Show Notes
In this episode of the Pennsylvania Woodsman, Mitch welcomes Ron Hartman, father of Axel Hartman from Rack Daddies Hunting and Fishing, for a conversation about a lifetime of hunting, family, and Pennsylvania deer camp traditions. Growing up around a family hunting camp in Potter County, Ron developed an appreciation for the outdoors that eventually became an important part of raising his own children. He shares memories of introducing Axel and his daughter Maggie to hunting, balancing a demanding career with family responsibilities, and watching his passion for the outdoors take on a different meaning as he grew older. Along the way, Ron recounts some memorable hunts, including a snowy rifle season with his kids, doubling up on bucks with Axel, and an unforgettable encounter with the biggest buck of his life.
As the conversation continues, Mitch and Ron reflect on how hunting priorities change through different stages of life. From chasing bucks during the rut to introducing grandchildren to the outdoors, Ron explains why spending time with family and friends has become more rewarding than simply filling a tag. The two discuss the camaraderie of deer camp, the traditions surrounding Pennsylvania's rifle season, and the challenge of balancing limited hunting time with work and family. They also explore how filming hunts can preserve memories and share an appreciation for wildlife beyond the harvest. Ultimately, this episode is a reminder that hunting is about more than the animals we pursue—it's about the people we share it with, the traditions we carry forward, and the memories that last a lifetime.
