Merchants of the Wild

Meet six Indigenous strangers embarking on an adventure to pick up survival skills. Stand by as they’re dropped in the wilderness with no food, water, or shelter, and then learn to patch birchbark canoes. See how this tense first day affects Ebony.

Master the indispensable art of starting a fire using flint from Elder Charlie, after Gabriella and the others experience a cold, wet first night in the wilderness. Then listen as Miranda expresses her fears over the group’s dwindling food supply.

Ride along with the adventurers as they take their maiden voyage in freshly patched canoes. Watch as they try to avoid another cold night among the elements by learning the principles of shelter construction from Knowledge Keeper Caleb Musgrave.

Set out with the adventurers as they tackle an extremely long paddle on an open lake. Watch as they struggle with problems caused by the patched canoes, and then visit a secluded beach, where the group learns net-making techniques.

Sympathize with the group when their food stocks are gone and fishing nets come up empty. Witness Gabriella’s stress, and cheer when Elder Mary brings a gift and a lesson that helps educate the adventurers on the harsh reality of survival.

Find out what bush sushi is and embark on the group’s next canoe journey, to a new camp where they may be able to secure more food. Check in on Gabriella, who is struggling and in need of urgent medical attention in the middle of open water.