Free Castin' | Podcast on RSS.com

Free Castin'

by Chris Watson

Entertainment News Wilderness

To CULL or not to CULL! That is the question!

Every houndsman has faced it sooner or later—the difficult decision of what to do with a dog that just isn't making the cut. In this episode of Free Castin', we tackle one of the most controversial topics in the hound world: When is it time to cull a hound? We discuss what culling really means, the importance of being honest about a dog's ability, and how these decisions impact breeding programs, hunting success, and the future of hound hunting. We also dive into questions every serious houndsman has wrestled with: How long should you give a young dog to prove itself? What faults are deal breakers? Are we keeping too many average dogs? Does emotion get in the way of making the right decision? Have modern breeding practices lowered our standards? Whether you're a lifelong houndsman or just getting started, this episode is packed with honest conversation, real-world experience, and plenty of opinions that are sure to spark discussion. We don't claim to have all the answers—but we believe these are conversations worth having if we want to preserve and improve the future of our sport. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow Free Castin', leave a review, and share it with a fellow houndsman. Free Castin' – Hounds, Mules, and Everything in Between. Arizona Working Dog Alliance https://azwda.com Where we talk a lot of politics that effects the American Sportsman https://www.youtube.com/@awda24 Mountain Daily Star mountaindailystar.com https://mountaindailystar.com/free-roaming-arizona-horses-series-episode-1-heber-horses/ Cold Strike Gear https://coldstrikegear.com Arizona Hound Hunters Rendezvous http://azhhr,com CMW Investigations, LLC http://cmwpi.com "Anecdote of a Houndsman" live podcast "Free Castin" https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman Watch these podcast live every Thursday night at 6PM MST!

Myths and Legends of hound hunting!

Every houndsman has heard the stories. The dog that never missed. The old-timer who could strike a track where no one else could. The bear dog that never quit. The lion hound that could trail across bare rock. But are these stories history... or have they grown into legends over the years? In this episode of Free Castin', we dive into the campfire stories that have shaped hound hunting for generations. We discuss the legendary houndsmen, unforgettable dogs, and the myths that continue to be passed down today. We also ask some tough questions: Would the legendary houndsmen of the past still be successful in today's world? Were the dogs really better back then? How much of what we've been told is fact, and how much is folklore? Who are the forgotten houndsmen that deserve to be remembered? This episode is packed with stories, opinions, laughs, and a healthy debate about the history of hound hunting and the people who built the sport we love. Whether you've been following hounds for 50 years or you're just getting started, pull up a chair and join us around the virtual campfire. If you enjoy the show, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with another houndsman. Free Castin' — Hounds, Mules, and Everything In Between. Arizona Working Dog Alliance https://azwda.com Where we talk a lot of politics that effects the American Sportsman https://www.youtube.com/@awda24 Mountain Daily Star mountaindailystar.com https://mountaindailystar.com/free-roaming-arizona-horses-series-episode-1-heber-horses/ Cold Strike Gear https://coldstrikegear.com Arizona Hound Hunters Rendezvous http://azhhr,com CMW Investigations, LLC http://cmwpi.com "Anecdote of a Houndsman" live podcast "Free Castin" https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman Watch these podcast live every Thursday night at 6PM MST!

Keep you and your hounds READY!

Summer doesn't mean houndsmen stop learning. In this episode of Free Castin', we dive into what it takes to keep your hounds healthy, conditioned, and mentally sharp during the off-season. From roading, free running, and nutrition to foot care, kennel management, and preparing for the next hunting season, we share practical tips to help your pack stay ready year-round. We also shift gears into a discussion on bear hunting and the role of hazing with hounds. We talk about how hounds are used as a wildlife management tool, the importance of responsible dog handling, and why these conversations matter for the future of hunting and conservation. Whether you're spending your summer working dogs, fixing equipment, or counting down the days until the next season opens, this episode is packed with conversation every houndsman can appreciate. Thanks for listening to Free Castin'—where we talk Hounds, Mules, and Everything in Between. Arizona Working Dog Alliance https://azwda.com Where we talk a lot of politics that effects the American Sportsman https://www.youtube.com/@awda24 Mountain Daily Star mountaindailystar.com https://mountaindailystar.com/free-roaming-arizona-horses-series-episode-1-heber-horses/ Cold Strike Gear https://coldstrikegear.com Arizona Hound Hunters Rendezvous http://azhhr,com CMW Investigations, LLC http://cmwpi.com "Anecdote of a Houndsman" live podcast "Free Castin" https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman Watch these podcast live every Thursday night at 6PM MST!

How do we keep kids interested in hounds!

The future of hound hunting isn't just about great dogs—it's about the people who will be turning them loose for years to come. In this episode of Free Castin, we dive into one of the most important conversations in the hunting community: how do we get the next generation involved? We discuss the role of parents, grandparents, mentors, and hunting buddies in introducing young people to running hounds and building a lifelong passion for the outdoors. From youth hunting organizations and community events to simple ways you can mentor a young hunter, this episode is packed with ideas and personal stories about preserving the traditions we all love. We also share what got us started, the people who made an impact on our lives, and why every houndsman has an opportunity—and a responsibility—to help pass the torch. Whether you've been hunting with hounds for decades or you're just getting started, this conversation is about ensuring that our sport, our dogs, and our traditions continue for generations to come. If this episode inspires you, share it with another hunter, invite a young person to the woods, and help keep the future of hound hunting alive. Topics Covered: Why youth involvement matters Mentoring young hunters Youth hunting organizations and opportunities Introducing kids to hounds and the outdoors Challenges facing the next generation Practical ways to grow the hunting community Follow Free Castin for more conversations about hounds, mules, hunting, and the outdoor lifestyle. "The future of hound hunting isn't waiting—it's riding in the truck with us today." Arizona Working Dog Alliance https://azwda.com Where we talk a lot of politics that effects the American Sportsman https://www.youtube.com/@awda24 Mountain Daily Star mountaindailystar.com https://mountaindailystar.com/free-roaming-arizona-horses-series-episode-1-heber-horses/ Cold Strike Gear https://coldstrikegear.com Arizona Hound Hunters Rendezvous http://azhhr,com CMW Investigations, LLC http://cmwpi.com "Anecdote of a Houndsman" live podcast "Free Castin" https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman Watch these podcast live every Thursday night at 6PM MST!

Hounds and the $H!t we talk about them!

This episode of Free Castin, we're kicking back and talking hounds with a great group of houndsmen. Joining us are Cody King, Derrek, and Jeremy from the YouTube channel Louisiana Hunting for an unscripted conversation about the dogs we love and the lifestyle that keeps us coming back to the woods. We'll cover everything from starting young dogs, breeding decisions, memorable hunts, dog handling, and what makes a true hound. Whether you're chasing coons, cats, bears, lions, or just enjoy listening to hounds work, this episode is packed with stories, experiences, and opinions from hunters who spend plenty of time behind a dog. No politics, no drama—just hounds, hunting stories, lessons learned, and good conversation among people who are passionate about keeping the hound hunting tradition alive. 🎙 Topics include: Training and developing young hounds What traits make a top dog Hunting stories and memorable races Breeding and bloodline discussions The future of hound hunting Life behind the dogs Grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and join us for another episode of Free Castin as we talk dogs, hunting, and the houndsman's way of life. #FreeCastin #HoundHunting #Coonhounds #Houndsmen #LouisianaHunting #HuntingDogs #WorkingDogs #DogTalk #HuntingPodcast #HoundLife

Making a hound: From the pup up!

Every finished hound starts as an 8-week-old puppy. This episode we're breaking down the entire journey—from bringing that pup home for the first time to turning it into a game-running hound. We'll cover: ✅ Picking the right pup from the litter ✅ Building confidence and drive ✅ Socialization and early training ✅ Introducing scent and game ✅ Starting pups with older dogs ✅ Common mistakes that ruin young hounds ✅ When to hunt them alone ✅ Genetics vs. training ✅ What separates a good dog from a great one We'll also be talking about the mischievous side of raising pups—the chewing, wandering off, ignoring commands, and all the headaches that come with turning a young hound into a reliable hunting partner. Whether you've started dozens of pups or you're raising your first one, this show is for you. #FreeCastin #HoundDogs #PuppyTraining #RunningGame #HoundHunting #DogTraining #HuntingDogs #Coonhound #BearDogs #LionDogs #Houndsman #WorkingDogs #PuppyToFinishedDog #LivePodcast #ArizonaWorkingDogAlliance #HuntingPodcast

Hound Hunting: What a Waste!

The Most Overrated Things in Hound Hunting On this episode we're opening a can of worms and asking a question that every houndsman has an opinion on: What's the most overrated thing in hound hunting? Are we spending too much money on gear, dog food, supplements, tracking systems, lights, dog boxes, trucks, and gadgets that don't actually put more game in the tree? Or are some of these investments worth every penny? From social media-famous dogs to expensive equipment, we're separating what truly matters from what might just be draining our wallets. This isn't about bashing brands or people—it's about honest discussion from houndsmen who have spent years behind good dogs and learned what really makes a difference. Tonight we'll discuss: 🐾 Dog food and supplements 🐾 Tracking systems and technology 🐾 Dog boxes and truck builds 🐾 Hunting gear and gadgets 🐾 Bloodlines, papers, and hype 🐾 What actually makes a better houndsman Join the Conversation: What is the most overrated thing in hound hunting today? Drop your answer in the comments and tell us what piece of gear, trend, or product you think gets more credit than it deserves. Hounds, Mules, and Everything in Between. #FreeCastin #AnecdoteOfAHoundsman #HoundHunting #Houndsmen #LionHunting #BearHunting #CoonHunting #WorkingDogs #DogTracking #Garmin #HuntingPodcast #HoundDogLife #Conservation #ArizonaWorkingDogAlliance #HoundsMulesAndEverythingInBetween #HuntingGear #DogFood #OutdoorPodcast 🔥 Live Wednesday at 6 PM MST 🔥 On YouTube channel "Anecdote of a Houndsman"

OHV or back of a MULE?

This episode we're diving into one of the biggest debates in the hound hunting world: Mules vs. OHVs — Which is the better hound hunting rig? From pack mules in the backcountry to side-by-sides on the trail, we're breaking down the pros, cons, costs, access, reliability, and hunting experiences that come with each. Has modern technology made us better hunters, or have we lost something by leaving mule power behind? Whether you're riding a mule into rough country or chasing hounds from behind the wheel of a OHV, this conversation is for you. 🔥 Mule Power vs Horsepower 🔥 Wilderness Access vs Speed 🔥 Tradition vs Technology 🔥 Real Stories from Real Houndsmen #FreeCastin #HoundsMulesAndEverythingInBetween #HoundHunting #MulePower #OHVLife #SideBySide #Houndsmen #LionHunting #BearHunting #CoonHunting #MuleLife #HuntingPodcast #WorkingDogs #BackcountryHunting #ArizonaHoundsmen #HoundDogLife #ConservationThroughHunting

What’s REALLY Killing Hound Hunting?

On this episode of Free Castin’, we tackle a conversation that’s been building for a long time… What’s REALLY killing hound hunting? From division inside the hunting community and social media drama to rising costs, disappearing mentorship, technology dependence, and public perception — we break down the biggest threats facing modern houndsmen and the future of hound hunting itself. Are anti-hunters really the biggest problem… or are some of the issues coming from inside our own community? This episode gets honest about the state of hunting culture, conservation, young hunters leaving the sport, and what needs to change if we want the next generation to experience the same traditions we grew up loving. Whether you agree or disagree, this is a conversation every houndsman needs to hear. #FreeCastin #HoundHunting #Houndsmen #BearHunting #LionHunting #PredatorHunting #HuntingDogs #Conservation #PublicLand #OutdoorCulture #Garmin #Podcast Arizona Working Dog Alliance https://azwda.com Where we talk a lot of politics that effects the American Sportsman https://www.youtube.com/@awda24 Mountain Daily Star mountaindailystar.com https://mountaindailystar.com/free-roaming-arizona-horses-series-episode-1-heber-horses/ Cold Strike Gear https://coldstrikegear.com https://www.youtube.com/@ColdStrikeGear Arizona Hound Hunters Rendezvous http://azhhr,com "Born 100 Years Too Late" https://www.youtube.com/@BrettVaughnB100 "Interviews, Stories and Tales" https://www.youtube.com/@InterviewsStoriesandTales "Louisiana Hunting" https://www.youtube.com/@louisianahunting CMW Investigations, LLC http://cmwpi.com "Anecdote of a Houndsman" live podcast "Free Castin" https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman Watch these podcast live every Thursday night at 6PM MST!

Young dogs and their handlers, who's the worst?

Tonight on Free Castin’, we dive deep into one of the most debated topics in the hound world — young dogs. From starting pups too early, genetics vs training, trash breaking, grit, brains, pressure, and the mistakes that ruin more dogs than people realize, this episode is packed with honest opinions and real experience from houndsmen who’ve lived it. We talk about what separates average dogs from great ones, whether elite hounds are born or made, and how patience — or the lack of it — can completely shape a young dog’s future. The crew shares stories about pups that exceeded every expectation, dogs that never made it, and the lessons learned from both. If you’ve ever started a pup, ruined one, trained one, or dreamed about raising that once-in-a-lifetime hound, this episode is for you. Expect strong opinions, real stories, plenty of laughs, and a conversation every dog man can relate to. #FreeCastin #Houndsmen #YoungDogs #BearDogs #LionDogs #DogTraining #HoundHunting #WorkingDogs #HuntingPodcast #AnecdoteOfAHoundsman Arizona Working Dog Alliance https://azwda.com Where we talk a lot of politics that effects the American Sportsman https://www.youtube.com/@awda24 Mountain Daily Star mountaindailystar.com https://mountaindailystar.com/free-roaming-arizona-horses-series-episode-1-heber-horses/ Cold Strike Gear https://coldstrikegear.com https://www.youtube.com/@ColdStrikeGear Arizona Hound Hunters Rendezvous http://azhhr,com "Born 100 Years Too Late" https://www.youtube.com/@BrettVaughnB100 "Interviews, Stories and Tales" https://www.youtube.com/@InterviewsStoriesandTales "Louisiana Hunting" https://www.youtube.com/@louisianahunting CMW Investigations, LLC http://cmwpi.com "Anecdote of a Houndsman" live podcast "Free Castin" https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman Watch these podcast live every Thursday night at 6PM MST!

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