Ep 1. Hunt or be Hunted

In the first episode of Mountain Men season 9, entitled "Hunt or be Hunted," viewers are reintroduced to the cast of characters who survive in the wilderness of the United States. Throughout the episode, the tension builds as each of the men faces challenges that could mean life or death.

Tom Oar, a veteran of the show, starts out hunting elk. He has to battle harsh terrain and weather, as well as outsmarting the clever animals he seeks to take down. But even when he's successful, his work is not done. He must process the meat and transport it back to his cabin, where he's also building a new home for himself and his wife.

Elsewhere in Montana, Eustace Conway, known for his off-the-grid lifestyle and his holistic approach to living, has his own struggles. A fox has gotten into his chicken coop and killed one of his birds, so he must take steps to keep the predator out while also maintaining his garden and other animals.

In Alaska, Marty Meierotto, who hunts lynx for a living, deals with a difficult season. The weather is unpredictable, and the animals seem to be scarcer than usual, making his job much harder. But he remains determined, even in the face of adversity.

Finally, in North Carolina, Mike Moore is on the hunt for bears. He sets up traps and baits, hoping to catch one of the powerful animals. But when a sudden storm hits, he must race to get back to his cabin before he's stranded in the midst of dangerous weather.

As the episode progresses, the challenges facing each mountain man only become more difficult. They must deal with storms, equipment failures, and interlopers on their land. But through it all, they remain committed to their way of life, braving the natural world and living off the land.

Throughout the episode, viewers also get a sense of the rich culture and history of these mountain men. They are rugged individuals, but they are also deeply connected to their communities and the traditions that have sustained them for generations. And while their way of life may seem harsh to some, it is also imbued with a sense of purpose and passion that is rare in modern society.

Ultimately, "Hunt or be Hunted" is an exciting and riveting first episode for Mountain Men season 9. The challenges faced by each of the characters are intense and harrowing, and the show does an excellent job of capturing the beauty and danger of life in the great outdoors. For fans of the show, this is a must-watch episode, and for those new to the series, it offers a fascinating glimpse into a way of life that is both thrilling and awe-inspiring.