Cubby Hoover is a youth pastor based in Missouri. After being introduced to the craft of bow carving by Rick Spicer of Pack Rat Outdoor Center in Arkansas, Cubby began carving primitive bows. He has been carving bows for 8 years and is passionate about outdoor survival skills.

Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Cubby Hoover.         

Episode Links:

https://www.instagram.com/cubbersons/

https://www.youtube.com/@CubbersonsCustomBows

https://www.facebook.com/p/Cubbersons-Custom-Bows-100090311585490/

https://www.canecreekarchery.com/

Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions

Summary:

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Cubby, a self-taught bowyer, bow maker, and outdoor enthusiast with a fascinating journey through archery, wilderness skills, and personal growth. Discover how experiences on "Alone" shaped his perspective, and learn practical insights on bow crafting, self-reliance, and community involvement.

Show Notes:

• Cubby shares his background, including his early nickname and its story

• His introduction to archery through a class with Rick Spicer, and the influence of that moment

• The journey from making his first board bow to crafting custom primitive bows

• How his experience on the TV show "Alone" impacted his mental health and skills

• The importance of community, mentorship, and making intentional life choices

• Techniques and materials used in traditional bow making, emphasizing Osage and Black Locust woods

• Insights into bushcraft skills such as flint knapping, cordage, and using natural materials

• His approach to hunting with primitive gear, and balancing it with modern methods

• The significance of hobbies and passions for mental well-being

• Resources, favorite tools, and advice for aspiring bowyers and bushcraft enthusiasts

• Future projects including local archery events and supporting community initiatives

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and episode overview

02:14 - Cubby's nickname story and childhood

04:50 - Growing up in Missouri and the influence of local woods

07:24 - The introduction to Rick Spicer and archery classes

09:41 - Starting bow making and inspiration from community mentors

12:54 - Building bows from Osage and the progression of craftsmanship

18:39 - Cubby's experience on "Alone" and survival challenges

22:31 - Critical injury on "Alone" and decision to exit the show

27:34 - Reflections on goals, failures, and mental health recovery

33:48 - How community, therapy, and outdoor pursuits support well-being

36:03 - Transition from hobby to part-time livelihood in bow making

41:44 - Engagement with bow and arrow competitions and community events

45:42 - Hunting with primitive gear and respect for nature

49:34 - Bushcraft skills, natural materials, and self-reliance

55:08 - Tools and techniques for traditional bow carving and maintenance

62:49 - Material choices: Osage, Black Locust, Hickory, and others

66:09 - Finishing touches: overlays, tips, and decorative elements

70:55 - Using animals fully: hide processing, bones, and primitive tools

76:49 - Current projects, upcoming events, and community involvement

82:21 - Final thoughts and connecting with Cubby