Secrets Behind Starting a Hunting Show: The Untold Truth

Ever found yourself passionately watching a hunting TV show and you think, “Why isn’t that me on the screen? I could do this so much better.” I know what you’re thinking because I’ve been there and eventually, I found myself in front of the camera. Now, I am going to shed some light on what it takes to start from scratch and rise to fame in the hunting show business.

Trust me, the glamorized version you’re envisioning in your mind is far removed from the behind-the-scenes reality.

Step 1: Diminishing the Preconceptions

Remember that network that saw my stunning Myspace photos, contacted me to applaud how fantastic I am and generously offered me a spot on their network? Nope, that just didn’t happen.

There aren’t scouts tracking your social media platforms to see if you are the next big thing. Instead, I called the TV network, boasted about my talents, convinced them that I was way better than those pale characters they were hosting, and they listened. “Great, we want you on the network,” they replied. However, then the question came: “How much money do you have?”

Yes, you heard it right. That’s the first punchline. We pay to appear on television.

\n\n> “They asked: “How much money do you got?” and I was like, “What? I’m awesome. I don’t have money. What do I need money for?””

Step 2: Cashing Out the Checks

In the world of hunting shows, there are two distinct kinds of people. First, the so-called ‘Billionaires Boys Club.’ These are the guys who have several zeros stuffed in their bank accounts and to whom shelling out $100,000- $400,000 or more as a hobby to be on TV its no big deal to them.

And then you have guys like me, dead broke but passionate. A fire burning inside me to do this for a living, despite having to rally sponsors to back me up so I can pay the TV network, the editor, and all necessary staff.

So, how do the ‘broke but passionate’ guys do it? How did I manage to show up on your screens? Here’s how: I made a list of potential sponsors, reached out to each of them with a sales pitch that would convince them to back up my show. Unfortunately, my plight was met with rejection – a complete strike-out. Not a single sponsor was on board.

Undeterred and undaunted, I mortgaged my house to cover the costs. That’s how serious it gets if you want to start a hunting TV show. This isn’t about getting paid, it’s about paying to get in.

Step 3: Time, Pro Staff, and More Time

In the hunting show business, time is more than just a precious commodity – it’s everything. Forget about squeezing in hunting exploits for half an hour before and after your nine-to-five job; that simply won’t work. The unaired episodes need you to spend countless hours in the field. Think about creating enough content for 13 episodes or more for a whole season – it’s not a walk in the park.

Sure, you could hire pro staff to offset some work. However, remember that most aren’t overly concerned with your show’s success. They’re often thrilled with the free hunting gear and might not bother getting a kill shot. Instead, they may provide ample footage of themselves strolling in slow-motion. So, in essence, you’re still largely on your own.

Step 4: Sponsors, Commercial Interludes, and TV Networks

The hard truth is that sponsors form the backbone of many hunting shows. Despite viewer complaints about the excessive product promotion that sometimes makes the show feel like an extensive infomercial, the reality is that sponsorship is vital.

Without sponsors, there would be no hunting TV shows or networks. These sponsors are the ones footing the bills, and as a show host, you become an ambassador for their products.

This symbiotic relationship requires the host to promote sponsors’ products as much as possible because, ultimately, they’re financing the show. This dynamic will never change in the hunting industry, so it’s best to embrace it.

Step 5: Staying Professional and Authentic

Lastly, let me offer a word of advice to aspiring hunting show hosts. Remember, sponsors invest in people, not just ideas. They want to invest in you. Therefore, you need to demonstrate professionalism and authenticity both on and off-screen.

Bear in mind that your online image impacts your show. Posting pictures partying with friends might not be the best way to represent a sponsor’s company. Always align your public persona with your brand image as this significantly influences your success.

Wrap Up

In a nutshell, starting a hunting show doesn’t just demand hunting expertise. It involves plenty of persistence, resourcefulness, professionalism, and business savvy.

It requires sacrifice – something you should love unconditionally because it offers no guarantees of easy returns. After all, videos of your hunts aren’t merely hunting trips; they’re potential great television shows in the making.

Cheers to everyone who wants to plunge into this challenging yet rewarding venture. Remember that it’s not just about hunting; it’s also about creating and running a successful business. It might be a rockier road to travel, but at the end of the day, the joy I derive from this line of work is incomparable. I love what I do, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything else.

So, if you’re considering stepping into this arena, ensure you have your heart in it, and then – all in. Good luck!

If you would like to see the humorous but true video version of this story, click below.

Blaine Anthony – Staff Writer