Ep 2. High Country Mountain Goat

In season 10, episode 2 of MeatEater, host and renowned hunter Steve Rinella heads to the high country of southeastern Alaska in search of mountain goats. The terrain is rugged and treacherous, with steep cliffs and rocky outcroppings, making it a challenging hunt even for experienced hunters like Rinella.

The episode begins with Rinella and his guide, Kevin Sloan, hiking deep into the wilderness while scanning the peaks for any sign of goats. Sloan is a seasoned Alaskan guide, with decades of experience hunting in this part of the country. He is also an expert marksman, which will come in handy on this hunt, as mountain goats can be tricky to hit given their agility and ability to climb sheer rock faces with ease.

As they climb higher into the mountains, the air becomes thinner, and the temperature drops. Rinella notes that this kind of high-altitude hunting requires a lot of physical fitness, as well as a certain level of mental toughness. Even small missteps can result in injury or even death, so the hunters must remain vigilant at all times.

After a grueling climb, Rinella and Sloan finally spot some goats on a distant outcropping. Using a spotting scope and binoculars, they study the animals' behavior and movements, looking for an opportunity to make a shot. Rinella notes that mountain goats have an incredible sense of balance, which allows them to traverse the steep terrain with ease. But it also makes them vulnerable to being knocked off balance by a well-placed shot, especially if they are hit in the spine or neck.

The actual hunting itself becomes a waiting game, as Rinella and Sloan must bide their time until the goats get into a more favorable position for a shot. This requires a lot of patience and skill, as they must remain hidden and quiet while they observe the animals from afar. Rinella notes that this part of the hunt can be mentally exhausting, as the adrenaline can be high, even if the action is slow.

Finally, after several hours of waiting, the goats move into a position that allows Rinella to take a shot. With Sloan's guidance, Rinella takes careful aim and fires, hitting the goat in the vitals and dropping it instantly. The two hunters make their way down to the animal and perform the necessary field dressing and packing procedures, all while marveling at the beauty and majesty of the Alaskan wilderness.

Throughout the episode, Rinella takes time to reflect on the ethics of hunting, as well as the importance of conservation and responsible outdoor recreation. He notes that hunting is not just about killing animals, but rather about forging a connection with the natural world, and taking responsibility for the resources that sustain us.

Overall, MeatEater season 10 episode 2 is a thrilling and educational exploration of one of the most challenging and rewarding types of hunting in North America. Through the lens of Rinella's expert guidance and thoughtful commentary, viewers learn about the biology and behavior of mountain goats, as well as the physical and mental demands of hunting in the high country.