Nine Finger Chronicles - Deer Hunting Podcast

When a water hole can transform your deer hunting season — and when it might not make a difference at all. Dan Johnson and Arron Bleise dive headfirst into the real-life tactics and unexpected secrets that could make or break your success in the woods. From creating the perfect water hole for only $90 to analyzing how deer behavior shifts with weather, moon phases, and even social media, this is your blueprint for smarter, more strategic hunting.
Arron Bleise, a seasoned hunter and habitat manager, shares how a simple water hole on his farm became a “game changer,” attracting dozens of bucks—sometimes more than he can count—just like that. He reveals how he built it for less than a hundred bucks, and why, despite the doubts of some hunters, water is proving to be the ultimate magnet in both thick woods and open country. Combining technical setup tips with stories of chasing the elusive buck of a lifetime, Arron shows how to leverage one element to increase your odds and fine-tune your approach.
Meanwhile, Dan Johnson offers perspectives from years of experience — emphasizing patience, timing, and the importance of understanding that deer movement is often more about luck, habitat, and timing than about chasing perfect conditions. They dissect the influence of moon phases, weather, and even social media trends, unraveling the myths and truths behind what really triggers deer to move.You’ll discover:
How to build a water hole that deer may flock to, with a budget-friendly setup that’s easy to replicate
Why water sources can shift deer behavior more than you think — and how to identify the right spots
The role of moon phases and weather patterns in strategic hunting, and why patience might be your best tool
Why some hunters have it all wrong about timing, and the importance of geography, habitat, and luck
How seemingly small adjustments to habitat, like adding water or reducing intrusions, can lead to big results

This episode isn’t just about water holes — it’s about understanding that success comes down to patience, observation, and adaptation. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just starting out, Dan and Arron are here to unlock your hunting potential and shift your perspective on what it takes to tag your next buck.Perfect for hunters hunting hard in the fall, chasing big bucks in big woods, or anyone fed up with cookie-cutter tactics — this is your dose of raw, real-world wisdom. Turn small investments into big breakthroughs, and learn how patience, strategy, and a little bit of water can change everything.Tune in and get inspired to make smarter choices, optimize your habitat, and hunt with confidence. Your next trophy might just be a water hole away.

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Most hunters believe technology is the key to bigger bucks — but Eric Clark challenges that notion, revealing how genuine presence and simplicity may be your best tools. In this candid conversation, Dan Johnson and Eric Clark dive into the mental game of hunting, the value of slowing down, and the importance of authenticity in an industry obsessed with trophies.You’ll discover:
Why chasing big antlers can cloud your joy and how to reconnect with the true meaning of hunting.
The impact of modern gadgets versus traditional skills, with Eric sharing why woodsmanship still beats the latest tech.
How the hunting community’s ego and social pressures distort the shared brotherhood and how to stay true to your values.
Practical ways to hunt more mindfully and why living in the moment can elevate your experience beyond the trophy.
The importance of owning up to mistakes and fostering a culture of accountability instead of shame.

This episode is perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the pursuit of bigger deer, tired of social media’s toxicity, or craving a deeper connection with the hunt. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just starting out, you’ll walk away with a renewed appreciation for the simple pleasures — and the courage to hunt the way that makes you happiest.
Eric Clark, host of the Okayest Hunter podcast, is a dedicated hunter and entrepreneur who emphasizes authenticity, family, and conservation over ego. His insight into the cultural shifts in hunting offers a reminder that success is about the journey, not just the score sheet.If you’re ready to pause the hype, reflect on your purpose, and enjoy the real rewards of hunting, this episode is your call to slow down and live fully in the woods. Hit play and rediscover why you fell in love with the chase.

Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com
Check out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/chronicles and enter NFC25 for an awesome discount.
Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter NFC to have your service fees removed.

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com
* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com

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Most hunters are their own worst enemy—overthinking, pressure, and unrealistic expectations can turn a fun hobby into stress. What if you could have your best season yet by simply shifting your mindset and approach?
In this episode, Dan Johnson shares practical, no-nonsense strategies to make hunting more enjoyable and successful. From redefining your goals for better focus to recognizing and adjusting your mistakes, you'll discover how small mindset shifts can have a massive impact on your results. Dan breaks down how early and calm entrance times, setting realistic expectations, and finding a hunting buddy can transform your experience. Instead of chasing perfection, he emphasizes embracing the moment, having fun, and respecting the process.
You'll explore:
Why fun should be your top priority and how to keep hunting enjoyable regardless of outcomes
Concrete tactics for setting achievable goals—like filling the freezer early or targeting specific deer behaviors
The importance of acknowledging mistakes and making proactive adjustments, such as moving stands or refining scent control
Why hunting early and patiently waiting for the right moment can boost success
The value of camaraderie—finding a hunting buddy to keep motivation high and share the ups and downs

Hunting isn't just about killing game—it's a journey of patience, learning, and connection with nature. Missing out on this perspective risks turning your passion into frustration.
Perfect for hunters of all experience levels, especially those seeking to rediscover the fun and fulfillment in the sport. If you want to hunt smarter, be more relaxed, and enjoy every moment afield, this episode is your blueprint. Tune in, rethink your approach, and get ready for your best season yet.

Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com
Check out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/chronicles and enter NFC25 for an awesome discount.
Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter NFC to have your service fees removed.

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com
* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com

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Most hunters overlook the power of small changes that could unlock a giant buck—and in this episode, Dan Johnson reveals the simple yet game-changing tactics to transform your hunting season.
Imagine flipping your entire approach—trying a completely new stand location, hunting on days you never would, or even setting up in spots you’ve dismissed as dead zones. Dan shares eye-opening stories from his own experiences, like finding mature bucks where you’d least expect and how understanding thermals and deer movement can make all the difference. Without giving away all his secrets, he offers practical, step-by-step challenges: take notes on thermal behavior, set up a stand in an unexpected spot, or hunt in conditions you usually avoid. These small but deliberate shifts can radically improve your success—and rekindle your passion for hunting.
You’ll discover: how to use terrain and weather patterns, especially thermals, to outsmart deer; why hunting “dead areas” can sometimes lead to giant finds; and how to challenge your habits for better results. Dan also dives into innovative tactics like scent control with ozone technology, gear choices, and even a bold step toward a traditional bow hunt that might scare you... but could unlock a whole new level of skill and satisfaction.
Why does this matter? Because many hunters get stuck in routines that limit their opportunities. The truth is, adjusting your mindset and experimenting with your approach can lead to more encounters, more meat in the freezer, and a renewed sense of adventure in the woods. You don’t need perfect conditions or endless time—just a willingness to try something different and observe the results.
If you're serious about making this season your best yet, this episode is packed with simple challenges and fresh perspectives that will reset your approach and ignite your curiosity. Whether you hunt ten acres or a thousand, these insights will have you thinking differently before the leaves even start to turn.
Get ready to reframe your hunting strategy, push your limits, and discover the hunter within you you never knew existed. Perfect for anyone looking to add excitement and success to their season—listen now and start making smarter, bolder moves in the woods.

Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com
Check out Troll Co. Clothing at trollco.com/chronicles and enter NFC25 for an awesome discount.
Check Out www.outdoorsy.com and enter NFC to have your service fees removed.

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com
* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com

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Most nurses spend their careers avoiding the emotional toll of death — but Aaron Hepler has a different perspective. After 17 years in intensive care, he’s witnessed the unfiltered reality of tragedy, miracles, and faith, revealing stories that will challenge your understanding of life and death.In this gripping episode of the Hunting Gear Podcast, Aaron shares raw, behind-the-scenes insights from the hospital that will change how you view resilience, faith, and the human spirit. From the chaos of family conflicts in ICU to the quiet moments that feel like miracles, his stories expose the true cost — and beauty — of caring for others on their final journey. You’ll discover why some moments feel like miracles and how faith is often what keeps caregivers grounded in the darkest times. We break down:
The emotional chaos families face in critical moments and the delicate art of handling conflict in the ICU
What it’s really like to be present at the end of life, and the stories that stay with Aaron — including his close calls and profound reflections on faith and coincidence
Practical lessons from the hospital that apply directly to outdoor adventures, like assessing risks and preparing for the unexpected
How the trauma and heartbreak of nursing reveal powerful lessons about acceptance, gratitude, and the fleeting beauty of life
The surprising ways in which faith resurfaces in moments of crisis, even for those who’ve long questioned it

This isn’t just a conversation about medicine — it’s a profound exploration of what it means to face mortality and find hope amidst chaos. If you hunt, you know the importance of respecting nature’s power — this episode is a similar lesson about respecting life’s fragile balance.Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and anyone interested in the human condition, Aaron’s stories will deepen your appreciation for the moments that matter most — and how faith can provide strength where science cannot.
Aaron Hepler is a registered nurse in intensive care, with nearly two decades of experience, known for his candid stories of survival, loss, and moments of grace that make every day meaningful. His unique perspective offers a rare window into the unseen battles of caregivers and the miracles they witness.This episode challenges you to look beyond the hunt and consider the true meaning of resilience, faith, and acceptance in life’s fiercest moments. Get ready to be inspired, moved, and reminded of the extraordinary stories hidden in everyday tragedy.

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Outdoorsy and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://www.outdoorsy.com
* Check out Thompson Cigars and use my code NFC for a great deal: https://thompsoncigar.com

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