NWTF Michigan Gears Up for Spring Turkey Season with Hunting Workshops and Mentored Hunts

Turkey Hunting 101 Workshops 

The Michigan NWTF State Chapter will host two Turkey Hunting 101 Workshops in early April, providing essential insights into wild turkey behavior, hunting strategies and post-harvest preparation. 

Through a mix of classroom instruction, interactive games and hands-on practice, participants will learn everything from selecting the right camouflage, calls and firearms to scouting locations and understanding turkey behavior. Whether you’re gearing up for your first hunt or looking to refine your skills, these workshops offer invaluable guidance. 

“Turkeys are intelligent wild animals that are wary of humans,” said Jen Davis, NWTF hunting and shooting R3 coordinator for Michigan. “Their keen eyesight makes up for their lack of smell and they can detect even the slightest amount of movement, so hunting them is challenging. We encourage you to learn all you can before hitting the woods to begin your turkey hunting adventures — a safe and successful hunt depends on it.” 

The first workshop will take place on April 2 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Montibeller Park Pavilion in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Those interested can register online here.  

The second workshop will be held on April 5 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Williams Gun Sight Company in Davison, Michigan. To register, participants can contact James Miller via email at jmmturkey@att.net or by phone at (810) 513-9820. Justin Mitchell is also available for registration inquiries at justinmitchell88@gmail.com or (810) 938-0607. 

Mentored Hunts 

For those seeking a more hands-on experience, the Michigan NWTF State Chapter is hosting the Learn to Hunt Wild Turkeys spring mentored hunt from April 25-27 at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Hastings, Michigan. This event, tailored for new adult hunters, provides an immersive learning experience in a prime habitat spanning 740 acres managed for wildlife. 

The cost for participation is $225, which includes two nights of lodging at the Meadow Lodge Housing Unit, meals and a wild game sampling on Saturday evening. The event is limited to eight new hunters, with two hunters assigned to each mentor on a first-come, first-served basis. 

For more information, those interested can contact Jen Davis via email at jdavis@nwtf.net or by phone at (734) 680-6049. Registration is available online. 

Additionally, women interested in learning to hunt in a supportive community can participate in the Becoming an Outdoors Woman Turkey Hunting Basics and Hunt, hosted by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The NWTF Michigan State Chapter continues to support this event, providing mentorship and resources for female hunters.  

The event will take place on May 15-16 at the DNR Cass City Field Office in Cass City, Michigan, and is open to first-time hunters ages ten and older. Participants will learn about turkey biology, hunting tools and techniques, scouting, laws and ethics, calls and calling. The event includes range practice, scouting, a mentored morning hunt and a bird-cleaning demonstration before wrapping up. The cost for the workshop is $5, and it includes lunch both days, along with a light breakfast and snacks on the second day. 

For more information or to register, visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website.  

These workshops and mentored hunts provide new and aspiring turkey hunters with the skills, knowledge and experience to embark on a successful and ethical hunting season. Whether just getting started or looking to improve technique, Michigan NWTF’s events offer the perfect opportunity to learn and connect with the hunting community.