JRE 1542 · September 29, 2020

Cameron Hanes

huntingsportshealthphilosophyenvironment

Who is Cameron Hanes?

Master bowhunter and elite athlete Cameron Hanes has successfully taken down some of the toughest game in the roughest environments nature has to offer, all in pursuit of becoming “the ultimate predator.” He’s the author of Backcountry Bowhunting: a Guide to the Wildside, and the host of the podcast Keep Hammering with Cameron Hanes.

Topics and Timestamps

01Cameron Hanes discusses his journey from regular guy to elite bowhunter and ultra-endurance athlete
02The importance of physical training and mental toughness in pursuing dangerous game hunting in remote locations
03How bowhunting requires extreme preparation, discipline, and respect for the animals being hunted
04The philosophy of becoming 'the ultimate predator' through relentless training and commitment to the craft
05Stories of hunting expeditions in brutal environments and the lessons learned from nature
06The balance between conservation, ethical hunting practices, and the primal human need to hunt
▶Cameron discusses his transformation into an elite bowhunter and the discipline required0:03:15
▶Joe and Cameron talk about physical conditioning and how bowhunting demands peak fitness0:15:45
▶Cameron shares a story about a dangerous hunting expedition in a remote wilderness location0:28:30
▶Discussion about the mental aspects of stalking and executing on a hunt under pressure0:42:20
▶Cameron explains the relationship between ethical hunting, conservation, and wildlife management0:55:10

The Show

Joe welcomes Cameron Hanes back to the podcast to talk about bowhunting, physical fitness, and the pursuit of becoming the ultimate predator. Cameron is a guy who has completely committed himself to becoming one of the most elite bowhunters on the planet, and that commitment extends far beyond just picking up a bow. It's about total body conditioning, mental resilience, and developing a deep understanding of animal behavior and wilderness survival.

One of the main themes that comes up is how bowhunting forces you to be in peak physical condition. Unlike rifle hunting where you can hang back at distance, bowhunting requires you to get close to your prey. That means hiking through brutal terrain, often at high elevations, carrying heavy gear, and being able to execute when you're exhausted and your heart is pounding. Cameron has built his entire life around this training regimen, and he talks about the discipline required to maintain that level of fitness year-round.

The conversation dives into specific hunting expeditions and the environments Cameron has hunted in. We're talking about dangerous animals in remote places where if something goes wrong, you're basically on your own. This isn't some guided hunt where you're coddled. It's real hunting in real wilderness, and it demands respect for both the animals and the environment. Cameron emphasizes the importance of understanding the animal you're hunting and taking ethical shots that result in clean kills.

Joe and Cameron talk about the mental aspect of hunting as well. It's not just about physical preparation. There's a psychological component to stalking an animal, getting close enough to draw your bow without being detected, and then executing when the moment comes. The pressure is immense, and that's part of what makes it so appealing to someone like Cameron who is always seeking to push himself harder.

The discussion also touches on conservation and the role of hunting in wildlife management. Cameron is clear that responsible hunters are stewards of the land and that hunting actually supports conservation efforts through licensing and habitat management. It's not about trophy hunting for ego. It's about being part of a natural cycle and respecting the animals you pursue.

Throughout the episode, Cameron's passion for the lifestyle is evident. This isn't a job for him. It's a complete philosophy of how to live and how to push yourself to be better every single day. He talks about his podcast and his book, both of which document his journey and share knowledge with other people interested in bowhunting and the pursuit of excellence.

Best Quotes

“You have to become the predator. It's not just about hunting, it's about understanding what it means to be an apex predator in nature.”

— Cameron Hanes