The Outdoor Channel is a popular cable TV network dedicated to outdoor recreation and activities like hunting, fishing, shooting sports, and adventure. If you enjoy the great outdoors, you’ll love the Outdoor Channel’s programming which includes shows like Major League Fishing, Gun Stories with Joe Mantegna, and The High Road with Keith Warren. Here’s how to get the Outdoor Channel so you can start enjoying all it has to offer.
Check Your Current TV Package
The first step is to check your current cable, satellite, or live TV streaming package to see if you already have access to the Outdoor Channel. The channel is offered by most major providers like:
- DIRECTV – Channel 606
- DISH Network – Channel 394
- Verizon FIOS – Channel 69
- AT&T U-verse – Channel 658
- Spectrum – Channel 139
- Xfinity – Channel 181
Look for the Outdoor Channel in your channel lineup guide or search for it by name on your cable or satellite box. If you see it listed, you’re all set! You can just tune to the Outdoor Channel and start watching your favorite outdoor programming.
Compare TV Packages if You Don’t Have It
If the Outdoor Channel is not part of your current package, you’ll need to upgrade or change your TV plan to get access. Compare the channel packages offered by your provider to find one that includes the Outdoor Channel.
Some examples of TV bundles that often include the Outdoor Channel are:
- Sports packages – These give you access to many sports networks beyond just ESPN, including outdoor-focused channels.
- Extra channels packages – Pay a little more to get a wider selection of networks.
- High-tier packages – More expensive premium bundles typically offer many more channels.
Look for a package that advertises specialty outdoor networks or lots of sports channels, as these are most likely to give you the Outdoor Channel. You can often add the channel for $5-10 more per month.
Switch Providers if It’s Not Available
If your current TV provider does not offer the Outdoor Channel on any of their channel packages, you may need to switch services to get access. Compare packages from DIRECTV, DISH, Verizon, AT&T, Spectrum, Xfinity, and live TV streamers like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV.
Most major cable and satellite companies will have the Outdoor Channel available on some level of programming, so you can switch if your current one does not. The lowest package or basic tier likely won’t include it, so be prepared to pay for a mid-level plan or higher.
Streaming TV services have more variability in channel offerings, so carefully review their packages before switching. YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV both include the Outdoor Channel on their base plans, making them good options for streamers.
Get It as a Standalone Channel
Another possibility is getting the Outdoor Channel by itself as a standalone channel, separate from a full cable package. Options for this include:
- Outdoor Channel + – For $4.99/month, get just the Outdoor Channel live feed and access to some on demand programming. Available as an add-on for Prime Video, Roku, and other services.
- Philo – Budget streaming TV provider Philo offers the Outdoor Channel starting at $25/month for 60+ channels. A good way to get it without paying for hundreds of other unnecessary networks.
- Sling TV – On Sling’s “Comedy Extra” add-on pack for $6/month, you can get the Outdoor Channel live and on demand.
- FuboTV – Includes the Outdoor Channel on its Pro plan for $69.99/month, along with many other sports channels.
So if you don’t want a full cable package but still want access, standalone streaming options for the channel are available. Compare costs to find the most affordable way to get this one network.
Use a TV Antenna
If you primarily want the Outdoor Channel for live programming and can position an antenna, you may be able to get the channel over-the-air for free! It is broadcast locally in many areas.
To check, enter your zip code on AntennaWeb.org to see if the Outdoor Channel is available in your region through broadcast towers. You’ll need an HDTV antenna like a paper-thin indoor one or a large outdoor mounted antenna. Position it to face the correct direction to pick up the channel.
With a strong antenna signal, you should be able to tune to the Outdoor Channel directly on your TV for no monthly cost. This is a great option for budget-friendly outdoor entertainment.
Watch On Demand or Online
In addition to the live TV channel, you can also stream past episodes and segments from many Outdoor Channel shows on demand or online:
- Outdoor Channel website and apps – Stream full episodes online for many original shows like Gold Fever and Buccaneers and Bones.
- YouTube – The Outdoor Channel YouTube channel has clips and highlights from seasons of popular shows.
- Amazon Prime, iTunes, Google Play – Full episodes and seasons available for purchase and streaming.
- Philo – Has an on-demand library of Outdoor Channel programming if you take its streaming TV package.
While this isn’t a replacement for the 24/7 live channel, you can still get a lot of Outdoor Channel content through these on-demand and streaming options.
Substitute Similar Channels
If for some reason getting the Outdoor Channel just isn’t possible for you, consider these alternatives that offer outdoors-focused programming:
- Sportsman Channel – Available more widely than Outdoor Channel, with hunting, fishing, and shooting shows.
- World Fishing Network – Fishing-centric channel, often paired with Outdoor Channel.
- Pursuit Channel – Owned by Outdoor Channel, focuses on outdoor adventure.
- MyOutdoorTV – Streaming service for outdoors and hunting shows on demand.
- NRA TV – Free online channel from National Rifle Association, gun-focused.
While they aren’t exactly the same, these substitutes all offer outdoors-related content and could scratch your Outdoor Channel itch if needed.
Request It From Your Provider
If you really want the Outdoor Channel but can’t find a package that includes it from your provider, you can always make a special request for them to add it. Call customer service or chat online with an agent and ask them politely if they can provide the Outdoor Channel as an a la carte or premium add-on.
Make your case for why it would be valued by you and other subscribers. While not guaranteed, providers will sometimes make exceptions to offer niche channels to keep customers happy. So it never hurts to ask!
Getting the Outdoor Channel on your TV doesn’t have to be difficult. With all the options available from major cable and satellite companies, streaming services, antennas, and online, you should be able to access this popular outdoor recreation programming. Compare your subscription and provider choices, look for the ideal package deal, and start enjoying hunting, fishing, shooting, and adventure shows in no time. The outdoors awaits – now get out there and watch it on the Outdoor Channel!
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting the Outdoor Channel
Getting the Outdoor Channel to watch your favorite outdoor programming shouldn’t be complicated. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about accessing this network:
What is the cheapest way to get the Outdoor Channel?
If available in your area, using an HDTV antenna to get the Outdoor Channel over-the-air for free is the cheapest option. Streaming services like Philo and Sling TV also offer it at budget rates, starting at $25 and $6 monthly respectively.
Does DIRECTV or DISH Network carry the Outdoor Channel?
Yes, the Outdoor Channel is available on both major satellite providers. It’s usually included in mid-level packages or higher, or can be added on for $5-10 more per month. Check their channel listings to confirm.
What packages offer the Outdoor Channel?
Sports packages, extra channels bundles, and higher-tier premium packages often include the Outdoor Channel across providers. Look for TV plans advertised as having expanded sports and specialty outdoor networks.
Can I stream the Outdoor Channel online?
You can stream past episodes and highlights from many Outdoor Channel shows on their website, mobile apps, and Youtube channel. Full episodes are also available for purchase on Prime Video, iTunes, and Google Play.
Does Hulu or YouTube TV have the Outdoor Channel?
Yes, live streaming services Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV both carry the Outdoor Channel on their base packages. This makes them a good option for cord cutters.
What if I can’t get the Outdoor Channel with my provider?
You can request they add it for you, switch to a provider that does offer it like DIRECTV or DISH, or substitute other similar channels like Sportsman Channel, Pursuit Channel, or World Fishing Network.
Is the Outdoor Channel available with an antenna?
In many regions you can use an over-the-air HDTV antenna to get the Outdoor Channel broadcast locally for free. Check AntennaWeb.org to see if it’s possible in your area.
Can I watch the Outdoor Channel live online?
If you have login credentials from a TV provider that includes the channel, you can stream it through their website or app. Otherwise, you can only view select full episodes and clips on demand, not the 24/7 live feed.
Getting the Outdoor Channel doesn’t require major upgrades or equipment changes for most people. Compare options from your TV provider, streaming services, antennas, and online sources to access this popular outdoor programming.
Conclusion
The Outdoor Channel offers hours of great outdoor entertainment through shows about hunting, fishing, shooting, off-roading, and adventure. While it may take some work, you have numerous options to access this channel by leveraging your existing TV provider, making a switch, utilizing an antenna, or streaming online and on demand. With this guide’s help, you’ll be enjoying exciting outdoor shows in no time.
The outdoors never looked so good. Get the channel to see it in vivid detail on your TV today!