FOCUS HUNTING PODCAST

Episode #214: Backcountry Hunting Gear with Mike Defeo, Founder of Huto Lifestyle

In Episode 214, I’m joined by Mike Defeo, the founder of Huto Lifestyle — a brand that's quickly making a name for itself in the backcountry hunting world. We dig into the story behind Huto, what inspired Mike to rethink essential gear and how serious field testing plays a huge role in their product design. Mike also opens up about his personal hunting background and shares his favorite setups for early season mule deer and elk hunts. If you’re gearing up for your next backcountry trip or just want to hear from someone who's building gear by hunters, for hunters, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
Follow Mike on IG Michael Defeo (@hutolifestyle) • Instagram photos and videos
Follow Mike on FB Huto Lifestyle | Vernon BC | Facebook
Collections – HUTO Lifestyle Clothing & Apparel
Follow Derek on IG @derekkcorey) • Instagram photos and videos 
As always be sure to check out our sponsors and use the promo codes...
http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?
code fhp30&plan=monthly Use Code FHP30
https://akuoutdoor.ca/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://akuoutdoor.us/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://www.treelineacademy.net/ use promo code "FOCUS22" and get $20USD off the course
This episode of the Focus Hunting Podcast is brought to you by:
HardCore Archery
Howl For Wildlife

Episode #213 Target Archery : Chasing 300

Join Derek and Pete as they dive deep into the road to the elusive 300 score in target archery. From dialing in their shot process to making the critical mindset shifts, these two archery addicts break down what it really takes to shoot clean. Whether you're a tournament shooter or a bowhunter, this podcast hits all the right targets—technical tips, mental game strategies, and plenty of real talk about archery, hunting, and everything in between. Tune in and follow along as they chase perfection, one arrow at a time.
Follow Derek on IG @derekkcorey) • Instagram photos and videos 
Follow Pete on IG @kootenayoutdooradventures) • Instagram photos and videos
As always be sure to check out our sponsors and use the promo codes...
http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?
code fhp30&plan=monthly Use Code FHP30
https://akuoutdoor.ca/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://akuoutdoor.us/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://www.treelineacademy.net/ use promo code "FOCUS22" and get $20USD off the course
This episode of the Focus Hunting Podcast is brought to you by:
HardCore Archery
Howl For Wildlife

Episode #212 Built for the Hunt: Training, Arrows & Spring Bear with guest Kevin Toye

In this episode, Derek and Kevin sit down to talk all things hunt readiness — starting with the physical and mental grind it takes to be prepared for the backcountry. From weighted hikes and functional strength to dialing in endurance for those multi-day hunts, they break down their personal training routines and what’s worked (and what hasn’t) in the field.
They also dive into their 2025 arrow setups — comparing builds, discussing new arrows on the market. And with spring bear season heating up chat a little about this next season.
Whether you’re training for the hills or just tweaking your setup in the garage, this episode’s packed with insight, laughs, and real talk from two guys who live for the mountain grind.
Follow Kevin on IG Kevin Toye (@kevinltoye) • Instagram photos and video
 Kevin Toye - YouTube
Follow Derek on IG @derekkcorey) • Instagram photos and videos 
 
As always be sure to check out our sponsors and use the promo codes...
http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?
code fhp30&plan=monthly Use Code FHP30
https://akuoutdoor.ca/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://akuoutdoor.us/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://www.treelineacademy.net/ use promo code "FOCUS22" and get $20USD off the course
This episode of the Focus Hunting Podcast is brought to you by:
HardCore Archery
Howl For Wildlife
 
 
 

Episode #211 The Ultimate Bearing Hunting Guide with Douglas Boze

 In this episode, Derek is joined by renowned bear hunting expert and author of The Ultimate Bear Hunting Guide, Douglas Boze, to dive deep into the world of black bear hunting. They explore the critical tactics behind spot and stalk hunting, covering everything from scouting the perfect location to the best methods for tracking and closing the distance on a black bear. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a newcomer to bear hunting, Douglas shares invaluable tips on reading bear sign, understanding behavior, and making the perfect shot. Tune in for expert insights, strategies, and stories from one of the top minds in the hunting community, and learn how to take your black bear hunting skills to the next level!
Follow Douglas on IG Douglas Boze (@bozeandbears) • Instagram photos …
Amazon.ca: Douglas Boze: books, biography, latest update
Follow Derek on IG @derekkcorey) • Instagram photos and videos 
As always be sure to check out our sponsors and use the promo codes...
http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?
code fhp30&plan=monthly Use Code FHP30
https://akuoutdoor.ca/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://akuoutdoor.us/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://www.treelineacademy.net/ use promo code "FOCUS22" and get $20USD off the course
This episode of the Focus Hunting Podcast is brought to you by:
HardCore Archery
Howl For Wildlife

Episode #210 Ultra Lightweight Rifles with ALPINE RIFLECRAFT

In this episode, Mike and Derek explore the world of ultra-lightweight hunting rifles. Mike Drury, an expert rifle builder with a focus on crafting high-performance, ultra-light rifles, shares his insights on the latest trends, cutting-edge designs, and his innovations in lightweight hunting rifles.
Home - Alpine Riflecraft
Follow Mike on IG Alpine Riflecraft (@alpineriflecraft) • Instagram photos and videos
 
Follow Derek on IG @derekkcorey) • Instagram photos and videos 
As always be sure to check out our sponsors and use the promo codes...
http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?
code fhp30&plan=monthly Use Code FHP30
https://akuoutdoor.ca/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://akuoutdoor.us/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://www.treelineacademy.net/ use promo code "FOCUS22" and get $20USD off the course
This episode of the Focus Hunting Podcast is brought to you by:
HardCore Archery
Howl For Wildlife

Episode #209 Elk Hunting Lessons Learned Tips and Tactics

The Guys discuss some elk hunting tips and tactics on how to be consistently successful year after year. A lot of great information in this episode about targeting early season bull elk in mountain terrain.
 
Follow Derek on IG @derekkcorey) • Instagram photos and videos 
Follow Pete on IG @kootenayoutdooradventures) • Instagram photos and videos
As always be sure to check out our sponsors and use the promo codes...
http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?
code fhp30&plan=monthly Use Code FHP30
https://akuoutdoor.ca/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://akuoutdoor.us/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://www.treelineacademy.net/ use promo code "FOCUS22" and get $20USD off the course
This episode of the Focus Hunting Podcast is brought to you by:
HardCore Archery
Howl For Wildlife

Episode #208 Archery Talk

The Guys talk Bow tuning, nock tuning and off season considerations preparing for your next big hunt. A lot of great information for those wanting to start tuning their bows on their own or how to optimize your arrow builds.
 
Follow Derek on IG @derekkcorey) • Instagram photos and videos 
Follow Pete on IG @kootenayoutdooradventures) • Instagram photos and videos
As always be sure to check out our sponsors and use the promo codes...
http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?
code fhp30&plan=monthly Use Code FHP30
https://akuoutdoor.ca/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://akuoutdoor.us/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://www.treelineacademy.net/ use promo code "FOCUS22" and get $20USD off the course
This episode of the Focus Hunting Podcast is brought to you by:
HardCore Archery
Howl For Wildlife

Episode #207 Factory vs Custom Long Range Hunting Rifles

Derek and Pete talk about the nuances between various factory and custom long range hunting builds. Exploring experiences of both budget and hyper performance setups. A great listen for anyone looking to push their capabilities rifle hunting. 
 
Follow Derek on IG @derekkcorey) • Instagram photos and videos 
Follow Pete on IG @kootenayoutdooradventures) • Instagram photos and videos
As always be sure to check out our sponsors and use the promo codes...
http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?
code fhp30&plan=monthly Use Code FHP30
https://akuoutdoor.ca/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://akuoutdoor.us/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://www.treelineacademy.net/ use promo code "FOCUS22" and get $20USD off the course
This episode of the Focus Hunting Podcast is brought to you by:
HardCore Archery
Howl For Wildlife

Episode #206 Ashley Stuckless Evolution of Chassis Rifles

On this Episode our friend Ashley from High BC rejoins the show to chat about his last season and gives us his take on the optimal mountain hunting rifle and lessons learned in the field. The guys do a deep dive into long range rifles, optics, and the evolution of chassis rifles. 
Be sure to check everything Ashley has going on at High BC - YouTube
Follow Ashley on IG (@high_bc_hunting) • Instagram photos and videos
Follow Derek on IG @derekkcorey) • Instagram photos and videos 
Follow Pete on IG @kootenayoutdooradventures) • Instagram photos and videos
As always be sure to check out our sponsors and use the promo codes...
http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?
code fhp30&plan=monthly Use Code FHP30
https://akuoutdoor.ca/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://akuoutdoor.us/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://www.treelineacademy.net/ use promo code "FOCUS22" and get $20USD off the course
This episode of the Focus Hunting Podcast is brought to you by:
HardCore Archery
Howl For Wildlife

Episode #205 Long Range Rifle Basics

On this episode, Derek and Pete discuss the basic build considerations of long range hunting rifles. Calibers, Optics, and Stocks the guys talk about everything you need to know. Whether you are building a new custom rifle or modifying your existing setup a lot of great information for any rifle hunter.
Follow Derek on IG @derekkcorey) • Instagram photos and videos 
Follow Pete on IG @kootenayoutdooradventures) • Instagram photos and videos
As always be sure to check out our sponsors and use the promo codes...
http://lab.mtntough.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?
code fhp30&plan=monthly Use Code FHP30
https://akuoutdoor.ca/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://akuoutdoor.us/Use Promo code FOCUS for 15% off Hunting & Military Boots
https://www.treelineacademy.net/ use promo code "FOCUS22" and get $20USD off the course
This episode of the Focus Hunting Podcast is brought to you by:
HardCore Archery
Howl For Wildlife