National Wild Turkey Federation/East Texas Chapter

05/30/2026

Mr. George will be deeply missed by the turkey community. One of the greats…

We are deeply saddened by the passing of our friend George Mayfield. The man loved hunting and especially turkey hunting. Whether it was a side of the road conversation about why the turkeys weren’t gobbling or formal discussion about hunting strategy, George had a unique way with words. Through the years, he made multiple appearances on the Gamekeeper podcast that left no doubt to anyone listening, that he knew turkeys.
On the side of the road, his heavily worn Bottomland hunting coat, was a visual testimony to the hours this man spent in the spring woods. It became important to him to pass on his knowledge and experiences so that turkey hunters could benefit for years to come. George knew turkeys and lived a life that allowed him to “break day” with them most days. We know his sons and they will miss him and turkey season will be a constant reminder to them. From all of us at Mossy Oak and Gamekeepers, our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Those side of the road morning talks will be missed.

05/25/2026

05/14/2026

❗️POULTS IN HENDERSON COUNTY❗️A private land manager came across a hen and her very young poults while out on the property! This is HUGE for our area! Wild turkey restoration efforts continue to improve in the East Texas region thanks to Texas Parks and Wildlife, The National Wild Turkey Federation, and local landowners!

04/28/2026

Turkeys now inhabit 223 of the 254 counties in Texas. Wild turkeys are found in almost 90 percent of Texas’ 254 counties, and while the vast majority are Rio Grande turkeys, there are eastern turkeys in a handful counties east of the Trinity River, and maybe an even smaller number of Merriam’s i...

04/16/2026

He’s baaaack! 🐻

The American black bear we’ve been following since July 2025 has reemerged and is currently making its rounds again in Anderson and Cherokee Counties in East Texas.

Thanks to verified reports from the public, we believe this bear successfully overwintered along the Neches River corridor. If so, this would be the first documented black bear to overwinter in East Texas in over 50 years!

Based off reports, this bear is still shy and afraid of humans. 👀 If you see this bear, please report to your county biologist or game warden. (Find contact info on our website at tpwd.texas.gov)

This young black bear is growing fast and could hit full maturity by mid‑summer. Based on its travels, it may be heading toward bear country in Louisiana, Arkansas, or Oklahoma to find a mate.

Black bears are a protected species in Texas. Get tips for coexisting safely with bears at bit.ly/TexasBearSafety or visit BearWise at BearWise.org

We thank everyone for your continued support in helping us track and live with this black bear!