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Down The Barrel With Jimmy, Deano, and Jared

Jimmy & Deano and Jared

"Down The Barrel" is your go-to podcast for everything related to hunting, trapping, firearms, and outdoor adventures in Minnesota. Join us as we explore the wilderness with insights from local companies and feature exciting celebrity guests who share their love for the great outdoors—hosted by Jimmy, Deano and Jared.

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  • 23 episodes
  • fortnightly
  • Avg 58 min
  • English

Episodes 23

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  • S3 · E110
    Sunday · 34 min

    Wolf Delisting Is Back: Will Minnesota Hunt Wolves Again?

    Federal wolf delisting is back on the table — but what would it actually take for Minnesota to hold another regulated wolf hunting and trapping season? In this episode of Down the Barrel, Jimmy and Deano break down the renewed federal push toward gray wolf delisting, Minnesota’s existing wolf management framework, population estimates, and why the growing range of wolves across the state matters. They also discuss Wolf.Report, how hunters and trail-camera owners are helping document wolf sightings beyond Minnesota’s historic wolf range, and why MDHA is asking hunters to sign its wolf management petition. Then we switch gears to the Minnesota Bowhunters Challenge — the new squad-based bowhunting league where hunters earn points for legal harvests, complete optional special missions, climb the leaderboard, and compete for cash, prizes and bragging rights. In this episode: wolf delisting, Minnesota wolf management, Wolf.Report, the push for a future wolf season, the MDHA wolf petition, and the growing Minnesota Bowhunters Challenge.

  • S3 · E109
    September 3 · 38 min

    The Minnesota Bowhunters Challenge is HERE! | Squads, Points, Prizes & Hunting Season

    Hunting season is here — and so is something brand new for Minnesota bowhunters. In this episode of **Down the Barrel**, Jimmy, Deano and Jared introduce the **Minnesota Bowhunters Challenge**, MNBOW’s new squad-based bowhunting competition. Build a squad of 2–4 hunters, hit the woods, submit your harvests, complete special missions, rack up points and climb the leaderboard — all while doing what you were already planning to do this fall: HUNT. We break down how the Challenge works, what earns points, the bonus missions coming throughout the season and why this is about a whole lot more than shooting the biggest buck. It’s about getting outdoors, hunting with friends and family, having some friendly competition and giving Minnesota bowhunters another reason to get in the woods. And yes — there’s something worth hunting for. **$1,000 is on the line for the winning squad**, along with additional prizes, a one-of-a-kind trophy and an invitation to join us on Down the Barrel to tell your squad’s story. We also talk about the upcoming **Roger Up Second Amendment Bingo** on October 24 in Grand Rapids. The event will help support Roger Up and MDHA veteran hunts, including a women veterans archery hunt and men’s rifle hunt this fall. With 13 firearms, additional prizes, food and a great cause behind it, it should be a heck of a night. Plus, hunting seasons are finally starting to open across Minnesota. The bows are coming out, gear is getting checked, stands are going up and we’re ready to get back into the woods. **Grab your buddies. Build your squad. Hunt Minnesota. Earn points.** The Minnesota Bowhunters Challenge starts NOW.

  • S3 · E108
    August 12 · 54 min

    CPL Funding Changes: Why Rural Minnesota Is Being Left Behind

    Minnesota's Conservation Partners Legacy (CPL) Grant Program has helped conservation organizations put millions of dollars directly into habitat projects across the state. But a major change to the program could leave much of rural Minnesota on the outside looking in. In this episode of **Down the Barrel**, Jimmy, Deno and Jared break down what the CPL program is, where the money comes from, how organizations like the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association use these grants, and why the new geographic restrictions are raising serious concerns for hunters and conservationists across Greater Minnesota. MDHA alone has used CPL funding to complete roughly 140 habitat projects representing millions of dollars in habitat work and tens of thousands of acres across Minnesota. These aren't projects designed to fund an organization's operating budget—they are locally driven conservation projects that require matching funds, documentation and reimbursement for actual habitat work. The guys discuss why MDHA believes Minnesota can—and should—continue investing in metro-area habitat **without sacrificing conservation projects throughout the rest of the state**. They also explain how these projects support more than wildlife by putting money into local contractors, businesses and rural communities. The message is simple: **Conservation shouldn't stop at the metro line.** The episode also covers MDHA's new petition calling for statewide CPL opportunities to be restored and why hunters, conservationists and rural Minnesotans need to make their voices heard. Then the conversation shifts gears to Game Fair, the Arctic Cat Prowler and FLOE CargoMax giveaway, MDHA's Education Raffle, the 50 BMG giveaway, upcoming chapter events—and, naturally, plenty of the usual Down the Barrel banter. **CPL funding comes from Minnesotans. Habitat opportunities should benefit Minnesotans across the entire state.** BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhutners.com) First Call (www.firstcall211.net) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report)

  • S3 · E107
    July 29 · 56 min

    Can We Have an Honest Conversation About CWD?

    Can hunters have an honest conversation about Chronic Wasting Disease without all the shouting? We think so. In this episode of Down the Barrel, Jimmy, Dean, and Jared sit down for a campfire-style discussion about one of the most controversial topics in deer hunting—Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD). None of us are scientists, and we don't pretend to have all the answers. We're simply three Minnesota hunters talking through the questions, concerns, and opinions that many hunters have but don't always feel comfortable discussing. We discuss the new 2026 CWD testing strategy, why the DNR is changing its approach, whether mandatory testing makes sense, the debate over feeding and attractant bans, concerns about future regulations, and why continued research is important—even when the answers aren't always clear. Along the way we also touch on: Minnesota's new CWD testing program. What we know—and don't know—about the disease. Why misinformation exists on all sides. How CWD could impact the future of deer hunting. The importance of asking questions without attacking each other. A few updates on the 2026 hunting regulations and what's happening at Game Fair. Whether you agree with us or not, we'd love to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment and join the conversation. Hunting is stronger when hunters can respectfully discuss the issues that matter most. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) First Call For Help (www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

  • S3 · E106
    July 17 · 1 hr 3 min

    From 30-Inch Walleyes to 50-Inch Muskies | Minnesota Fishing Talk

    This week on Down the Barrel, Jimmy, Deno, and Jared welcome back Craig Niemi of Minnesota Fishing Encounters Guide Service for an entertaining conversation packed with fishing knowledge, guide stories, and plenty of laughs. Craig shares decades of experience guiding on Leech Lake and Lake Winnibigoshish, including where to find trophy walleyes, muskies, crappies, pike, and panfish throughout the season. The crew discusses why northern pike deserve more respect at the dinner table, favorite fish recipes, fishing after dark for giant walleyes, introducing kids to fishing, and how today's technology—especially forward-facing sonar—is changing the future of the sport. Along the way, they swap stories about memorable catches, local resorts, conservation, hunting, and, as always, wander off into a few hilarious rabbit holes. Whether you're chasing your first muskie, looking for better walleye tactics, or just enjoy hanging out with a few outdoorsmen around the microphone, this episode is full of practical tips, honest opinions, and classic Down the Barrel banter. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) First Call For Help (www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

  • S3 · E105
    July 9 · 19 min

    July Campfire BS: Arctic Cat, .50 BMG & What's Next

    The guys are back after a busy start to summer with another July BS Session, catching everyone up on what's happening across MDHA, MNBOW, and Down the Barrel. This episode covers the launch of MDHA's brand-new Huntin' & Haulin' Sweepstakes, featuring a new Arctic Cat Prowler XT paired with a Floe trailer, plus the limited-edition HM Defense .50 BMG Sweepstakes celebrating America's 250th birthday. The conversation also dives into preparations for the upcoming Roger Up Veterans Hunts, including new food plots, Mossberg rifle donations, plans for permanent elevated hunting blinds, and ways listeners can help support the program. The crew previews several upcoming events including: Game Fair The Full Draw Film Tour at Rapids Brewing The new MNBOW Hunting League Fall chapter banquets and county fairs They also discuss why fundraising is critical to supporting habitat projects, hunter education, advocacy, and protecting Minnesota's hunting heritage. If you're wondering what's coming over the next few months, this episode is packed with updates, upcoming events, and plenty of the usual Down the Barrel banter. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) First Call For Help 211 (www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

  • S3 · E104
    June 18 · 45 min

    New Minnesota DNR Licensing App: What Every Hunter Needs to Know

    Minnesota's hunting and fishing license system is changing in a big way. In this episode of Down the Barrel Podcast, we break down the new Minnesota DNR Licensing App, digital harvest validation, electronic trail passes, and what these changes mean for hunters, anglers, trappers, and outdoor recreation users. We discuss the benefits, possible concerns, and what you should do now before deer season arrives. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com) First Call For Help 211 (www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report)

  • S3 · E103
    June 6 · 38 min

    Forkhorn, POMA, and New Friends in the Outdoor Industry

    In this episode of Down The Barrel Podcast, the guys dive into two outstanding organizations that are making a difference in the outdoor world. First, they discuss the MDHA Forkhorn Camps, one of Minnesota's premier youth outdoor education programs, and how these camps are helping pass our hunting heritage on to the next generation. They also recap their experience at the Professional Outdoor Media Association (POMA) Summit held in Hugo, Minnesota, where they spent several days connecting with outdoor writers, content creators, manufacturers, and conservation organizations from across the country. From great conversations to new friendships and exciting opportunities, the POMA event showcased the best of the outdoor industry. Pull up a chair, grab your favorite beverage, and join Jim, Dean, and Jared as they share stories from the week and highlight two great operations that are helping keep our outdoor traditions strong. Have a listen and learn more about the Forkhorn Program and POMA—two organizations doing great things for the future of the outdoors. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) First Call For Help 211 (www.firstcall211.net) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report)

  • S3 · E102
    May 21 · 50 min

    Updates, Opinions & Other Bad Decisions

    Not gonna lie… this one’s a bit of a filler episode because things have been absolutely nuts lately. But sometimes those turn into the best conversations. Jim, Dean, and Jared sit down to catch up, crack a few drinks, and talk through everything that’s been happening lately with MDHA and beyond. We cover some big MDHA updates, talk about the newest chapter joining the organization, dive into the latest conversations around guns in Minnesota, and discuss the exciting partnership opportunities brewing with Arctic Cat. We also revisit the idea of putting together a Wild Game Cook Off with our good buddy Tony from. It’s laid back, unfiltered, and exactly the kind of episode you’d expect from a few guys trying to catch their breath during a busy season. Grab a drink, hang out with us for a while, and thanks for listening to the. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) First Call For Help (www.firstcall211.net) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

  • S3 · E101
    May 13 · 50 min

    Turn In Poachers with Peter Lodermeier

    In this episode of the Down The Barrel Podcast, we sit down with Peter Lodermeier to talk about Minnesota’s T.I.P. Program — Turn In Poachers. Peter shares the history behind the organization, how it started in Minnesota back in 1980, and how volunteers across the state continue working to protect wildlife and natural resources today. We discuss how the T.I.P. program works, how anonymous tips help conservation officers catch poachers, and the types of violations commonly reported — from overlimits of walleyes and illegal deer hunting to damage to public lands and protected species violations. Peter also explains how rewards are offered for information that leads to arrests and convictions, along with the importance of public involvement in protecting Minnesota’s outdoor heritage. The conversation also dives into the famous “Wall of Shame” displays seen at sports shows across the state, fundraising efforts that keep T.I.P. operating independently, and some unbelievable real-world poaching stories from over the years. If you’re passionate about hunting, fishing, conservation, and protecting the future of the outdoors, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Learn more or support the organization at: http://www.turninpoachers.org BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com) First Call For Help (www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report)

  • S3 · E100
    April 30 · 20 min

    Episode 100 – Full Auto Fun. Celebrating with Off Grid Armory

    Down The Barrel hits a huge milestone—Episode 100—and we’re celebrating the only way we know how… with some full-auto fun. We made a trip to Off Grid Armory to spend the day sending rounds downrange and catching up with our buddy Sam. Along the way, we dive into everything from Off Grid Suppressors and SHOT Show highlights to Sherps, gear, and plenty of behind-the-scenes stories. It’s loud, it’s unfiltered, and it’s exactly the kind of episode that got us here in the first place. Reaching 100 episodes puts Down The Barrel in the top 5% of podcasts globally by longevity—and honestly, that’s pretty wild to think about. We couldn’t have done it without all of you. Whether you’ve been listening since day one or just found us recently, thank you for the support, the laughs, and for riding along with us. Here’s to 100 episodes down… and 100 more ahead. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) First Call For Help (www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

  • S3 · E99
    April 24 · 42 min

    Shotgun Zones, Crossbows & Deer Numbers – What’s Changing in MN?

    Episode 99 is all about updates as the crew gears up for the big 100th episode. Jared joins remotely while sick, and the guys jump into key topics including the ongoing rifle vs. shotgun zone decisions, with counties approaching the May 15 deadline. They break down the crossbow bill passing unanimously in the Senate, expected to move through the House, and why these changes matter for the future of hunting—especially when it comes to recruiting and retaining hunters. The crew also reviews 2025 deer harvest numbers, showing an encouraging rebound thanks to mild winters and improved success rates. To wrap things up, it’s classic Down The Barrel talk—turkey season, fishing opener, gear chatter, and plenty of laughs—plus a reminder to support hunting legislation and tune in for Episode 100. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com) First Call For Help (www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report)

  • S3 · E98
    April 17 · 1 hr 34 min

    What Bowhunting Gear Should You Use? Full Setup Breakdown w/ Brandon Ladoux

    Brandon Ladoux is back—and this time, it’s all about the gear. No side topics, no detours—just a full-on bowhunting equipment breakdown from start to finish. We cover everything serious bowhunters care about: stands vs. saddles, bow setups, arrow builds, broadheads, optics, and must-have accessories. Brandon also shares what he’s running for self-filming in the field, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how he captures his hunts. Whether you’re dialing in your setup for the upcoming season or just love talking gear, this episode is packed with real-world insight, preferences, and practical takeaways from someone who puts it all to the test. If it’s used in bowhunting—we probably talked about it. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) First Call For Help (www.firstcall211.net) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) Deadnuts Outdoors (www.deadnutsoutdoors.com)

  • S3 · E97
    April 8 · 1 hr 21 min

    Adapt or Go Home: Lessons from a Life of Bowhunting with Brandon Ladoux

    In this episode of the Down the Barrel Podcast, the crew sits down with Minnesota bowhunter Brandon Ledoux to talk about his journey into serious bowhunting and the lessons learned along the way. Brandon shares how losing his father at a young age helped shape his connection to the outdoors and fueled a lifelong passion for hunting. What started with rifle hunting eventually turned into a full commitment to bowhunting, where constant learning, adapting, and learning from mistakes became the keys to success. The conversation covers everything from missed shots and tough hunts to spot-and-stalk successes, filming hunts for the Ledoux Crew YouTube channel, and how hunting strategies evolve over time. Brandon also talks about balancing family life with hunting and how becoming a husband and father forced him to hunt smarter and make the most of limited time in the woods. It’s a great conversation about perseverance, storytelling, and the reality of chasing whitetails—successes, failures, and everything in between. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com) First Call For Help (www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf,report)

  • S3 · E96
    March 30 · 1 hr 16 min

    Getting It Done on Public Land: Midwest Whitetails with Greg Lease

    In this episode of Down The Barrel, we’re joined by public land hunting standout Greg Lease. Greg is a member of MNBOW, a former deputy, and someone who has built a reputation for consistently finding success chasing whitetails on public land across the Midwest. Greg shares his passion for the hunt and breaks down how he approaches public land in multiple states, including Kansas, Iowa, North Dakota, Minnesota, and Missouri. From scouting strategies to adapting to different terrain and hunting pressure, Greg talks about what it really takes to get it done on public ground. If you’re interested in traveling to hunt, learning how to unlock overlooked public land opportunities, or just hearing stories from the road chasing Midwest whitetails, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Grab a seat, tune in, and learn how Greg consistently finds success where everyone else is hunting. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com) First Call For Help (www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report)

  • S3 · E95
    March 19 · 1 hr 4 min

    What’s Happening in Minnesota: MDHA Weighs In

    In this episode, we dig into where the Minnesota Deer Hunters Association (MDHA) stands on some of the most talked-about issues facing hunters and gun owners today. We break down the latest wave of proposed anti-Second Amendment legislation in Minnesota and what it could mean for our community—not just for deer hunters, but for predator management and the future of hunting as a whole. We also dive into a growing national conversation around Fourth Amendment concerns involving conservation officers and access to private property—an issue that’s raising eyebrows across the country and hitting close to home here in Minnesota. Throughout the episode, we share MDHA’s stance, our personal perspectives, and what we believe is at stake. If you’ve been wondering where we stand on these issues, this is the episode to listen to. And of course, it wouldn’t be us without mixing in a little humor along the way. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) First Call For Help 211 (www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

  • S3 · E94
    March 16 · 1 hr 14 min

    Friends, Turkeys and Tim Hortons

    In this episode we sit down once again with our good friends Josh and Katie to hear all about their recent Utah turkey hunting adventure. What started as a quick trip to chase a couple Merriam’s turkeys turned into a great story. Along the way we dive into Minnesota turkey hunting, talk about walleye fishing on Lake of the Woods, and swap stories about a few classic Canadian staples—from Tim Hortons coffee to shore lunches on the lake. We also check in on how the whitetail deer population is doing in Ontario and what hunters are seeing north of the border. As always, the conversation goes wherever it wants—plenty of laughs, a few good hunting stories, and even a little marriage counseling sprinkled in along the way. If you enjoy hunting, fishing, road-trip adventures, and good friends around the mic, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) First Call For Help 211 (www.firstcall211.net) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

  • February 25 · 1 hr 24 min

    The African Dream: Inside a Marupa Safaris Adventure

    All the way from South Africa, we’re joined by Pieter Viviers, owner of Marupa Safaris, along with our good friend Tony Roettger for an unforgettable conversation about African big game hunting. In this episode, Pieter shares how he got started bringing American hunters to South Africa and what a true African safari experience really looks like. We break down the trophy options available, realistic costs, travel planning tips, and what hunters should expect when booking the adventure of a lifetime. We also dive into the inherent dangers of hunting Africa’s largest game — including intense stories of Cape buffalo encounters and lion charges that will have you leaning in a little closer. From rifles and calibers to timing your trip and preparing properly, we cover the details that matter. If Africa has ever been on your bucket list, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Don’t forget to like, follow, and subscribe — and as always, thanks for listening to Down The Barrel. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) FirstCallForHelp211 (www.firstcall211.net) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

  • S3 · E92
    February 18 · 1 hr 38 min

    Deer and Wolf Science With Tom Gable

    We sit down with Tom Gable of the Voyageurs Wolf Project for a straight-up, science-driven conversation about wolves, deer, and what’s really happening in Northern Minnesota. Tom breaks down their new three-year deer survival study—59 deer collared and counting—as researchers dig into winter severity, predation, logging practices, and habitat changes. The big takeaway? It’s not just about wolves. Habitat—especially thermal cover and forest age—may be the real key to healthy deer populations. We talk shortened logging rotations, the loss of conifer cover, fire suppression, predator-prey dynamics, and why managing deer resilience might matter more than managing predators. We also get into public opinion, wolf policy, trail camera research, and the challenges of navigating science in today’s online world. If you care about deer, wolves, forestry, or the future of wildlife management in Minnesota, this is a must-listen episode. BTYB: MDHA (www.mndeerhunters.com) Wolf Report (www.wolf.report) FirstCall For Help 211 (www.firstcall211.net) MNBOW (www.mnbowhunters.com)

  • S3 · E91
    February 12 · 1 hr 23 min

    MN SCI World Hunting Expo and Archery Bobcat Hunt with Tony Roettger

    In this episode of Down The Barrel, we sit down once again with Tony Roettger, from Safari Club International - Minnesota Chapter—and as always, it’s a great conversation. We dive into the upcoming MN SCI Expo happening in Brooklyn Park, breaking down what this incredible event is all about. From conservation-driven fundraising to supporting wildlife initiatives and protecting our outdoor heritage, Tony shares why this expo matters and how you can join us for a night dedicated to great causes, camaraderie, and conservation. Of course, we also get into some unforgettable hunting stories. Tony talks about his one-of-a-kind archery bobcat hunts—a rare and challenging pursuit that few hunters ever experience. We also hear about incredible moments in the field during archery ram hunts with his kids. These stories are what it’s all about: family, tradition, conservation, and making memories that last a lifetime. It’s packed with great information, conservation impact, and the kind of hunting stories that keep us all coming back for more. Don’t forget to like, follow, and subscribe so you never miss an episode of Down The Barrel Podcast.

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