Discover Ricko DeWilde: The Heartfelt Hunter of Life Below Zero

Life Below Zero star Ricko DeWilde is not just a hunter; he embodies the spirit of the Alaskan wilderness. Living in this vast and unyielding environment for most of his life, Ricko is rooted in a tradition that goes back generations of survival through hunting, fishing, and gathering.

In an interview with Cowboys & Indians in 2019, Ricko poignantly expressed,

I don't belong in Alaska. I belong to Alaska. I don't own land in Alaska. Alaska owns me. I'd be lost if I moved away.

Key Takeaways

• Ricko DeWilde grew up immersed in the Alaskan wilderness, away from modern society, alongside 13 siblings.
• He artfully blends his Native American heritage with contemporary life, raising his children both in Fairbanks and on his ancestral lands by the North Fork of the Huslia River.
• On the hit reality series Life Below Zero, Ricko showcases the skills of subsistence hunting and fishing.

Ricko DeWilde's Profile Summary

Ricko DeWilde's Alaskan Native Heritage

Born on the North Fork of the Huslia River, Ricko's roots run deep. His father, with Welsh ancestry, sought a new life in Alaska, while his mother was a proud Koyukon Athabaskan Indian. As the third youngest in a large family of 14 children, he grew up away from civilization, learning the essential survival skills of his ancestors.

In their homestead, the DeWilde family learned to farm, trap, fish, and hunt. They made annual trips downriver to the small community of Huslia for supplies, showcasing a lifestyle deeply intertwined with nature.

Ricko DeWilde's Struggles and Resilience

However, the journey has not been without challenges; Ricko fell into addiction, particularly with opiates, leading to brief incarceration. Yet, he found strength in returning to his roots, stating in 2019:

Incarceration and returning to my roots helped me heal and remain sober.

Is Ricko DeWilde Married?

Current discussions around Ricko's personal life hint at a relationship with Rona Vent, though details about their marital status remain unclear. Together, they are raising six children, ensuring that the legacy of their culture lives on.

Life Below Zero: A Reality Show Success

Ricko made his mark on the Emmy-winning reality show Life Below Zero, joining the cast in its 11th season in 2018. His unique perspective on subsistence living and profound respect for Alaskan traditions resonate powerfully with audiences.

Creating a Legacy: Hydz Clothing & Activism

Beyond the screen, Ricko founded Hydz Clothing in 2007 to celebrate his heritage through modern fashion. Named after traditional Native American clothing, his designs combine cultural significance with contemporary style, serving both as a business and a way to honor his family’s legacy.

He is also a passionate advocate for the rights of Indigenous peoples, using his platform to call attention to issues such as the preservation of subsistence living rights. In a poignant statement, he noted:

Indigenous people are still fighting for basic rights, protecting our lands and practicing our religion and culture.

Reflecting on Personal Loss

The personal tragedy struck when Ricko's brother Alan passed away in the Alaskan woods, a loss that profoundly impacted him and his family. This experience was explored in a moving segment of Life Below Zero.

Conclusion

Ricko DeWilde's life story is one of resilience, cultural pride, and a deep connection to the Alaskan wilderness. Through his appearances on Life Below Zero and beyond, he is honoring the legacy of his ancestors while educating future generations about the traditions that shaped him.