Boone and Crockett's Heritage Of The Hunt Podcast

Discover how hunting, conservation, and leadership intersect in this inspiring conversation with Boone and Crockett leaders. In this episode of the Heritage of the Hunt Podcast, past presidents Jim Arnold and Steve Adams reflect on their lifelong journeys in hunting, fishing, and outdoor conservation. They share how the Boone and Crockett Club evolved into a leading force for wildlife management and why collaboration among conservation groups remains essential. Listeners will hear stories of memorable hunts, challenges facing modern conservation, and the critical role of university wildlife programs in preparing the next generation of hunters, anglers, and outdoor leaders. From youth engagement to the importance of adaptability in changing times, this conversation offers insights into preserving America’s hunting and fishing heritage for generations to come. Key Takeaways for Hunters and Conservationists: The Boone and Crockett Club’s history of leadership in wildlife conservation How personal experiences in hunting lead to conservation involvement Why effective wildlife management requires collaboration across organizations The Club’s impact beyond record-keeping into broader outdoor conservation efforts The importance of university programs in training future wildlife managers Engaging youth in hunting, fishing, and conservation traditions Leadership lessons for passionate outdoorsmen and conservation advocates Get more from Boone and Crockett Club: https://www.boone-crockett.org Sign up for FREE newsletter: https://www.boone-crockett.org/user/login#

Discover how poaching undermines hunting, fishing, and conservation—and what we can do to stop it. Poaching isn’t just a crime—it’s one of the most pressing threats to wildlife conservation in America. In this episode, we unpack the Boone and Crockett Club’s groundbreaking Poach and Pay Report with Dr. Jon Gassett, Southeast Field Representative for the Wildlife Management Institute and Dr. Kristie Blevins, Professor of Criminal Justice at Eastern Kentucky University, which reveals alarming data about illegal hunting and fishing, the hidden costs to conservation, and why detection rates are as low as 4%. We explore how poaching impacts hunters, anglers, and the outdoor community, while breaking down the economic toll that costs wildlife agencies billions. This conversation highlights why it’s crucial to distinguish between ethical hunters and poachers, and how education, awareness, and community engagement can create a lasting cultural stigma against poaching. From trophy poaching to opportunistic violations, we discuss the motivations behind these crimes, why prosecutors need better tools to pursue them, and how legislative change could strengthen wildlife protection. Whether you’re a hunter, angler, or conservationist, this episode sheds light on why defending our outdoor heritage depends on combating poaching. Key Takeaways Poaching threatens wildlife, hunting, fishing, and conservation across the United States. Detection rates for poaching remain alarmingly low—just 4%. Hunters and anglers must help build awareness and report wildlife crimes. The economic impact of poaching costs conservation agencies billions annually. Public education and stronger prosecution are essential to deter poaching. Creating a cultural stigma against poaching protects future hunting and fishing opportunities. Get more from Boone and Crockett Club: https://www.boone-crockett.org Sign up for FREE newsletter: https://www.boone-crockett.org/user/login#

Discover why Boone and Crockett’s new Javelina records category could transform Southwestern hunting and conservation. The Boone and Crockett Club has officially announced a brand-new records category for Javelina hunting, marking the first new addition in nearly 30 years. This episode dives into the step-by-step process of creating the category, from detailed proposals to committee approval, and explores the unique traits of Javelina that make them stand out in the world of big game hunting. We discuss how Javelina are recognized as big game animals by many state agencies, the wildlife management strategies that keep populations healthy, and how this move will bolster both conservation and hunting culture across the Southwest. Learn about the official scoring process — including precise measurement standards — and the minimum entry requirement of 14 and five-sixteenths inches. We also break down the differences between Javelina and feral hogs, highlighting their distinct ecological roles and management needs. From enhancing appreciation for the rugged beauty of Southwestern landscapes to documenting long-term conservation success stories, this new category promises to deepen hunters’ respect for one of North America’s most fascinating game animals. Get more from Boone and Crockett Club: https://www.boone-crockett.org Sign up for FREE newsletter: https://www.boone-crockett.org/user/login#

In this episode of the Boone and Crockett Club’s Heritage Of The Hunt podcast, host Jodi Stemler sits down with acclaimed filmmaker and outdoor television producer Jason Matzinger, the creative force behind the film Selective. Together, they explore how hunting has evolved over the years and dive into the critical role of selective hunting in sustainable wildlife management. Jason shares moving stories of hunting alongside his children, illustrating how these experiences create powerful family bonds and lifelong memories. The conversation also shines a light on the Boone and Crockett Club’s historic contributions to conservation and the ongoing need for sportsmen to take an active role in preserving wildlife and wild places. Jason unpacks common misconceptions about trophy hunting, explaining how it connects directly to healthy wildlife populations and habitat management. Key Takeaways Hunting with children fosters deep family connections and lasting memories. Selective hunting is a powerful tool for responsible wildlife management and conservation. The Boone and Crockett Club has played a pivotal role in American conservation history. Trophy hunting, often misunderstood, is fundamentally tied to maintaining healthy wildlife populations. Hunting can be an emotional and transformative experience. The National Collection of Heads and Horns preserves and honors conservation heritage. Active engagement in conservation is essential for future generations of hunters and wildlife enthusiasts. Capturing hunting experiences on film helps communicate the deeper meaning of the pursuit. Educating the public is vital to bridging gaps between hunting and conservation understanding. Sportsmen have a duty to advocate for wildlife and public lands. Get more from Boone and Crockett Club: https://www.boone-crockett.org Sign up for FREE newsletter: https://www.boone-crockett.org/user/login#

In the debut episode of Heritage of the Hunt, hosts Jodi Stemler and Boone and Crockett Club CEO Tony Schoonen introduce listeners to the legacy, mission, and vision of one of America’s most influential conservation organizations. Founded in 1887 by Theodore Roosevelt, the Boone and Crockett Club has led the charge in shaping modern wildlife conservation, promoting ethical hunting, and protecting wild places for future generations. This kickoff episode explores the foundational principles of the Club, including its first efforts to protect Yellowstone National Park, the importance of fair chase, and the establishment of the records program as a tool to monitor ecosystem health. Stemler and Schoonen also preview the upcoming Big Game Awards and share how this podcast will serve as an educational platform to highlight the Club’s policy work, research initiatives, and the broader conservation community. Whether you're a lifelong hunter, conservationist, or someone new to the field, this series aims to connect you with the people, policies, and stories shaping the future of North American wildlife. Key Takeaways: Boone and Crockett Club was founded in 1887 by Theodore Roosevelt. One of the Club’s first conservation successes was safeguarding Yellowstone National Park. The Records Program serves as a tool to evaluate ecosystem health through hunter-submitted entries. Fair chase principles are central to ethical hunting and Boone and Crockett’s mission. The Big Game Awards recognize conservation-minded hunters and exemplary specimens. The Club’s work includes science-based policy, education, and on-the-ground research. The Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Ranch provides field-based learning and conservation outreach. Future episodes will feature expert guests, field biologists, policy leaders, and stories from the hunting and conservation world. Subscribe now and join us on this journey through the past, present, and future of conservation. Get more from Boone and Crockett Club: https://www.boone-crockett.org Sign up for FREE newsletter: https://www.boone-crockett.org/user/login#