If you’ve been following the exploits of trapper Tom Oar on the History Channel’s ‘Mountain Men,’ you might be curious about recent developments in his life. Rumors have circulated that the seasoned trapper is contemplating retirement and a surprising move – to Florida! Delve into the details here to get the latest on the former rodeo cowboy and one of the cherished stars of the show.
The History Channel’s ‘Mountain Men’ isn’t just an educational source for wilderness survival skills, covering everything from hunting and tanning to trapping and tracking. It’s the engaging personalities like Tom Oar that add a special charm to the show. For those with even a modest interest in fundamental survival techniques, ‘Mountain Men’ is an invaluable watch. Stay tuned for an update on Tom Oar and his intriguing journey post-‘Mountain Men.’
What’s the latest on Tom from ‘Mountain Men’?
After enduring the challenges of Montana’s secluded Yaak River Valley for several years, the 70-something-year-old Tom contemplated retiring from the demanding life of battling the elements and exploring the possibility of relocating to a warmer climate. Specifically, there were speculations that Tom and his wife Nancy had chosen Florida as their potential new home.
Fortunately for avid fans, it seems that the anticipated move did not materialize. Despite the harsh winters in the Yaak River Valley, Tom and Nancy continue to reside there and are actively participating in the latest season of ‘Mountain Men.’ In the Season 11 premiere, viewers witnessed Tom and Nancy gearing up for the upcoming winter, and in Episode 2, Tom joined forces with partner Sean McAfee to set his winter trap line. However, the grueling terrain presented miles of challenges, putting the veteran trapper’s endurance to the ultimate test.
Tom Oar continues his presence on ‘Mountain Men,’ although he isn’t particularly fond of being in the spotlight.
While Tom and Nancy are currently part of the ‘Mountain Men’ cast, an additional factor influencing their contemplation of leaving the series stems from the escalating loss of privacy due to the show’s popularity. In a 2019 interview with Allegheny Mountain Radio, Tom highlighted the paradox of residing in the heart of the Kootenai National Forest yet experiencing a considerable influx of visitors, with over 300 people coming to their home the previous summer for photos and handshakes. He even recounted an unusual visit from honeymooners from Switzerland two years prior.
Despite Tom’s reservations about the increased attention, he maintains a genuine appreciation for his fans. In the interview, he expressed, “The fans are real important to me, and that’s really neat to meet all the different people and talk to ‘em.” Tom acknowledges the constant stream of interesting encounters with people, emphasizing the genuine interest and diversity among his fanbase.
Nevertheless, there will come a time when Tom Oar won’t be part of ‘Mountain Men.’
Having devoted half of his life to a rodeo career before venturing into the wilderness of the Yaak River, Tom Oar’s journey has been nothing short of eventful. Recognizing that his unique lifestyle isn’t universally appealing, he often feels he was born a few centuries too late. Despite his deep connection to the rugged way of life, Tom acknowledges the inevitability of eventually giving it up.
In an interview with American Cowboy, Tom hinted at his retirement plans, contemplating the challenges of sustaining his current lifestyle. “It’s just Nancy and me and an old Dodge pickup and 30-foot chain. We can’t keep doing this forever,” he admitted candidly. “I keep telling Nancy, one of these days you’ll probably just find me stretched out dead over the fleshing block.”
While Tom contemplates the future, the notion of Florida has surfaced as a potential alternative. A change of scenery may provide a contrasting yet comfortable backdrop for this seasoned outdoorsman.
For those eager to follow Tom’s ongoing adventures, catch him in the latest episodes of ‘Mountain Men,’ airing on Thursdays at 8 p.m. ET on the History Channel, or stream the show on the History app. The evolving narrative of Tom’s life continues to unfold as he navigates the challenges and decisions that come with his distinctive way of living.