By Chris Avena
For nearly two decades, Trailing the Hunter’s Moon has captivated audiences by taking them on unforgettable adventures around the world. What began as a passion project led by the legendary Larry Weishuhn has grown into one of the most respected and authentic hunting television series in the industry. Now under the helm of Blake Barnett, the show continues to thrive, preserving a legacy of genuine storytelling, conservation, and deep respect for the outdoors.
Blake Barnett’s journey with the show began behind the scenes. As the original producer of Trailing the Hunter’s Moon, he worked closely with Larry Weishuhn for years, helping to shape the narrative and direction of the series. When the time came for Weishuhn to step back, Barnett stepped forward—taking the reins as host and carrying forward the vision. “It’s been an unbelievable ride,” Barnett said. “To carry the legacy of Larry, and to continue something that’s meant so much to both of us, has been a true honor.”
From producing 26 original episodes a year to navigating the challenges of the COVID era, Barnett has remained steadfast in his commitment to authentic content. The show has since scaled back to 13 episodes annually, but its mission remains the same: to take viewers on real, unfiltered adventures. Whether it’s trekking the rugged landscapes of Kyrgyzstan or navigating the cultural complexities of hunting in Azerbaijan, Barnett insists on capturing every moment truthfully—missed shots, rough weather, and all. “We want the viewer to feel like they’re on the hunt with us,” he said. “There’s nothing staged, no recreates. Just the raw, honest experience.”
As the show evolved, so too did Barnett’s role as a mentor and ambassador for ethical hunting. His travels have taken him from the plains of Africa to the mountains of Asia, where he’s witnessed firsthand the power of hunting to bridge cultural divides and bring people together. “There’s a bond that hunters share around the world,” Barnett reflected. “Even in countries where we’re told not to like one another, I’ve shared meals and stories around campfires with people from vastly different backgrounds. At the end of the day, we’re connected by our love for the outdoors and wildlife.”
One of the most powerful motivations behind Barnett’s continued passion for hunting is the opportunity to make a difference—especially in developing countries. He speaks passionately about moments in Africa where a single hunt provided meat for hundreds of starving people. “When that gun goes off, it signals food,” he said. “Within an hour, people come out of the bush from every direction, and you realize just how vital hunting can be.” It’s experiences like these that fuel Barnett’s commitment to conservation and sustainable use, not just for the moment, but for future generations.
While filling a tag still offers its own thrill, it’s the stories, the people, and the shared experiences that now drive Barnett. Whether mentoring young hunters, attending trade shows, or simply listening to fans who share their own outdoor adventures, he sees himself as a storyteller and an advocate. “I don’t hunt for inches or trophies anymore,” he said. “I hunt for the story, for the experience, and for the opportunity to educate others about the importance of conservation.”
With the explosion of digital media, staying ahead of the curve has been a challenge for every content creator in the outdoor space. But Barnett remains grounded. He compares his approach to that of country music legend George Strait—staying in his lane, staying true to his roots. Trailing the Hunter’s Moon continues to air on the Pursuit Channel, a long-standing partner that also offers a robust digital platform. Though Barnett is exploring platforms like YouTube and Carbon TV to expand his reach, he remains cautious about "rented space" and emphasizes the importance of strong partnerships.
As he looks to the future, Barnett knows success lies in more than just great footage. “This business is about relationships,” he said. “You can be the best hunter in the world, but if you can’t communicate, stay professional, and deliver what you promise, you won’t last.” It’s a philosophy that’s clearly served him well, and with a loyal audience and dedicated partners, the journey of Trailing the Hunter’s Moon is far from over.
Despite the glamour some associate with televised hunting, Barnett is quick to point out the hard work that happens behind the scenes—from travel logistics and editing, to sponsor relations and airtime budgeting. He’s candid about the need to treat outdoor media as a business, while never losing sight of the passion that started it all. His longevity in the industry is a testament to that balance.
Still, it’s the quiet moments that keep him grounded—the time spent observing wildlife on his Texas property, watching whitetail deer grow and mature. “I’ve probably gone soft on whitetail,” he joked. “But I love watching them evolve. That connection with the land, that understanding of what it takes to grow and manage a healthy herd—that’s where I find the most meaning now.” Over the years, he’s come to appreciate the slower pace of simply being in the field, observing behavior, studying patterns, and cultivating a healthier respect for the animals and the land they inhabit. For Barnett, that evolution—from pursuing a trophy to preserving a legacy—has made him a more thoughtful hunter, a better steward, and a more impactful voice in the outdoor community.
As Trailing the Hunter’s Moon enters its next chapter, Blake Barnett remains a steady force in the hunting world—a voice for conservation, a bridge between cultures, and a guide for the next generation. With a camera in one hand and a lifetime of stories in the other, he’s not just chasing the horizon—he’s shaping the future of outdoor storytelling. And through it all, he remains committed to honoring the hunting heritage passed down by those who came before, while mentoring the new generation of outdoorsmen and women who will carry it forward.
Blake Barnett doesn’t just represent a show. He represents a mission—to promote hunting in a positive light, to build bridges between cultures, and to ensure that our wild places and wild things endure for generations to come.