Some of the most incredible moments in hunting happen when you least expect them. From witnessing grizzly bears in the middle of their mating season to watching a mother black bear fiercely defend her cub, Jana Waller Bair has experienced wildlife encounters that most people will only ever see on a nature documentary. In this episode of IGNITE, host Dana Dykema welcomes Jana back for a second conversation filled with unforgettable stories from the field, close encounters with wildlife, and the adventures that make hunting so much more than simply harvesting an animal.
With more than 35 years of big-game hunting experience and 16 years filming Skull Bound TV, Jana has witnessed some extraordinary animal behaviour. She shares the incredible story of filming two mating grizzlies for seven hours in the mountains of Montana, followed by an unforgettable encounter with a mother black bear that chased a large boar up a tree to protect her cub. Shortly after, Jana watched that same mother bear drive her cub away as it reached the age of independence. These rare, up-close observations reveal just how much hunters can learn about wildlife by spending time in the field.
Jana also takes listeners along on her challenging grizzly bear hunt in Alaska, where pursuing a giant boar meant crossing a freezing river, navigating steep mountain terrain, and pushing herself to the absolute limit. After a grueling 21-hour day covering roughly 15 to 16 miles, she finally filled her tag. It's a story of perseverance, mental toughness, and discovering what you're capable of when there's no easy way out.
The conversation also explores the fascinating world of mountain lion hunting with hounds, including an unexpected encounter that ended with a mountain lion and four dogs tangled up in a culvert. Jana explains why hound hunting is often misunderstood and why working alongside experienced houndsmen offers a unique opportunity to witness predators in their natural environment.
Throughout the episode, Jana and Dana reflect on the value of documenting hunts, the memories that stay with us for a lifetime, and the incredible experiences that happen when we spend time outdoors.
Whether you're an experienced hunter or just beginning your journey, this episode is a reminder that some of the greatest rewards of hunting aren't measured in inches, points, or trophies. They're found in the stories we bring home, the wildlife we witness, and the challenges that push us beyond our comfort zones.
You can find Jana and her adventures on her YouTube channel and on Instagram @skullboundtv
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