Elk County, Pennsylvania (Sept. 24, 2025) – Hunt Masters Executive Producer, Host, and T/C Arms President & CEO Gregg Ritz has successfully harvested a bull elk with Mathews Archery in Pennsylvania, marking not only a personal achievement but also a milestone moment in the ongoing story of conservation within the Keystone State.
Drawn from the lottery and guided by Elk County Outfitters, Ritz’s hunt underscores the incredible opportunities made possible through the conservation efforts of the Pennsylvania Game Commission, the Keystone Elk Country Alliance (KECA), and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF). Once nearly extirpated from the state, Pennsylvania’s elk herd now thrives as one of the nation’s most celebrated conservation success stories.
“Harvesting an archery bull elk in Pennsylvania is more than just a hunt; it’s the culmination of decades of habitat restoration, wildlife management, and sportsmen-funded conservation,” said Ritz. “This experience proves what can be achieved when hunters, outfitters, and conservation agencies work together to protect our wildlife heritage.”
The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation has supported Pennsylvania’s elk program since its reintroduction, investing in habitat restoration, land protection, and educational initiatives that directly benefit the herd. With KECA and state partners, RMEF has helped secure thousands of acres of critical habitat, expand access for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts, and ensure that elk populations remain strong for future generations.
“This hunt represents a full-circle moment,” said a representative from Elk County Outfitters. “Gregg’s success showcases not only Pennsylvania’s thriving elk herd, but also the importance of conservation partnerships, spanning from local organizations to national groups like RMEF that continue to keep this legacy strong.”
As Hunt Masters prepares to air this remarkable episode next Summer on Outdoor Channel, audiences nationwide can watch the hunt unfold on Hunt Masters’ social media platforms and YouTube channel. Viewers will witness Ritz’s pursuit and the deeper narrative of conservation stewardship in Pennsylvania, where the spirit of the elk and the resilience of the land come together in one unforgettable story.
About Hunt Masters:
Hosted by Gregg Ritz, Hunt Masters is an award-winning outdoor television series that blends thrilling hunts with powerful storytelling. It highlights conservation and the pursuit of big game across North America. Tune in Sundays at 8:30 p.m. ET on Outdoor Channel.
For more information, please visit https://huntmasters.com/
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