Episode 23 - Saving Turkey Hunting History: The Wild Turkey Archives Story

A race against time to save the stories, footage, and legacy of wild turkey hunting. Wild turkeys nearly disappeared from the American landscape. What brought them back is one of the greatest conservation success stories in North America. What’s at risk now is the history behind it. This conversation dives into the creation of the Wild Turkey Archives and the mission to protect the culture, heritage, and untold stories of turkey hunting before they’re lost for good. From early trap-and-transfer efforts and rocket netting to decades-old VHS tapes and century-old hunting journals, this is a deep look into how turkey populations were restored and how the traditions around them were built. You’ll hear how thousands of hours of vintage hunting footage are being digitized, why old-school turkey hunting tactics and gear are making a comeback, and what modern hunters can learn from the grit, failures, and ingenuity of those who came before. There’s a raw authenticity in these stories that stands in stark contrast to today’s curated hunting content. If you care about turkey hunting, conservation history, and the deeper connection to the land, this is a look behind the curtain at the people and moments that shaped it all—and why preserving that legacy matters for the future of hunting. Follow the show for more weekly hunting and fishing conversations from the front lines of wild places. Get more from Field & Stream: https://www.fieldandstream.com/ Get to know your host, Sam Soholt: https://www.instagram.com/samsoholt/ Check out Paul’s work with Wild Turkey Archives: https://www.wildturkeyarchives.com/              Join the F&S 1871 Club and experience a membership dedicated to the outdoor culture of sporting traditions, storytelling, and the conservation of our lands: https://www.fieldandstream.com/1871-club/  This podcast is powered by Moultrie, the official trail camera of Field & Stream: https://www.moultrie.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices