Ep 17. Bear with Seal: Alaska Bear Hunt 1

In this episode of MeatEater, host Steven Rinella travels to a remote area of Alaska in search of a brown bear. Rinella is accompanied by his friend Joe Rogan and they are guided by experienced hunters, Cameron Hanes and Remi Warren.

The group travels by boat to a remote area where they set up camp and begin their hunt. Rinella sets his sights on a large male brown bear, which he hopes to harvest with his rifle. However, the dense brush and challenging terrain make the hunt difficult and the group must navigate carefully to avoid spooking the bear.

While they wait for an opportunity to take a shot, Rinella and Rogan explore the surrounding area and gather food for their camp. They catch salmon and gather wild berries, which they use to cook meals over an open fire.

As the days go by, Rinella and his team continue their search for the brown bear. They spot tracks and scat, indicating that the bear is in the area, but it remains elusive. Rinella remains patient, knowing that it takes time and skill to successfully track and harvest such a powerful animal.

In addition to their hunt for the brown bear, Rinella and his group also encounter a population of harbor seals that are being hunted by a nearby pack of wolves. Rinella observes the seals from a safe distance and notes the importance of understanding the natural prey of the bears in the area.

Ultimately, Rinella's perseverance pays off and he is able to take a clean shot at the brown bear. The group carefully approaches the animal, showing respect for its strength and power. Rinella thanks the bear for providing food for his team and takes measures to properly field dress and process the animal.

Overall, this episode of MeatEater showcases the unique challenges and rewards of hunting in the remote wilderness of Alaska. It highlights the importance of respecting the natural world and the animals that live within it, while also celebrating the rich cultural tradition of hunting and gathering.