On this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast we're joined Dr. John Hast, Kentucky's lead bear and elk biologist, and he's taking us deep into the world of wildlife management and conservation efforts for two of the state's most iconic species: black bears and elk. Dr. Hast discusses the ongoing work to protect and sustain these populations, the challenges they face, and the exciting hunting opportunities available to sportsmen and women. In addition to wildlife management, Dr. Hast shares his personal passion for the Cumberland River—one of his favorite spots to fish during the winter months. Hear about his love for this beautiful stretch of water, its unique ecosystem, and the types of fishing adventures it offers. Whether you're a hunter, angler, or nature enthusiast, this episode provides valuable insights into Kentucky's natural resources and the dedicated work going into preserving them for future generations.

We're joined by Dr. John Brunjes, the Migratory Bird Program Coordinator for KDFWR! John is an avid outdoorsman, and specifically a waterfowl lover. He speaks to all the reasons that waterfowl hunters love what they do, and about what makes it such a unique hunting opportunity. Additionally, Dr. Brunjes also sheds some light on the "behind the scenes" of migratory bird conservation efforts in North America... After speaking with him, we feel like we need to give waterfowl a shot!

We're joined by Tommy, a biologist with the KDFWR deer program! The whitetail rut is right around the corner, and so is the state's modern firearms season for deer... We'll talk about that, tips and tactics, and also go over some need-to-know information for hunters in Kentucky.

On this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast we're joined by Rachel Crume, who's not only the R3 Branch Manager for KDFWR, but also an experienced deer tracker who services the state of KY! Rachel is going to give us the rundown on deer tracking from her perspective, sharing information that she's gathered over the course of hundreds of successful and unsuccessful tracks... She'll tell us why she does it, what she enjoys about it, and share some helpful tips for deer hunters across the state.

We're joined by Jimmy Woods, a biologist with The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, and we're talking about small game! Jimmy's giving us the rundown of the mast crops across the state, discussing how this information is useful for outdoors men and women, talking about hunting with dogs, and letting us know about a new website feature that is going to help improve management efforts across the board!

On this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast we're joined by Dave Dreves, the Director of the Fisheries Division for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, and the primary topic is bass... We're talking about eating bass, and why doing that could lead to improved fisheries. We'll also hit on a new trophy bass initiative that the department is undertaking, and discuss what's going on in fisheries in general. We appreciate you listening!

On this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast we're joined by John Boel, an avid-angler and nightly news anchor with too many accolades to mention individually... John is a Wisconsin native and Kentucky transplant who's mastered walleye, smallmouth, musky, and a number of other species in the state. We're talking about how he fishes, why he fishes, and life in general...

On this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast we're joined by Rachel Young, who's with The Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Foundation! Rachel's organization helps fund conservation, and does some amazing things for the state's youth... She's telling us how they accomplish these goals, and how you can help! For more information visit: kentuckywildlife.com

On this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast we're joined by Adam Martin, Program coordinator and Sport-Fish Biologist in the western region of the state! Adam is here to tell us some good news related to bass and catfish in the big lakes, and to break down some interesting data that the fisheries crews have gathered recently. You'll find out what fishing will be like in the future on Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, learn a bit about the fisheries and ecosystems, and about the life of a fisheries biologist!

On this episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast we're talking about the best way to beat this Summer heat... Kayaking! Lee has traveled the state and documented 38 streams, and has multiple kayaking trips mapped for each stream. We're going to learn about his process, what is included in the articles, and find out his favorite floats throughout the state! For Lee's "Blue Water Trails" articles visit -> https://fw.ky.gov/Education/Pages/Blue-Water-Trails.aspx

This episode of the Kentucky Afield Podcast is a special one for me (Chase), as I tell the story of my recently-passed beagle "Hunter". He was an excellent hunting dog and companion who did a lot for me personally... In addition to that we're discussing what we've been up to lately and spring fishing opportunities!