Wild Place Adventures - Stories and Lessons from the Outdoors

Wild Place Adventures is a podcast that explores the great outdoors, blending stories of adventure with lessons in stewardship, resilience, and respect for nature. From the cultural heritage of hunting, fishing and trapping to modern outdoor skills, we connect listeners to the wild while fostering a deeper understanding of our relationship with it. Perfect for anyone seeking inspiration, education, and a deeper connection to the natural world

Not Everything Is Equal: Preparing for the Wild and for Life

In this episode of the Wild Place Adventures Podcast, Bryce Bekar dives deep into the idea that not everything in life — or in the wild — is created equal. From physical preparation to mental resilience, from gear lessons to personal stories of loss and growth, Bryce explores how small struggles can prepare us for life’s toughest moments. Drawing from his own experiences — from motocross and bungee jumps to grieving the loss of family at a young age — Bryce emphasizes the importance of pushing yourself, learning from mistakes, and investing wisely in both mindset and equipment. He shares hard-earned lessons about gear (like why cheap binoculars cost him more in the long run), the role of discomfort in building resilience, and why representing hunters and anglers ethically matters more than ever in today’s digital age. Above all, this episode is about stewardship, preparation, and valuing the most finite resource we all have: time. Bryce closes with encouragement to get out this season — whether it’s geese, ducks, moose, or elk — and to always hunt and fish with your kids, not for them. ⸻

09-04
21:08

Seasons of the Yukon: Hunting, Fishing, and Building Community

In this episode of Wild Place Adventures, Bryce takes a different approach to hunting season. For the first time in years, he skips the August opener to spend more time on the water before heading into the mountains in September. He shares shoutouts to recent successful hunters, reflections on balancing hunting and fishing, and stories from summer trips—including a surprise boat salvage at the trapping cabin. From gear maintenance tips to the importance of mentoring new hunters, Bryce explores how the hunting and fishing community in the Yukon is built on preparation, respect, and shared experiences. With moose season just around the corner and the next Wild Place Adventures workshop on August 21, there’s plenty to look forward to this fall.

08-06
29:24

Cold Mornings, Warm Fires, and Tight Lines

In this special episode of the Wild Place Adventures podcast, Bryce is joined by his favourite adventure partner—his wife, Heather—on the deck overlooking the Tagish River. Together, they share stories from a recent five-day trip down Tagish Lake, covering everything from boat repairs and stormy weather to fish feasts, bear sightings, and their dog Copper’s excitement every time a fish was on the line. It’s a candid, lighthearted look at life on the lake and why they always come back for more.

07-22
29:24

Hunting Season Is Coming! Gearing Up, Giving Back, and Getting Out There

In this episode of Wild Place Adventures, Bryce reflects on a recent fishing trip and shares honest, timely thoughts as hunting season creeps closer in the Yukon. From gear maintenance nightmares to lessons in moose hunting preparation, Bryce walks through the value of planning ahead, being conservation-minded, and getting excited for what’s to come. He shares updates on Yukon hunting opportunities, talks about teaching kids to sit still in the bush, and gives a heartfelt message about supporting local and national conservation organizations. It’s a grounded, practical, and motivating episode to get you thinking—and preparing—for the season ahead.

07-08
28:17

The Boat That Wouldn’t Die — Until It Did

In this episode of Wild Place Adventures, Bryce takes you on a reflective ride through a memorable Yukon moose hunt that didn’t quite go to plan. A stubborn boat problem that carried over from the year before turns an otherwise beautiful trip on Frances Lake into an unplanned adventure of its own. Bryce shares lessons from a decade of using the same faithful little Legend boat, from DIY repairs on a remote creek bank to learning that sometimes the simplest part is the problem. Along the way, there’s storytelling about old-school moose hunting tactics, good friends who come to the rescue, and reflections on boat maintenance that matter for anyone exploring wild places.

06-11
28:17

The Long Road to My First Ram: Lessons from a Dream Hunt

What does it really take to chase a childhood dream? In this episode, Bryce shares the full journey behind his first successful Dall sheep hunt—a story that began around a kitchen table in Manitoba and eventually led to the rugged peaks of the Yukon. With raw honesty, he recounts the years of waiting, the gear mistakes, the failed first attempts, and the physical and mental tests along the way. From ordering the wrong scope to learning what a “two-person one-man tent” really means, this isn’t just a story about harvesting a ram—it’s about what the mountains teach you on the way up. Whether you’re planning your first sheep hunt or reflecting on the one that changed you, this episode is a tribute to resilience, preparation, and the importance of doing hard things. And as always—hunt and fish with your kids, not for them. wildplaceadventures.com

05-28
30:00

Bear Season, Boat Prep & Bringing the Wild Home

In this episode, Bryce shares his early-season bear hunting observations, essential safety tips, and why respecting the land and life is at the heart of Wild Place Adventures. From reading bear behavior to avoiding spring ice dangers, he weaves personal stories with practical knowledge. Bryce also dives into prepping boats and tackle for the upcoming fishing season, shares thoughts on ethical harvesting, and highlights the importance of Chinook salmon conservation. Plus, hear about upcoming workshops — Hooked on Alaska and Yukon Sheep Hunting — and why it’s so important to hunt and fish with your kids, not for them. Find us here: www.wildplaceadventures.com Wild Place Adventures on Facebook @bryce_bekar on Instagram

05-15
33:00

We Hunt, We Fish, and We Teach: Passing It On!

In this deeply personal episode, Bryce shares how mentorship, loss, wilderness, and resilience have shaped his life and why he continues to pass those lessons on. From stories of hunting with his daughters and mentoring first-time hunters, to reflections on fitness, wild food, and the ethics of living off the land, this episode is a raw reminder of why the outdoors matters. Bryce also shares updates on upcoming Wild Place Adventures workshops, including “Hooked on Alaska” and the Sheep Hunting Workshop. Whether you’re preparing for your first backcountry hunt or reflecting on years in the field, this episode offers insight, laughter, and a whole lot of heart.

04-30
36:38

Unguided but Not Alone: Hunting the Yukon with Casey Donovan

In this heartfelt and often hilarious episode, Bryce sits down with Casey Donovan from Yukon Unguided to talk all things hunting, fishing, and life in the wilds of the Yukon. From early days in Churchill, MB and New Brunswick to bear hunting tactics, bowhunting thrills, and the deep respect for wildlife that bonds them, this episode is rich with storytelling and hard-earned wisdom. They dive into gear talk, ethical harvesting, unforgettable grizzly moments, and the value of community education. Whether you’re an old hand or just curious about life in the North, this one’s packed with grit, gratitude, and good laughs.

04-15
01:01:07

Mastering the Shoulder Season: Hunting, Fishing, and Outdoor Prep

In this episode of the Wild Place Adventures podcast, host Bryce Bekar discusses preparations for the upcoming Yukon spring hunting season, has troubles saying shoulder season, emphasizing the importance of scouting, applying for hunting tags, and physical conditioning. Bryce shares personal experiences with the Yukon's hunting lottery system and offers practical tips for hunters, including practicing realistic shooting scenarios and thoroughly testing gear. He highlights ice fishing as a prime spring activity and addresses recent fishing regulation changes aimed at conservation. Bryce also encourages listeners to enjoy outdoor activities responsibly, especially emphasizing family involvement and safety considerations during seasonal transitions. Find us at: wildplaceadventures.com @bryce_bekar on instagram Wild Place Adventures on Facebook

04-02
27:43

Bison Hunting Deep Dive: Techniques, Ethics & Wild Yukon Tales

In this episode of Wild Place Adventures, Bryce returns from a well-earned vacation in Mexico and jumps back into the Yukon’s rugged winter landscape. He shares stories from recent bison hunts, discussing scouting techniques, ethical harvesting, and the challenges of tracking in unpredictable terrain. From near-misses to valuable lessons in patience and preparation, this episode is packed with insights for hunters of all levels. Plus, get updates on upcoming bison and bear hunting workshops, gear recommendations, and why keeping a rangefinder handy is a game-changer. If you love the thrill of the hunt and the connection to the land, you won’t want to miss this one! Find us on: instagram https://www.instagram.com/bryce_bekar/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/p/Wild-Place-Adventures-100057438528427/ Visit our website wildplaceadventures.com

03-04
36:20

Big Fish, Big Lessons: The Reality of Ocean Fishing

Join Bryce Bekar as he shares his latest fishing adventures in this episode of Wild Place Adventures. Broadcasting from sunny Mexico, he discusses the highs and lows of ocean fishing, the stark contrasts between lake fishing and deep-sea fishing, and why hiring a knowledgeable guide can make all the difference. From getting skunked on a slow day to pulling in dorado and sailfish, Bryce reflects on past trips to Mexico, Alaska and the Yukon, emphasizing the importance of preparation, patience, and respecting the fish we catch. He also talks about introducing kids to fishing and ensuring they have positive experiences on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just love a good fishing story, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and practical takeaways.

02-18
27:02

Carrying Forward: Stories of Love, Loss, and the Wilderness

In this deeply personal episode, Bryce Bekar shares his journey through loss, resilience, and the powerful lessons that nature has to offer. Reflecting on pivotal moments—from the tragic loss of his younger brother Blair to the passing of his father and close friend—he explores how the wilderness has been both a refuge and a teacher. Through stories of survival, hardship, and triumph, Bryce illustrates how the natural world mirrors life’s struggles, showing us that strength comes not just from enduring, but from adapting and growing. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on grief, family, and the enduring wisdom of the wild. Find us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/bryce_bekar/ Visit our website wildplaceadventures.com

02-04
30:54

From Fishing Poles to SOS Calls: Stories of Connection and Resilience

In this special episode of Wild Place Adventures, Bryce is joined by his lifelong partner, Heather Bekar, for an intimate and humorous conversation about their shared outdoor adventures. They recount unforgettable experiences with their inReach device, including accidental SOS activations that taught valuable lessons in communication and preparedness. The couple dives into their passion for fishing, sharing personal stories of triumph, mishap, and friendly competition. Heather, the reigning fishing champ of the family, reflects on her journey from fishing in Churchill to embracing the Yukon’s vast outdoor opportunities. The episode wraps up with heartfelt advice on fostering a love for the outdoors in future generations and the importance of staying connected while exploring the wilderness. Listeners are left with a mix of practical tips, entertaining anecdotes, and a reminder to cherish time with loved ones in nature. Find us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/bryce_bekar/ Visit our website wildplaceadventures.com

01-21
40:33

Winter Hunts & Bison Stories: A Yukon Adventure

In this episode of the Wild Place Adventures Podcast, Bryce Bekar kicks off 2025 with reflections on the past year and a deep dive into the world of winter bison hunting in the Yukon. From fascinating insights into bison biology and conservation to personal stories of hunts past and the camaraderie of hunting parties, Bryce offers a compelling mix of education and entertainment. Discover the history of wood bison in Canada, the challenges of hunting in frigid conditions, and the importance of respect and safety in the wild. Plus, learn about the upcoming Bison Hunting Workshop on January 13th and get a sneak peek at what’s to come in future episodes. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just curious about Yukon adventures, this episode is packed with valuable tips, heartfelt stories, and a call to connect with nature responsibly. Tune in and remember Bryce’s motto: Don’t hunt for your kids; hunt with them. Find us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/bryce_bekar/ Visit our website wildplaceadventures.com

01-07
48:23

Reflections, Resilience, and the Lessons of the Outdoors

In this heartfelt episode of Wild Place Adventures, we dive into the power of nature as a teacher and healer. Bryce Bekar shares personal stories of growth, resilience, and the people who’ve shaped his journey, from his father’s guidance to the mentorship of the outdoors itself. As the holiday season amplifies our joys and losses, we explore how to turn grief into meaning, honor those we’ve lost, and find strength in the love and memories that remain. Discover how even small adventures in nature—starting a campfire or walking a snowy trail—can build the mental toughness to face life’s biggest challenges. Whether you’re navigating the wilderness or life’s uncertainties, this episode reminds us that we’re all part of something bigger, and with every step forward, we grow stronger. Tune in to reflect, reconnect, and embrace the journey ahead as we prepare for a meaningful 2025. Merry Christmas! Find us on instagram https://www.instagram.com/bryce_bekar/ Visit our website wildplaceadventures.com

12-24
10:01

Through the Ice: Stories and Lessons from the Frozen Wild

In this episode of Wild Place Adventures, we dive into the joys and challenges of ice fishing. From reminiscing about childhood outings in Churchill to modern-day adventures in the Yukon, join us for stories filled with fun, mishaps, and valuable lessons. Learn about ice safety, the evolution of fishing tools, and the importance of conservation. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or new to the sport, this episode is packed with tips, tricks, and heartwarming anecdotes to inspire your next adventure on the ice. Find us on instagram @bryce-Bekar Visit our website wildplaceadventures.com

12-10
29:06

Roots in the Wild: An Introduction to Wild Place Adventures

In this debut episode, get to know your host as they share the inspiration behind Wild Place Adventures. Through a few short stories of hunting as a kid and fishing on the river, you’ll gain a glimpse into a lifelong connection with the outdoors. Learn what this podcast is all about and how it aims to inspire, educate, and reconnect us all with the wild places we love.

11-26
28:36

Recommend Channels