Eva Shockey, the daughter of legendary hunter Jim Shockey and a prominent voice for women in the outdoors, recently opened up about the intense harassment she faced as her profile rose. Speaking on the “Country Outdoors” podcast, Shockey described receiving “thousands and thousands” of death threats from anti‑hunting activists, especially after high‑profile hunts involving bears and other apex predators.
Why the backlash?
Shockey believes the vitriol was directed at her because she represented a young, blonde woman who could be easily targeted, while her father’s long‑standing reputation shielded him. She also noted that many critics fail to distinguish between legal hunting and illegal poaching, stating, “We hate poachers. That is what I — and we — fight against all the time.”
Understanding the opposition
While acknowledging that people who did not grow up around hunting might feel uncomfortable, Shockey emphasized respect for differing perspectives. She criticized media coverage that, in her view, sensationalizes hunting and fuels outrage without educating the public about wildlife management and conservation.
Personal impact and resilience
During a period when she lived in Russia with her husband, former NHL player Tim Brandt, the threats intensified. Shockey recalled sitting with her father, who urged her to stand firm: “You can either get scared and stop and they win, or if you truly believe with your whole heart what you’re doing is right, then why would you be scared?”
Her resolve led to a historic moment in 2014 when she appeared on the cover of Field & Stream, becoming only the second woman ever to do so after Queen Elizabeth II. Shockey said the cover symbolized that women belong in the outdoor space and that intimidation would not deter her.
Advocacy for future generations
Now a mother of two, Shocking continues to hunt, promote conservation, and encourage girls to experience the outdoors. She stresses the importance of role models, noting, “I never saw females that hunted, so I love telling little girls, ‘it is so cool. Y’all should try it. Do it. Don’t be scared.’”
Shockey’s story underscores the broader cultural clash over hunting, conservation and the portrayal of outdoor life in the media, while highlighting the perseverance of a woman determined to stand up for her beliefs.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
