THE BIG BUCK THEORY

THE BIG BUCK THEORY

By: Izaak Young

Language: en-us

Categories: Sports, Wilderness, Science, Nature

Join Host Izaak Young and Co-host Morgan Gouveia as they strive to bring you engaging content, insightful topics, and captivating stories mainly from the Northeast and beyond. We aim to provide the best content and meaningful conversations to keep your minds engaged throughout the year.Check us out on Instagram @the_bigbucktheory and Facebook @The BIG BUCK TheorySee you on the next one!

Episodes

THE Antler Episode
Jan 09, 2026

we talk about antlers 

Duration: 01:11:50
season 3 Introduction
Jan 02, 2026

intro to season 3

Duration: 01:03:48
THE Rut Repot 12
Dec 26, 2025

The end of the rut report 

Duration: 00:48:58
THE Rut Report 11
Dec 19, 2025

you know what is by now 

Duration: 01:30:52
THE Rut Report 10
Dec 12, 2025

RUT REPORT

Duration: 00:42:04
Some Season 2 Highlights
Dec 05, 2025

title speaks for itself 

Duration: 00:48:35
THE Rut Report 9
Nov 28, 2025

Farmer Tony and Connor 

Duration: 01:19:27
THE Rut Report 8
Nov 21, 2025

The good stuff 

Duration: 00:47:02
THE Rut Report 7
Nov 14, 2025

RUT

Duration: 00:30:12
THE Rut Report 6
Nov 07, 2025

Its Go Time 

Duration: 00:35:57
THE Rut Report 5
Oct 31, 2025

The greatest time of the year 

Duration: 01:13:16
THE Rut Report 4
Oct 24, 2025

you know what it is 

Duration: 01:00:10
THE Rut Report 3
Oct 17, 2025

The 3rd rut report of the season 

Duration: 01:20:28
THE Rut Report 2
Oct 10, 2025

update on how the seasons going 

Duration: 01:03:03
THE Rut Report 1
Oct 03, 2025

Rut update 

Duration: 01:03:35
Tales Of a Mad Man with Jacob Bennett
Sep 26, 2025

In this episode, we sit down with Jake Bennett, an ER nurse from the suburbs of Boston whose life is as hectic as it gets inside the hospital. Outside of work, though, Jake has built an impressive bowhunting career—stacking up big whitetails and carrying a lifetime of hunting experience that started back in his home state of New York. We talk about his journey as a hunter, the lessons he’s learned in the woods, and how his passion for deer hunting has evolved over the years. But beyond hunting, Jake opens up about finding balance—spending more time w...

Duration: 01:32:33
The Long Hunt- "Finn Kangas" on a Lifetime outdoors
Sep 19, 2025

In this episode, we sit down with Wally “the Finn” Kangas, an 80-year-old woodsman with a lifetime of hunting memories spanning from the big woods of Vermont to the Midwest. Wally has chased deer through decades of changing seasons, and with that comes not only a wealth of experience but also some unforgettable stories. He’s a natural storyteller, blending knowledge, humor, and wisdom in a way only someone who’s spent a lifetime in the outdoors can. This conversation is full of lessons, laughs, and a deep respect for the tradition of big woods hunting.

Duration: 01:45:58
The PA Wilds with Johnny Stewart
Sep 12, 2025

In this episode of The Big Buck Theory, We sit down with Johnny Stewart, a Pennsylvania hunter who has mastered the art of chasing whitetails in the big woods. Johnny has had great success with his bow in some of the toughest country out there, and he’s also put his tracking skills to the test, both in Pennsylvania and out in the Midwest. From utilizing snow to gain the edge on big bucks to breaking down proven strategies for bowhunting pressured deer, Johnny shares a wealth of knowledge and hard-earned tips. If you’re looking to sharpen your skil...

Duration: 01:16:12
One Of Vermonts Deadliest Deer Hunters with Jeremy Ballantine
Sep 05, 2025

In this episode, I sit down with fellow Vermonter and all-around woodsman, Jeremy Ballantine. Jeremy is one of those rare hunters who has mastered both the art of bowhunting and the tough, old-school craft of tracking deer in the big woods. Humble as they come, Jeremy’s success speaks for itself—whether it’s taking mature bucks here in the Northeast or chasing bull elk out West with a bow in hand.


We dive into his approach to hunting, some stories from the mountains and the plains, and the mindset it takes to con...

Duration: 01:32:51
Back Country Bucks From The Adirondacks and Beyond with Todd Mead
Aug 29, 2025

In this episode of The Big Buck Theory, we sit down with Todd Mead, a prolific outdoor writer from the Adirondacks who has spent decades chasing big whitetail bucks across the country. Todd has lived a life full of adventure in the deer woods, and his stories bring out the raw challenge, excitement, and tradition of pursuing whitetails in some of the toughest terrain.

We dive into his writing career, his hunting experiences in the Adirondacks and beyond, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned deer hunter or just love hear...

Duration: 01:55:34
Giant Maine Bucks With Sherman Bradeen
Aug 22, 2025

Morgan sits down with Sherman to discuss his lengthy past of killing giant bucks in the northeast, he's a great story teller sit back and enjoy. 

Duration: 01:32:50
HuntStock Recap / 3 HuntStock listener stories
Aug 15, 2025

HuntStock recap and some listener stories live from HuntStock! 

Duration: 01:07:34
Huntstock Eve with Adam Lamson of Stagr Gear
Aug 08, 2025

The day before Huntstock, we sat down with Adam Lamson, the CEO of Stagger Gear, for a fun and laid-back episode. We swapped some hunting stories, dug into what makes Stagger Gear tick, and got a sneak peek at some exciting new products coming down the pipeline. We also wrapped up our recent school essay contest by giving away some awesome gear to a few lucky winners. A great conversation to kick off Huntstock weekend — don’t miss it!

Duration: 01:09:14
Dead Deer and Dumb Takes with Connor Schellong and Tony Pippin
Aug 01, 2025

In this episode, I sit down with two of my good buddies, Connor and Tony, for a laid-back, no-filter conversation all about deer hunting. This one’s less about tactics and more about laughs — we cover everything from our favorite (and least favorite) hunting moments to the ridiculous stuff that seems to only happen in the woods. It’s lighthearted, full of jokes, and just three friends cutting up and talking deer. If you’re looking for an easy listen with some laughs and a little deer talk sprinkled in, this episode’s for you. Pull up a chair and hang w...

Duration: 01:22:59
Married To The Hunt With Maggie Young
Jul 25, 2025

In this special episode, we’re flipping the script a little — I sit down with my wife to talk about what life is really like being married to a hardcore Northeast deer hunter. From missed holidays and November disappearances to the mountain of gear piling up in the house, she’s seen it all.


We dive into the behind-the-scenes of hunting season from her perspective, share some laughs, tell a few stories, and talk about how hunting fits into marriage, life, and everything in between. Whether you’re a fellow hunter or the spouse of one...

Duration: 01:04:33
Vermont Federation of Sportsman's Clubs with Bill Gaiotti
Jul 18, 2025

In this episode of the podcast, we sit down with Bill Gaiotti, the newly elected president of the Vermont Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs. Bill is not only a passionate advocate fighting to protect and preserve our rights as hunters here in the Northeast, but he’s also a diehard deer hunter with decades of experience in the big woods of Vermont and Pennsylvania. We cover a lot of ground in this conversation — from the legislative battles sportsmen are facing today, to Bill’s personal hunting stories and lessons learned in some of the toughest deer country around. Whether...

Duration: 02:07:49
Big Woods Brotherhood With Ethan Pike and Mathew Henderson
Jul 11, 2025

In this episode, we sit down with  Ethan Pike and Matthew Henderson—two passionate hunters who live for chasing whitetails in the big woods of Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and the Adirondacks. We dive into stories from the timber, share a ton of laughs, and drop plenty of tips and tricks for anyone looking to improve their game in rugged country. If you love real-deal big woods hunting, this is one you don’t want to miss. Tune in and enjoy!


Duration: 01:17:39
Back Tracking Bucks With Paul Putera
Jul 04, 2025

In this episode, we sit down with Paul Putera — a hardcore bowhunter out of New Jersey who’s made a name for himself in the Big Woods. Paul is a serious tracker who specializes in backtracking bucks and getting in tight on mature deer. He shares some incredible stories from the woods, breaks down his approach to reading sign, and offers a ton of practical tips for anyone looking to up their game in tough country.

Duration: 01:51:33
Not. One. Acre.
Jun 27, 2025

Duration: 01:09:15
Big Woods Adventures with Nate Corey
Jun 20, 2025

we talk about deer hunting I bet no one reads these damn things 

Duration: 01:05:10
School Day
Jun 13, 2025

Duration: 00:49:22
Talking deer with some Vermont boys Nick and Nate Kapusta
Jun 06, 2025

Duration: 01:42:09
High Class Calls with Matt Van Cise
May 30, 2025

Duration: 01:07:51
Some Highlights From Season 1
May 23, 2025

Duration: 00:42:36
Halftime- Turkey Season
May 16, 2025

Morgan and Izaak talk turkey at the half way point through the season 

Duration: 01:07:06
Turkey Season Update
May 09, 2025

Gobble Gobble 

Duration: 01:02:12
Talking Turkey With Brett Ladeau
May 02, 2025

Honestly to tired to write a good description from turkey hunting, Brett is a phenominal turkey hunter and a wealth of knowledge 

Duration: 01:14:33
Spring Thunder With Brent Lafreniere
Apr 25, 2025

The boys talk Turkey with Brent a Vermont native who is an avid Turkey Hunter and well rounded outdoorsman. 

Duration: 01:06:17
Off the rails 4
Apr 18, 2025

Morgan and Izaak go off the rails to talk turkey 

Duration: 01:15:09
Shed Masters with John Moulton and Connor Schellong
Apr 11, 2025

John Moulton is a phenomenal shed hunter who has dedicated years to mastering the art of finding those elusive antlers. His experience is invaluable, and he brings a wealth of knowledge about the best techniques, locations, and times to search for sheds. John will share some of his favorite stories from the field, including his most memorable finds and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

On the other hand, we have Connor Schellong, a younger shed hunter who has quickly made a name for himself in the community. Connor’s fresh perspective and enthusiasm for the...

Duration: 01:13:33
Hunt Craze with Dylan Greenwood
Apr 04, 2025

Join us on The big buck theory podcast where we dive into the adventures of a remarkable 21-year-old hunter from southern Vermont Dylan Greenwood. Dylan has already made a name for himself in the hunting community, taking down some phenomenal bucks in the area. With expertise in both tracking and bow hunting, he showcases a well-rounded skill set that’s impressive for his age. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, Dylan’s passion and knowledge will inspire you to embrace the great outdoors and hone your hunting skills. Tune in for tips, tales, and a deep a...

Duration: 01:01:01
Game Seekers With Shawn Mandolare
Mar 28, 2025

Join us on this episode of The Big Buck Theory as we welcome Shawn Mandolare, the passionate outdoorsman behind the Game Seekers podcast and Walker Mountain Game Calls. Sean shares his incredible experiences hunting deer in the Midwest with his bow and recounts his thrilling adventures tracking down 200-pound bucks in Maine. With a wealth of knowledge about various species and a deep love for turkey hunting, he brings a unique perspective to the world of hunting. Tune in for insights, stories, and tips that will inspire every outdoor enthusiast!

Duration: 02:27:18
THE STAGR COAT GIVEAWAY and ramble session
Mar 21, 2025

Morgan, Izaak and Maggie draw the random Facebook follower for the stagr jacket then Morgan and Izaak talked about some hot topics in the deer world as of lately some being controversial. 

Duration: 01:30:47
Back Country Whitetail Hunting the ADK's with Christian Bills
Mar 14, 2025

In this episode, we talk with Christian Bills, who takes us on an adventure through the backcountry of the Adirondacks. Kristen shares his experiences hunting in this beautiful, rugged landscape and tells us all about his time spent hunting out of a tent. From the challenges of the terrain to the thrill of the hunt, you’ll get a real feel for what it’s like to be deep in the wilderness. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just curious about the lifestyle, this episode is packed with stories and insights that you won’t want to miss!

Duration: 01:08:57
Still Water Outdoors with Nathan Nelson
Mar 07, 2025

Join Nathan from Wisconsin as he takes you on an exciting journey into the world of deer tracking in the Midwest. In this podcast, Nathan shares his unique experiences and insights, highlighting the differences between tracking deer in the Midwest and the more common practices in the Northeast. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for the outdoors, Nathan dives into the techniques, strategies, and stories that make hunting in the Midwest a thrilling adventure.

As a phenomenal video editor and videographer, Nathan also discusses his creative process behind his popular hunting YouTube channel. He...

Duration: 01:26:51
The Shed Heavy Episode
Feb 28, 2025

In this exciting episode join us as we dive deep into the world of shed hunting in the northeastern United States. We’ll share our latest adventures, including the best spots we’ve discovered for finding antlers and the unique challenges we’ve faced along the way. Listen in as we discuss essential gear, techniques for spotting sheds, and the importance of understanding deer behavior and habitat. We’ll also be answering listener questions and sharing some incredible stories from fellow shed hunters. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just starting out, this episode is packed with tips and insigh...

Duration: 01:26:51
ADK Adventures with Adam Arquette
Feb 21, 2025

Meet Adam, a man who has spent his entire life navigating the rugged terrain of the ADK’s, honing his skills, and developing a profound connection with nature. Adam shares his incredible stories from the wild, offering insights into hunting techniques, wildlife behavior, and the unique challenges of Hunting The Big woods of the ADK's. Whether you're an experienced outdoorsman or just curious about the hunting lifestyle, join Adam for an authentic journey into the wilderness that will inspire and educate. Tune in and discover the untamed beauty of the Adirondacks like never before.

Duration: 01:37:45
NWTF southern limb hangers banquet
Feb 14, 2025

Morgan discusses His upcoming NWTF banquet for the southern Vermont limb hangers. 

Duration: 00:20:22
The Shed Heavy Episode
Feb 14, 2025

Tune in to the Northeastern Mountains shed hunting podcast for all things shed hunting in the mountains! Explore the thrill of the hunt, the beauty of the landscape, and the secrets of finding those elusive treasures scattered across the mountains. Get ready for an adventure-filled podcast that will make you want to grab your gear and head out into the wilderness! Also Morgan discusses His upcoming NWTF banquet for the southern Vermont limb hangers. 

Duration: 00:20:22
JBWild Outdoors With Jason Bruno
Feb 07, 2025

Join Jason Bruno, an avid hunter with a passion for the Adirondacks, as he shares thrilling stories, tips, and insights from his countless expeditions in one of the most breathtaking wilderness areas in the world. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just love the call of the wild, Jason's experiences and expertise will inspire and entertain you. Tune in for a journey through the rugged beauty of the Adirondacks and discover the secrets of successful hunting from a true enthusiast.

Duration: 02:04:53
FBM Maine Outdoor Journal with Joe Osgood Jr.
Jan 31, 2025

Morgan and Izaak sit down with Joe to discuss his lifelong passion for hunting and fishing the Maine woods. He's a wealth of knowlege in pertaining anything to do with cooking and preparing wild game. There's a lot to learn from Joe.  

Duration: 01:16:55
Middle of Winter Ramble Session
Jan 24, 2025

Morgan and Izaak talk on a wide range of topics from shed hunting to turkey hunting 

Duration: 01:34:50
Is winter Feeding good for deer?
Jan 17, 2025

Izaak and Morgan sit down to discuss winter feeding and its impact on the deer heard 

Duration: 01:19:06
Season 2 Introduction
Jan 10, 2025

Morgan and Izaak sit down to discuss what they have planned for season 2

Duration: 01:09:10
THE Rut Report 12
Jan 04, 2025

Deer season update from the boys 

Duration: 01:25:33
THE Rut Report 11
Dec 27, 2024

Deer Season thoughts as of lately  

Duration: 00:38:22
THE Rut Report 10
Dec 20, 2024

Maine buck stories 

Duration: 01:35:58
THE Rut Report 9
Dec 13, 2024

Morgan and Izaak discuss deer season as of latley.

Duration: 01:51:29
THE Rut Report 8
Dec 06, 2024

Izaak and Morgan to discuss deer season thus far 

Duration: 01:56:29
THE Rut Report 7
Nov 22, 2024

Morgan and Izaak discuss deer season as of latley  

Duration: 01:05:46
THE Rut Report 6
Nov 15, 2024

Morgan and Izaak sit down and discuss deer season as of latley 

Duration: 00:46:36
THE Rut Report 5
Nov 08, 2024

Morgan and Izaak discuss deer season this far 

Duration: 01:32:59
THE Rut Report 4
Nov 01, 2024

Izaak and Morgan sit down to discuss hunting season thus far 

Duration: 01:24:41
THE Rut Report 3
Oct 25, 2024

Morgan and Izaak sit down to discuss deer season as of lately 

Duration: 01:31:06
THE Rut Report 2
Oct 18, 2024

Morgan and Izaak sit down to discuss the last couple weeks of deer season.

Duration: 01:08:03
THE Rut Report 1
Oct 11, 2024

Izaak and Morgan sit down to discuss hunting this season so far 

Duration: 01:04:51
A Glimpse In The Mind Of a Big Buck Killer With Rodney Elmer
Sep 27, 2024

Morgan and Izaak sit down with Rodney to discuss some deep topics pertaining to deer hunting and mindset 

Duration: 02:12:18
Off The Rails 3
Sep 20, 2024

Morgan and Izaak Sit down to discuss a wide range of topics, some about hunting some not

Duration: 01:14:18
High End Taxidermy, Giant western Bucks and African Adventures with Pete Lajoie
Sep 13, 2024

Morgan and Izaak sit down with Pete to Discuss his 30 year Career doing taxidermy and his hunting adventures  

Duration: 01:01:39
Big whitetails all over the country and filming with the Benoits with Josh Butler
Sep 06, 2024

josh sits down with us to discuss his whitetail adventures and his memories filming with the Benoits 

Duration: 01:44:14
Chasing Northern Maine Giants With Bud Soucy
Aug 30, 2024

Morgan and Izaak sit down with Bud to discuss his tracking adventures in northern Maine 

Duration: 01:06:49
A Big Bucks Nightmare With Tim Miramontes and Jeremy Ballantine
Aug 23, 2024

Tim Is on of the most successful deer hunters I've interviewed Listen along as he tells some of his best stories 

Duration: 01:56:54
Whitetail Wisdom From A Buck Killing Machine with Stephen Morse
Aug 16, 2024

The boys sit down with Stephen to discuss his tactics on being successful hunting in the big woods 

Duration: 01:19:57
Off The Rails 2
Aug 09, 2024

Morgan and Izaak having a free flowing discussion about deer hunting in the big woods 

Duration: 01:20:04
All Around Vermont Woodsman With Roger Hill
Aug 02, 2024

Morgan and Izaak sat Down with Roger Hill to discuss his passion for the outdoors 

Duration: 01:09:56
Off The Rails
Jul 26, 2024

Morgan and I discuss many topics ranging from the weather to politics 

Duration: 01:15:20
Dairy Farming Deer Hunter With Tony Pippin
Jul 19, 2024

The boys all sit down to have a great discussion on hunting the northeast and more 

Duration: 01:23:22
Patience Kills With Jeremy Baker
Jul 12, 2024

I sat down with Jeremy and my co host Morgan to discuss Jeremys tales of hunting bucks all over the country and some awesome stories from Canada 

Duration: 01:40:29
ADK Hunting Culture With Kevin And Keith Stone
Jun 28, 2024

on this weeks episode I sat down with Kevin and his dad to talk about the adks rich hunting culture 

Duration: 01:26:25
Sit Down Conversation With My Dad Truman Young III
Jun 21, 2024

I sat down with my dad to talk about his experience growing up and hunting in the northeast. 

Duration: 01:16:20
Top Tier Bucks With Garrett Henderson
Jun 14, 2024

I sat down with Garrett to talk about his life long passion for hunting whitetails 

Duration: 01:03:08
Mountain Bucks With Zeb Cox
May 31, 2024

I sat down with Zeb to talk about his new YouTube channel and his passion for the outdoors 

Duration: 00:51:38
Stick and String With Jonny Hood
May 24, 2024

I sat down With Jon to discuss a multitude of topics revolving around hunting bucks in the mountains 

Duration: 01:07:06
All Around Woodsman With Steven Champa
May 17, 2024

I sat down with Steven to talk about some of his favorite deer stories, trapping, turkeys and more!

Duration: 01:02:23
STAGR With Adam Lamson
May 10, 2024

I sat down with Adam to talk about his wool company and northeastern hunting culture 

Duration: 01:11:14
The Whitetail Rut With Luke McReynolds
May 03, 2024

I sat down and talked to Luke about everything to do with the whitetail rut. 

Duration: 01:30:46
The #1 Typical Buck From Mass In 2023 With Matt Heppleston
Apr 26, 2024

I Sat down with Matt to get the story of a legendary buck he shot last fall 

Duration: 01:24:49
The Story Of The MooseMan with Drew Maciel
Apr 19, 2024

I sit down with the Mooseman to Learn how a he turned into the woodsman he is today! 

Duration: 01:05:40
Mature Bucks With Brett Joy
Apr 12, 2024

On this weeks episode I sat down with Brett Joy we talk about his tactics on targeting mature bucks. its a great episode and you can learn a lot from him. 

Duration: 01:43:09
The Life Of A Woodsman With Nick Campagna
Apr 05, 2024

I sat down With Nick to discuss a multitude of topics ranging from tracking bucks to picking moose antlers. its a great episode and he gives out a lot of great tips 

Duration: 01:51:01
Mega Maine Bucks With Jamison Grady
Mar 29, 2024

I sat down with Jamison to talk about his success in the Maine deer woods he's killed some giant bucks and has some great stories. 

Duration: 01:19:54
Hunt Suburbia With Pat Guyette
Mar 22, 2024

Pat and I sat down to discuss a wide range of topics from shed hunting to DB Cooper, it's a great conversation I think you guys will like it. 

Duration: 01:21:50
Rekindled Relationship Fuels Passion For The Outdoors With Tyler Forbes
Mar 15, 2024

I sat down with Tyler Forbes to talk about hunting and how a rekindled relationship with his father fuled his passion for the outdoors. 

Duration: 01:35:30
On A Hot Streak With Garret Laperle
Mar 08, 2024

Nate and I sit down with garret to discuss his last season deer hunting. 

Duration: 01:10:35
6 New England Bucks In One Season With Kyle Bentall
Mar 01, 2024

I sat down with Kyle to talk about his incredible 2023 deer season.

Duration: 01:12:05
Fastballs and Big Bucks With Eddie Lewicki
Feb 23, 2024

I sit down with Eddie to talk about his passion for chasing bucks in the northeast. 

Duration: 01:05:09
Introduction Podcast
Feb 16, 2024

Nate and Izaak sit down to discuss the future of The Big Buck Theory 

Duration: 00:33:00