Episode 67 - Protecting Hunting Traditions: Naomi Hersh on Hounds, Trapping, and Colorado Wildlife

Hunting traditions survive when we fight for them, pass them down, and teach others why they matter. What does it take to protect a way of life while raising the next generation of hunters? Colorado hunter, trapper, houndswoman, and conservation advocate Naomi Hersh joins Kenya Link to discuss the traditions that shaped her life and the fight to preserve them for the future. Raised by a dedicated hunter and trapper, Naomi developed a passion for archery hunting, predator hunting with hounds, and wildlife conservation. Her experience working in Colorado's fisheries and wildlife management fields, along with teaching more than 5,000 hunter education students, has given her a unique perspective on the relationship between hunting, science, and public understanding. Naomi breaks down the misconceptions surrounding modern cage trapping, explains why hands-on experience matters in understanding wildlife, and shares the personal stakes of passing outdoor skills to her young sons. She also reflects on her involvement in Colorado's conservation advocacy efforts, including the fight surrounding mountain lion and bobcat hunting and the debate over Amendment 83. From chasing bobcats through rugged mountain terrain to introducing young children to waterfowl hunting, Naomi makes the case for keeping outdoor traditions alive through experience, education, and public engagement. The conversation explores why science-based wildlife management matters, how hunters can counter misinformation, and what happens when future generations lose access to traditional outdoor pursuits. Follow Hunt Fish Freedom for more conversations on hunting, fishing, conservation, and protecting our outdoor heritage. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app! Don’t forget to leave a 5 star review and SUBSCRIBE on Apple or Spotify Check out the IOTR website: International Order of T. Roosevelt | Protect At-Risk Wildlife Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19zGf29wGZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr Follow us on X: https://x.com/iotrofficial?s=21&t=SzcoQxiDPMWvFcFPurrzNw Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iotr_official?igsh=dXp5b284dXJpOXlq&utm_source=qr