Ep 5. Hillbilly Heaven

In MeatEater season 10 episode 5 titled "Hillbilly Heaven," host Steven Rinella travels to the Appalachian Mountains in West Virginia to hunt for black bears. Rinella is joined on the trip by some local hunters who have been hunting in the region for generations.

The episode begins with Rinella and his companions hiking through the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Mountains. They discuss the history of the area and how hunting has been a way of life for the people who live there. They also talk about the challenges of hunting in the mountains, including the steep terrain and unpredictable weather.

As they make their way through the wilderness, Rinella and his team use a variety of hunting techniques to try and find a black bear. They use bait stations and tracking dogs, as well as glassing from high vantage points. Rinella explains the importance of being patient and waiting for the right opportunity to take a shot.

Throughout the episode, Rinella also highlights the importance of conservation and responsible hunting practices. He explains how black bear populations have rebounded in the area thanks to conservation efforts and regulated hunting. He also stresses the importance of using all parts of the animal and not wasting any meat.

One of the highlights of the episode comes when Rinella and his team get a chance to meet some of the locals who live in the area. They attend a community potluck dinner and get to sample some of the traditional Appalachian dishes. Rinella also spends some time talking to the locals and learning about their way of life.

As the hunt continues, Rinella and his team face a number of challenges, including bad weather and difficult terrain. But they remain determined and eventually find success. Rinella is able to harvest a black bear and shares his experience of the hunt and the satisfaction of providing meat for his family.

In the end, "Hillbilly Heaven" is a celebration of the rugged beauty and rich hunting traditions of the Appalachian Mountains. Rinella and his companions pay tribute to the people who have lived and hunted in the area for generations, while also highlighting the importance of conservation and responsible hunting practices.