Steven Rinella is an avid angler, hunter and all-round outdoorsman. He is the author of five books and host of the popular tv series, MeatEater. In this episode, April meets with Steve at his home in Washington to partake in some thought-provoking conversation. He didn’t disappoint…
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Buy Steve’s Books: The Complete Guide to Hunting, Butchering, and Cooking Wild Game: Volume 1: Big Game, The MeatEater Fish and Game Cookbook: Recipes and Techniques for Every Hunter and Angler, American Buffalo: In Search of a Lost Icon
Length: 01:36:43
What does it take to become a renowned outdoorsman, author, and TV host? Steven Rinella has some stories to tell. From his early days growing up in Michigan, where his adventures in fishing and hunting began, to hosting the hit TV series MeatEater, Steven has made a name for himself in the world of outdoor culture. In this episode, he shares tales from his youth, his experiences as a trapper and hunter, and his passion for conservation and ethical outdoor practices. Join us as we sit down with Steven at his home in Washington for a deep dive into his life and career, exploring the principles that guide his pursuits.
Outline of This Episode
- [1:29] Steven’s Upbringing in Michigan
- [6:07] Early Days of Trapping and Fishing
- [11:04] Influence of Family and Mentors
- [18:05] Evolution of Hunting Techniques and Ethics
- [35:17] Transition to Writing and First Major Publication
- [48:55] MeatEater TV Show: Concept and Development
- [1:18:00] Conservation Issues and Public Lands Debate
- [1:35:06] Closing Thoughts and Reflections
Growing Up in Michigan
Steven Rinella’s roots are deeply embedded in Twin Lake, Michigan, where his family’s dedication to fishing and hunting ignited his love for the outdoors. He recounts childhood days spent on the water, casting lines into the local lakes and learning about wildlife management from family outings. These early experiences, nurtured by his father and grandfathers – who were all avid outdoorsmen – laid the foundation for his lifelong passion for nature and conservation.
Early Days of Trapping and Fishing
From a young age, Steven was captivated by the art of trapping, a practice he adopted during the fur boom of the late 70s and early 80s. He shares tales of setting traps for muskrats and beavers with his brothers. They were guided by their father and other mentors who imparted lessons on trapping techniques and the natural balance of the ecosystems they interacted with. This period was crucial in developing his understanding of the natural world, which later enriched his hunting practices and his writings on outdoor pursuits.
Transition to Writing
Steven’s journey to becoming a noted author and storyteller began during his time in community college and continued at the University of Montana. There, he refined his writing skills and embraced the power of storytelling as a means to share his outdoor experiences. He describes the pivotal moment when he sold his first major article to Outside Magazine, marking a significant turning point in his career that propelled him from a passionate outdoorsman to a professional writer and influential voice in the outdoor community.
Evolution of Hunting Techniques and Ethics
Steven has spent years perfecting his bowhunting skills and exploring the ethical dimensions of the sport. He details his experiences hunting elk, the patience it requires, and the insights he gained about animal behavior and ethical hunting practices. His account also explores the effects of hunting on wildlife and the importance of a respectful and humane approach.
MeatEater TV Show
MeatEater began with Steven’s desire to share his experiences with a wider audience. He describes how the show started, its growth, and its distinctive way of showcasing hunting and fishing. Unlike other outdoor programs, MeatEater focuses on genuine storytelling, responsible hunting practices, and a strong respect for nature, reflecting Steven’s hunting philosophy and conservation efforts.
Conservation and Public Lands Debate
Steven actively discusses the current debates over public land management in the US. He points out the key issues, including resistance to the privatization of public lands and the importance of keeping these lands publicly accessible. He outlines his advocacy work, stressing the need to preserve public lands for future generations of hunters, anglers, and nature lovers.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
- Books by Steven Rinella:
- The Scavenger’s Guide to Haute Cuisine
- American Buffalo: In Search of a Lost Icon
- MeatEater: Adventures from the Life of an American Hunter
- MeatEater TV Show
- Available on Netflix
Connect With Steven Rinella
- Website: The MeatEater
- Instagram: @stevenrinella
- Twitter: @meateater
Connect With Anchored Outdoors
Stay connected with Anchored Outdoors and immerse yourself in the vast world of outdoor adventures. Follow us for more captivating stories and insights, and become part of our community of nature lovers and adventure seekers.
- Website: AnchoredOutdoors.com
- Instagram: @Anchored_Outdoors
- Facebook: @AnchoredOutdoorsOfficial
- YouTube: Anchored with April Vokey
