By relying on traditional tools and methods, Clay Hayes stands out in the modern hunting world. The powerful bows he’s crafted from raw timber have helped him harvest game all across North America.
His wilderness survival skills are nothing to scoff at, either. Clay survived 74 days in the Canadian backcountry on the History Channel show “Alone,” ultimately emerging the victor.
From a Florida Ranch to the Idaho Wilderness
Clay grew up on a ranch in the Florida panhandle. As a kid, he spent his days fishing local waters, tracking game through the brush, and building the outdoor skills that would later become his life’s work.
These days, Clay lives with his family on a 20-acre homestead in Idaho. He moved out west in pursuit of a place where he could practice his traditional hunting methods regularly. On the homestead, adventure is always right outside Clay’s door.
Mastering the Traditional Bow
For over twenty years, Clay has been making self-bows. He starts with carefully selected wood staves and turns them into functional hunting tools that perform when it matters most.
Clay has put his bows to good use, harvesting elk in the Idaho backcountry and wild boar in southern swamps. This hands-on experience with traditional hunting methods came in handy during his time on “Alone,” where his knowledge of the natural world helped him outlast the competition.
Passing Down Traditional Knowledge
Clay doesn’t keep his knowledge to himself. He writes for Traditional Bowhunter Magazine, has authored books on wilderness skills, and creates instructional content on YouTube and Patreon. Through these channels, he’s built a like-minded community of craftsmen and outdoor enthusiasts.
His teaching reflects the same values we champion at MKC: resilience, self-reliance, and practical outdoor knowledge. Whether he’s explaining arrow placement or demonstrating how to start a fire, Clay shares techniques that have consistently worked for him in the field.
The MKC Connection
For his wilderness adventures, Clay needs tools he can count on. His go-to blade is the Speedgoat. Its simplicity and functionality match his no-nonsense approach to the outdoors.
As an MKC ambassador, Clay embodies our values: quality craftsmanship, grit, and respect for tradition. Whether he’s shaping a bow or field-dressing game, he’s committed to doing things the right way instead of taking shortcuts, just like MKC.
Clay believes in preserving traditional skills not just as a hobby, but as practical knowledge that connects people to their heritage and the natural environment. We’re proud that our knives help him carry these traditions forward.
To keep up with Clay’s outdoor adventures, follow him on:
Instagram: @clayhayeshunter
YouTube: @clayhayeshunter
