The wild doesn’t stay wild on its own.

In this opening episode of Season 5, Ross returns from Mongolia—where he chased the legendary taimen on some of the most remote water on Earth—and reflects on what he found there. Among endless stretches of untouched country, a massive new highway project is cutting its way through the steppe, a reminder that even the most isolated landscapes are not beyond the reach of civilization.

This episode sets the stage for the season ahead, exploring not just backcountry fly fishing (although there will be plenty of that), but how the pursuit connects us to the fragile balance between wilderness and human ambition. 

Season 5 begins with a call to remember that the outdoors isn't just our sanctuary—it's our responsibility. And sometimes, stewardship isn't just about protecting what we have. It’s about deciding what we’re not willing to lose.

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