“The outdoors is about storytelling—capturing nature’s beauty and sharing it with those who cherish it.” — Ron Schara
Ron Schara is an American outdoor journalist, author, and television personality best known as the founder and host of Minnesota Bound, an Emmy Award–winning outdoor program on KARE 11. Born and raised in northeast Iowa, Schara has built a career admired for his storytelling, conservation advocacy, and passion for hunting and fishing. With over 40 years in the industry, he has become a legendary voice in outdoor media, often appearing with his beloved black Labrador, Raven, on his shows.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ron Schara |
| Birthdate | Not publicly disclosed |
| Birthplace | Northeast Iowa, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Age | Estimated late 70s |
| Height | Approx. 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) |
| Education | Iowa State University – Journalism & Fish & Wildlife Biology |
| Profession | Outdoor Journalist, Author, TV Host |
| Employer | Ron Schara Productions; KARE 11 (Minnesota Bound) |
| Spouse | Married (wife’s name not publicly disclosed) |
| Children | Includes daughter Laura Schara (TV host and blogger) |
| Awards | Multiple Emmy Awards; Outdoor writing and storytelling honors |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1–3 million |
| Salary | Not publicly disclosed |
Early Life & Education
Ron Schara grew up in northeast Iowa, surrounded by rugged bluff country that inspired his lifelong love of nature. He attended Iowa State University, where he majored in Journalism and Fish & Wildlife Biology, combining his passion for storytelling with his dedication to conservation.
Career Background
Schara began his career as an outdoor columnist for the Minneapolis Star Tribune, where his vivid and descriptive writing captured the spirit of the natural world. His columns resonated strongly with readers across the Midwest, steadily building his reputation as a trusted and authentic voice in outdoor storytelling. As his popularity grew, he expanded beyond print journalism and transitioned into television.
In 1995, Schara founded Ron Schara Productions and launched Minnesota Bound, a program dedicated to outdoor adventure, conservation, wildlife, and heartfelt storytelling. The show quickly became a cornerstone of Minnesota broadcasting, celebrated for its scenic features and meaningful narratives. A familiar presence alongside Schara was his black Labrador, Raven, who became a beloved on-screen companion and symbol of the program’s warmth and authenticity.
Schara further broadened his television legacy by creating Backroads with Ron and Raven, continuing his tradition of blending exploration with personal storytelling. Over the decades, his work has cemented his reputation as one of America’s most respected and beloved outdoor communicators, inspiring generations of viewers to appreciate and protect the outdoors.
Achievements
- Founder of Minnesota Bound, an Emmy Award–winning outdoor program
- Executive Producer of Ron Schara Productions
- Founding member of Pheasants Forever and the National Wild Turkey Federation
- Inducted into the Minnesota Fishing Hall of Fame
- Author of outdoor books including Ron Schara’s Minnesota

Personal Life & Family
Ron Schara is married and has children, including Laura Schara, who followed in his footsteps as a TV host and lifestyle blogger. His family has been deeply involved in outdoor storytelling and conservation.
Injury / Health Challenges
There are no publicly reported injuries or health challenges associated with Ron Schara.
Legacy
Schara’s legacy lies in his storytelling, conservation advocacy, and outdoor journalism. With decades of experience, he has inspired countless viewers to appreciate nature and protect wildlife. His programs, writings, and conservation work have made him a respected figure in outdoor media.
Ron Schara — FAQ (Outdoor Journalist / Media Personality)
Who is Ron Schara? He is an outdoor journalist, author, and founder of Minnesota Bound.
Where was he born? Northeast Iowa, USA.
What is his nationality? American.
Where did he study? Iowa State University – Journalism & Fish & Wildlife Biology.
What shows has he hosted? Minnesota Bound, Backroads with Ron and Raven.
Is he married? Yes.
Does he have children? Yes, including Laura Schara.
What awards has he won? Multiple Emmy Awards; outdoor writing and storytelling honors.
What is his net worth? Estimated $1–3 million.
What is he known for? His outdoor storytelling, conservation advocacy, and role as founder of Minnesota Bound.
Colleagues & Collaborators
- Laura Schara – Daughter and TV host
- Minnesota Bound Team – Production colleagues
- Pheasants Forever & National Wild Turkey Federation – Conservation collaborators
Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| Childhood | Grew up in northeast Iowa’s bluff country; developed love for nature |
| College | Iowa State University – majored in Journalism and Fish & Wildlife Biology |
| Career Start | Outdoor columnist for the Minneapolis Star Tribune |
| 1995 | Founded Ron Schara Productions; launched Minnesota Bound |
| 2000s | Expanded productions to include Backroads with Ron and Raven |
| Present | Executive Producer of Ron Schara Productions; host of Minnesota Bound |
Why Ron Schara Is in the News
Ron Schara is currently in the news for his continued work on Minnesota Bound, his conservation advocacy, and his enduring influence in outdoor storytelling.
What Caused the Search Surge for Ron Schara?
The search surge for Ron Schara was caused by his long-running TV show Minnesota Bound, his conservation work, and his reputation as one of America’s most respected outdoor journalists.









