Big Hunt Guys

Update: Feral Horse Crisis in the West w/ Jenny Lesieutre | Big Hunt Guys, Ep. 231

Big Hunt Guys

Show Notes

In this episode of the Big Hunt Guys Podcast, we sit down with Jenny Lesieutre for an update on one of the most controversial wildlife and public lands issues in the American West: feral horses and burros. Jenny breaks down the current status of feral horse and burro populations, how their numbers have grown beyond management objectives, and the impacts overpopulation can have on native wildlife, habitat health, water resources, and public lands. We also dive into the history and intent of the Wild Horse and Burro Act, how management has evolved over the decades, and the challenges agencies face today. Whether you're a hunter, conservationist, or rancher, this conversation provides important context on an issue that affects wildlife management across the West. We also discuss practical ways sportsmen can become informed, engaged, and involved in shaping future policy and management decisions.

Check out the article Brady referenced for population data: https://www.gohunt.com/browse/journal/the-life/the-colossal-backlash-of-wild-horses-on-wildlife

More from Big Hunt Guys

Oct 22, 2026

Noises in the dark, unexplained encounters in the backcountry, and experiences that will never make sense. This Halloween, the Big Hunt Guys are sharing listener-submitted spooky stories from the hunting woods. From unsettling nights in the mountains to encounters that are hard to explain, these are the stories that make you think twice about being alone in the backcountry. We've got close encounters with lions, unexplained visitors in the night, and strange floating balls of light. Turn off the lights, settle in, and decide for yourself what’s out there. This will be a two-part series.

Oct 15, 2026

On this episode of the Big Hunt Guys, GOHUNT's own Scott Christensen sits down with Trail to tell the story of his hunt for a giant California bighorn ram. Scott breaks down how he drew the tag and how the hunt unfolded. Hunting a giant bighorn ram is an experience few hunters get to have, tune in to hear the details behind an unforgettable experience in the mountains.

Oct 8, 2026

Trail and Brady sit down to recap Trail’s September archery elk hunts on this episode of the Big Hunt Guys Podcast. They talk about the highs and lows of chasing elk with a bow, close encounters, tough days in the mountains, and the lessons Trail took away from the month. From bugling bulls and long days in the backcountry to the moments that almost came together, Trail and Brady break down what September elk hunting was really like and what it takes to keep grinding when the mountain doesn’t give you an easy opportunity. If you love archery elk hunting, mountain adventures, and the stories that come with chasing big bulls, this episode is for you.

Oct 1, 2026

Jess Laughter is back, and she brought a great hunt story with her. After drawing a tag in a state where she'd never hunted deer, Jess did everything she could to prepare.

Sep 26, 2026

Austin Folkman from our GOHUNT Insider+ team is back on the podcast! We talk big-buck stories to giant-buck stories, and much more. Brady kicks things off with a quick look at how Insider+ is helping members fill tags across the West, and why now is the time to start your 2027 plan with updated Draw Odds already live for a bunch of states.

See all episodes →