The 2023 National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) Show is officially underway, and Day 1 lived up to all the hype this show annually brings to Nashville, Tennessee. Every year, Nashville turns into Turkey Town for 3 days as this exciting show rolls into the Opryland Resort & Convention Center. Whether you’re an avid turkey hunter, or not, this is one event you definitely need to put on the calendar each year.
It’s a show my boys and I look forward to every year as we catch up with old friends, meet some new ones, and see all the latest turkey gear and calls unleashed for the upcoming season. Here’s a look at what we found at this year’s event.
One of the highlights to the kickoff of this year’s show was Mossy Oak’s release of their all-new Mr. Fox Turkey Vest. The limited edition vest was designed to honor Mr. Fox Haas, the father of Mossy Oak founder, Toxey Haas.
Mr. Fox has been a pioneer in conservation for longer than most of us have been alive. He helped establish a thriving turkey population in various parts of Mississippi and is most noted for his quote, “I believe the good that men do will live long after they’re gone.” And there’s no doubt that’ll be the case when Mr. Fox finally reaches the end of his journey.
The vest is a celebration of Mr. Fox’s conservation legacy, with proceeds going back to fund greater turkey conservation efforts.
As you can imagine, turkey hunters waited long hours in line for the chance to buy one of the first of 400 vests to be released at this year’s show. How long? One South Carolina man drove 9 hours to get in line at 7pm the night before to purchase the vest. He was the first to lay down the $450 cash for the vest when the show officially opened.
Here’s a few of the people and products we came across on Day 1 of the 2023 NWTF Show.
The 2023 NWTF continues Friday and Saturday in Nashville. If you’re anywhere close, be sure to stop in, and see what the fuss is all about. Also, be sure to check back here at Bowhunting.com for all the latest updates and product reviews from the show.
For more information about the National Wild Turkey Federation and their conservation efforts, check out their website at www.nwtf.org.
