The Great Lakes Outdoors Podcast
A Michigan based company sharing story’s, tips, and learning new things about the hunting industry!
Episode 123 From Boat Troubles to Hunting Secrets: Lessons Learned from a Long Weekend
In this episode, Travis and Kyle discuss recent boating mishaps, waterfowl hunting strategies, property management, and the importance of community in hunting. They also touch on the evolving technology in trail cameras and the upcoming youth events supporting outdoor traditions.
Episode 122 Driving into the earn-a-buck, youth hunt, duck boxes, and more
Join us for a lively discussion on the current environmental conditions, deer hunting strategies, and wildlife behaviors in Michigan — all intertwined with personal anecdotes and practical tips.
In this episode:
The impact of recent weather patterns on outdoor activities and wildlife movementBuilding and utilizing tree stands and blinds for deer huntingThe fascinating behaviors of wood ducks and their nesting habitsStrategies to minimize scent detection and attract deerExploring new hunting technology ideas, including virtual shooting appsUpdates on Michigan deer regulations and conservation effortsThe benefits and challenges of saddle hunting and mobile setupsHow weather and habitat in...Episode 121 How Technology Is Changing Hunting
In this episode of the Great Lakes Outdoors Podcast, Kyle and Travis unlock the strategies that turn casual hunters into seasoned experts who consistently outsmart mature deer and waterfowl. From managing water levels to optimizing food plots, they reveal the insider tactics that give you the edge, including how strategic scent use and stand placement can dramatically change your season.
You'll discover:
The surprising effectiveness of early seduction tactics like Hodag scent ropes and how they attract bucks and geese months before season peaks.Practical tips for food plot timing, from August seedings to late-season stand...Episode 120 Waterfowl & Deer Hunting Insights with Brian from Migration Waterfowl
Join Kyle and Trav as they chat with Brian from Migration Waterfowl about his journey through waterfowl and deer hunting, sharing valuable wisdom on managing small properties, podcasting challenges, and industry insights. This episode offers tactical tips, behind-the-scenes stories, and a deep appreciation for the hunting community.
Episode 119 The Chain Reaction That Could Collapse Michigan’s Fish Ecosystem,Here’s What You Can Do
In this episode of the Great Lakes Outdoors podcast, hosts Kyle & Travis are joined by Max from the Michigan Fishing Company. They dive into the world of fishing in the Great Lakes region. They discuss the challenges and joys of fishing, the impact of social media on the fishing community, and the importance of preserving local fisheries. Max shares his experiences as a Michigan angler, highlighting the diverse fishing techniques and the camaraderie among fishermen.
A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the controversial bills (5801 and 5802) proposing the use of gill nets in the Great Lakes...
Episode 118 Turkey Season Wrap-Up
In this episode of the Great Lakes Outdoors podcast, hosts Kyle and Travis discuss their recent turkey hunting experiences. Travis shares a detailed account of his morning hunt, where he successfully shot a turkey despite several challenges, including a late start and unexpected encounters with coyotes. The conversation highlights the importance of patience, cover, and strategic positioning in turkey hunting. They also discuss the dynamics of hunting alone versus with others, emphasizing the personal satisfaction and camaraderie each approach offers. The episode wraps up with a shout-out to the Gibraltar Duck Hunters Association for their community contributions and a...
Episode 117 Heritage Taxidermy
In this episode of the Great Lakes Outdoors podcast, hosts Kyle and Travis welcome Cody from Heritage Taxidermy. They discuss Cody's journey into taxidermy, starting at age 13, and his experiences learning the craft. Cody shares stories about his early projects, including mounting a crow and a crappie, and how he developed his skills over time. The conversation covers the challenges and intricacies of taxidermy, such as dealing with different animal types and the importance of attention to detail.
Cody also talks about the business side of taxidermy, including the impact of social media on his brand and...
Episode 116 The Surprising Impact of Overthinking Hunting Tactics on Your Success
In this episode of the Great Lakes Outdoors Podcast, hosts Chris Niemi and Travis discuss the intricacies of turkey hunting, sharing personal experiences and insights. They explore the challenges of overthinking hunting tactics, the impact of small mistakes like using a flashlight, and the importance of understanding turkey behavior. The conversation delves into the use of decoys, the significance of bird body language, and the role of curiosity in successful hunting. They also touch on the unpredictability of turkey movements and the importance of adapting strategies based on the environment and bird behavior. The episode concludes with reflections on...
Episode 115 The Wild Story of a Big Bird, Missed Shots, and Lessons for Every Hunter
Join Kyle and Travis as they reveal the real secrets to successful turkey hunting. Forget the usual tips about calls and decoys—discover how understanding bird behavior and terrain can change your game.
Hear stories of missed shots, close calls, and the lessons learned. Learn about the impact of weather, water levels, and legal tactics on your hunt. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a beginner, this episode offers practical tips and real stories to help you succeed.
Tune in to rethink your approach and turn your luck around with insights from two experienced hunters.
Episode 114 Social Media's Influence, Michigan's Deer Seasons, and the Thrills of Turkey Hunting
Join Kyle and Travis as they dive into the world of hunting and outdoor adventures. This episode covers the excitement and challenges of turkey hunting, including humorous mishaps and insightful discussions on hunting regulations. Discover the passion behind the hunt, the camaraderie among hunters, and the thrill of the chase. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just curious about the outdoors, this episode offers a blend of storytelling, expert tips, and a touch of humor that will keep you engaged from start to finish.
Timestamps:
00:00 - Welcome and updates on being...
Episode 113 Treating Your Dog like an Athlete ft. Retriever Fuel
Unleashing Peak Performance for Working Dogs: The Retriever Fuel Story
In this episode, we sit down with Chad Williams, founder of Retriever Fuel, to dive into the world of canine nutrition designed specifically for active working dogs. Chad shares his journey from a construction background to creating a revolutionary product that supports recovery, joint health, focus, and performance.
Episode 112 2 Weeks Until Opener
This episode features a lively conversation between Travis and Kyle, co-hosts of the Great Lakes Outdoors podcast. They discuss Kyle's recent trip to Mexico, where he enjoyed surfing and interacting with locals and tourists. The conversation shifts to their preparations for the upcoming turkey hunting season, including scouting properties and maintaining relationships with landowners. They emphasize the importance of communication and building personal connections with farmers to secure hunting permissions. The hosts also touch on the challenges of managing turkey populations and the impact of predators on wildlife. Additionally, they discuss their plans for future hunting trips and the...
Episode 111 Turkey Expectations & Property Projects
Join Travis in his first solo episode with guest Ben Geiger, an outdoorsman skilled in DIY projects and land management. They discuss property improvements, hunting strategies, and share humorous stories. Topics include property management efforts like cutting and burning, food plot strategies, building relationships with landowners, and hunting tales. The episode also covers Ben's tractor project, firewood plans, and the upcoming turkey season.
Episode 110 Unlocking the Secrets of Patterning Guns Ft. Pattern Pros
In this episode, Kyle, Travis, and Ryan Burnett of Pattern Pros dive deep into the importance of patterning guns for turkey, waterfowl, and rifle hunts. Ryan shares insights on how detailed gun patterning can significantly improve hunting accuracy and confidence, and discusses upcoming product innovations.
00:00 - Introduction and the importance of gun patterning in hunting success
02:07 - Turkey and waterfowl seasons: reflections and challenges
04:00 - How Pattern Pros started: innovating with multi-shell pattern packs
05:42 - The evolution of turkey loads and TSS shot technology
08:45 - How manufacturers support pattern...
Episode 109 Southern Ohio, Turkeys, New Merch, and more
00:00 - Welcome and episode overview
01:51 - Shed hunting adventures and tips
02:22 - Trip to Southern Ohio for shed hunting and terrain terrain impressions
03:43 - Sign from hunters and public land observations
04:45 - Experiences with deer sign and tracking
05:24 - Ohio deer hunting insights and land access considerations
07:05 - Comparing Michigan and Ohio terrain and hunting pressure
07:37 - Setting up on property, thermals, and stand placement tips
08:17 - Property management: burning, replanting trees, and water features
09:20 - Planning for waterfowl ponds and...
Episode 108 New Rules for the 2026 Season, Turkey Talk'n, and more
Key Topics
The recent Michigan House bill on deer baiting and its implicationsPros and cons of one buck versus APR (Antler Point Restrictions) systemsThe impact of hunting regulations on deer herd health and geneticsThe role of social media in shaping hunting law opinionsWildlife conservation efforts, including turkey and dove regulation changesPractical tips for shed hunting and scouting techniquesTimestamps
00:01 - Introduction to Michigan hunting laws and recent legislative updates
00:24 - Michigan House bill passing to lift deer baiting across the lower peninsula
00:52 - Different hunter types: habitat-focused...
Episode 107 Shed Hunting Tips & Tricks
Join Kyle and Travis as they share insights on shed hunting, deer management, and outdoor adventures. This episode covers effective shed hunting strategies, deer behavior, and tips for beginners, making it a must-listen for outdoor enthusiasts looking to improve their skills and enjoy the hunt.
Takeaways
Walk the deer runs and field edges for the best shed hunting spots
Use weather conditions like overcast and post-rain days to find sheds more easily
Gather intelligence from shed locations to understand deer movement patterns
Episode 106 Ice Fishing, Late goose, Late Deer Seasons
On this weeks episode the guys sit down and talk about, ice fishing, late Deer season, late goose season and much much more!
What do you want to see more content of?
Let us know in the comments below!
Episode 105 Emerson Archery
On this weeks episode Ryan Emerson, from Emerson Archery stops by the studio. The Guys talk deer hunting, Archery, and how to get the youth more involved. Check out Emerson Archery on all social media.
Episode 104 Hunting laws in Michigan and Whats to come...
Boys recap their 2025 seasons, and get down to the possible new laws to come to hunters in Michigan. Sit back relax cause this one gets heated!
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Episode 103 The Boyz Are Back!!!
Kyle, Trav, and Chris get together and talk hunting. Kyle tells the guys about his exciting night, and how the season has been going. We talk about Michigan State laws and more. Give us a comment and share if you enjoy this podcast. Stay tuned for some more exciting things to come!
Episode 102 JE Waterfowl
On this weeks podcast Kyle and Chris sit down with the owners of JE Waterfowl. We talk business, the success and struggles of starting a waterfowl lanyard company. They talk about their product and how its different from any other lanyard company.
Check out JE Waterfowl on all social media.
Episode 101 The Orange Army Enters The Woods
On this weeks Podcast Kyle, Travis, and Chris jump on the podcast and talk deer hunting and the big peew peew opener this weekend! Stay tuned to see who gets the bigger deer this year!
Episode 100 Do It All Outdoors
On this weeks episode Kyle and Chris have do it all on the podcast. They talk industry, what it takes to be in the outdoor industry and the challenges that you face starting an company in the outdoor industry
Episode 99 Fourth Arrow
On this weeks episode Kyle, Chris, and Trav had Joe from Fourth Arrow on the Podcast. Joe is the marketing director from Fourth Arrow. We break down fourth arrows products and talk industry and Deer Hunting!
Episode 98 Deer Hunting With Justin Kurtz
On this weeks Podcast Justin, comes into the studio, we talk deer hunting, and all things hunting!
Stay tuned for some excited things coming up from the Great Lakes Crew!
Episode 97 The Crew and Whats to come
On this weeks episode Travis, Kyle, and Chris sit down and do a little recap on what the crew has been up to the last couple months. We also talk about all the new things to come. It's always a great time when the three of us all get together. Stay tuned we have some big things in the works.
Episode 96 Killer Food Plots
Rich owner of Killer Food Plots Jumps on the Podcast. Travis , Kyle and Chris talk with Rich about how he how he got into the food plot industry along with all things deer hunting.
Episode 95 Cooler Guard
On this weeks episode Trevor, Owner of Cooler Guard Joins us in the Podcast Studio! Trevor tells us about his two amazing American Made Products and change the game for anyone who enjoys the Outdoors.
Promo Code:
@coolerguardspray- GLO for 20% OFF
@huntproof- GREATHP25 for 25% OFF
@hodagoutdoors- greatlakes for 15% OFF
Thanks for Listening and Stay tuned for more to come!
Episode 94 Pointe Mouillee Waterfowl Festival
On this weeks episode, Kyle and Chris have the pleasure of having Pointe Mouillee Waterfowl Festivals Deputy Director, Rick Novak in Studio. They talk about the Festival and how it has changed for the better! With many new things coming to the festival this year its shaped to be one of the best ones yet! Come out to the Pointe Mouillee Waterfowl Festival September 13th and 14th. It's not a show you will want to miss!
Episode 93 Hodag Outdoors
On This weeks episode Kyle and Chris Sit down with the guys from Hodag Outdoors. We talk industry and deer hunting! Check out Hodag Products in your local Hunting Stores.
Episode 92 Hunt Proof
Nathan and Steve Owners of Hunt Proof join Kyle and Chris on this episode. Nathan and Steve explain what Hunt Proof is and break down what the App has to offer. Hunt Proof is a one of a kind app that will help every Hunter and dog trainer. Stay tuned for what's next with Hunt Proof.
Check out Hunt Proof in your App store, Don't forget to use your promo code to get 25 % off your membership
PROMO CODE: GREATHP25
We Would like to thank all of our sponsors,
...
Episode 91 Excel Boats
This weeks episode Carlson and Chris from Excel Boats comes onto the podcast. We talk everything and all things excel Boats. Check out excel Boats on all social media or on their website website!
Chris Brent is coming to Michigan for a Hunt!
Episode 90 Brian Ellithorpe
On this weeks episode, Brian Ellithorpe Jumps on the podcast. We catch up and touch on some of the great memories we have created within a year. From Turkey hunting to fishing to waterfowl hunting we talk about it all on this podcast! Stay tuned for part two!
Episode 89 Durk Stark
On this weeks podcast we have a very special guest, Durk Stark. Durk owns a marketing firm that manages multiple outdoor industry companies. Kyle and Chris talk with Durk about industry and some of his favorite memories hunting. This episode breaks down the different challenges and the benefits of the outdoor industry.
Episode 88 Pattern Pros
Ryan, owner of Pattern Pros jumps on this weeks podcast. Kyle and Chris talk with Ryan about the importance of patterning ammo with your pew pew. They also talk about how unique Ryan's company and how important it is in the outdoors outdoor industry.
Episode 87 Fowler Hide Supply
On this weeks episode Cameron, owner of Fowler Hide Supply jumps on the podcast and tells Kyle and Chris about how he started his company, the ins and outs of creating his lanyards, and industry talk.
Episode 86 Spear Fishing with Jon Durtka
On this weeks episode Jon Durtka from Purely Mi Spear Fishing joins Kyle and Chris at the podcast studio. Jon explains how spear fishing works in Michigan and what it takes to become a spear fishermen. Check out Jon on instagram @purelymispearfishing
Episode 85 All Feathers Taxidermy
This weeks Episode Kyle and Chris have Heath Hoogerhyde Owner of All Feathers Taxidermy. Heath does some amazing art work individually placing feathers into place to make a one of a kind memory. Check out All Feathers Taxidermy on all Social media.
Another thanks to our amazing Sponsors,
Migra Ammunition
GK Calls
Turtle Box
Pointe Mouillee Waterfowl Festival
Gibraltar Duck Hunters Association
Gibraltar Boat Yard
Episode 84 Flipping Bird Apparel
On this weeks episode Mike from Flipping Bird Apparel comes into the studio with his new pup! Kyle and Chris talk to Mike about the challenges when it comes to training a new dog. They also Recap this past waterfowl season, and touch on what's what to come in the future!
