The author, John Marek, is a writer and CEO of the Anson Economic Development Partnership.
Although my father enjoyed a good walk in the woods and was not opposed to wetting a line, he wasn’t a committed outdoorsman. Things like hiking, camping and shooting seemed silly to him. He claimed that he had done enough hiking, camping and shooting in northern France in 1944 and 1945 to last him a lifetime, and it was a hard point to argue.
Still, as a kid fascinated with those activities, I wanted to know more about them. Some of that was achieved through books like “Two Against the North” and magazines like “Field & Stream,” but in the days before the internet, videotapes and streaming, there wasn’t a lot of interactive content available to the aspiring outdoorsman.
The notable exception was “The American Sportsman.” Broadcasting from the 1960s to the 1990s, the show’s unique premise and lineup of notable guests left an indelible mark on the world of outdoor television and on a kid from Ohio who knew there had to be more to the outdoors than impaling a nightcrawler on a hook and waiting for a catfish to swallow it.
“The American Sportsman” aired on ABC from 1963 to 1986, with later episodes moving to NBC until the show’s conclusion in 1994. It was primarily shown on Sunday afternoons, typically after a live sporting event, but it moved around the broadcast schedule quite a bit during its three-decade run. Each episode lasted an hour and took viewers on exhilarating journeys to some of the most picturesque landscapes across North America and beyond.
Hosted by the charismatic Curt Gowdy, the show aimed to showcase the thrill of outdoor sports and hunting while promoting conservation and respect for nature. “The American Sportsman” brought together celebrity guests from Hollywood stars to renowned athletes who shared their passion for the great outdoors. The show’s stunning cinematography, expert insights and entertaining adventures made it a hit among outdoor enthusiasts and mainstream viewers alike.
The guests were household names, many of whom were not immediately associated with the outdoors and got to show off a different side of their personality in the wild. Arnold Palmer, obviously better known as a golfer, showcased his love for fishing in a thrilling episode set in Alaska. As Palmer reeled in impressive catches amidst breathtaking landscapes, his on-screen charisma and passion for the sport endeared him to viewers worldwide.
Similarly, Johnny Cash explored his love for wildlife and hunting on the show, and Sean Connery, the iconic James Bond actor, displayed a different side of himself and his passion for salmon fishing in his native Scotland.
Some guests were already known for their love of the outdoors and did not disappoint in sharing their adventures. In one memorable episode, Ernest Hemingway, the iconic American author, embarked on an African safari, capturing the essence of his adventurous spirit. Viewers witnessed Hemingway’s passion for hunting and the great outdoors while also gaining insights into his literary genius.
A few episodes, including deep sea marlin fishing with Bing Crosby, can be viewed on YouTube.
“The American Sportsman” paved the way for future outdoor-themed shows, inspiring a generation of viewers to explore and appreciate the natural world. It not only entertained but also educated audiences about the importance of conservation, highlighting the need to preserve wildlife and their habitats. The show’s ability to bring together celebrities from various fields showcased the universal appeal of outdoor pursuits and promoted the idea that the wilderness was a great equalizer, drawing people from all walks of life. It was the golden age of outdoor television.