Turkey Hunting with a Toddler: Howling Edition

posted on May 20, 2020
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Video by Melissa Bachman

Anyone who has ever hunted turkeys knows that guile and a cunning plan are the name of the game, and staying still for a long time is pretty much mandatory. While it's a challenge for even the most experienced of hunters to remain stealth and play the waiting game in his or her quest for the spring trophy, there should be no expectation that an 18-month old newbie hunter can keep the peace for even two minutes. So why on earth would anyone bring along their toddler, knowing he's guaranteed to be a spoiler?

Because it's too adorable to resist. And when your mom is Melissa Bachman, who spends more than 300 days a year afield, it all makes more sense. 

Watch this super cute and hilarious video of Jax on his first-ever turkey adventure, in which he gets to drive his own special ATV with his dogs in tow; explore the turkey woods; eat lots of Cheetos and, oh, yes—try his luck at calling in a turkey with an adorable (yet not surprisingly ineffective) howl.

 

About the Videographer: Raised by family and mentors for whom hunting and fishing were a passion and a way of life, Melissa Bachman grew up in central Minnesota, where outdoor dreams can come true. After studying television broadcasting and Spanish at St. Cloud State University, she began her career as a TV intern and then a full-time producer. With a goal of being in front of the camera, she spent every spare moment filming, editing and producing her own hunts, honing her craft and showcasing her skills. Ultimately her dreams became a reality. Today, Melissa spends more than 300 days a year in the field worldwide, filming and producing her series, “Winchester Deadly Passion,” now in its ninth season. Through her writing and videos, Melissa’s journey and commitment to the outdoors, family, the conservation of nature, and sharing has made her an ambassador for our cherished way of life

 

Latest

Mission First Pocket Holster Lede
Mission First Pocket Holster Lede

New Gear 2026: Mission First Tactical Pocket Holster

The holster's unique profile design helps keep the firearm in position while mimicking the profile of a cell phone.

What's an NRA Woman to do at the 155th NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits? SO Much!

Registration is now open for NRA's largest and most exciting event of the year—this year in Houston, Texas.

Registration for the SIG Sauer ROSE Retreat is Now Open

The ROSE Retreat is an immersive, women-only experience designed to help you grow in confidence, skill and connection.

The Armed Citizen® February 27, 2026

A woman allegedly being assaulted by her boyfriend put a deadly stop to the abuse.

Women for Gun Rights Hosts Ladies Summit

The event, attended by top social media personalities, was designed to introduce women outside the traditional firearms industry to hands-on education rooted in freedom-based values and personal responsibility.

Team Colt's Jalise Williams Victorious at 2025 World Shoot

Williams earned Classic Overall Ladies and Overall Team Champion, and also finished 14th Overall in the Classic Division—the highest placement ever achieved by a woman in Classic Division competition at a World Shoot.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.