Texas Wildlife Association and NWTF Texas Collaborate on Adult Mentored Hunt Event in Mathis

On a warm spring weekend near Mathis, Texas, the rolling landscape of McGloin Ranch set the stage for an unforgettable experience hosted by the Texas Wildlife Association and the National Wild Turkey Federation.

Photo courtesy of Code Red Production/ Cody Gill

Cody Gill - June 24, 2025

As part of the Adult Learn-to-Hunt Program, five new hunters were given the opportunity to pursue their first wild turkey alongside dedicated mentors and volunteers.

The program, designed to teach hunting skills to adult newcomers, brought together passionate conservationists like Matt Hughes from TWA and Mike Shouse of NWTF. Before the hunters ever set foot in the field, they received hands-on instruction in turkey calling from veteran caller Bob Linder — laying the foundation for a thoughtful, ethical hunt.

Josh Rodriguez, one of the mentees, was partnered with me for the weekend. Our first sit on Friday brought promise, with a lone hen investigating our decoys. A tom gobbled across the river behind us but never crossed, despite our best efforts. Saturday morning proved quieter, and even a location change for the evening hunt only offered a distant glimpse of jakes and toms 600 yards out — too far to pursue effectively.

But persistence paid off.

Sunday morning, with our final chance ahead of us, we returned to the area where we last saw the birds. After minimal early movement, we went mobile, hoping to close the distance. Eventually, we tucked ourselves into tall grass and sparse brush, calling softly and waiting. The gamble worked. A group of birds moved toward us, and Josh held steady. With a single shot, he harvested not one but two jakes—a moment of success that was hard-earned and richly deserved.

Throughout the weekend, the two of us each logged over 20 miles on foot, scouting sign and tracking patterns. Rest was minimal, but the experience was rich in connection, challenge and growth. While we often say a successful hunt isn’t measured by pulling the trigger, having fresh turkey in the cooler sure makes the drive home feel rewarding.

Programs like ALHP not only introduce people to turkey hunting but also build future conservationists, stewards of the land and advocates for wildlife. Thanks to TWA, NWTF and the McGloin Ranch, five new hunters now carry the tradition forward.