Ep 13. The Land of Fog and Rain: Afognak Island Elk

MeatEater is a thrilling adventure documentary series about hunting and cooking wild game, hosted by Steven Rinella. In season 7 episode 13 titled "The Land of Fog and Rain: Afognak Island Elk," Steven and his friend Doug Duren travel to Kodiak Island in Alaska to pursue a rare opportunity - hunting Roosevelt elk on Afognak Island, which is known for its dense forests and unpredictable weather.

The episode begins with Steven and Doug arriving in Kodiak Island via a small plane. The weather is gloomy with thick fog and rain, which is a common occurrence in this region. They meet up with their guide, Ryan, who drives them to their base camp on Afognak Island. Ryan is an experienced hunter and knows the land like the back of his hand. He warns Steven and Doug that the weather can change abruptly and that they need to be prepared for anything.

Upon reaching their campsite, Steven and Doug set up their tents and prepare for their first day of hunting. They start the morning with a hearty breakfast, and Steven prepares his hunting kit, which includes a .375 H&H rifle. Doug also carries a bow and arrow, which he intends to use if he gets within 20 yards of an elk.

As they venture into the forest, the dense foliage makes it hard to spot the elk. Ryan tries his best to track the herd, but the fog and rain make it even more challenging. After a few hours of tracking, they finally spot a herd of elk grazing near a river. Steven takes his shot, and the elk drops instantly. The group approaches the downed elk, and Steven performs a field dressing, and they carry the meat back to their campsite.

The next few days are no less challenging, as they face the unpredictable weather and terrain. Steven and Doug manage to spot several more elk during their stay, and they work together to take them down. They also encounter black bears and foxes, which are common in this region.

Throughout the episode, Steven shares his knowledge and experience of hunting and cooking wild game. He demonstrates how to prepare elk chops, which he cooks over an open fire. He also talks about the importance of ethical hunting practices and conservation efforts to preserve the natural habitat of wildlife.

As the episode draws to a close, Steven and Doug head back to Kodiak Island, feeling proud of their successful hunt and grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful and rugged terrain. They bid farewell to Ryan, their guide, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime.

In conclusion, "The Land of Fog and Rain: Afognak Island Elk" is a fascinating episode that showcases the challenges and rewards of hunting in a unique and remote landscape. Steven Rinella and his crew have created a compelling narrative that is both informative and entertaining. Whether you are a seasoned hunter or a novice, this episode is a must-watch for anyone who loves the great outdoors.