In this episode, Chris pulls straight from the Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Facebook group to reflect on the posts, questions, and tips shared by its members. From tarp shelter setups and gear hacks to battling Mississippi mosquitoes and testing DIY fish hooks, it's a gritty mix of story, survival, and spiritual insight. You’ll hear about Rhett’s summer tarp camp, the underrated genius of 10x10 tarps, bush pots and bedrolls, and even freeze-dried meals cooked in a state-licensed restaurant. The episode wraps with a heartfelt devotional from Psalm 51 on repentance, restoration, and the kind of real transformation that only God can bring.

What You'll Learn

The pros and cons of different tarp sizes (8x8 vs 10x10 vs 12x12)

Why low-budget gear might outperform high-end brands

How to use dog fennel as a natural mosquito repellent

Tips for summer camping in high heat and humidity

Behind the scenes of launching freeze-dried camping meals

How Psalm 51 speaks to personal repentance and community encouragement

Mentioned in This Episode

Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Facebook group
→ Join here

Cold Cracker Bushpot & Self Reliance Outfitters Bedroll

DD 3x3 tarp and the new DD 4x4 tarp

Tony Powers’ custom “Bobcat” knife (Dirtbound Survival)

Thermacell & Tiny Repel mosquito solutions

Freeze-dried meal experiments: Stroganoff, Chili Mac, Breakfast Skillet

Faith Reflection
Psalm 51:15 — “O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth shall show forth your praise.”
Chris reflects on David’s brokenness and how the words we speak reflect our heart, especially in a group where encouragement and honesty go hand in hand.

Explore More from Speir Outdoors
All my links, gear, community, and content in one spot:
links.speiroutdoors.com

Stay Connected

📖 Book: Primitive Camping & Bushcraft

☕ Coffee: Primitive Camping Roast

🎙️ Podcast Episodes

🎥 YouTube Channel

🧭 Socials, Blog, and More

Have questions or want to connect?
📩 Email: Admin@speiroutdoors.com

When you're deep in the woods and gear breaks down, do you have what you need to patch it up and keep going? In this episode, Chris answers a listener question from the Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Facebook Group about field repair kits. From duct tape on a Bic lighter to sail needles and floral wire, he walks through real tools, real fixes, and why preparation isn't just about survival—it's about staying in the game when things go sideways. Plus, a quick look at the Entropy Survival Go Bag and why it's a solid pick for unexpected situations.

Topics Covered:

What should be in every bushcraft repair kit

Creative uses for duct tape, zip ties, and tie wire

How floral wire earns a permanent spot in your gear

First aid crossovers: super glue, needles, dental floss

Real stories of gear failure and on-the-spot repairs

Using the Entropy Survival Go Bag as a foundation

Why spiritual and gear readiness go hand in hand

survival bag https://youtu.be/k7bmtYVoCyY

Explore More from Speir Outdoors
All my links, gear, community, and content in one spot:
links.speiroutdoors.com

Stay Connected

📖 Book: Primitive Camping & Bushcraft

☕ Coffee: Primitive Camping Roast

🎙️ Podcast Episodes

🎥 YouTube Channel

🧭 Socials, Blog, and More

Have questions or want to connect?
📩 Email: Admin@speiroutdoors.com

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Step-by-step method for smoking fish in the field without fancy gear

What types of wood are safe for smoking (and what to avoid)

Why Magnolia wood might be one of the most underrated smoking woods for fish

How to build a simple smoking tripod using green saplings and floral wire

The difference between grilling, roasting, and real smoking in a bushcraft setup

Why floral wire is one of the most versatile tools you can pack in your kit

How to preserve fish while still getting bold flavor at camp

Real-world examples from Mississippi river trips, including stories of pike, bass, and catfish

Field hacks for getting steady smoke without catching your gear on fire

Simple tricks to build a smoke tent for long smoking sessions

Tools and Tips Mentioned:

Magnolia, oak, hickory, pecan, mesquite woods

Avoiding resinous woods like pine and cedar

Building a cooking tripod

Using mechanics or floral wire to hang fish

Scoring fish to cook it evenly

Using sheets to trap smoke without flame-up

Key Takeaway:
Smoking meat in the wild isn’t about perfection — it’s about patience, method, and knowing your materials. When you understand how smoke works, you can preserve and flavor your catch right where you caught it.

Extras:

Grab the Primitive Camping & Bushcraft book on Amazon for full setups and photos

Join the Facebook group and share your favorite smoking wood

Explore More from Speir Outdoors
All my links, gear, community, and content in one spot:
links.speiroutdoors.com

Stay Connected

📖 Book: Primitive Camping & Bushcraft

☕ Coffee: Primitive Camping Roast

🎙️ Podcast Episodes

🎥 YouTube Channel

🧭 Socials, Blog, and More

Have questions or want to connect?
📩 Email: Admin@speiroutdoors.com