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, 2026we talk about antlers
Duration: 01:11:50season 3 Introduction
Jan 02, 2026intro to season 3
Duration: 01:03:48THE Rut Repot 12
Dec 26, 2025The end of the rut report
Duration: 00:48:58THE Rut Report 11
Dec 19, 2025you know what is by now
Duration: 01:30:52THE Rut Report 10
Dec 12, 2025RUT REPORT
Duration: 00:42:04Some Season 2 Highlights
Dec 05, 2025title speaks for itself
Duration: 00:48:35THE Rut Report 9
Nov 28, 2025Farmer Tony and Connor
Duration: 01:19:27THE Rut Report 8
Nov 21, 2025The good stuff
Duration: 00:47:02THE Rut Report 7
Nov 14, 2025RUT
Duration: 00:30:12THE Rut Report 6
Nov 07, 2025Its Go Time
Duration: 00:35:57THE Rut Report 5
Oct 31, 2025The greatest time of the year
Duration: 01:13:16THE Rut Report 4
Oct 24, 2025you know what it is
Duration: 01:00:10THE Rut Report 3
Oct 17, 2025The 3rd rut report of the season
Duration: 01:20:28THE Rut Report 2
Oct 10, 2025update on how the seasons going
Duration: 01:03:03THE Rut Report 1
Oct 03, 2025Rut update
Duration: 01:03:35Tales Of a Mad Man with Jacob Bennett
Sep 26, 2025In 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: 01:32:33The Long Hunt- "Finn Kangas" on a Lifetime outdoors
Sep 19, 2025In 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: 01:45:58The PA Wilds with Johnny Stewart
Sep 12, 2025In 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: 01:16:12One Of Vermonts Deadliest Deer Hunters with Jeremy Ballantine
Sep 05, 2025In 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: 01:32:51Back Country Bucks From The Adirondacks and Beyond with Todd Mead
Aug 29, 2025In 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...
Giant Maine Bucks With Sherman Bradeen
Aug 22, 2025Morgan 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: 01:32:50HuntStock Recap / 3 HuntStock listener stories
Aug 15, 2025HuntStock recap and some listener stories live from HuntStock!
Duration: 01:07:34Huntstock Eve with Adam Lamson of Stagr Gear
Aug 08, 2025The 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: 01:09:14Dead Deer and Dumb Takes with Connor Schellong and Tony Pippin
Aug 01, 2025In 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: 01:22:59Married To The Hunt With Maggie Young
Jul 25, 2025In 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: 01:04:33Vermont Federation of Sportsman's Clubs with Bill Gaiotti
Jul 18, 2025In 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: 02:07:49Big Woods Brotherhood With Ethan Pike and Mathew Henderson
Jul 11, 2025In 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!
Back Tracking Bucks With Paul Putera
Jul 04, 2025In 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: 01:51:33Not. One. Acre.
Jun 27, 2025Big Woods Adventures with Nate Corey
Jun 20, 2025we talk about deer hunting I bet no one reads these damn things
Duration: 01:05:10School Day
Jun 13, 2025Talking deer with some Vermont boys Nick and Nate Kapusta
Jun 06, 2025High Class Calls with Matt Van Cise
May 30, 2025Some Highlights From Season 1
May 23, 2025Halftime- Turkey Season
May 16, 2025Morgan and Izaak talk turkey at the half way point through the season
Duration: 01:07:06Turkey Season Update
May 09, 2025Gobble Gobble
Duration: 01:02:12Talking Turkey With Brett Ladeau
May 02, 2025Honestly to tired to write a good description from turkey hunting, Brett is a phenominal turkey hunter and a wealth of knowledge
Duration: 01:14:33Spring Thunder With Brent Lafreniere
Apr 25, 2025The boys talk Turkey with Brent a Vermont native who is an avid Turkey Hunter and well rounded outdoorsman.
Duration: 01:06:17Off the rails 4
Apr 18, 2025Morgan and Izaak go off the rails to talk turkey
Duration: 01:15:09Shed Masters with John Moulton and Connor Schellong
Apr 11, 2025John 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: 01:13:33Hunt Craze with Dylan Greenwood
Apr 04, 2025Join 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: 01:01:01Game Seekers With Shawn Mandolare
Mar 28, 2025Join 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: 02:27:18THE STAGR COAT GIVEAWAY and ramble session
Mar 21, 2025Morgan, 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: 01:30:47Back Country Whitetail Hunting the ADK's with Christian Bills
Mar 14, 2025In 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: 01:08:57Still Water Outdoors with Nathan Nelson
Mar 07, 2025Join 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: 01:26:51The Shed Heavy Episode
Feb 28, 2025In 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: 01:26:51ADK Adventures with Adam Arquette
Feb 21, 2025Meet 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: 01:37:45NWTF southern limb hangers banquet
Feb 14, 2025Morgan discusses His upcoming NWTF banquet for the southern Vermont limb hangers.
Duration: 00:20:22The Shed Heavy Episode
Feb 14, 2025Tune 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: 00:20:22JBWild Outdoors With Jason Bruno
Feb 07, 2025Join 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: 02:04:53FBM Maine Outdoor Journal with Joe Osgood Jr.
Jan 31, 2025Morgan 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: 01:16:55Middle of Winter Ramble Session
Jan 24, 2025Morgan and Izaak talk on a wide range of topics from shed hunting to turkey hunting
Duration: 01:34:50Is winter Feeding good for deer?
Jan 17, 2025Izaak and Morgan sit down to discuss winter feeding and its impact on the deer heard
Duration: 01:19:06Season 2 Introduction
Jan 10, 2025Morgan and Izaak sit down to discuss what they have planned for season 2
Duration: 01:09:10THE Rut Report 12
Jan 04, 2025Deer season update from the boys
Duration: 01:25:33THE Rut Report 11
Dec 27, 2024Deer Season thoughts as of lately
Duration: 00:38:22THE Rut Report 10
Dec 20, 2024Maine buck stories
Duration: 01:35:58THE Rut Report 9
Dec 13, 2024Morgan and Izaak discuss deer season as of latley.
Duration: 01:51:29THE Rut Report 8
Dec 06, 2024Izaak and Morgan to discuss deer season thus far
Duration: 01:56:29THE Rut Report 7
Nov 22, 2024Morgan and Izaak discuss deer season as of latley
Duration: 01:05:46THE Rut Report 6
Nov 15, 2024Morgan and Izaak sit down and discuss deer season as of latley
Duration: 00:46:36THE Rut Report 5
Nov 08, 2024Morgan and Izaak discuss deer season this far
Duration: 01:32:59THE Rut Report 4
Nov 01, 2024Izaak and Morgan sit down to discuss hunting season thus far
Duration: 01:24:41THE Rut Report 3
Oct 25, 2024Morgan and Izaak sit down to discuss deer season as of lately
Duration: 01:31:06THE Rut Report 2
Oct 18, 2024Morgan and Izaak sit down to discuss the last couple weeks of deer season.
Duration: 01:08:03THE Rut Report 1
Oct 11, 2024Izaak and Morgan sit down to discuss hunting this season so far
Duration: 01:04:51A Glimpse In The Mind Of a Big Buck Killer With Rodney Elmer
Sep 27, 2024Morgan and Izaak sit down with Rodney to discuss some deep topics pertaining to deer hunting and mindset
Duration: 02:12:18Off The Rails 3
Sep 20, 2024Morgan and Izaak Sit down to discuss a wide range of topics, some about hunting some not
Duration: 01:14:18High End Taxidermy, Giant western Bucks and African Adventures with Pete Lajoie
Sep 13, 2024Morgan and Izaak sit down with Pete to Discuss his 30 year Career doing taxidermy and his hunting adventures
Duration: 01:01:39Big whitetails all over the country and filming with the Benoits with Josh Butler
Sep 06, 2024josh sits down with us to discuss his whitetail adventures and his memories filming with the Benoits
Duration: 01:44:14Chasing Northern Maine Giants With Bud Soucy
Aug 30, 2024Morgan and Izaak sit down with Bud to discuss his tracking adventures in northern Maine
Duration: 01:06:49A Big Bucks Nightmare With Tim Miramontes and Jeremy Ballantine
Aug 23, 2024Tim Is on of the most successful deer hunters I've interviewed Listen along as he tells some of his best stories
Duration: 01:56:54Whitetail Wisdom From A Buck Killing Machine with Stephen Morse
Aug 16, 2024The boys sit down with Stephen to discuss his tactics on being successful hunting in the big woods
Duration: 01:19:57Off The Rails 2
Aug 09, 2024Morgan and Izaak having a free flowing discussion about deer hunting in the big woods
Duration: 01:20:04All Around Vermont Woodsman With Roger Hill
Aug 02, 2024Morgan and Izaak sat Down with Roger Hill to discuss his passion for the outdoors
Duration: 01:09:56Off The Rails
Jul 26, 2024Morgan and I discuss many topics ranging from the weather to politics
Duration: 01:15:20Dairy Farming Deer Hunter With Tony Pippin
Jul 19, 2024The boys all sit down to have a great discussion on hunting the northeast and more
Duration: 01:23:22Patience Kills With Jeremy Baker
Jul 12, 2024I 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
ADK Hunting Culture With Kevin And Keith Stone
Jun 28, 2024on this weeks episode I sat down with Kevin and his dad to talk about the adks rich hunting culture
Duration: 01:26:25Sit Down Conversation With My Dad Truman Young III
Jun 21, 2024I sat down with my dad to talk about his experience growing up and hunting in the northeast.
Duration: 01:16:20Top Tier Bucks With Garrett Henderson
Jun 14, 2024I sat down with Garrett to talk about his life long passion for hunting whitetails
Duration: 01:03:08Mountain Bucks With Zeb Cox
May 31, 2024I sat down with Zeb to talk about his new YouTube channel and his passion for the outdoors
Duration: 00:51:38Stick and String With Jonny Hood
May 24, 2024I sat down With Jon to discuss a multitude of topics revolving around hunting bucks in the mountains
Duration: 01:07:06All Around Woodsman With Steven Champa
May 17, 2024I sat down with Steven to talk about some of his favorite deer stories, trapping, turkeys and more!
Duration: 01:02:23STAGR With Adam Lamson
May 10, 2024I sat down with Adam to talk about his wool company and northeastern hunting culture
Duration: 01:11:14The Whitetail Rut With Luke McReynolds
May 03, 2024I sat down and talked to Luke about everything to do with the whitetail rut.
Duration: 01:30:46The #1 Typical Buck From Mass In 2023 With Matt Heppleston
Apr 26, 2024I Sat down with Matt to get the story of a legendary buck he shot last fall
Duration: 01:24:49The Story Of The MooseMan with Drew Maciel
Apr 19, 2024I sit down with the Mooseman to Learn how a he turned into the woodsman he is today!
Duration: 01:05:40Mature Bucks With Brett Joy
Apr 12, 2024On 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: 01:43:09The Life Of A Woodsman With Nick Campagna
Apr 05, 2024I 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: 01:51:01Mega Maine Bucks With Jamison Grady
Mar 29, 2024I 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: 01:19:54Hunt Suburbia With Pat Guyette
Mar 22, 2024Pat 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: 01:21:50Rekindled Relationship Fuels Passion For The Outdoors With Tyler Forbes
Mar 15, 2024I sat down with Tyler Forbes to talk about hunting and how a rekindled relationship with his father fuled his passion for the outdoors.
Duration: 01:35:30On A Hot Streak With Garret Laperle
Mar 08, 2024Nate and I sit down with garret to discuss his last season deer hunting.
Duration: 01:10:356 New England Bucks In One Season With Kyle Bentall
Mar 01, 2024I sat down with Kyle to talk about his incredible 2023 deer season.
Duration: 01:12:05Fastballs and Big Bucks With Eddie Lewicki
Feb 23, 2024I sit down with Eddie to talk about his passion for chasing bucks in the northeast.
Duration: 01:05:09Introduction Podcast
Feb 16, 2024Nate and Izaak sit down to discuss the future of The Big Buck Theory
Duration: 00:33:00