Special Drop: Clay and Bear’s Alaskan Coast Black Bear Hunt | 12 in '26

This companion podcast to the Meat Eater film 'Southeast Alaska Boat-Based Bears' dives deep into Clay Newcomb's 2025 hunting trip with his son Bear and outfitter David Bennett aboard the crabbing boat Sandpiper. The episode highlights the unique challenges and rewards of hunting black bears in Southeast Alaska—a region renowned for its dense rainforest, massive tide swings, and exceptionally large bears. Clay reflects on the emotional significance of introducing his 19-year-old son to Alaska, framing it as a life-altering experience. He also discusses his decision to hunt with a self-made Osage Orange bow, emphasizing the personal and symbolic value of honoring Bear’s craftsmanship, despite the logistical and legal hurdles—like Bear not having a bowhunter education card, which forced him to switch to a rifle at the last minute. The podcast unpacks the philosophy behind primitive hunting, the physical and mental demands of stalking bears in extreme weather, and the deep respect for the land and its wildlife. Behind-the-scenes insights reveal the grueling 12-hour days on the water, the importance of tide timing, and the rare privilege of harvesting a 15-year-old, 6'6" to 6'8" bear, whose age was confirmed via cementum annuli analysis. Key takeaways include: 1) Southeast Alaska offers unparalleled bear hunting opportunities due to its rich ecosystem and extended active seasons; 2) Using a self-bow is a personal, symbolic choice that honors tradition and craftsmanship, not just practicality; 3) Success in hunting often comes down to persistence and willingness to endure hardship; 4) Bear age and size are not always correlated—genetics and skull development matter more than age alone; 5) The experience of hunting with family and mentors creates lasting memories that transcend the harvest; 6) Weather and tide dynamics are critical factors that dictate daily operations; 7) Modern gear and regulations must be respected, even when pursuing primitive methods; 8) The true reward of hunting is often the journey, not just the kill. The tone is reflective, reverent, and deeply personal, celebrating the wildness of Alaska and the bond between father and son.