Heart of Texas DIY Bowhunting with Kevin Burleson & Mark Bradberry

In this week’s episode of Fist Full of Dirt, host Cuz Strickland packs up and heads deep into the heart of Texas for a conversation that every bowhunter needs to hear. Joining him are Kevin Burleson and his partner Mark Bradberry, the minds behind Heart of Texas Bowhunting. From the moment the mics turn on, it’s clear this episode is about more than just deer—it’s about the spirit of DIY, the legacy of the land, and the raw thrill of hunting whitetails in one of the most iconic settings in the country.

Kevin and Mark share their journey and what led them to create Heart of Texas Bowhunting—an outfit born from a love for traditional, ground-up hunting experiences. These aren’t canned hunts. These are real, honest whitetail pursuits on historic Texas dirt. Whether you’re setting up camp yourself, glassing open country, or sitting a hardwood funnel, the experience is immersive and rooted in a respect for the game and the land.

As the conversation unfolds, Cuz dives into the elements that make Texas such a dream destination for bowhunters. Vast tracts of land, healthy deer populations, and diverse terrain all play a role—but so does the freedom that comes with a DIY-style hunt. Kevin explains how they’ve structured their operation to give hunters the tools and guidance they need while preserving that all-important sense of self-reliance and adventure.

Mark adds insights from his years of experience on the ground and talks about how terrain features, food sources, and seasonal behavior influence their strategies. Together, they break down their unique scouting techniques and the thought process behind stand placements, trail setups, and how they manage pressure across the property.

Throughout the episode, there’s a deep appreciation for the heritage of bowhunting and for the land itself. Kevin and Mark don’t just see themselves as outfitters—they see themselves as stewards of a resource that has offered so much, and they’re passionate about making it accessible to those who respect it.

For anyone dreaming of a Texas bowhunting adventure, or for those who just love hearing from folks who live and breathe the lifestyle, this episode delivers in spades. It’s full of practical advice, honest storytelling, and plenty of laughs—plus a few unexpected truths about what really makes a good hunt.

Don’t miss this one—it’s a reminder that the hunt isn’t just about the harvest. It’s about the challenge, the tradition, and the people you meet along the way.