In this episode of the Hunt West Podcast, Jaden sits down with Wyoming hunter Derik Henderson—a guy who quietly stacks big elk and old mule deer without chasing trends or spot-burning country. Derik isn't a guide by trade, but for one special hunt, he's stepping into that role to raise money for the family of his late best friend.

The conversation covers far more than just antlers. This episode dives deep into what it actually takes to consistently hunt the top percent of animals on the landscape in a time when elk pressure is heavy and mule deer hunting feels harder than ever.

Derik breaks down how he hunts migration-based elk and mule deer, why glassing miles of country beats pounding boot leather, and how many of his biggest animals were killed shockingly close to roads—simply because nobody was looking in the right direction. He explains why patience, timing, and understanding animal behavior matter more than chasing the newest gear or walking endlessly without a plan.

The episode also outlines an auctioned Wyoming guided hunt that closes January 2nd, with proceeds going directly to support a widow and two young boys. The hunt offers the chance to pursue a rifle bull elk—and potentially a mule deer—in one of the same areas where Derik has killed multiple 350–370 class bulls over the years.

This is an honest, boots-on-the-ground conversation about modern western hunting—where success comes from observation, restraint, and showing up year after year, even when conditions aren't perfect.

If you're serious about rifle hunting elk and mule deer at a high level this episode is worth your time.

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Links & Resources

• Follow Derik Henderson on Instagram: @backcountrymulies

• Auction details: Available via Derik's social channels (bidding closes January 2nd)

• Support Wyoming Wild Sheep & Hunt Stags with Me >>

• Sign up for: The Argali Clothing Project >>

• Check out the Wyoming Elk Webinar >>

Thanks to Bo DePena, a musician, friend, and avid hunter in Colorado, for the intro and outro for the show.