Ep 10. Big Buck Dreams: Mule Deer

In "Big Buck Dreams: Mule Deer," the 10th episode of season 4 of MeatEater, host and avid outdoorsman Steven Rinella heads out to the Oregon high desert in search of trophy mule deer. Joining him on the hunt are Joe Rogan, a fellow hunter and comedian, and Bryan Callen, an actor and martial artist.

Rinella starts off the hunt by scouting out the area for signs of mule deer activity. He notes that the landscape is different from the areas he's used to hunting in, with a mix of sagebrush and eastern juniper trees. He also points out the importance of being patient and taking the time to really study the terrain in order to find the best spots to hunt.

After a lot of time spent searching, the group finally spots a mule deer buck and spends the next few days stalking the animal through the rugged terrain. Rinella explains the importance of being stealthy and not alerting the deer to their presence, as mule deer are notoriously skittish and can easily be scared off.

Throughout the episode, Rinella also shares his knowledge about the biology and behavior of mule deer. He explains their unique adaptation to the desert environment, such as their ability to go for long periods of time without water and their reliance on sagebrush for food.

In addition to the hunting aspect, the episode also touches on the cultural and historical significance of hunting. Rinella shares the story of a Native American tribe in the area that relied on mule deer for both food and materials for clothing and shelter. He also discusses the importance of responsible hunting practices, such as only taking shots that are a sure thing and utilizing as much of the animal as possible.

As with all episodes of MeatEater, "Big Buck Dreams: Mule Deer" offers a fascinating look at the world of hunting and the challenges and rewards that come with it. Whether you're an experienced hunter or just interested in learning more about this unique outdoor activity, this episode is sure to be both informative and engaging.