Join Woods + Waters Project and the Iowa DNR for an Intro to Turkey Hunting Workshop. 

Instructors Steph Lane and Jacob Heumphreus will help get you ready to head out turkey hunting this spring. Participants will start off learning about the history of the Wild Turkey in Iowa and turkey biology. A large portion of the day will be spent on different turkey hunting methods, scouting tips and patterning your shotgun. Lastly, instructors will cover what you need to do after the harvest and once you get the turkey home. Participants will walk away with the basic knowledge needed to start hunting turkeys. Lunch will be provided and the class will be outdoors as much as the weather permits.

Jacob Heumphreus + Steph Lane Bios

Born and raised in Eastern Iowa both, Jacob and Steph have been hunting and avid outdoorsmen since they were small children. Both have been apart of local events and partnered with organizations to mentor new hunters for multiple years.

Jacob has been a Snow Goose Guide for 10 years, is a competitive coon hunter, and has traveled the United States guiding, mentoring, and living an adventurous life. Steph is the host and creator of the outdoors podcast, Woods and Waters Project, and archery and hunting instructor.

But why Turkey hunting? Both have a love of chasing turkeys and taking others along with them! It's a great way to introduce newbies to hunting or get the adrenaline pumping that comes from a Tom Turkey thundering through the timber!

Please note:
This is an active, skills-based event. Come prepared to get muddy, and dressed for the variable spring weather. We will be outside most of the day to allow for social distancing. Make sure to bring water and snacks. Lunch will be provided.

Agenda

Turkey Basics
Identification
Characteristics
Maps + Regions

Hunting and Regulations

Scouting
Bird basic needs, food + habitat
Why they are where they are
Courtship
Fall vs. Spring­­­­­

Preparing for the Hunt
Mentorship/community
Finding a place to hunt
Gear
Calling
Ammo + Patterning

After the Hunt
Cleaning the Bird
Field to Table
Telling your Story