SportsWildernessScienceNature

On The Wing Podcast

On The Wing Podcast by Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever

Welcome to the On the Wing Podcast with Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever.

On the Wing is your destination for conversations about upland bird hunting, wildlife habitat, public lands, bird dogs, wild game cooking and epic adventures in search of pheasants, quail and grouse. These are the stories of Pheasants Forever & Quail Forever’s 145,000 members, volunteers, team of professional wildlife biologists and experts in the field. Our shows are recorded in person and often on the road from the end of tailgates, backs of horse trailers and after a day in the field chasing birds.

Play

Open in

21 episodes
weekly
Avg 53 min
English

Episodes 21

Newest Oldest Longest

All20 Unplayed20 In progress0 Played0

Counted on this page — what you have heard stays on this device, so it is not something the list can be paged by.

#380
Wednesday · 14 min
EP. 380: “Judy” — A Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever Short Story
A bird dog endures shipwrecks, captivity, starvation and war to become a legendary symbol of courage. Judy of Sussex was no ordinary bird dog. Born in Shanghai in 1936, the liver-and-white pointer became the mascot of a British gunboat before serving alongside its crew through some of the darkest years of World War II. After surviving the sinking of two ships, Judy endured years of captivity alongside British POWs in Japanese prison camps. She found fresh water for stranded sailors, hunted game, survived a crocodile attack, helped prisoners maintain morale and repeatedly escaped attempts to kill her. Her story offers a remarkable look at the bond between working dogs and the people who depend on them, while showing just how much courage and instinct a bird dog can possess under unimaginable conditions. Judy eventually received the Dickin Medal, Britain's highest military honor for animals, and remains the only dog officially registered as a prisoner of war. Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds. Sound effects and sound design for "Judy" provided by: Editing and sound design by Trout Stream Studios [BG] Combat.wav by Audionautics -- https://freesound.org/s/136260/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 Warzone by LogicMoon -- https://freesound.org/s/715831/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 WAR_MACHINEGUN_SHOOTING_005.wav by deleted_user_3544904 -- https://freesound.org/s/234619/ -- License: Attribution 3.0 War sounds by Dragout -- https://freesound.org/s/150305/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 LightMachineGun1.wav by SuperPhat -- https://freesound.org/s/417688/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 yucatan jungle.mp3 by folkart films -- https://freesound.org/s/122767/ -- License: Attribution 3.0 R28-41-Hammer Metal Stakes or Nails.wav by craigsmith -- https://freesound.org/s/487086/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 G54-30-Waves Heard from Ship's Hold.wav by craigsmith -- https://freesound.org/s/438849/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 Hopeful Cinematic Emotional Orchestra Background Music by EvanBoyerman -- https://freesound.org/s/753968/ -- License: Attribution 4.0 Emotional Uplifting Soundtrack - For Her by MusicByMisterbates -- https://freesound.org/s/596510/ -- License: Creative Commons 0 On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#379
August 26 · 47 min
EP. 379: Quail Across America: A Florida Couple’s Six-Species Adventure
Wild quail, rugged country, and a six-species pursuit turned one couple’s hunts into lifelong adventures. Jamie and Jesse Durham never set out to become dedicated quail hunters. Their journey started with a question on a first date and grew into a goal to hunt all six species of quail in the United States. Along the way, they discovered what makes chasing wild birds so addictive: learning habitat, following good dogs, exploring unfamiliar country, and earning every bird. The Durhams share lessons from hunting bobwhite quail on Florida public land, including how prescribed fire, longleaf pine, palmetto cover, and timing can shape a successful hunt. They also recount trips across the West for Gambel’s, Mearns’, scaled, valley, and mountain quail, from the rugged terrain of New Mexico and Texas to Hells Canyon. Their story offers plenty for upland hunters to take away, from choosing quail habitat and working young bird dogs to handling the unique challenges of Florida hunting, including heat, snakes, alligators, and post-hurricane conditions. Most importantly, their experience shows how hunting can become something shared, from discovering new landscapes together to preparing wild quail for the table and eventually introducing the next generation to the field. Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds. On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#378
August 19 · 1 hr 9 min
EP. 378: Inside a Bird Dog’s Mind: Canine Senses, Training, and Behavior
What actually happens inside a bird dog’s brain when it locks onto a pheasant, quail, or grouse? Dr. Annie Valuska, a Purina pet behaviorist with more than 20 years of experience in animal behavior research, helps unpack the science behind the dogs we depend on in the field. The conversation explores how dogs learn through classical conditioning, operant conditioning, social learning, and problem-solving, and what those mechanisms mean for practical bird dog training. You’ll learn why positive reinforcement can accelerate learning, how environmental experiences shape behavior, and why the breed may play a much smaller role in your dog’s temperament and hunting ability than you think. The discussion gets especially interesting when Annie explains the incredible sensory world of a dog. Bird dogs can detect layers of scent that humans simply cannot perceive. Could an experienced pheasant dog actually distinguish a rooster from a hen? The science has not answered that question yet, but host Bob St.Pierre has got a theory sure to generate debate! The conversation also covers canine intelligence, communication, the powerful bond between hunters and their dogs, and how to approach a dog’s final days with compassion and objectivity. Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds.
#377
August 12 · 1 hr 4 min
EP. 377: “Ballad of the Bird Dog” Goes Official with Musician Reese Glover
For anyone who has ever watched a bird dog lock onto a point or shared quiet miles across public land, this conversation hits close to home. Singer-songwriter Reese Glover returns to talk about the official release of “Ballad of the Bird Dog,” a song introduced to the bird hunting community during an episode last year. Reese shares how the song evolved from a simple live recording into a professionally produced studio release while staying true to its stripped-down, storytelling roots. Along the way, he dives into the songwriting process, finding inspiration in pheasant hunting, grouse hunting, and life with his German shorthaired pointer, Bridger. The conversation explores why bird dogs inspire great music, how hunting traditions shape creative work, and why the connection between hunters and their dogs continues to unite the upland community. You'll also hear some fun pointer vs. flusher banter, perspective on balancing a music career with hunting season, and Reese’s upcoming plans to combine live performances with bird hunting. If you appreciate authentic outdoor storytelling, working bird dogs, and the culture surrounding upland hunting, this is one you'll want to hear from start to finish. Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds. Show notes Check out last year’s On the Wing Podcast Ep #317 when we first met Reese Glover. Learn more about Reese and check out his touring schedule at www.ReeseGloverMusic.com. In the spirit of connecting habitat and harmonies, we’ve created a Spotify playlist titled “Good Dogs & Good Tunes.” Enjoy! On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#376
August 5 · 49 min
EP. 376: Wine, Wild Game, and California Quail at Passalacqua Winery
Discover how great wild game meals become unforgettable when paired with exceptional wine and upland traditions. A turkey hunt in California's vineyard country turns into a conversation about upland hunting, wild game cooking, and why great meals begin long before they reach the table. Quail Forever Journal Editor Ryan Sparks returns to Passalacqua Winery to share the story behind completing his turkey slam while chasing gobblers through rain-soaked vineyards filled with California valley quail. Along the way, the crew explores how thoughtful wine pairings can elevate everything from grilled ruffed grouse to barbecue pheasant pizza. Passalacqua’s winemaker Jessica Boone breaks down two new Quail Forever collaboration wines, a balanced Russian River Valley Chardonnay and a vibrant Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel, explaining how each complements upland birds without overpowering their natural flavor. Listeners will also hear creative wild game recipes, including pulled pheasant barbecue pizza and a French-inspired pheasant ragout served over creamy polenta, along with practical cooking tips for making the most of every bird in the freezer. Whether you're passionate about quail hunting, turkey hunting, wild game recipes, bird dog traditions, or simply gathering around the grill after a day outdoors, this conversation offers plenty of inspiration for your next hunt and your next meal. Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds. Show notes Learn more and order Passalacqua + Quail Forever collab wines and help support Quail Forever’s habitat mission. If you’re a Quail Forever Chapter eligible to win the quail hunting trip at Passalacqua Winery, you’ll want to listen to this episode to hear the winner’s name announced. On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#375
July 29 · 1 hr 15 min
EP. 375: Conservation Scorecard: State Advocacy for Habitat, Hunting, and Public Lands
The biggest victories for upland birds often happen long before hunting season ever opens. Wild pheasants, quail, public land access, and quality bird hunting all depend on decisions made long before opening day. State legislatures shape wildlife habitat, conservation funding, prescribed fire, hunter access, and the future of upland hunting across America. Bob St. Pierre sits down with Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever Director of State Government Affairs Swanny Evans to break down the biggest conservation victories, challenges, and emerging threats from legislative sessions across pheasant and quail country. From new conservation license plates and dedicated wildlife funding to expanded public access, prescribed fire improvements, and hunter education programs, they explain how policy decisions directly affect the places hunters, bird dogs, and wildlife depend on. The discussion also explores growing concerns surrounding ballot initiatives targeting hunting, state funding shortages for wildlife agencies, and ongoing efforts to protect public lands while expanding opportunities for future generations of upland hunters. You'll also hear how members, volunteers, and conservation partners are influencing legislation in dozens of states through grassroots advocacy. Whether you chase roosters, coveys, prairie grouse, or simply care about healthy wildlife habitat, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the work protecting the future of upland conservation across the United States. Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds. Show notes Learn more about PF & QF’s conservation advocacy efforts. Reach Swanny at sevans@pheasantsforever.org if you’d like to connect on conservation legislation in your state. On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#374
July 22 · 59 min
EP. 374: Wyoming’s Hidden Upland Opportunities Beyond Sage Grouse
Discover the overlooked birds, wild landscapes, and upland habitat work shaping Wyoming. Wyoming may be famous for sage grouse, mule deer, and elk, but the state offers far more upland hunting opportunities than most hunters realize. From dusky grouse in the high country to Hungarian partridge, chukar, sharp-tailed grouse, pheasants, and ruffed grouse, Wyoming is one of the most diverse bird hunting destinations in the West. Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever Wyoming State Coordinator Nick Yasko joins the show to break down the state's upland bird opportunities, public land access, habitat challenges, and conservation successes. Nick shares what he's learned since moving West from the Southeastern U.S., how Wyoming's unique landscapes shape bird distribution, and why hunters willing to explore can find incredible adventures across “The Cowboy State.” The conversation dives into sage grouse habitat restoration, invasive grass management, wildlife-friendly fencing, conifer removal, and innovative projects designed to improve conditions for upland birds, pronghorn, and mule deer. Nick also explains how moisture-rich mesic habitats support brood survival through abundant insect populations and why habitat work benefits far more than a single species. For hunters planning their first Wyoming trip, Nick offers practical advice on targeting a variety of upland birds, navigating mountain terrain, preparing vehicles for backcountry travel, and understanding the realities of hunting in a state with vast public lands and very few people. Whether you're dreaming about chasing blue grouse above timberline or simply want a deeper understanding of Western conservation, this discussion delivers valuable insights from one of the country's most unique hunting landscapes. Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds. Show notes To learn more about PF & QF’s habitat work in Wyoming, please email Nick Yashko at nyashko@pheasantsforever.org. Get involved with a local PF or QF chapter in your area by visiting our Find a Chapter page or contact Bob Hix, our regional representative for the region at bhix@pheasantsforever.org. On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#373
July 15 · 46 min
EP. 373: Johnny Morris on Conservation, Quail, and Inspiring the Next Generation
A conservation legend and a remarkable young bird caller reveal why America's uplands are worth protecting. Conservation begins with curiosity, and few conversations capture that better than this one. Twelve-year-old bird calling phenom Samuel Henderson shares how his passion for birds and his extraordinary ability to mimic more than 125 species have inspired millions to pay closer attention to the natural world. From bobwhite quail and sandhill cranes to common loons and ring-necked pheasants, Samuel's talent reminds us of the power of a bird’s song to spark curiosity which results in a passion for PF & QF’s upland habitat mission. That conversation naturally leads to Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops, whose lifelong commitment to wildlife, public land access, and habitat conservation has shaped generations of hunters and anglers. Morris reflects on growing up quail hunting in the Missouri Ozarks, the bird dogs that fueled his family's outdoor traditions, and why protecting healthy habitat remains the foundation of America's hunting heritage. Listeners will hear timeless stories about bobwhite quail hunting, bird dogs, conservation leadership, and the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. It's a reminder that hunting and fishing aren't simply outdoor pursuits. They're opportunities to build stronger families, introduce young people to the outdoors, and ensure healthy wildlife populations for generations to come. Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds. Show notes At Quail Forever’s Bobwhite Ball in Saint Louis a few hours after this conversation, Johnny Morris was recognized as the organization’s first-ever recipient of the “Spirit of the Uplands” award. Morris has also announced a $250K investment in PF & QF’s Build a Wildlife Area program, which was made possible through the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund. Check out CBS Evening News feature on Samuel Henderson’s incredible bird calling talent. On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#372
July 8 · 1 hr 8 min
EP. 372: Previewing New Season of The Flush on Outdoor Channel
Fall bird hunting starts long before the first rooster flushes or the first covey rises. It begins with maps spread across the table, bird reports rolling in, and conversations about the places, people, and traditions that make every hunting season unforgettable. Travis Frank, host of The Flush on Outdoor Channel, shares what's ahead for the newest season while swapping stories about upcoming adventures across North America. From ruffed grouse camps in the Northwoods to Wyoming sage grouse country, Nebraska trout fishing, Idaho chukar hunting, Oregon quail country, and even a remote Alaska and Yukon adventure, the discussion highlights the excitement that comes with planning another year in the field. The conversation goes beyond destinations. You'll hear why introducing kids to upland hunting creates lifelong memories, how public land conservation continues to expand opportunities for hunters, and why volunteers remain the driving force behind wildlife habitat restoration. The team also shares behind-the-scenes stories from filming The Flush, balancing authentic hunting experiences with television production, and the challenge of showcasing incredible public land without sacrificing the very places they hope to celebrate. Whether you're finalizing your pheasant hunting plans, scouting a new quail spot, dreaming about western bird hunts, or simply counting down the days until opening morning, this conversation is the perfect way to kick off another season in the uplands. Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds. Show notes The Flush airs on Outdoor Channel from the first week of July through the last week of December each week at the following times (all times Eastern) Mondays @ 4:30 pm Tuesdays @ 1:30 pm Wednesdays @ 5:30 pm Thursdays @ 8:30 am Saturdays @ 12:30 pm Sundays @ 6:30 am On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#371
July 1 · 54 min
EP. 371: The Story Behind Jared Benson’s New Song “Old Bird Dog”
Few things define the upland hunting experience like a good bird dog, a trusted shotgun, and memories built one hunt at a time. On this episode of On The Wing Podcast, PF & QF’s Bob St.Pierre and Casey Sill sit down with Iowa musician and avid bird hunter Jared Benson to talk about the inspiration behind his new song, Old Bird Dog. What starts as a conversation about music quickly turns into a deeper discussion about bird hunting traditions, conservation, family, and the dogs that shape our lives in the field. Jared shares how growing up waterfowl hunting in western Minnesota eventually led him to upland bird hunting in Iowa, where his first flushing rooster over a dog changed everything. Listeners will hear the story behind his German shorthaired pointer, Benny, the songwriting process that transformed hunting memories into music. The conversation also explores the realities of building a music career outside Nashville, balancing family life with the demands of touring, and why authentic outdoor experiences continue to inspire some of the best storytelling in country music. Whether you're chasing pheasants behind a bird dog, introducing the next generation to hunting, or simply looking for a soundtrack that reflects the upland lifestyle, this conversation will hit close to home. Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds. Show notes Check out Jared Benson’s music on Facebook, Instagram or Spotify. Special thanks to SportDOG Brand for sponsoring this episode. Check out SportDOG’s lineup of products at www.SportDOG.com. In the spirit of connecting habitat and harmonies, we’ve created a Spotify playlist titled “Good Dogs & Good Tunes.” Enjoy! On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#370
June 24 · 54 min
EP. 370: Pollinators, Quail, and Wild Foods from the Desert
As Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever celebrate Grasslands Week and Pollinator Week, this conversation explores the critical relationship between healthy habitat, thriving pollinator populations, and strong upland bird numbers. From pheasant chicks and bobwhite quail to Gambel's quail and prairie grouse, the insects supported by flowering plants provide the protein young birds need to survive and grow. Habitat Education Programs Manager Marissa Jensen joins former PF & QF’s Southwest Regional Representative Lauren Stamm to discuss why pollinator habitat and brood habitat are exactly one and the same. The conversation also heads into the desert, where Lauren shares her passion for hunting, foraging, and creating wild game meals inspired by the landscapes she hunts. Listeners will learn how prickly pear fruit supports desert wildlife, why Gambel's quail depend on these unique ecosystems, and how to turn wild-foraged prickly pear into a simple syrup that pairs perfectly with grilled quail. Along the way, the discussion explores conservation, public lands, raising the next generation of hunters, and the lessons children learn through time spent outdoors. Whether you're passionate about upland bird hunting, bird dogs, pollinators, habitat conservation, wild game cooking, or simply becoming a more connected outdoors enthusiast, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on the landscapes that sustain both wildlife and hunters. Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds. Show notes Help Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever make a positive impact for the birds, the bees, and people by becoming a PF member at www.PheasantsForever.org/join and/or a QF member at www.QuailForever.org/join. On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#369
June 17 · 1 hr 6 min
EP. 369: Biology of Nesting Season for Pheasants, Quail, and Prairie Grouse
It’s “Hatch Week” at Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever, so it’s cause for celebration. In fact, peak hatch is happening now and understanding it can make you a better upland hunter. What actually happens during pheasant hatch, quail nesting season, and prairie grouse breeding? This conversation breaks down the biology behind the birds many upland hunters pursue each fall, and explains why nesting cover, brood habitat, and conservation work are so critical to future hunting opportunities. Listeners will learn how pheasant hens select nests, why renesting is common after a failed clutch, and what hens do after losing a brood of chicks. The discussion contrasts pheasants with bobwhite quail, which can produce multiple broods in a season, and explores the unique pair-bonding behavior of western quail species such as Gambel's, scaled, California, and mountain quail. The episode also dives into prairie grouse biology, including lekking behavior in greater prairie chickens, lesser prairie chickens, sharp-tailed grouse, and sage grouse. You'll hear why these traditional breeding grounds can persist for generations and why protecting them is a major conservation priority. Whether you're a pheasant hunter in the Midwest, a bobwhite quail enthusiast in the South, or planning a western quail or prairie grouse trip, this is a practical look at how habitat quality translates into bird numbers on the landscape. Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds. Show notes Celebrate peak hatch by joining Pheasants Forever during “Hatch Week.” Thanks to a $10,000 Hatch Week matching gift, your membership can go even farther right now through June 20th, helping put habitat on the ground when it matters most. Join, renew, or upgrade your PF membership at https://www.pheasantsforever.org/hatch. Make a commitment to quail habitat by joining, renewing or upgrading with Quail Forever through our special spring QF membership offers at https://quailforever.org/spring. On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#368
June 10 · 43 min
EP. 368: The Role of Bird Dogs in the Future of Hunting and Conservation
The connection between a bird dog and a hunter may be one of conservation’s most powerful forces. For many upland hunters, the journey begins with their first bird dog. For others, that dog is what keeps them connected to hunting, habitat conservation, and life outdoors. John Zeman has spent decades training bird dogs, competing in field trials, mentoring new handlers, and helping hunters develop better dogs. After retiring from the construction industry, he now spends even more time with the dogs, people, and public lands that have shaped his life. John joins the conversation to explain why bird dogs often serve as a gateway to upland hunting, conservation groups, and a lifelong connection to the outdoors. He discusses the need for accessible training grounds, the rising demand for places to work young dogs, and how volunteer-led efforts are protecting these opportunities for future hunters. The episode also touches on Zeman’s work training Bob’s young German shorthaired pointer, Winter. Follow the show for weekly conversations about hunting, conservation, bird dogs, and upland birds. On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#367
June 3 · 1 hr
EP. 367: Arizona Quail Initiative is Shaping Future of Habitat, Access, Hunting
Monsoon rains, desert grasslands, and wild coveys collide in Arizona’s ambitious quail restoration effort. Arizona’s quail country is bigger, rougher, and more alive than most hunters realize. In this conversation, the crew behind Quail Forever’s Arizona Quail Initiative breaks down how large-scale habitat restoration is shaping the future of Gambel’s quail, scaled quail, and Mearns’ quail. From remote desert grasslands to oak-covered “sky islands,” this episode digs into the real work happening behind the scenes to improve upland bird habitat on both public lands and working ranches. The discussion covers woody encroachment and removal, water catchment projects, grazing management, and how conservation partnerships are putting millions of dollars directly onto the landscape for quail habitat restoration. You’ll hear how Arizona’s monsoon cycles influence quail populations, why Mearns’ quail depend so heavily on summer rains, and how habitat projects can quickly improve bird numbers when conditions align. For hunters dreaming about desert quail hunting, big running bird dogs, and wild country few people ever experience, this conversation paints a vivid picture of why Arizona remains one of the most unique quail hunting landscapes in North America. Follow the show for more weekly hunting, conservation, bird dog, and upland bird conversations. Show notes Learn more about QF’s Arizona Quail Initiative and QF’s RCPP project with USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, Arizona Association of Conservation Districts, Arizona Game & Fish Department, and the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management. Check out Bob St.Pierre and Wade Zarlingo’s hunt for quail in Arizona’s backcountry utilizing llamas to haul in camping gear at www.QuailForever.org/llama. On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#366
May 27 · 39 min
EP. 366: Working on a New Farm Bill and CRP Improvements in D.C.
Washington, D.C. can feel a long way from pheasant country, quail habitat, and working farms, but the decisions made there shape the future of upland hunting across America. In this conversation, the crew from Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever breaks down what happened during a recent D.C. fly-in alongside members of The Habitat Organization’s new Upland Caucus. Public relations specialist Mikayla Peper shares what it was like meeting with members and staffers from the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives to advocate for improved conservation measures in the next federal farm bill. The discussion dives into why CRP remains one of the most important conservation tools for wildlife habitat, water quality, soil health, and rural America. The crew also explores how grassroots advocacy actually works, what happens behind closed doors in congressional offices, and why hunters, farmers, and ranchers need to stay engaged in the legislative process. Show notes Help PF & QF advocate for CRP improvements in the U.S. Senate’s version of the farm bill at www.pheasantsforever.org/action. To learn more about PF & QF’s conservation advocacy efforts and Legislative Action Fund (LAF), please email our government affairs team at advocacy@pheasantsforever.org. On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#365
May 20 · 1 hr 10 min
EP. 365: Trading Habitat Help for Hunting Access
Better habitat means better hunting. That’s not a surprising statement. What may surprise folks is how much sweat equity it takes to turn average habitat into elite upland habitat. In this episode, learn how an everyday landowner is building wildlife-rich ground with a little help from friends and family. Private landowner Tim Kraskey breaks down the real-world habitat management strategies that directly impact upland bird numbers, deer hunting success, and waterfowl hunting opportunities. Kraskey is also a long-time Pheasants Forever chapter volunteer who extolls the virtues of being a volunteer committed to improving public land habitat for the greatest benefit to wildlife and all hunters. From prescribed burns and tree removal to native grass restoration and food plot development, you’ll hear how intentional land stewardship creates better wildlife habitat—and ultimately, better hunts. The conversation goes beyond dirt work. You’ll learn how to approach access to private land hunting the right way, how to build meaningful relationships with private landowners, as well as how landowners can leverage conservation programs like CRP to maximize wildlife benefits. There’s also a strong emphasis on community: how volunteer habitat projects, local partnerships, and organizations like Pheasants Forever play a critical role in expanding hunting opportunities. Whether you’re a new landowner, a bird hunter looking for access, or someone interested in conservation, this episode offers actionable strategies you can apply this season. It’s a grounded, experience-driven look at how habitat work, hunting success, and legacy all tie together in the modern outdoors. Show notes Check out Outdoor News’ 2025 Outdoor Leaders Award recognizing Kraskey and the Brown County (MN) Chapter of Pheasants Forever. Thanks to John Deere, Irish Setter, and Orvis for sponsoring PF & QF’s Hands-On Habitat efforts across the country this spring. Listeners can get involved with PF & QF’s Hands-On Habitat efforts by identifying volunteer opportunities in the areas where you live and/or hunt by visiting https://pheasantsforever.org/handsonhabitat. On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#364
May 13 · 55 min
EP. 364: Keeping Your Bird Dog Sharp with a Busy Family Life
Balancing bird dog training with young kids, busy schedules, and everyday life is a challenge most upland hunters eventually face. The reality is your dog doesn’t stop needing structure just because your time gets tighter. The good news is you don’t need hours in the field to maintain a high-performing hunting dog. Veteran bird dog owner and SportDOG Brand’s Clay Thompson breaks down how to keep an experienced bird dog sharp through short, consistent training sessions built into your daily routine. The focus stays where it matters most—obedience. Commands like place, heel, sit, and steadiness form the foundation that carries over into real-world hunting situations, from waterfowl hunting setups to upland bird hunts chasing pheasants and bobwhite quail. You’ll hear practical strategies for reinforcing control inside the house, using quick drills that fit between work, family, and everything else competing for your time. There’s also a hard look at introducing dogs to young kids, managing behavior safely, and involving the whole family in training to build consistency. The takeaway is simple. If you can’t control your dog at five feet, you won’t control it fifty yards in the field. Strong obedience builds better hunting dogs, safer homes, and more productive days outdoors when the season opens. Thanks to SportDOG Brand for sponsoring this episode of On the Wing Podcast. Check out all of SportDOG’s products at www.SportDog.com. On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#363
May 6 · 1 hr 2 min
EP. 363: Hands-On Habitat: Restoring Texas High Plains for Upland Wildlife
Deep in the Texas High Plains, a committed group of conservationists is proving what’s possible when habitat work meets community grit. On a sprawling 9,000-acre property at Palo Duro, volunteers, biologists, and land managers are tackling real-world challenges like invasive species, wildfire mitigation, and declining upland bird habitat through hands-on conservation projects. This conversation dives into the strategy behind a multi-day habitat event that blends prescribed fire, chainsaw work, native grass restoration, and one coordinated volunteer effort. The result is healthier grasslands, improved habitat for bobwhite quail, scaled quail, pheasants, and mule deer, and a blueprint for habitat restoration that can scale up or down anywhere in the country. Beyond the land itself, the real impact shows up in the people. From college students launching wildlife careers to local volunteers rediscovering a passion for conservation, this effort highlights how hands-on habitat work fuels the future of upland hunting, bird dog culture, and outdoor stewardship. Show notes Get involved with PF & QF’s Hands-On Habitat efforts by identifying volunteer opportunities in the areas where you live and/or hunt by visiting https://pheasantsforever.org/handsonhabitat. Thanks to John Deere, Irish Setter, and Orvis for sponsoring PF & QF’s Hands-On Habitat efforts across the country this spring. On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#362
May 4 · 14 min
EP. 362: Best Hunting Spot Names and the Stories Submitted by Listeners
Great hunting spots aren’t just found; they’re named through hard-earned moments in the field. This collection of listener-submitted stories dives into the heart of upland bird hunting culture, where bird dogs, wild flushes, and unforgettable days turn ordinary places into permanent fixtures on the map. This “snackable” episode also announces the winner of the Frost River Woodsman Pack from the contest announced during episode #358. From a young dog’s fearless leap on a Kansas quail hunt to a Minnesota pheasant hunting hotspot that produced first birds for the next generation, these stories capture the emotion and unpredictability that keep hunters coming back each season. Listeners will hear how covey rises, missed expectations, and once-in-a-lifetime shooting sequences shape not just success in the field, but the love language hunters use to remember it. If you’ve ever named a spot after a hunt gone right or wrong, you’ll recognize exactly how these places earn their titles and why they never leave you. Show notes Thanks to our friends at Frost River for supplying the grand prize Woodsman Pack. On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.
#361
April 29 · 51 min
EP. 361: Habitat University, Creating Upland Habitat from the Ground Up
This conversation breaks down Habitat University, a skills-based platform designed to close the gap between theory and real-world application. Whether you’re planting a pollinator plot, improving nesting cover, establishing a food plot, or managing CRP acres, the focus is on actionable knowledge that leads to better results on the landscape. You’ll hear how modern conservation faces a growing challenge: fewer people entering the field with hands-on land management experience. That gap impacts everything from pheasant and quail habitat to hunting success and overall wildlife populations. Habitat University addresses that by delivering short, practical courses on topics like seed drill calibration, prescribed burning, invasive species control, and habitat planning. For aspiring wildlife professionals, it offers a clear path to understanding conservation programs, working with landowners, and building job-ready skills. Better habitat leads to more birds, stronger hunting opportunities, and healthier ecosystems. This is about putting knowledge into action where it matters most, on the ground. Show notes Check out the second installment of The Upland Newsroom. Learn more about Habitat University courses. On the Wing Podcast is proudly fueled by Purina Pro Plan.

Showing 1–20 of 21 episodes