By Doug Pelton
Breaking into the hunting and outdoors industry can feel like trying to track an old eland bull—it’s not easy, and shouldn’t be. Otherwise, everyone would do it.
For those of us who grew up in love with the outdoors and wild places—the smell of a campfire, the snap of autumn leaves underfoot, the thrill of listening to line zip off a reel—the idea of turning that passion into a career is a dream. But it’s a dream that requires a solid foundation of honesty, hard work, and respect for the traditions of those that came before us. Before the days of the social media influencer and the Instagram huntress.
If you’re hoping to carve out a space for yourself, here’s some advice from someone who’s walked that path: do it the right way, or don’t bother to do it at all.
First, let me make one thing clear: I never set out to be an “industry insider” and frankly, I’m not. I’m just a guy who loves being outside, loves adventure, loves the absolute thrill of the hunt, and loves sharing those stories with others.
I’ve always been humbled and amazed when people enjoy my writing. I didn’t get here by gaming the system or angling for free gear. I got here by doing what I love and doing it with honesty and integrity. That’s the only path worth taking.
Unfortunately, not everyone sees it that way. In recent years, the rise of the social media influencer has cast a shadow over the hunting and outdoor community. Too many people are chasing clout, plugging products they don’t use, and faking expertise they don’t have—all in the hopes of a freebie or a sponsorship deal. Let me be blunt: that’s grifter behavior, and it’s got no place in this industry.
Hunting and other outdoor pursuits are built on authenticity. They’re about respect: respect for the places, the wildlife, the traditions, and the people who came before us. If you’re more interested in snapping selfies than in learning the craft, you’re missing the point entirely. You’re also doing a disservice to the community, undermining the very values that make this lifestyle worth protecting.
Writing this, I’m reminded by a quote I read from Ernest Hemingway, “In order to write about life, first you live it.” Think about that for a moment before moving on.
So, how do you get your foot in the door the right way? Start by developing real experience. Hunt. Fish. Spend time in the wild. Learn the skills and the stories that only come with boots on the ground experience. Write about your experiences not because you think they’ll make you famous, but because you’re passionate about sharing them. Passion is contagious, and readers can tell when it’s genuine. Write like you’re talking to a friend, not pitching a sales deck. Share the moments that moved you: the mist rising off a mountain stream, the sound of a covey of quail exploding into the air, the fear of being 20 yards from a Cape buffalo or the quiet satisfaction of a roaring campfire and a fine whiskey.
Next, prioritize relationships over transactions. This is a small industry, and your reputation matters. Be someone people want to work with: honest, reliable, and humble. Don’t approach companies with your hand out. Instead, ask yourself what you can bring to the table. How can you help them tell their story? How can you add value to their brand? Relationships built on mutual respect and shared values will always outlast those based on superficial gains.
Another piece of advice: immerse yourself in the culture of the outdoors. Go beyond the act of hunting or fishing and learn about the conservation efforts that sustain our passions. Read about the history of the sport and the pioneers who shaped it. Join organizations that support ethical hunting and conservation, and get involved. The more you understand and contribute to the broader community, the more authentic your voice will be when you tell its stories.
It’s also important to hone your craft. Writing, photography, videography—these skills don’t develop overnight. Invest time in learning them. Good storytelling can set you apart, but it requires effort. I’m a horrible photographer but I ask peers to review my stories and my photos as I continue to learn. Don’t settle for mediocrity. Share the struggles as well as the triumphs. Be vulnerable. Be real. That’s what connects with people. And when opportunities do come your way—and they will, if you’re doing good work—approach them with humility.
Let’s circle back to the influencer phenomenon for a moment. I understand the appeal. The idea of getting paid to do what you love is seductive. But there’s a fine line between sharing your passion and selling out. If you’re plugging products you don’t believe in or haven’t used, you’re undermining your credibility and tarnishing your reputation.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the importance of perseverance. Breaking into this industry isn’t a straight path. There will be setbacks and disappointments. You’ll pitch ideas that go nowhere and spend hours creating content that doesn’t get the response you hoped for. That’s part of the process. Learn from it and keep going. Ask for constructive criticism from people you respect. Success in this field is a marathon, not a sprint.
Finally, don’t lose sight of why you started. For me, it’s always been about the love of the outdoors. The joy of the hunt. The stories that come from shared experiences in the wild. When people respond to my work, I’m genuinely grateful. It’s a reminder that the best stories resonate because they’re true. They come from a place of passion and respect, not a desire for attention or approval.
Be real. Be genuine. You know … don’t be a dick.
