ISU Sportsman's Show Founded by SigEp's

March 09, 2010

Posted by Steven Vuong

Even through the dog days of winter, when going outside seems like a life or death decision, the outdoorsman in SigEp Kyle Wood (Senior in Animal Ecology) cannot be harnessed. Whether it’s the love of hunting, fishing, or just the cold Iowa air, there is always something to do according to him.

“Sometimes, going out in winter can be even more fun and enjoyable than going out in the summer” said Wood.

And nothing has proved this fact more evident than the recent development of the Iowa State Sportsman’s Show on ISU TV. While out ice fishing one day this past semester, Wood and a few friends, in jest of course, discussed how much fun it would be to host an outdoors type show. With few hunting seasons open and a relatively small number for places to fish in Iowa, the gentlemen were looking for something else to sink their teeth into. Fortunately for Wood, who is also President of the ISU Bass Fishing Club, the resources were available for him to begin the show.

Alongside fellow SigEp Erik Wheater (Senior in Journalism and Mass Communication) who is a member of the executive board for ISU TV, the show began production three weeks ago. As Executive Producer for the show, Wheater believes that this show is tops in the current lineup on the channel.

“None of us could have imagined how successful this show would be. It’s beating out shows that have been on air for over two and a half years.”

The ratings don’t lie. Even discounting actual viewers on the tube, the online recording of the second show has generated over 500 views in 1.5 weeks. The next closest competitor comes in well behind at only 44 views from the same time period.

Although this show has started out as a hobby for both Wood and Wheater, both see the success as a huge resume booster for both of them. While Wheater plans to add this show to his already large portfolio of producing assignments, Wood sees a much different direction. By sending some show footage to potential sponsors, his hopes of obtaining funding and new gear for his club is well within reach.

“Who knows, if success continues, maybe one day I’ll get my own show on cable TV!” joked Wood.

Only time will tell, but things are already looking pretty good for him.