Ep 4. Ghosts of the Chesapeake Part 2

Steven Rinella is back for the second part of his adventure in the Chesapeake Bay area in an episode titled "Ghosts of the Chesapeake Part 2" on MeatEater season 8. Rinella, joined by his brother Matt and longtime friend Ronny Boehme, continues his quest for catching the elusive Sika deer, a petite Japanese deer, and exploring the region's rich maritime heritage.

The episode begins with the trio hunting at one of the Eastern Shore's many tidal creeks, where they intend to set the stage for attracting the Sika deer. However, things do not go as they envisioned, and the team must shift their attention to another location. They explore the shoreline's remote areas and windswept expanses that have remained untouched for centuries.

As they navigate through the area's dense woods and marshes, Rinella and his team take breaks to learn about the generations of fishers and watermen who have thrived in the region thanks to the abundant resources provided by the Chesapeake Bay. They showcase the traditional techniques used by these fishermen to catch fish, oysters, and crabs, providing an insight into their lucrative and dangerous profession.

The episode then takes a more spiritual tone, as Rinella, Matt, and Ronny explore the civilization in the area's vast marshes. They discuss the influence of the Native American tribes that used to inhabit the land, their customs and beliefs, and how the area has since evolved. The vast expanses of marshland serve as a stark reminder of the historical and cultural significance of the surroundings.

The trio then heads back into the woods as they continue their quest for the Sika deer. Despite the nature of the hunt, it is clear the group has great admiration for the animals they hunt, which Rinella describes in vivid detail: "They almost have an Asian-Jungle cat look to them," he says. "Their short but muscular neck hunches forward with a sort of predatoriness to them, yet they have these petite, dainty legs."

Throughout the episode, the hunters encounter other wildlife, such as turkeys, rabbits, ducks, and geese, but they stay focused on their main target, the Sika deer. They patiently wait, watching the animals' behavior, observing their movement and vocalizations, and anticipating their next move.

As the day progresses, the team's determination pays off as they finally catch sight of a few Sika deer in the open. Rinella crouches and takes aim with his bow, and the viewers are left on the edge of their seats as they wait to see how this hunt will play out.

Overall, "Ghosts of the Chesapeake Part 2" on MeatEater season 8 is a well-shot episode with breathtaking scenery, interesting history, and in-depth insights into hunting techniques. It showcases Rinella's profound respect for the environment and the animals he pursues while demonstrating the importance of sustainable hunting practices. The Chesapeake Bay region's traditions and culture are beautifully captured, adding another layer of intrigue to this thrilling episode.