Are you familiar with the television series ALONE on the History Channel? The basic premise of the show is that ten contestants are shipped out to separate remote locations somewhere in Canada and last person standing wins. There are no camera crews or support, just contestants filming their own adventure. Each person has their choice of items that they are allowed to bring along, but the list is short and far from comprehensive. It’s basically a contest of will, endurance, mental toughness and ultimately, survival. 

About the time that Covid 19 entered our world, I became hooked on the show and soon after binge-watched the entire series. I quickly became an instant fan of the show as well as an “arm chair quarterback,” self-proclaimed expert, and a wannabe contestant. For all those reasons, here is the survivor’s guide to winning ALONE and the $1 million prize.  

Overconfidence. The contestant who boasts of their ability during introductions is typically the first person to tap out. A brash big game guide from Texas was so confident that he all but predicted himself the eventual winner. A half hour into the episode he broke his leg and was airlifted off the show. A city guy announced at his send-off party with friends that someone should be looking out for the well-being of the bears when he arrives in the bush. A couple of hours into his quest he tapped out admitting that it was not what he expected. So, keep your head down and don’t be one of those guys.  

Shelter. First order of business is to construct a shelter that will withstand the elements. The show typically starts in late fall with the threat of winter arriving at any time. For that reason, a sturdy, heat efficient shelter is mandatory for the long haul. The longer you procrastinate on this task, the less likely you are to be around for the end of the show. Instead, you will likely become program filler talking about what you did wrong while the worthy continue on their quest. Always take on the day that is front of you but also prepare for tomorrow because when the snow hits, there are no more tomorrows. 

Food gathering. So many contestants focus on a “white whale” meaning they target big game: moose, deer, bear, etc. The reality of that strategy is that during the duration of the series, only a couple of the contestants were actually successful at bagging something big. The best strategy is a rounded approach. Learn the environment and what will sustain you for the long haul be it wild onions, berries, lake trout, or snaring rabbits. Your mantra should be, “Plan your hunt and hunt your plan.” 

Physical health. It should be a big part of your strategy. This is the ultimate physical challenge and if you don’t do anything to prepare your body, your stay on the show will be short-lived. In addition to conditioning your body, packing on a few extra pounds around your midsection won’t hurt either. More often than not the show comes down to who can win a starvation contest.   

Mental health. Your mental wellbeing is probably the most important attribute. The more negative your perspective, the quicker you leave the show. That obviously works the other way as well. All winners have this in common: positive attitude and energy. That is how you will win on the show and that is how you will survive a northwestern Wisconsin winter. 

Didn’t get enough Dave this week? Visit “Outdoor Trails and Tales with Dave Beck” on Facebook for photos and video of Dave’s adventures. You can share your own photos and video with him there as well, or by emailing him at dave@piercecountyjournal.news Also, check out OTT content on Instagram @thepiercecountyjournal