Public land can feel intimidating, but it might be the fastest way to become a better hunter. Josh Dean and Aaron break down the real lessons hidden in public ground - from backup plans and boundary awareness to hunter etiquette, safety, and learning to adapt when the first spot falls apart.

For anyone who thinks you need private land, a family farm, or an expensive lease to get started, this conversation flips that idea on its head. Josh and Aaron share hard-earned stories from duck hunting, whitetail country, Arizona draw hunts, and those awkward, early-morning moments when a map looks right until it suddenly does not.

You'll discover:

• Why public land hunting can sharpen your skills faster than private ground
• How to avoid trespassing mistakes and understand property boundaries
• What to do when your first, second, and even third plan get shut down
• How hunting pressure can actually work for you instead of against you
• The etiquette that keeps public land accessible for everyone

Aaron brings the perspective of someone who started on family and friend land before getting thrown into the chaos of public duck hunting, where draws, crowded mornings, and fast decisions are part of the game. Josh adds the Arizona perspective, including a brutally honest first public-land Javelina hunt, a few navigation lessons, and a reminder that OnX does not tell the whole story.

They also get into the stuff that really matters in the field - knowing your target and what lies beyond it, respecting other hunters, leaving the land better than you found it, and using resources like game and fish offices when you need help. One story about a snow goose, a refuge, and a very patient DNR officer alone is worth the listen.

If you hunt public land, want to hunt public land, or just want to get better at reading the land and making smarter decisions outdoors, this one is for you. It is practical, funny, and packed with the kind of lessons that only come from getting out there and figuring it out the hard way.

Most hunters agree that reading signs in the woods isn’t just about finding tracks—it's about understanding the story the terrain is telling you. But what if you’re flying blind without any obvious clues? In this episode, Outdoorsmen Josh and Aaron share raw, honest stories about navigating unfamiliar landscapes, deciphering nature’s signals, and how even the quietest moments can reveal the biggest secrets.

Join us as we explore the real challenges of hunting and scouting in diverse environments—from Arizona’s deserts to Indiana’s dense woods. Aaron, with military and public service experience, reveals how he learns to “read” the land, spot animal bedding areas, and identify trails — even when the landscape is silent. Josh shares his first hunting adventures, from unhelpful signs to moments of pure luck that led to memorable kills, and how weather unpredictability can be both frustrating and rewarding.

You’ll discover: how to interpret scat, rubs, and trails as indicators of wildlife presence; the importance of water sources and how terrain influences animal movement; why silence, squirrels, and owl calls are clues rather than distractions. Whether you're new to hunting, a seasoned vet, or just love outdoor stories, this conversation is packed with practical tips, hilarious mishaps, and a reminder that sometimes the best stories come from what didn't go as planned.

Why does it matter?

Because understanding nature’s signals can transform your scouting and hunting experience, turning confusion into confidence, and making every outing more rewarding—even in the face of unpredictable weather or challenging terrain. The woods are always telling a story; your job is to listen, observe, and decode it.

Perfect for anyone curious about the real-life puzzle of hunting, this episode emphasizes that success isn’t just about the kill but the stories you gather along the way. Whether you’re sitting around your own campfire or in a tree stand, these stories will inspire you to slow down, listen closely, and enjoy every moment outside.

Discover the essentials and overlooked gear that can make or break your hunting experience. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical tips to elevate your outdoor game.

Josh and Aaron, two passionate hunters and outdoorsmen, break down their go-to gear, from affordable must-haves like knives, first aid kits, and headlamps, to high-end optics and custom setups. They share personal stories about how seemingly small items—like zip ties, hand warmers, or a simple trash bag—have saved hunts and kept them safe in the wild. Learn why choosing the right gear isn't just about comfort but also about safety, ethics, and success.You'll discover: the importance of planning and packing deliberately, how to select versatile gear for multiple species, and the subtle habits that can lead to a better hunt—like respecting egress routes and using binocular harnesses. They delve into the value of lightweight packs, the role of technology like rangefinders, and the critical safety protocols every hunter should follow, including cell phone etiquette and plan communication.

This episode underscores the significance of being prepared, not just for success, but for safety and enjoyment in the field. If you're serious about hunting or outdoor adventures, missing this could mean missed opportunities—or worse. Gear smart, hunt smarter, and get ready to ask yourself: what’s in your pack that could save your hunt?

Join the conversation, learn from real-world experiences, and turn your outdoor ambitions into achievements. Perfect for hunters at every level—tune in now and gear up for your next adventure.

On this episode of First Harvest, Josh and Aaron get real about the gear that actually earns its keep in the field. From gloves, socks, boots, and binoculars to packs, stools, waders, and even toilet paper, they break down what’s worth spending on, what’s overrated, and what really matters when you’re hunting in different environments.

With plenty of laughs and a few hard-earned lessons, this conversation covers everything from budget-friendly starter gear to the pieces they keep coming back to season after season. If you’re looking for practical hunting gear advice with a laid-back campfire feel, this one’s for you.

Every Hunting season starts long before opening morning.

In this campfire conversation, we kick back and talk about what preseason really looks like-from checking gear and getting organized to why squirrel hunting is one of the best ways to shake off the offseason and sharpen your skills before deer season arrives.

Whether you're a seasoned hunter or getting ready for your very first season, we share stories, lessons we've learned, and a few mistakes we've made along the way. No lectures, no gatekeeping-just an honest conversation about preparing for the season ahead and enjoying the process.

So grab a cup of coffee or something stronger, pull up a chair around the campfire, and join us as we talk preseason prep, squirrel hunting, an why some of the best memories in the outdoors happen long before opening day.

Remember, Everyone starts somewhere. Welcome to First Harvest.

You don't need a family tradition, expensive gear, or years of experience to enjoy hunting and fishing. You just need the courage to take the first step.