As a child, I remember reading the stories of renown bowhunter, Chuck Adams, as he came to be the first bowhunter to complete the Super Slam of North American Big Game in 1990. It was something new. It was different. And the stories of adventure were addicting. It was the first I had ever heard the term, Super Slam. But did you know there are other Slam opportunities beyond big game? In fact, the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) recognizes a variety of Wild Turkey Slams.
That’s right! The wild turkey even has its own Super Slam category, the highest level of achievement for the turkey hunter. Read on for a closer look at the various Slams recognized by the NWTF.
What are the Different Slams?
Here’s a closer look at the different wild turkey slams you’ll find in the NWTF data base.
Grand Slam — All four U.S. Subspecies (Eastern, Osceola or Florida, Rio Grande and Merriam’s).
Royal Slam — The Grand Slam plus the Gould’s (found in Mexico and limited areas of the Southwest).
World Slam — Royal Slam plus the ocellated wild turkey (found in Mexico and Central America).
Canadian Slam — Harvesting the Eastern and Merriam’s in any Canadian province (Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba, Alberta or British Colombia).
Mexican Slam — Rio Grande, Gould’s and ocellated wild turkey harvested in Mexico only.
U.S. Super Slam — Harvest one wild turkey subspecies in every state except Alaska.
According to the NWTF’s website, the wild turkey records database accumulates records on all wild turkeys currently or previously registered to determine who has accomplished the Grand, Royal, Mexican, Canadian or World Slams. The completion of a slam does not require the kills to take place in a single calendar year.
What’s in it for you?
Aside from the sense of pride and braggin’ rights that come with achieving any of the slams, the NWTF acknowledges slam accomplishments by sending the following:
- You will receive a slam certificate(s) for each accomplished slam.
- You will receive a distinctive wild turkey record slam pin(s) for each accomplished slam.
- All slams will be published on the official NWTF website.
What about you? Have you ever completed any of the wild turkey slams? If not, would you give it a try?
Comment below and let us know which slam would interest you the most.
