NJ OWL members traveled to Texas on April 6th - 9th, 2001, to partake in a much anticipated spring gobbler turkey hunt. For many, it was their first time hunting turkeys, and for one, it was their first hunting experience. The outfitter, Magnum Guide Service of Eldorado, Texas, very graciously arranged for members to have a lodge to themselves, and went the extra mile by donating guides and offering a discount for the hunt.

Because MGS is a fair-chase operation and does not permit baiting or the use of rifles or handguns on their turkey hunts, participants were able to capitalize on prime conditions to learn about the nuances of turkey hunting and not just turkey shooting. Participants learned about turkey hunting safety, tactics, calling and wild turkey behavior, as well as game care and what is involved when traveling with firearms via airline. It was also a good opportunity to observe other kinds of wildlife not found in New Jersey and learn about the habitats and land uses of the Trans-Pecos region of Texas. Good rainfall weeks before resulted in an explosion of greenery and wild flowers that stretched across the Texas hills and flats in luxuriant, colorful spreads.

Members spent a lot of time at the firing range patterning their guns, studying turkey hunting tactics and doing other preparations in anticipation of this event and were rewarded handsomely for all their hard work. Everyone got shots and all but one hunter was able to bring at least one bird home. Three NJ OWL members got 2 birds each (the outfitter limit) and Margaret, who had never hunted anything before, killed her first turkey on the second day of the hunt. Everyone agreed the trip was a tremendous learning experience that provided a big leg up for the next time they would venture into the spring turkey woods. The rare opportunity to enjoy the camaraderie and support of other women hunters was another plus. Enthusiasm for this event was so high that everyone put down deposits to return next year.

NJ OWL would like to extend a special "thank you" to Ron Branca of the Sportsmen’s Center in Bordentown for helping the women learn about turkey calling prior to the trip. In addition, Ed Tracy of Jackson donated brand new Dale Rohm and Quaker Boy box calls to participants, and Wayne Smith of Howell donated a crow call that helped tip-off the location of more than one Rio Grande gobbler. Last but not least, NJ OWL would like to thank Jim and Melony Roche of Magnum Guide Service for providing participants with a tremendous learning experience, and great memories that will last their lifetime. We can't wait for next year!

NJ OWL members with our hosts, Jim and Melony Roche of Magnum Guide Service.

A Rio Grande gobbler, one of five subspecies of wild turkey.

The Rio Grande subspecies of turkey has tail feathers tipped with a buff or sand color.

Wide open West Texas habitat.

Ranch hands herding sheep with ATVs and dogs.

Cathy and Rosemarie admiring a cactus in full bloom.

An armadillo poking under the rocks for food.

A javelina, or collared peccary, is a type of pig that lives in parts of the southwest.

Gloria and Dierdre discuss the morning's activities with guide Neil Grant.

Glassing for gobblers.

Dierdre and her first turkey!

NJ OWL members with the gobblers Rosemarie and Gloria got on opening morning.

Although no one encountered any rattlesnakes,
hunters wore snake leggings in case they accidentally stepped on one!

Gloria and her limb-hanger!

Hunting guide Neil Grant talks with Marianne.

Hauling in the second morning's bag.

 
Margaret describes her first hunting experience -- and shows off her first turkey!

Plucking at the dump.

Bluebonnets, also known as lupines, were in great abundance.
They are the state flower of Texas.

NJ OWLers in the bluebonnets!