In this episode, we hear from Levi Barkas and his 15-year-old son, Wyatt, alongside Wyoming hunter Zimmy. What started as a chance encounter at a trailhead during an elk hunt turned into an incredible story of backcountry camaraderie, a sudden medical emergency, a rescue operation, and key takeaways for hunting public land safely.
Key Topics & Takeaways...
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Backcountry Connections: Levi, Wyatt, and Zimmy share how a random meeting at a Wyoming trailhead led to a joint hunt and a lasting friendship.
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Elk Hunting Tactics: Why heavy cow calling can be the "golden ticket" over bugling in thick country or late-season scenarios; managing satellite bulls vs. herd bulls in dense cover; and lessons learned on midday moves, spot-and-stalk tactics, and letting the herd settle down before pushing in.
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The Medical Emergency: While hanging out at midday, Levi suddenly lost all function on his left side and fell to the ground with stroke-like symptoms.
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Garmin InReach & Rescue Response: The critical role of satellite communicators even when cell service seems available, a step-by-step account of the short-haul helicopter extraction and Wyatt’s ride out in the "screamer suit", a breakdown of Search & Rescue operations and associated costs.
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Culture on the Mountain: The willingness of fellow hunters to step up and help in times of need.
The Hunt Backcountry Podcast is brought to you by Exo Mtn Gear: https://exomtngear.com/
YOUR QUESTIONS, ANSWERED...
We love hearing from listeners and answering their questions on future podcast episodes. If you have a question about the episode above, or other questions on hunting tactics and strategies, gear, Exo products, or anything else related to backcountry hunting, send us an email with your question or use your device to leave us a voice message below...