Buckmasters Founder Jackie Bushman on Building an Outdoor Empire, Hunting, Conservation & Alabama Traditions

In this episode of Afield, Ellis Terry sits down with legendary outdoorsman and Buckmasters founder Jackie Bushman to discuss the remarkable story behind one of the most influential brands in hunting history. From his days as a nationally ranked tennis player and Auburn athlete to building Buckmasters into a household name among hunters, Jackie shares the journey that helped shape modern deer hunting, outdoor television, conservation, and hunting culture across America.Over four decades, Jackie has pioneered some of the outdoor industry's biggest innovations, including Buckmasters Magazine, the Buckmasters Classic, outdoor television programming, youth outreach initiatives, adaptive hunting programs, and conservation efforts that continue to impact hunters nationwide. He also reflects on growing up in Alabama, introducing kids to the outdoors, the importance of hunting camps, and how social media is changing the future of outdoor storytelling.The conversation dives into:• The founding and growth of Buckmasters• Alabama deer hunting and Southern hunting traditions• The early days of outdoor television and hunting media• Building one of the first nationally televised hunting shows• Conservation, hunter advocacy, and wildlife management• The Buckmasters Expo and Buckmasters Classic• Introducing children and families to hunting and fishing• Adaptive hunting programs for disabled hunters, veterans, and special-needs youth• Turkey hunting, bowhunting, and whitetail deer strategy• Hunting camps, outdoor friendships, and lifelong memories• Entrepreneurship, branding, and building a lasting legacyThis episode is a must-listen for deer hunters, outdoorsmen, conservationists, Buckmasters fans, and anyone passionate about Alabama outdoor culture, hunting traditions, and the people who helped shape the modern outdoor industry.Hosted by Ellis TerryPresented by Poarch Creek Indians