Huntin' Land Podcast

Join host Joe Baya and expert guest Dr. James Crowell, aka “Dr. Deer,” as they dive deep into wildlife management, timber stand improvement (TSI), and maximizing land investment for deer and habitat optimization. This episode covers the essential differences between timber stand and wildlife stand improvement, optimal oak tree diversity (60/40 red to white), thinning practices for healthier hardwood stands, the value of prescribed fire, and strategies to boost deer habitat and forest productivity.Dr. Crowell shares actionable insights for landowners looking to improve soil health, manage timber for both wildlife and investment, and take advantage of government cost-share programs. Whether you’re a seasoned land investor, recreational property manager, or new landowner, these expert tips on forest, habitat, and deer herd management will help you leave your land better than you found it.Important Links:Great Days OutdoorsFarm Credit of Northwest FloridaFirst South Farm CreditSouthern Seed and FeedDixie Building Supply / Baker Metal WorksBucks Island Marine157 OutfittersChestnut Hill OutdoorsTexas Hunter ProductsBarnett Crossbows

In this episode of Huntin’ Land, host Joe Baya is joined by Butch and special guest Parker Godwin of Farm Credit of Northwest Florida to explore what it really takes to buy, finance, and manage your own hunting land. The conversation digs into the emotional and practical hurdles of land ownership, from overcoming the intimidation factor and saving for a down payment, to the sense of control and fulfillment that comes with managing your own property.Listeners will hear candid stories from Joe and Butch about their personal journeys—navigating the transition from hunting leases to private land, the importance of neighborhood and property selection, and the long-term rewards of investing in land for both recreation and family legacy. Parker provides expert insight into the financing side, breaking down the different types of land loans available, how to leverage equity for improvements or expansion, and the unique benefits of working with a lender who understands the needs of hunters and outdoorsmen.Key topics include:The psychological and financial challenges of buying land for the first timeThe value of control, investment, and building equity in your own propertyStrategies for starting small and “trading up” to larger tracts over timeFinancing options: fixed-rate loans, lines of credit, and the flexibility of note modificationLeveraging existing equity for improvements or additional purchasesThe importance of neighborhood, soil, and long-term planning in property selectionReal-world stories of land improvement, habitat management, and the joy of sharing hunting experiences with family and friendsWhether you’re dreaming of your first 10 acres or looking to expand your landholdings, this episode offers practical advice, inspiration, and trusted resources to help you take the next step toward land ownership. Plus, you’ll learn about Farm Credit’s patronage program and how working with the right lender can make your land dreams a reality.Important Links:Great Days OutdoorsFarm Credit of Northwest FloridaFirst South Farm CreditSouthern Seed and FeedDixie Building Supply / Baker Metal WorksBucks Island Marine157 OutfittersChestnut Hill OutdoorsTexas Hunter ProductsBarnett Crossbows

In this episode of Huntin’ Land, host Joe Baya is joined by Butch and special guest Captain CT Meyer for an action-packed adventure on the Ohio River, right on the Kentucky-Indiana line. The crew dives deep into the world of bowfishing, targeting invasive Asian carp and sharing firsthand experiences from a high-energy night on the water. Listeners will get an inside look at the challenges and excitement of controlling carp populations, the environmental impact on native fish like paddlefish, and the vital role bowfishermen play in maintaining river ecosystems.The conversation explores the accessibility of bowfishing for all skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned outdoorsmen, and highlights the camaraderie and fun that make this sport unique. Captain CT Meyer shares his journey from humble beginnings to building a top-tier bowfishing operation, complete with a fully equipped lodge that offers comfort, convenience, and a true home base for guests. The episode also covers the practicalities of planning a trip, from equipment and travel logistics to the variety of experiences available—whether you’re after numbers, trophy fish, or just a memorable night with friends and family.Whether you’re a saltwater angler curious about freshwater action, a hunter looking for a new challenge, or someone seeking a unique group getaway, this episode delivers real-world insights, entertaining stories, and actionable tips for making the most of your time on the water. Plus, you’ll hear about recommended partners, products, and how to connect with Captain CT Meyer for your own bowfishing adventure.Important Links:Great Days OutdoorsFarm Credit of Northwest FloridaFirst South Farm CreditSouthern Seed and FeedDixie Building Supply / Baker Metal WorksBucks Island Marine157 OutfittersChestnut Hill OutdoorsTexas Hunter ProductsBarnett Crossbows

In this episode of Huntin' Land, we interview expert whitetail hunter Travis Lee to tackle one of the most overlooked aspects of land management: hunting pressure. Travis, who has harvested over 30 Pope and Young bucks in the Deep South, shares his hard-won wisdom on how to minimize your impact and increase your chances of seeing mature deer during daylight. From entry and exit strategies to the nuances of doe management and the effective use of modern technology like Ozonics, this conversation breaks down how to hunt smarter, not harder. Whether you hunt a large club lease or a small private parcel, this episode is packed with practical advice to make your property hunt better.Along the way, the show spotlights trusted products and services for hunters and landowners. If you're looking to turn pressure into an advantage this season, you’ll find the expert strategies and essential connections you need right here.Important Links:Great Days OutdoorsFarm Credit of Northwest FloridaFirst South Farm CreditSouthern Seed and FeedDixie Building Supply / Baker Metal WorksBucks Island Marine157 OutfittersChestnut Hill OutdoorsTexas Hunter ProductsBarnett Crossbows

On this episode of Huntin’ Land, Dr. Will Griffin, Ph.D. in animal science and lead designer for Big & J, joins us to break down the science behind mineral supplementation for whitetail deer. We discuss when it's effective, how it supports herd health and antler development, and why not all products are created equal.Dr. Griffin explains what hunters should look for on product labels, how to properly place mineral sites, and clears up the common confusion between salt and mineral licks. We also tackle concerns around disease transmission and offer practical tips for landowners looking to improve their habitat strategy.

In this episode of the Huntin' Land Podcast, Eric Miller of Federal Ammunition joins the show to break down the innovative new 7mm Back Country cartridge. The conversation explores the cartridge’s cutting-edge peak alloy case technology, which allows for higher pressures and increased velocities—even from shorter barrels—delivering magnum-level performance in a standard long action. Eric and the hosts discuss its advantages for suppressed shooting, reduced recoil, and versatility across a range of game species. They also address important considerations like barrel life, reloadability, and real-world hunting applications.

In this episode of the Huntin' Land Podcast, Seth Swerczek of Hornady Ammunition dives into the ethics and effectiveness of hunting with subsonic ammunition. Seth breaks down the key differences between subsonic and standard rounds, highlighting how bullet design plays a crucial role in ensuring proper expansion at lower velocities. The conversation covers practical tips on shot placement, range limitations, and choosing the right firearms—including AR-15s and bolt actions—for subsonic hunting. They also discuss the advantages of using suppressors, including reduced noise and recoil, and why subsonic ammo can be a great option for new or young hunters.

On this episode of the Huntin' Land Podcast, Joe sits down with two-time Grand National Gobbling Division Champion, Joe Slaton, to dive into the art of turkey hunting using the gobble call. Joe Slaton discusses the best tactics for using the gobble call to lure in gobblers, including tips for dealing with hens and hung-up birds. He shares his expertise on differentiating between dominant and subdominant birds, offering advice on when and how to use the gobble call effectively.The conversation also touches on the nuances of gobbling and the challenges of calling in different turkey behaviors.