American Hunter: How Legendary Hunters Shaped America

by Willie Robertson

New York Times bestselling author and star of A&E’s Duck Dynasty, Willie Robertson, teams up with William Doyle, the bestselling coauthor of American Gun, to share the history of America’s most well known hunters.

American Hunter is an amazing compilation of the history of America’s greatest hunters. Based on the colorful personalities of powerful men and women, this book begins with the Plains Indians and moves through legendary hunters like Daniel Boone, Davy Crockett, Kit Carson, Buffalo Bill, Teddy Roosevelt, Ernest Hemingway, Lyndon Johnson, and of course, Duck Dynasty’s Robertson family. Also included are the histories of American fox, rabbit, deer, squirrel, duck, goose, and big-game hunting, as well as action biographies of classic hunting weapons.

Author Willie Robertson, famed hunter of Duck Dynasty and Duck Commander, lends his voice to share this amazing collection of true stories to tell around the campfire after a long day’s hunt.

As Teddy Roosevelt put it, “The virility, clear-sighted common sense and resourcefulness of the American people is due to the fact that we have been a nation of hunters and frequenters of the forest, plains, and waters.” It’s about time we honor American hunters with a book that tells their incredible stories of skill, courage, and survival.

American Hunter is the perfect book for everyone who enjoys sweeping tales of American history and for those who love hunting, sport shooting, and wide open spaces.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, American History, Outdoors, Sports

272 pages, Paperback

First published October 27, 2015

About the author

Willie Robertson is president of Duck Commander, founder of Buck Commander, and an executive producer of Duck Dynasty and Buck Commander Protected by Under Armour.


There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a gal, let me be real and say, I'm not much of a hunter. That being said, Willie is able to take the subject of hunting and not making it BORING. I love history, but history and hunting? Enough said right? WRONG! Willie actually made me interested in this. Now, I can tell you this, after a while, I did get bored. It was nothing to do with the style of writing or the fact that it was History, I just got tired of hearing about hunting. As a non-hunter, I found this book to be a decent read. I was interested, he kept me engaged, it was funny, heroic, sad and I learned a lot. Would I read it again? Probably not, but I'm not interested in hunting. With that said, if you're a hunter, looking to learn more about the history of hunting or wanting to learn about the sport of hunting, which I was, it's worth reading. I learned a lot and will keep this on my shelf as I found it very interesting. I have nothing bad to say about this book, other than I'm not a hunter, so I found it to be a little boring after a while. I can imagine a hunter would LOVE this book. While reading this, I thought of my dad so often and the stories he tells, I can only imagine the stories that many of the famous legendary hunters had that were left untold. You'll enjoy the stories and how Americans our honored for their bravery in hunting.

Thank you to Howard Publishing for providing me a ARC copy of this book. I was not compensated for a positive review.

[Hal · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good audiobook for a road trip or for reading around a campfire, full of interesting stories about hunters in American history. It's not particularly "riveting," nor is it tedious. It's a decent book and will appeal to folks who like American history.

Side note: It's always a bit disappointing when an audiobook isn't read by the author.

[Victor Gentile · Rating 5 out of 5]

Willie Robertson and William Doyle in their new book, “American Hunter”published by Howard Books gives us How Legendary Hunters Shaped America’s History.

From the back cover: New York Times bestselling author and star of A&E’s Duck Dynasty, Willie Robertson, teams up with William Doyle, the bestselling co-author of American Gun, to share the history of America’s most well known hunters.

American Hunter is the first book ever to compile a chronological history of America’s greatest hunters. Based on the powerful personalities of colorful men and women, this book begins with the Plains Indians and moves through legendary hunters like Daniel Boone, Davy Crockett, Kit Carson, Buffalo Bill, Teddy Roosevelt, Ernest Hemingway, Lyndon Johnson, and more. Also included are the histories of American fox, rabbit, deer, squirrel, duck, goose, and big-game hunting, as well as action biographies of classic hunting weapons.

Author Willie Robertson, famed hunter of Duck Dynasty and Duck Commander, lends his voice to share this bodacious collection of true stories that you’ll want to tell around the campfire after a long day’s hunt.

As Teddy Roosevelt put it, “The virility, clear-sighted common sense and resourcefulness of the American people is due to the fact that we have been a nation of hunters and frequenters of the forest, plains, and waters.” It’s about time we honor American hunters with a book that tells their incredible stories of skill, courage, survival, and downright bodaciousness.

American Hunter is the perfect book for everyone who enjoys amazing tales of American history and for those who love hunting, sport shooting, and wide open spaces.

You have to admit we have it easy. Whenever we want a steak, rib roast, ribs even all we have to do is head to the market and they are there waiting for us. How about fish? Once again the market has it and the high-end markets have the hard to catch fish. The same is true with fowl, not just chicken or turkey but the game birds. How does all this come about? Well a hunter or fisherman got up early and went out to hunt or fish. Mr. Robertson and Mr. Doyle feel that it is high time we gave honor to our hunters who have given us and continue to provide the protein we put on our tables and what we order when we go to the restaurant. Not only are the stories of some of the big names of American hunters presented here but there are also action biographies of classic hunting weapons. This is fascinating reading that will keep you entertained and informed for hours.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Howard Books. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Faith · Rating 4 out of 5]

As many know, hunting is a tradition that runs deep in the Robertson family, of the hit TV reality show, Duck Dynasty. It is something that the family shares that binds them together, and also leaves them in awe at the wonder of their Maker.

Mr. Robertson, along with Mr. Doyle, tells of the great history of hunting in America and how it is in the very roots of this nation, from the Native Americans and their sacred hunt of the buffalo, to great men who roamed the plain like Davy Crocket, Daniel Boone, Hugh Glass, and many more, and even in the White House. Hunting is an American tradition.

Mr. Willie Robertson tells these stories of the hunters of days gone by, along with stories of his family and how they relate. Hunter is a topic that is close to his heart, and also the hearts of his family, and he shares his stories with, respect, admiration, and pride of the great American tradition, along with his signature humor and good nature.

Overall, a enjoyable read, great for a relaxing read or as a gift to the hunter in your life. A very enjoyable read, that mixes modern hunting with great storytelling, and a history lesson to boot!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."

[Katherine Wacker · Rating 3 out of 5]

In his book, American Hunter: How Legendary Hunters Shaped America, Duck Dynasty star Willie Robertson traces the history of American hunting through the profiles of icons Daniel Boone, Teddy Roosevelt, and Ernest Hemingway. Beginning with the earliest American settlers all the way through to today, Robertson tells the story of hunters and their impact on American culture. American Hunter is an easy, entertaining read in which Robertson’s down-home sense of humor shines throughout the book. The volume is not exhaustive, but it gives the reader insight into the people and places that have influenced our national heritage.

Not a hunter myself, the types of firearms discussed in American Hunter are a bit over my head, but the history of the people is not. I enjoyed the stories about these characters who are larger than life. So much so, that it makes me want to know more. If you love hunting, History, or Duck Dynasty, you will enjoy American Hunter.


I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

[Russell Threet · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like to hunt. I am not the kind of guy that hunts every weekend, but I enjoy it. That being said I enjoyed this book. My favorite thing about hunting is being in a hunting camp and sitting around to listen to all the old men tell their hunting stories. It gives you insight about who they are, and the part that hunting plays in their life. That being said, this book is like sitting around in hunting camp with the some of the best hunters and most influential men in our nation's history. It is a perfect storm of hunting, history, and storytelling. If you like to hunt you will enjoy this book because it speaks the hunter's language. If you are interested in history it will show you how hunting has shaped the modern world you live in. If you just like to hear a good story it will gather you in as well. This book bridges a gap in interest that most would never seek to bridge. It is, in a word, enjoyable.

[Jack Oughton · Rating 4 out of 5]

i'm no fan of hunting but this is a fascinating book - the part on the history of hunting in the USA is very well researched, and he makes a strong case for why people do it.

inherently what seems to make the difference between hunting/hunting for sport and outright poaching are your intentions. though nobody can deny that the end result is an animal suffering and dying. not sure how i feel about this one but all that shit aside this is a great piece of literature.

[Logan · Rating 4 out of 5]

As other reviews have stated, this book would be a great audiobook (if William Robertson read it). I can’t help but read this whole story with his southern accent, and it elevates the whole reading experience knowing he wrote it.

What makes me divert away from his accent is the intricate and educational history on many of America’s notorious figures. Some of the names mentioned were Daniel Boone, George Washington, Lewis and Clark, Theodore Roosevelt, Buffalo Bill, and many more. Not only were many of the stories unknown to me and surprised me to know that they were hunters, but further educated me into why conservation is important.
Each story escalated not only in theatrics, but in sorrow too. The near decimation of the bison. The countless murders of the grizzly and black bear. The thinning of the ever endless fields of roaming wildlife. The farther and farther we went in time with these real life hunters, we see the change from sport killing to the conservation of animal species. Within the peoples diaries, you can read how hunters went from flaunting the death of hundreds of animals, to cherishing the life of one that they’ve killed. It’s truly a beautiful thing to read.
Where I have an issue with this book is near the end. When Willie introduces women hunters (because many prominent hunters in history were men), he almost skims over them like it’s nothing. Although all are not as significantly important as the previous characters, their stories were very interesting and it seemed disrespectful to cut off their stories early. I understand this was all a way to make his wife’s first hunt sound interesting but it didn’t do it any justice.
The ending of the book also felt like such a turnaround and a waste of time. We go back to Willie’s experiences and family but by now - I have full interest in the history of traditional hunters. The notes from Cabela founders and outdoor writers felt very unneeded also. I can ask a random person on the street what they think of hunting and it would look exactly like the ending of this book.


Besides my nitpicks, I found this book to be very enticing and a great read for hunters or history lovers. I haven’t been much of a hunter in my life (or a duck dynasty watcher), but after becoming interested in history books, I had enjoyed reading this a lot. Did Willie need to be the author of this book? No. But it probably did bring a lot of attention to this great story.

[Jamie Rivera · Rating 5 out of 5]

Note: This was read via Audio.
This book ties in two things I really enjoy; Hunting and American History. This book is not just great for hunters (like me) but, also, non-hunters because it illustrates how important hunters are for the conservation of land and animals in America. Some hunters need to remember the responsibility we have to the land and animals, while non-hunters need to realize the overwhelming good that hunters provide. I loved that there was a whole chapter about the history of female hunters! Being a hunter for 20 years, I would definitely recommend this book to all.

[Blaine Schnorf · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great for the kids that like outdoors and hunting. Not so much for the people that dont like to do this kind of stuff. I really like the book because it was very informational on showing the history behind hunting and some of fishing. I didn't like how it didn't talk about fishing more but i guess thats why they came out with American Fisherman.

[Paige Gordon · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not nearly as good as American Gun, but not exactly a waste of time. It just didn't feel as polished or as well put together. Overall it was more like a collection of interesting stories and tidbits, rather than one cohesive story. Worth reading if you're interested, but not worth buying in my opinion.

[Roger Miller · Rating 2 out of 5]

I love hunting and fishing, but not a fan of this book. This book gives much of the forgotten history of America's hunting heritage. The writing was not engaging and stunted. So it was the worth read but not an engaging read.

[Fred Bradford · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent read, with good pace and grammar. There are a few questionable statements, but I chalk these up to editors/co-authors who may not be as familiar with specific firearm details. But if you have ever loved hunting, then you'll likely enjoy this book. I know I did.

[Jacob · Rating 1 out of 5]

Lame. This book is just a collection of two minute summaries of various other actual good books. Don't waste your time.

[Daniel Decker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Entertaining hunting history and stories.

[Michael Delaware · Rating 4 out of 5]

A well researched history of American hunting. It features some of the most notable hunters in US history, and how some of them shaped the conservation policies of our nation. A very good read.

[Marie Neumiller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Highlights the transition from market hunters to conservationists well. I was pleasantly surprised to see the section on female hunters!

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Held my attention and very detailed in the hunting history and culture of the United States of America.

[Starr · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given a copy of this book, free, in exchange for my honest opinion.
To be honest, given the opportunity to read anything by Willie Robertson I’m gonna take it. I think he’s funny and appears to be personable. So I was glad for the opportunity. Here is one thing that I found funny about this book, something that I didn’t expect. As I was reading this book, I heard it in Willie’s voice. Not sure why since he had an suthor buddy writing this book. But I thought it was an added bonus.

I enjoy reading books about history, but sometimes it’s bit dry. I enjoyed reading this. I was amazed at how much information that was compiled in such short chapters. A lot of research was put into this book, but it was not heavy. The stories were enjoyable as well as informative. I was able to get a good idea of how hunting progessed through time, as well as how the firearms used in hunting progressed. While there are mixed feelings about hunting, and this is defintiely a pro- hunting book, it did share the bad side of hunting. It discussed how game was hunted to near extinction as well as the efforts made for conservation.

Interest in hunting is growing today and not just as sport. A lot of people want to return to the nature of hunting and eating what they kill. Men as well as women. The book examined the history of hunting as well as the people who hunted. I learned a lot from of this book, and found things that I want to look further into. I also have to point out that this is definitely a book for guys. I keep an eye out for books that would interest my fiancee, who only reads books that are of interest to him, and this one grabbed his attention.

4 stars ****

[Hector Parrales · Rating 4 out of 5]

American Hunter is an incredibly educational and captivating exploration of the influential role hunting has played in shaping American history and culture. In this book, Wil and Philip Wright expertly weave together the stories of legendary hunters whose contributions go far beyond the fields and forests—they helped define the nation’s spirit and identity.

The book takes readers on a journey through American history, highlighting figures like Daniel Boone, Theodore Roosevelt, and Jim Corbett, showing how their passion for hunting influenced everything from wildlife conservation to the expansion of the American frontier. The Wrights present each hunter’s story with thorough research, offering insight into their lives, achievements, and the lasting impact they’ve had on both the nation and the world of hunting.

What makes American Hunter truly educational is its ability to blend history with lessons on conservation, ethics, and the evolving relationship between humans and nature. The authors provide a balanced perspective, offering not just stories of great hunts but also exploring the complexities of the hunting legacy in America.

For anyone interested in American history, wildlife conservation, or the cultural significance of hunting, this book is a must-read. It’s not only informative but also deeply engaging, shedding light on a lesser-known but critical aspect of our nation’s past.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written by Willie Robertson, from Duck Dynasty, along with William Doyle, this book is filled with stories of hunting expeditions of the Robertson family. It also has stories of how hunting and hunters shaped America. Stories from Native American tribes to pioneers like Daniel Boone and Davy Crockett. Stories of how the introduction of long rifles changed the face of North American hunting. Also included are stories of our early American government leaders such as Presidents Washington and Jefferson, and Teddy Roosevelt who were avid hunters and sportsmen. You will also find in this book, scriptural references to hunting, fishing and feeding your family. An all-inclusive book about the sport of hunting, and how it has been part of the history of America. Interestingly enough the book included many women hunters who have made their own names famous over history. There is no shortage of famous people in this book, people that little boys and girls have looked up to for years. I have to say this book wasn't my normal genre of reading material, but it was an interesting read of the many hunters across the generations. If you're a history buff, this book will definitely peak your interest. 4 stars from this reviewer. This book was provided for review purposes only and no payment was received for this review.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

American Hunter: How Legendary Hunters Shaped America is quite a bit different than I had expected it to be. I thought it would be more about the Robertson clan's hunting trips. It actually only has a few mentions about the family. The book focuses on the history about the hunter in America. I really did enjoy the history lesson and learned a bit about American history and culture.
Great read!
5 plus stars.
I received this book from Howard Books in exchange for my honest opinion, which was given.

[Chad A. Pentecost · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amen to that

I'll be honest here. This book started out slow and seemed to go nowhere fast. Then by chapter 3 or 4 it got a lot better and I found it very interesting and a fun read. I may have to read a biography on Teddy Roosevelt now. I agree that being in the wild wooded land is the closest and easiest way to be with the Creator.

[Jacob Dobscha · Rating 2 out of 5]

Interesting read on how much hunting has been a part of American society since the beginning. Almost a collection of short stories throughout US History, as well as a mention of several famous hunters and their exploits. Most interesting to me is how the hunter and the conservationist are often one and the same folks if you look back at the leaders that lead the charge.

[Taylor Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book with a lot of history behind it
The authors done a excellent job telling each story
This book caught my eye because I’m a big duck dynasty fan and a lover of the outdoors.
This book did not disappoint
If you love hunting and the Robertson family I highly recommend

Read while at work on Tanker Damia Desgagnes ⚓️

[Elizabeth Forehand · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good look a our forefathers

Was very to read a and enjoy . A very good read for the hunters in the family . It also shows the Robertson's family and what they believe.

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

So disappointed in this book. I picked it up today for my uncle who is an avid hunter and huge american history buff, but I got this nagging concern that I needed to read it first.

This book reads much like a high school research paper, very shallow general information that if you know anything about the subjects mentioned in the book you already know the information given.

It also reads very “preaching to the choir”. I would assume if you are picking up this book you are probably a hunter or at least okay with the idea of hunting animals for sport and food. The entire book reads as a justification for why hunting animals is not only a good thing, but a birthright....I just don’t feel like the audience is fighting Robertson on this.

Also, I got a little tired of the name dropping and and merchandise pushing. There are people who can do this so smoothly you don’t realize it, but not Robertson. Yes, you are Willie Robertson, you are famous and meet people and you sell awesome hunting equipment, again I feel like the audience is aware and doesn’t need this shoved down our throats.

I like the duck commander family. I’ve read some of their other books, watched the show, but this book just really missed the mark for me.