In an unexpected twist, fans witnessed the return of a familiar face on the November 3 episode of Gold Rush – none other than Fred Lewis, the military veteran who played a prominent role in seasons 11 to 13. While his journey with the show took a hiatus in season 14, Lewis made his mark in the Gold Rush universe when he applied his expertise as a Special Forces medic during Gold Rush: Parker’s Trail in 2019.
Lewis reappeared, seeking an opportunity to secure ground for his mining operation after facing setbacks and a streak of bad luck. Approaching Parker Schnabel for assistance, the Misfits Mining crew leader proposed his services. However, the tough conversation took an unexpected turn as Schnabel, at that moment, didn’t see the practicality of bringing Lewis on board. Subsequently, Lewis contemplated the idea of taking a break from mining, dismantling his camp, and moving on.
In an exclusive interview, Fred Lewis sheds light on the challenging decision-making process and shares insights into his future plans.
Fred Lewis reflects on the pivotal conversation with Parker, stating, “That conversation with Parker was the tail end of my wife and I’s decision to mine or to take a pause and step back and look at what we’re doing to find what we need, which is better ground.” He emphasizes the struggle of finding suitable ground, especially after realizing that the California Creek location wasn’t optimal in the past few seasons. Lewis explains that after returning the gold bonuses to the crew and bearing the financial burden themselves, the need for better ground became imperative.
Lewis, guided by a life philosophy of making the best out of every situation, narrates his journey up the Yukon in search of a suitable mining location. Facing obstacles, he confronts the sink-or-swim moment, expressing reluctance to abandon ship and the necessity to explore any job opportunity to sustain his gold mining endeavors.
When asked about potential alternative career paths, Lewis humorously mentions throwing out the question as a joke but acknowledges the challenges of securing employment. He reflects on the unpredictability of life and the importance of adapting to the circumstances at hand.
Sharing a personal connection with Rick’s storyline on the show, Lewis empathizes with the struggles depicted, drawing parallels to his own past experiences. Having dealt with similar challenges, he expresses heartfelt support for Rick and mentions reaching out several times to offer encouragement, hoping Rick finds the light in his journey.
How has the experience beyond the realm of Gold Rush unfolded?
In all honesty, my life hasn’t undergone any significant changes. I’ve been leading a somewhat nomadic existence since childhood, never residing in the same place for more than three years. My academic journey extended for nine years, culminating in a degree in agriculture. Gold mining made sense to me at the time, and it still does. However, it doesn’t hinder me from exploring other avenues. I have various options, including contracting jobs, involvement in nonprofit activities assisting veterans, and participation in adaptive sports. I’m eager to re-engage in these areas while simultaneously exploring potential mining opportunities for the upcoming season. Far from slowing down, if anything, I’m accelerating my efforts to locate the optimal ground for success. I aspire to triumph over challenges rather than perpetually struggling. When I venture into mining, I want it to be a venture that truly counts.
This phase serves as a pause for introspection, allowing me to assess what lies beyond gold mining while I continue the quest for the ideal ground to sustain my mining endeavors. I’ve always been the type to cast out anchors and explore whatever opportunities arise.
I understand the dynamics. I receive messages from fans expressing gratitude for my actions and acknowledging me as a positive role model for veterans. Ultimately, that’s what truly matters. When I scrutinize my life’s accomplishments and what lies ahead, I am confident in my journey and the impact I’ve had. Those who criticize me add an interesting element to the mix; nevertheless, I choose to roll with it, recognizing that it also draws attention.
Whether it’s a victory, defeat, or a draw, my experience in gold mining has been an invaluable teacher. It has imparted lessons in hard work and dedication. Our team, comprising different individuals over the years, forged a solid bond. We acquired skills in operating equipment, welding, and logistics. The learning curve was steep, but we emerged with valuable knowledge. As we move forward, the journey of continuous learning remains an integral part of our collective experience.
How do you perceive the current state of the gold mining industry?
The political landscape surrounding gold mining remains inherently volatile, with the potential for shifts at any given moment. This unpredictability adds an intriguing layer to the industry. Constant vigilance over the daily fluctuations in gold prices is crucial, as unexpected events can quickly impact market dynamics.
Navigating the industry has become more challenging due to governments implementing measures to increase the difficulty level. Irresponsible mining practices by some individuals have further complicated matters, creating obstacles for responsible miners. While the competition for viable mining grounds has intensified, there’s a compelling argument that this is, in fact, the opportune moment in history for mining endeavors.
Despite the increased difficulty in securing ground, the potential rewards are substantial, especially considering the current trajectory of gold prices. With the prospect of gold reaching $3,000 per ounce, the stakes are high. The industry’s dynamics are complex, but for those who can successfully navigate and secure suitable ground, the potential rewards are significant. In this context, Parker’s strategic move to acquire valuable ground emerges as a commendable and intelligent decision within the intricate landscape of gold mining.
Reflecting on the Journey: Any Major Regrets During Your Time on the Show?
No, I seized numerous last-minute opportunities and had to take calculated risks to do so. Many of the mistakes I made were a result of the pressure to act swiftly, a “do it or get off the pot” scenario. I don’t regret that aspect. However, I do wish I had more time to grasp the intricacies of starting a business before diving into it. Nevertheless, this situation compelled me to learn rapidly, akin to drinking from a fire hose. Such an accelerated learning curve aligns with the way I was raised in the military. Truth be told, I don’t harbor any regrets, but there’s an underlying wish for more time.
The world of this show and gold mining, in general, involves layers beyond what the camera captures. We’re engaged in mining operations around the clock, and the filming merely captures a small fraction of our efforts. It’s essential not to read between the lines, as it’s a demanding and intricate business. Mining consumes the majority of our time up there, and there comes a point where you either face significant losses or take a pause to strategize on sustaining the venture without risking everything. Currently, we find ourselves at that crossroads. My advice is to simply enjoy the show and appreciate the complexities inherent in the business.
