HENDERSON - “Thirty-eight gators in seven days – that was my goal and a pretty impressive accomplishment in my book,” local trapper Jude Mequet said when asked what motivated him during the filming of his recent hunting documentary.

“All my life my dream has been to make a living doing what I love, and that’s hunting and fishing. People have actually laughed in my face after hearing me say that, but I could care less. I’ve always known I wanted to be a hunter. And I look forward to the possibility of being able to share my passion, and admiration for my heritage with the world.”

Growing up alongside Atchafalaya River has definitely had a great influence over Mequet’s life. His true Cajun lifestyle has intrigued outsiders, and has bestowed upon him once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.

In 2004, his family was chosen over hundreds of competing candidates to be showcased in an episode of “The Simple Life 2,” revealing to America the good ol’ southern hospitality St. Martin Parish has to offer. After that introduction to national television, Mequet quickly realized that a career in front of the camera was something else he wanted to pursue.

His innate hunting abilities, charisma, and ease in front of the camera have made his dream of venturing into the world of television and documentaries a seemingly effortless journey. He has made appearances on other shows, like “Only in America” with Larry the Cable Guy, and has been contacted by producers located around the globe interested in his talents.

His parents’ business, Cypress Cove Landing, is also no stranger to the limelight. It has served as a prime location for multiple movies. You may have recognized it in the spine tingling 2008 thriller “Dunwitch Horror,” Sci-Fi Channel’s 2010 original movie “Swamp Shark,” or in the 2011 unforgettable car and airboat duel that was broadcast on an episode of History Channel’s car enthusiast show, “Top Gear.”

Mequet collaborated with members of each crew that visited and gained an impressive knowledge of movie production. Adding to his already extensive resumé, he was recently approached by the Cajun Outdoors team, where they granted him the privilege of becoming a pro-staffer in their upcoming hunting series.

This offer was extended shortly after his debut in the magazine’s February-March issue. Acquiring these experiences has made it possible for Jude to expand his affinity of the outdoors through various available outlets.

Some may call him crazy. Others might just say he is chasing after the impossible. But one thing is certain, Mequet has definitely been bringing himself and his quaint little hometown of Henderson into the spotlight.

The completion of his latest project, “Atchafalaya Tails,” is sparking interest among several television networks including the Discovery Channel, Animal Planet, History Channel, and National Geographic.

“With so many programs out there nowadays, I wanted to offer something no one else seems to have, something real,” Mequet said. “This documentary is filled with raw action. The camera is rolling live, from the time I pull up to the line until the final kill shot. There’s no take two in my boat.”

Inspiration for the second installment came shortly after the successful release of their first creation, “Hunting the Atchafalaya,” where Eric Breaux, a local film maker, followed Jude as he hunted the various wildlife that occupy the surrounding basin.

“After the premiere of the first video we learned that our viewers enjoyed the gator hunting scenes the most,” Mequet said. “So this time we focused more on that and we’re coming back bigger and better.”

From the host to the location, every aspect of this documentary is authentic.

“We wanted this entire video to be filled with Louisiana-grown talent,” Mequet said. Local musicians Drew Landry, Brian Marshal, Troy Richard, Louie Michot, and Dege Legg (whose musical creations have been heard on Discovery Channel’s popular series “Deadliest Catch”) generously donated their work and lent a unique aspect to the film that will captivate audiences across generations.

Join Jude as he reveals the methods to his madness in this high definition filmed personal tour of the Atchafalaya. If you are tired of being objected to over exaggerated story lines and redundant two line gimmicks, come and enjoy a glimpse into a local trapper’s life. Become a witness as he single handedly embarks on a mission to rid the basin of its most dangerous alligators.

“Atchafalaya Tails” premieres Thursday, April 5, in the banquet room at Crawfish Town USA. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., where moviegoers can enjoy donated gumbo and drinks before the show begins at 7 p.m.

Tickets will be available for purchase at the door, limited seating offered. Please contact ericbreaux@yahoo.com or judemek0214@yahoo.com for more information. Limited seating is available so reserve your tickets now!

If you are interested in previewing past videos or learning more about Jude and Eric’s work you can search Jude Mequet on youtube.com or visit their websites www.huntingtheatchafalaya.com and www.atchafalayatails.com.