Opening Weekend: Turkey Season in North Carolina

There’s something electric about opening weekend — that blend of hope, adrenaline, and early mornings that feels like the unofficial start of spring for hunters across North Carolina. Don't even get me started on that early morning kiss of dew and how silent the world is as the sun rises. It's magical. This weekend marked the beginning of turkey season, and while I’m still very much a student of the hunt, I couldn’t be more excited to be part of it.

Turkey hunting is no joke. It’s one of the most challenging pursuits I’ve taken on outdoors. These birds are smart, wary, and quick to disappear at the slightest sign of danger. Every rustle, every call, every movement requires patience and precision. It’s a steep learning curve, but I’m embracing it fully. Every outing teaches me something new — about the birds, the woods, and even myself.

What’s made this season feel even more special is the community around it. This weekend, my phone lit up with messages and calls from friends, all sharing their opening day successes. Photos of proud moments, stories of close calls, and genuine excitement filled the conversations. It felt like being part of something bigger than myself, a shared tradition that bonds us beyond just the hunt.

My goals for this season are clear: I want to capture the beauty of a wild turkey in its natural habitat through my lens, and I want to experience the thrill of landing one myself. Both would be milestones, not just for my hunting journey, but for the way I’m learning to connect more deeply with the outdoors.

There’s a long season ahead, and I’m grateful for every lesson, every story, and every step forward. Whether it’s behind the camera or behind the gun, I’m here for it — fully invested, fully inspired.