Ep 1. Steve Makes the Team: Kentucky Small Game

Steve Rinella, the host of the popular hunting show MeatEater, continues his quest for the most challenging and rewarding hunting experiences across America. For the season 7 premier episode titled "Steve Makes the Team: Kentucky Small Game," Steve heads to the Bluegrass State to pursue a wide variety of upland game and waterfowl species, alongside a group of experienced Kentucky hunters simply known as "the team."

The episode begins with Steve and his friends on a crisp fall morning, preparing for their hunt in the rolling hills of central Kentucky. In the early dawn light, Steve meets the team, which consists of four experienced hunters who specialize in small game such as squirrels, rabbits, and game birds. Steve is impressed by the team's knowledge and skill, and he eagerly joins them in their pursuit of Kentucky's abundant small game populations.

As Steve and the team head into the woods, they begin to share their individual stories and experiences with hunting. Steve admires their deep connection to their land and their reverence for the animals they hunt. He feels an immediate camaraderie with the team and respects their unique hunting methods, which rely on stealth, patience, and a keen eye for animal behavior.

Throughout the episode, Steve and the team encounter a wide range of small game and bird species, including gray squirrels, cottontail rabbits, bobwhite quail, and ruffed grouse. Steve is impressed by the team's ability to call in wary birds and flush elusive rabbits from the thick cover. He quickly learns that hunting small game requires a different set of skills and tactics than he's used to, but he welcomes the opportunity to learn from the team.

As the episode progresses, Steve's respect for the team deepens, not just because of their hunting prowess, but because of their deep respect for the animals they hunt. They explain their philosophy of only taking what they need, and leaving the rest for other hunters or predators. They also stress the importance of using every part of the animal and avoiding any unnecessary waste.

Towards the end of the episode, Steve and the team gather around a campfire to share a meal and reflect on their hunt. They discuss their appreciation for the bounty of the land and the traditions of hunting. Steve expresses his gratitude for the opportunity to join the team and for the lessons learned throughout the day. He also reflects on the importance of maintaining healthy and vibrant ecosystems to support future generations of hunters.

Overall, "Steve Makes the Team: Kentucky Small Game" is a compelling and educational episode of MeatEater that highlights the unique challenges and rewards of hunting small game in Kentucky. The camaraderie and respect shared among the team and Steve exemplifies the values of ethical and sustainable hunting practices. Through their experiences and insights, viewers gain a renewed appreciation for the natural world and the importance of preserving it for future generations.