for mutual respect in shared...
5 Motions of Arrow Flight w/ Dorge Huang

In this episode, Chris and Dorj Huang delve into the intricate world of arrow science and building. They discuss the importance of understanding the fundamentals of arrow flight, the journey of Fireknock, and the significance of aero flight in archery. The conversation emphasizes the need for archers to grasp the principles behind arrow dynamics to enhance their shooting accuracy and effectiveness.
Dorj shares his background and the evolution of Fireknock, while also highlighting the five fundamental motions of arrow flight that every archer should understand. In this segment, Dorge Huang and Chris delve into the intricate dynamics o...