Strategic Priorities for Hunting Heritage in the Southeast

The NWTF has identified specific regional priorities to drive its Recruitment, Retention and Reactivation efforts and overall hunting heritage initiatives across the country. In the Southeast, these include: 

• Emphasize retention efforts by reducing participant churn and creating clear next-step activities for ongoing involvement. 

• Expand hunting and shooting sports access across the Southeast to break down physical, financial and social barriers. 

• Expand opportunities to engage non-traditional audiences, including urban communities, women, minorities, and veterans, through outreach and programming. 

These priorities are actively shaping programs, events and outreach across the region. 

At the heart of every successful NWTF hunting heritage effort is a strong network of volunteers, staff, educators and partner organizations. Signature Education and Outreach programs include Women in the Outdoors, JAKES, Wheelin’ Sportsmen, Mentored Hunts, Field to Fork and more. These initiatives provide entry points for newcomers and veteran outdoor enthusiasts alike, fostering a culture of mentorship and lifelong learning. 

NWTF chapters and partners across the Southeast hosted hundreds of impactful hunting heritage events — each one a testament to the mission in action. Whether introducing new hunters to the field, building shooting skills or creating camaraderie of the outdoors, these events serve a larger purpose: continuing the future of hunting and conservation. 

Here are just a few standout moments that encapsulate the NWTF’s efforts in action within the Southeast.  

South Carolina WITO Dove Hunt 

The South Carolina NWTF State Chapter recently hosted its NWTF Women in the Outdoors Dove Hunt in Bradley, South Carolina, in partnership with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and South Carolina Wildlife Partnership. 

Seven ladies from across the Palmetto State attended one of the most sought-after events for women. The annual hunt allows for women who have never hunted before to learn about hunting, firearm safety, and gives them the opportunity to hunt doves for the first time. 

Through its Take One Make One Program, SCDNR representatives provided an in-depth overview before the new hunters took to the field. The seven new hunters took a Dove Hunting 101 course, learning how to hunt the species, season structures and biology. The ladies also learned firearm safety and shotgun instruction to prepare them for the dove field. 

Oxford Mississippi Chapter JAKES Event 

For the ninth year, the NWTF Mississippi Oxford Chapter hosted the state’s only youth hunt of its kind, helping foster the next generation of hunters and outdoor enthusiasts by connecting them with the natural world. 

Despite the challenging weather, the dedication of volunteers and support from local donors ensured another successful event. Fifteen young hunters, seven of whom were brand-new to the experience, participated in the hunt, creating lasting memories during the opening of Mississippi’s youth turkey season.  

To secure a spot, interested youth were required to attend the Mississippi Oxford Chapter Banquet and become NWTF JAKES members in order to be entered into a random drawing for the hunt. Open to kids ages 8 to 15, the hunt has grown significantly since its inception. What began nine years ago with just five participants has now expanded to bring 15 youth hunters afield each spring.  

“We’re drawing kids now not just locally, but from all over Mississippi,” said Deanna Massey, Mississippi State JAKES coordinator. “The word has spread over the years, and these kids really look forward to it.” 

North Carolina Mountain Island Educational State Forest WITO Hunt  

The Mountain Island Educational State Forest, while not open to regular hunting, offers unique and exciting opportunities for special hunts. For instance, a recent NWTF Women in the Outdoors (WITO) mentored turkey hunt last spring was an engaging experience for women seeking to get more involved in hunting and the outdoors. Both the conservation work and hunting heritage efforts on the state forest are a testament to the collaboration and work the North Carolina NWTF State Chapter and the North Carolina Forest Service undertake in support of moving of the NWTF’s mission forward.   

Texas NWTF Adult Mentored Hunt  

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. 

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. 

As the NWTF looks toward 2026 and beyond, the organization is doubling down on its commitment to hunting heritage, across the country and in the Southeast. The NWTF is working to 

• Grow access to land and shooting facilities 

• Expand outreach to underrepresented groups 

• Strengthen mentorship networks 

• Enhancing the quality and reach of events 

With strong partnerships, strategic priorities and grassroots momentum, NWTF’s hunting heritage efforts in the Southeast are building a stronger future — one hunter, one event and one community at a time. 

How You Can Help 

Whether you're a seasoned hunter, a first-time participant, or simply someone who believes in the value of outdoor traditions, there's a place for you in the NWTF’s mission. Here’s how to get involved: 

• Attend or volunteer at a local hunting heritage event 

• Become a mentor for new or returning hunters 

• Support NWTF’s Education and Outreach programs 

• Donate or become a member at NWTF.org 

Together, we can ensure that the traditions we value today will continue to inspire generations to come. Whether it’s introducing youth to their first hunt, honoring veterans or welcoming new families into the fold, NWTF’s hunting heritage events build more than skills — they build community and a lasting commitment to conservation.