AZ Quail Today Podcast

Nate and Ryan Discuss transition, updates, quail season, trucks and more.

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 00:51:00

In this episode, Ryan sits down with Scott McGill—business owner, entrepreneur, hunter, dog handler, mentor, and devoted father. Scott shares his journey into quail hunting in Arizona, the lessons learned from dog training, and how his passion for the outdoors connects with his faith. Hear how Scott balances a demanding career with deep commitment to both his family and his ministry through Fathers in the Field and North Valley Church. It’s a refreshing look at faith lived out beyond the walls of the church and into the field. 

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azqua...

Duration: 00:53:25

In this crazy cool episode, Nate and Ryan sit down with the legendary Jason "Trail Cam" Miller, a true icon of the Arizona outdoors. Join us as we delve into Jason’s unparalleled expertise in capturing wildlife on trail cameras, unveiling timeless truths about hunting and exploring Arizona’s breathtaking landscapes. Known for his adventurous spirit and deep respect for nature, Jason shares stories from his extensive experience as a hunter, adventurer, and conservationist.

While this episode may not follow the traditional Arizona Quail hunting format, it offers valuable insights for anyone passionate about exploring the great outd...

Duration: 00:47:01

In this episode, Nate and Ryan kick off Arizona’s quail season with stories from opening weekend in the backcountry. They share highlights from the hunt, talk about essential gear and dog products they rely on, and discuss the latest updates and notifications from Arizona Game and Fish. Plus, they give a preview of exciting guests lined up for upcoming episodes.  

For more information, visit azquailtoday.com.

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 00:49:38

Join hosts Ryan and Nate as they dive into upcoming season expectations, set hunting goals, and share packing tips for quail hunters. Ryan provides unique insight into developments with the Arizona Game & Fish Commission, covering proposed changes for the season and reading aloud a letter he sent to the commissioners. Tune in to find out what to expect for this season and learn about potential changes in future Arizona quail hunting seasons. For more helpful information, visit azquailtoday.com

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
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Duration: 00:57:34

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 00:27:27

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 00:57:49

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 01:06:39

In this episode, we conclude the final part of our new mini-series, Brothers in the Barndominium. Ryan recently had the opportunity to visit his brothers back in Arkansas on the family Ranch and discuss their childhood memories of growing up and hunting together.

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 01:14:45

In this episode, we continue part 2 of our new mini-series, Brothers in the Barndominium. Ryan recently had the opportunity to visit his brothers back in Arkansas on the family Ranch and discuss their childhood memories of growing up and hunting together.

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 00:22:12

In this episode, we begin our new mini-series, Brothers in the Barndominium. Ryan recently had the opportunity to visit his brothers back in Arkansas on the family Ranch and discuss their childhood memories of growing up and hunting together.

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 00:56:26

In this episode we talk with Durrel Smith: Owner & Founder, The Sporting Life Notebook | Co‑Founder & President, Minority Outdoor Alliance. Durrel is a passionate bird-dog handler, guide, artist, conservationist, and storyteller. 

Tune in to hear his journey, how he got into bird hunting, and started The Sporting Life Notebook.

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 01:35:44

In this episode, we interviewed Josiah Richards, owner of Ross Outdoors. We talk about how he got into hunting, owning a business, and learn more about Ross Outdoors.

Ross Outdoors specializes in high-end hunting and archery equipment, offering a premium selection of gear both in-store and online. Their mission is to share our passion for hunting by providing customers with the best possible equipment, expert technical knowledge, and outstanding customer service.

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 01:01:57

Join us for an exciting episode as we dive into quail hunting in Arizona with Kirby Bristow, a seasoned biologist with the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD), and Ryan Rice, President of Arizona Quail Today. Kirby Bristow has dedicated years to wildlife management, specializing in small game species like quail. As a key figure at AZGFD, he has contributed to research and conservation initiatives, including co-authoring a pivotal study on Montezuma (Mearns’) quail management, helping balance hunting opportunities with sustainable population management.

In this episode, host Ryan Rice reflects on his 2024-2025 quail hunting season, sharing in...

Duration: 01:25:55

On todays episode we sit down with John Smithbaker. In 2005, John launched Fathers in the Field to share God’s love with hurting boys dealing with the same abandonment issues he dealt with for so long. His goal is to help prevent the devastating cycle of earthy father abandonment before these boys become men by sharing their Heavenly Father’s staying power, forgiveness and faithfulness.

Join us as we dive into his journey in cresting this ministry and how God has used him to tackle the biggest epidemic in our country. The lack of fathers

Conn...

Duration: 01:13:32

Join us on Wade Zarlingo’s Arizona Quail Hunt for a lively chat with Wade Zarlingo, a lifelong Arizona quail hunter and former Arizona Game and Fish employee. Wade calls this hunting season one of his best ever, with plenty of birds and great times in the field. We talk about how rainfall boosts quail numbers, the impact of land development, and Wade’s life chasing birds with his dogs in the backcountry. From his work in land management to pecan farming in Chino Valley, Wade shares stories and insights from a lifetime outdoors. Grab a seat, enjoy the hunt...

Duration: 01:15:29

In this episode, we unpack some of the things we talked about last episode with Guy Mollicone. We dive into dog training, and what we have learned from that podcast.

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 00:34:32

We talk about off-season training for your dog with expert dog trainer Guy Mollicone. How to keep your dog in shape, dos and don'ts, and how he runs his training. 

Mollicone Kennels provides training services for all K9 situations from basic obedience to performance working dogs. 

Tune in to learn more about Mollicone Kennels!

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 00:41:05

In this episode, we are joined by legendary Arizona quail hunters Dean Priest and Matt Russell. Matt Russell is a native of Tucson, Arizona, and a professional hunting guide and founder of Double Aero Guides Co. 

We talked about the post-season recap, and how they adapted to have success, and also talked about strategies and tips for the next season.

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 01:18:33

Hey, AZ Quail Today friends check out this special episode with Todd Kehoe. Todd is a mentor father from Fathers in the field. Father's in the Field is a ministry partnership that helps mentor fatherless boys in all areas of life!

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 01:04:48

In this episode, Nate and Ryan dive into the latest updates on quail season, sharing insights from hunter surveys across Arizona. They discuss the impact of the state’s unprecedented drought conditions on quail hunting and express their concerns about the ongoing weather challenges. Despite these difficulties, they highlight areas with thriving bird populations. For more details, visit azquailtoday.com, and consider making a tax-deductible donation to support their efforts. Tune in for an engaging discussion about quail hunting in Arizona!

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Foll...

Duration: 01:06:22

In this episode. Dan Priest and Nate jump into tips, tricks, and strategies for hunting Gambel's quail in Arizona. They discuss the kind of cover you should expect to find them in, quail calls, and whether or not to chase singles and doubles. 

Dan shares some of the tactics that he has used to hunt Gambels over the years, as well as some more unconventional methods of finding quail. Tune in to hear some of the wisdom shared by Dan on this podcast!

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hea...

Duration: 01:13:14

In this episode, we are joined by Jim Graham, Owner and founder of Marsupial Gear. Jim Dives into how he started Marsupial Gear, some of the challenges he faced, and his favorite memories he made along the way. 

Marsupial Gear values building the best products possible, sewn in the USA,  Their goal is to make functional gear that solves problems and is built to last. They offer an unconditional lifetime warranty on all of their products and stand behind them 100%. They also believe in giving back to our hunting community and supporting the organizations that embody that. Duration: 01:11:00

Join us in this episode, where we talk with Robert Poor. Robert hunts with three different breeds of dogs, none of which are pointers! He tells us the benefits of using different breeds, and how he uses each of them to his advantage. 

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 01:13:58

Join us in this special episode as we chat with Kirby Bristow, Shooter Smith, Ryan Rice, and Nate Istrate. We dive into the different factors determining quail numbers' success in Arizona. We look at boots on the ground scouting, call counts, precipitation, and wing barrels. 

Kirby and Shooter share their insights on the forecast for this upcoming quail season for Gambels, Scaled, and Mearns quail. 

Tune in to get a jumpstart on the season and hear some of the wisdom shared from this podcast!

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd...

Duration: 01:15:56

Join us in this episode we talk with Shooter Smith. We dive into preseason prep for his dog and himself. We look at gear and must-have while out in the field quail hunting. Shooter tells us how he hunts with his Brittany and about the various dog clubs he is a part of.

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 01:37:34

In this summer recap episode of AZ Quail Today, Ryan and Nate dive into their adventures over the past few months and preview the upcoming hunting season. Ryan asks Nate about his bird dog training and exciting work with AZ Quail Today, including Quail Camp, podcast episodes with Cody at Rattlesnake Ready and the Mollicone Kennels team, and preparation for Rattlesnake aversion training. Nate shares what he's looking forward to this season as he gears up for the challenges ahead.

 Nate then flips the script and asks Ryan about his summer highlights, from traveling out West to h...

Duration: 01:25:37

In this episode, we are joined by Father and Son Guy Mollicone Sr and Jr. Masters in the field of dog training. We dive into tips on how to train your dog, and why it is important to train your dog.

Mollicone Kennels provides training services for all K9 situations from basic obedience to performance working dogs. 

Tune in to learn more about Mollicone Kennels!

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 02:26:29

Join us in this episode, where we talk about rattlesnake aversion training for dogs. Cody Will is an expert in the field with over 12 years of experience working with rattlesnakes and dogs. 

Cody has studied these reptiles and shares insights on when rattlesnakes are most likely to be seen and what to do when you see them. Most importantly he explains why getting your dog rattlesnake trained is so important. 

Tune in now to hear what Cody has to say!

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from...

Duration: 01:31:20

In this episode of Arizona Quail Today, we reflect on the incredible experiences from our recent Quail Camp. 

We had an amazing time with 100 Georgia Giant Bob White quail and three skilled English pointers, all while mentoring fatherless boys in crucial life skills such as faith, forgiveness, fatherhood, and firearms. 

For years, we've dedicated ourselves to equipping these young men to become knowledgeable and responsible outdoorsmen. We are immensely grateful to our sponsors and mentor fathers who are making a lasting impact on these boys' lives. 

Join us as we continue to edu...

Duration: 01:19:30

Join us in this special episode as we chat with Ron Horn, a true legend in the field trial and quail hunting world! With over 40 years of experience, Ron has been a cornerstone of the sport since the 80s, participating in countless competitions and earning numerous accolades along the way.

In this episode, Ron takes us behind the scenes of pointing dog clubs, shares what field trials entail, and reminisces about some of his favorite moments from his impressive career. Even today, Ron remains actively involved in judging field trials and contributing to groups like AZPDC.
<...

Duration: 01:12:50

In this episode, we feature Rylee Cross, a young and entrepreneurial quail hunter from Black Canyon City, Arizona. Rylee has dedicated significant time and energy to providing some of the best game birds for quail hunters in the state. Located conveniently on the route up north. His operation is a prime spot for dog training.

Join us as we delve into Rylee’s operation, offering insights on how you can get started with bird dog training and working with game birds. We cover everything you need to know, from obtaining a game bird license from the Arizona Ga...

Duration: 00:50:29

In this episode, we sit down with Kirby Bristow, Arizona Native and Quail Intel expert with over 31 years at the Arizona Game and Fish Commission. 

Kirby, the "Yoda of Mearns’ quail," shares his extensive knowledge about these unique birds and their habitats in Arizona

Join us as we delve into: 

The current status of Mearns’ quail population.Updates and changes in hunting regulations.Perspectives from within the Arizona Game and Fish Commission.The effects of monsoon season and other factors on quail hunting.Hunting pressure from local and out-of-state hunters and more. 

Kirby’s insight...

Duration: 01:21:09

In this exciting episode of Arizona Quail Today, we’re thrilled to welcome Ryan Rice, the President of AZ Quail Today! Join us for an engaging conversation that delves into the vibrant world of Arizona quail hunting and conservation.

Dog Days of Summer:  Discover some dog-related activities, training ideas, and events happening this summer. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a newbie, there’s something for everyone!

Gear Up: Hear from Ryan on some of his gear choices and why they matter. Learn about the best equipment to enhance your hunting experience.

Hunting...

Duration: 01:10:57

Join us on AZ Quail Today's Podcast called, "The Hunters Home" as we celebrate Mother's Day with a special episode dedicated to the incredible mothers who raise and nurture the next generation of hunters.

 In this heartwarming and inspiring podcast, we sit down with my Mama who shares her unique perspective on parenting and passion for the great outdoors and hunting. From sharing stories of family adventures to discussing the values and lessons passed down through generations, this episode is a tribute to the love, support, and guidance provided by hunting Moms everywhere. 

Tune in to...

Duration: 01:37:37

It's time to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Arizona's wilderness with Dan Priest, a name that is synonymous with adventure , hunting and exploration. 

With decades of experience as a guide and outfitter, Dan's passion for the outdoors is matched only by his commitment to conservation and sharing his knowledge with future generations. 

From the rugged canyons to the sun-painted deserts, to the magic of the White Mountains, join us on our podcast as we explore more into the stories and glories of quail hunting and backcountry adventures with Dan Priest. 
Duration: 01:43:12

Hey there, AZ Quail Today friends! Our latest podcast episode is live and it’s a must-listen for all quail hunters! Join us as we sit down with Wade Zarlingo, a retired biologist from Arizona Game and Fish, for an in-depth conversation about Quail Hunting in Arizona. Wade’s insights and stories are sure to inspire and educate! 

Don’t forget to share with your fellow quail hunters! 

Note: I made a mistake in the podcast concerning unlimited bag limit for Quail on the San Carlos.

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailt...

Duration: 02:00:15

Randy Babb is a biologist and naturalist whose extensive knowledge of wildlife keeps him in demand as a writer, photographer, illustrator, speaker, and tour leader. He grew up hunting and fishing in Arizona and has chased his share of big game, but his passion is the pursuit of small game animals.

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 01:47:14

In Episode #1, we had the pleasure of chatting with Matt Russell, a native of Tucson, Arizona, and a professional hunting guide. Matt is not only the founder of Double Aero Guides Co., but he’s also ventured into the realm of outdoor gear, including Canine 1st Aid Kits for the Backcountry Quail Hunter!

Connect with us: Email us at ryan@azquailtoday.com —we'd love to hear from you!
Follow us on Instagram at @azquailtoday

Duration: 01:46:11