Fred Bear would have been 113 years young today. No man ever hunted with more true spirit and respect for the animals than Fred did…something that is sadly missing with some of the hunters I see and hear today.
As a tribute to Fred, take a look at this classic grizzly hunt. My Lord, this is how hunting films and TV should be done. From the genuine and humble hunter, to the compelling storyline, to the intriguing narration, to the look and “puts you there” feel of the old 16mm footage.
Watching Fred stalk, whistle and shoot that bear gave me chills. Pay close attention to the end of the show, when Fred and his guide walk up and admire the magnificent animal. This is how a “recovery” as we call it in the TV business should be done.
As a boy of around 12 yrs of age I watched the original tape of this on The American Sportsman tv show, a weekly series narrated by Curt Gowdy. How many of today’s hot shot wannabes even know whom Curt Gowdy was?
I wonder just how many of today’s tv hunters note he didn’t wear face paint making him look like a clown, didn’t have some buxom babe by his side, shot a recurve bow, no scent control spray, no grand emoting on a kill shot, etc. etc.
Sadly what passes as entertainment today on too many hunting shows is almost comical.
The Iconic Fred Bear. Gotta love that guy. His smile really says it all. He loved life to its fullest.