Ep. 855: Clay's Utah Mountain Lion Hunt | 12 in '26

In this episode of the 12 and 26 podcast, Clay Morehead recounts his immersive mountain lion hunt in Utah with legendary lion hunters McClain and Hunter Mecham, accompanied by filmmaker Josh Landbridge. The episode dives deep into the art and ethics of dry ground lion hunting—where dogs track lions across arid, rugged terrain without snow—highlighting the extraordinary stamina, selective breeding, and instinct of the hounds, as well as the physical demands on riders navigating steep, remote canyons on mules equipped with ice cleats. Clay reflects on the rare privilege of observing mountain lions up close, the decision to pass on a young male lion despite its size, and the complex conservation debate surrounding Utah’s year-round, unregulated lion hunting season. He explores the ecological role of lions in managing mule deer populations, challenges the notion that lions are the primary threat to deer, and emphasizes the importance of predator management as part of a balanced ecosystem. The conversation also touches on the cultural significance of hunting, the stewardship of public lands, and the broader philosophical question of whether wild landscapes should include apex predators. The episode closes with a powerful reflection on the responsibility of modern hunters to preserve both wildlife and the traditions of American outdoor culture.