Episode 2 Texas Turkey Featuring Jason Hardin of TPWD

On this episode of the Equalized Outdoors Podcast, Justin sits down with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Wild Turkey Program Leader Jason Hardin to discuss what’s really happening with wild turkey restoration across North Texas and what it could mean for future hunting opportunities near the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex.The conversation covers corridor-based restoration along the Trinity River, the role of habitat management in long-term population recovery, and how emerging tools, such as Turkey Management Units, could eventually create limited hunting access in restored landscapes.They also address common misconceptions about stocking, the reality of hunting public land near DFW, and why predator management and prescribed fire remain critical to keeping birds on the landscape once restoration succeeds.Justin also breaks down current access challenges facing Metroplex hunters, discusses walk-in hunting models used in other states, and highlights how conservation partners like the National Wild Turkey Federation and Turkeys for Tomorrow are supporting restoration work across Texas.Also in this episode:The Brief: Idaho moves to restrict the use of certain electronics while hunting—and what that signals about where technology and ethics may be headed nationwide.Off the Streets: Not all money is good money—a look at why Equalized Outdoors is being intentional about partnerships and what that means going forward.The Bridge: A deeper conversation with TPWD on restoration strategy, access realities near the Metroplex, and what success could look like over time.Soundtrack: The music that’s been setting the tone lately.Whether you’re a turkey hunter in North Texas or just trying to understand how restoration decisions shape opportunity on the landscape, this episode breaks down what’s happening—and what to watch next.Whether you’re a longtime turkey hunter, a new turkey hunter, or just trying to understand why some North Texas counties remain closed, this episode provides a clear look at where things stand—and what may be coming next.