NWTF Convention 2026 Day 2: Why Showing Up Still Matters in the Turkey Hunting Industry

After nearly skipping Saturday due to expected crowds, Day 2 at the NWTF Convention 2026 delivered stronger conversations, meaningful relationships, and a clear reminder of why presence still matters in the turkey-hunting industry.

I almost wrote Saturday off.

After experiencing the crowds on Friday, I expected Saturday at the National Wild Turkey Federation Convention to be heavier, louder, and harder to move through—the kind of day where meaningful conversations get swallowed by foot traffic and noise.

It would’ve been easy to assume the experience and stay back.

Instead, I took my own advice and showed up anyway, and to my surprise, Saturday turned out to be quite enjoyable.

The Value of Showing Up NWTF Convention 2026

With Saturday's expectations admittedly low, I went in without much of a plan and with only a small list of must-see vendors. Where Friday focused on the vendors, it became more about face time and good-ole-fashioned networking on Saturday.

That mindset paid off quickly.

I quickly connected with a rep from GSM Outdoors, a Dallas-area local and longtime NWTF attendee, and he made a comment that stuck with me. I had mentioned the low number of attendees who resembled us, and he replied, to my surprise, that it was the most Black representation he’s seen in his 23 years at NWTF.

While it was encouraging to know that progress is being made, the truth is the bar is still incredibly low. Our mission statement, "Leveling the Playing Field," here at Equalized Outdoors, is our way of changing that.

Relationships, Not Transactions

My first planned stop came via a recommendation from another industry professional, and I'm glad it was suggested. I thoroughly enjoyed speaking with, let's call him, Mr. AW, and hope to have the opportunity to engage more in the future.

That interaction reinforced something important: relationships compound. Showing up consistently—and showing up without an agenda—creates trust and builds bonds. Today's world is very much what can you do for me lately, but just allow things to develop organically and see what comes from it.

A second must-do for me was to connect with Hunter Farrior, who you may know from his work with The Spring Legion. It's been an absolute joy to watch their growth and connect over social media throughout the years. Meeting him and Chase in person meant a lot to me. Both are down-to-earth, humble guys who just love wild turkeys.

Left: Hunter Farrior

For those of you who may not be aware, Hunter has written two books, both of which are amazing, and they have a complete line of turkey-hunting gear, including vests, boots, gaiters, pants, and more. I had a chance to check out the vest at NWTF, and it looks like it's worth adding to your arsenal if you're in the market.

A Moment That Mattered

One of the more meaningful moments of the day came from a conversation with someone who needs no introduction in the turkey world—Mr—Ronnie “Cuz” Strickland, of Mossy Oak himself.

We had a chance to talk, and I learned a few things simply by listening. It was a solid, genuine conversation that I enjoyed.

Cuz even took the time to grab a photo with Michah and me. Now that may seem small, but moments and small gestures matter. I appreciated him taking the time to talk and to share that unexpected moment with us.

Black Lightning Sets the Tone

Left: Mr. Stanley Wymbs Right: Author

Meeting and spending time with Stanley Wymbs, a renowned turkey call owner of Black Lightning Custom Calls and Mossy Oak Pro Staff, was the absolute highlight of the day.

Mr. Stanley was more than humble and generous with both his knowledge and time.

He didn’t just sell calls—he taught us how to run them properly. Real instruction. No ego. No rush, and a way of teaching that can make a turkey caller out of anyone. He truly has a gift.

I picked up his new crystal call, "The Compassionate Savage." Micah grabbed one as well, and we captured a brief on-camera interview that demonstrates the techniques to run his calls.

My goal was just to meet the legend and shake his hand, yet he gave me so much more than I could ever repay. If you have the opportunity to meet him, I highly recommend it.

End of Day Reflection

By the time I made it back to the hotel, my cup was full.

Clear-headed. In a good mood. Already ready to get to work. I ordered some food, wrapped it on Day 2, and capped the night with a phone call from Mr. Stanley.

Saturday reinforced something critical but straightforward:

You don’t get access, alignment, or opportunity if you don’t show up.

Sometimes the most meaningful days are the ones you almost skip.