In this special episode, Jaden sits down with Jeff Lund—Alaska teacher, seasoned blacktail hunter, and host of the On Step Podcast—for a deep dive into gear, strategy, and expectations for their upcoming DIY blacktail deer hunt in Southeast Alaska. They break down layering systems, managing moisture, alpine glassing techniques, and why hunting local-style is sometimes better than going big. Whether you're a first-time blacktail hunter or a seasoned mule deer guy looking to branch out, there's a ton of real-world insight packed into this one.

Give Jeff’s show, the On Step Podcast, a listen—especially if you enjoy thoughtful storytelling and raw, unfiltered talk from Alaska's public lands.

🔗 Find Jeff's podcast here: On Step Podcast on Apple

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You can now get help on your hunts without booking a call! The Virtual Hunt Mentor is up and running and ready to help you get your plans in order—24/7, no scheduling required.

It’s trained on everything I’ve said or written about western hunts in the last 6 years. If you’re trying to build a gear list, pick a week to hunt, or figure out where to put your glass on opening morning, this tool can help.

It doesn't cost a dime to give it a whirl and it's always available even when I'm not.

👉 Try the Virtual Hunt Mentor at Huntwestplanning.com >>

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Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show.