Feb 20 2024 85 mins
Embarking on a journey from a structured career in civil engineering to the unpredictable wilderness of entrepreneurship, Jason Phelps' story is a captivating tale of passion, craftsmanship, and connection to nature. Phelps Game Calls has become synonymous with quality and innovation in the hunting industry, creating a legacy that reverberates through forests and across generations.
In this podcast episode, we delve into the intricacies of crafting authentic wildlife calls, an art that Jason Phelps has mastered over years of dedication. He shares the nuances of turning a raw interest in the sounds of the wild into a flourishing business that stays true to the traditions of hunting. Phelps' unique approach to game call production combines meticulous craftsmanship with a deep understanding of the animal sounds he seeks to emulate. His calls are not merely tools but bridges that connect the hunter to the wild, enabling a form of communication that is both ancient and deeply personal.
We learn about Jason's early experiences in Washington, where hunting was not just a sport but a way of life. The anticipation of hunting season, the familial bonds forged around planning and anticipation, and his early ventures into the woods armed with nothing more than a BB gun, all paint a vivid picture of his profound connection to the outdoors. This connection, fostered from childhood, eventually became the cornerstone of Phelps Game Calls, a business that places as much emphasis on authenticity and tradition as it does on innovation.
Transitioning from a career path in civil engineering to becoming an entrepreneur in the game call industry, Jason Phelps' journey is a testament to following one's true calling. He recounts the early days of his business, where he traded elk antlers for a lathe and began crafting elk calls out of sheer passion. This initial foray into entrepreneurship was marked by a learning curve steeped in community engagement and strategic brand-building efforts. Jason leveraged his engineering background to innovate and design distinctive calls, such as the unique diaphragm calls and bugle tubes, leading to breakthroughs that solidified his reputation in the industry.
As we continue to explore Phelps' story, we discover the delicate balance between maintaining a passion for hunting and the realities of running a successful business. He discusses the pride and satisfaction derived from creating products like the EZ Bugler, which have significantly enhanced the hunting experience for many of his customers. Phelps' love for hunting and his dedication to quality craftsmanship remain the driving forces behind his brand.
A particularly captivating part of the episode is the discussion of the “Line 1” Turkey Call project. In this venture, Jason Phelps and Steve Rinella undertook the extraordinary task of creating a unique turkey call from trees they personally harvested. This process included identifying the right property, selecting the perfect black walnut and Osage trees, and logging them. They followed the logs from the forest to the mill, oversaw the drying process, and crafted the calls with a hands-on approach that speaks volumes about their dedication to the craft!
Throughout the episode, Jason Phelps shares his insights on the future of his company, the intricacies of quality control, and his personal aspirations within the hunting industry. His vision for Phelps Game Calls extends beyond just producing high-quality calls; it encompasses a desire to educate, influence positively, and contribute to conservation efforts. Phelps also reflects on the legacy he wishes to leave, one that marries a commitment to excellence with a deep respect for wildlife and the natural environment.