Ep 2. Hunt, Barter and Steal

Episode 2 of season 1 of Life Below Zero is titled "Hunt, Barter and Steal." In this episode, we follow the lives of several families living in remote areas of Alaska as they navigate their daily lives.

Early on, we are introduced to Chip and Agnes Hailstone, an Inupiaq couple living in Noorvik. They begin the episode by hunting for caribou in the George River area. They share their knowledge of hunting and the importance of respecting the animals they kill for food. Chip and Agnes work together to track and hunt a caribou, showcasing their impressive hunting skills.

Next, we meet Glenn Villeneuve, who lives alone in Chandalar. Glenn spends his days hunting for food and building shelter. In this episode, he attempts to hunt for beavers, which can be a valuable source of food and fur. Glenn shares his knowledge of trapping and explains that beavers are a crucial part of Alaska's ecosystems. However, trapping them can be difficult, as they are clever animals. Glenn faces multiple setbacks but perseveres, ultimately succeeding in trapping a beaver.

We also meet Erik and Martha Salitan, who live in the remote Brooks Range. Erik is a licensed hunting guide, and in this episode, he puts his skills to use by taking clients on a hunting trip. Erik and Martha share the importance of hunting for food and preserving Alaska's wilderness. Erik's clients are successful in their hunt, and Erik notes how grateful they are to have experienced the beauty of Alaska's wilderness.

Finally, we are introduced to Sue Aikens, who lives and manages the Kavik River Camp. Sue shared her daily life, which involved a lot of work around the campgrounds, including maintenance, cleaning, and cooking. She also shares some of the unique aspects of living in such remote areas, such as having to keep a loaded gun nearby at all times due to the potential danger of wild animals.

Throughout the episode, we are shown how these Alaskan residents rely on hunting, bartering, and trading to survive in such remote locations. They share their knowledge and respect for the animals they hunt, highlighting the importance of sustainability and respecting Alaska's wilderness. The episode shows the daily struggles and challenges that come with living in such remote locations but also highlights the beauty and rewards of living in Alaska's wilderness.

Overall, "Hunt, Barter and Steal" provides an insightful look into the daily lives of these Alaskan residents and showcases their impressive survival skills and respect for nature.