Ep 7. Canyon Bottoms and Cookouts: Texas Javelina

In season 1 episode 7 of MeatEater, titled "Canyon Bottoms and Cookouts: Texas Javelina," host Steven Rinella heads to the beautiful Texas Hill Country for a javelina hunt. Joining him on this adventure is his friend, writer and angler Jesse Griffiths.

The episode starts with Steven and Jesse setting up camp in a beautiful canyon bottom. Over a roaring fire, they discuss the hunt ahead, with Steven explaining the unique challenges of hunting javelina, including their keen senses of smell and hearing. With over 1 million javelina in Texas, it's a popular animal to hunt, but that doesn't make it easy.

The next morning, the guys head out early to start their hunt. They spot a group of javelina on a rocky hillside and begin their stalk. As they get closer, the javelina catch wind of them and scatter. Undeterred, the guys press on and eventually spot another lone javelina. Steven takes his shot, but it's not a clean kill, and they spend the rest of the day tracking it down.

After a long day of hunting, they return to camp and prepare for an evening cookout. Jesse, who owns a catering company and is an expert at all things meat, prepares a delicious meal of smoked javelina ribs, cornbread, and grilled vegetables. The guys discuss the ethics and importance of hunting, and how it can be a sustainable way to source meat.

The next day, they head out again in search of more javelina. They spot a group of them, and this time, Steven makes a clean shot. They then clean and butcher the animal, showing the process in detail and discussing the many uses for each part of the animal, from the meat to the bones and hide.

As the episode comes to an end, the guys reflect on the hunt and the experience, with Steven noting that it's important to understand the value of all animals and the ecosystems they inhabit. Ultimately, it's a memorable and successful hunt that showcases the beauty of the Texas Hill Country and the importance of ethical hunting practices.