Nebraska

[Bothun]

Looking to take my 8 year old son to get him a Merriam's in Nebraska. I want to stay around Valentine or that area. I'm not opposed to an outfitter but do not want a guided hunt. Any information or recommendations?

[sticknstring]

I haven't hunted that far west in the state, but from what I've heard - there's plenty of birds. Search the state rec compass for public land or spend a few hours driving around and knocking on a few doors. Turkeys are mainly a nuisance to many of the farmers and you'll be able to secure access without too much difficulty. I really don't think an outfitter is required, unless you're completely new to the sport. But if you wanted a slam dunk there are certainly a few around. I'm assuming shotgun? Youth opens a week earlier than regular firearm too so crowds should be a non-issue.

[Hoyt4]

Youth will open April 5th so like Sticknstring said you would have less of a crowd. Most farmers will let you hunt just knock on a few doors. Heard that people have very good luck in the Valentine area.

[brittman]

I would think twice about running to Nebraska as a newbie with an eight year old in tow unless you are with an outfitter.

Fairly long drive just to get there and then driving a lot more to scout, gain permission, and then hunt is a tiring (but rewarding) process for an adult. In addition, you may often be hunting an hour away from your motel.

Western turkey hunting can be down right easy or it can be a lot of walking in wide open country ... an eight year old is probably not ready for the latter.

With the right outfitter you will be hunting close to where you stay (more sleep and a place to nap mid day is a plus) and they will often have blinds ready for you or will assist in showing you the birds and their patterns.

Killing a bird is the ultimate reward, but he will also remember all the other things ... often it is the little things. Keeping it simple will ensure he wants to come along again.

[Bothun]

This isn't his first out of state hunt. Looking at wma land east of Valentine. I'm from western part of the state close to South Dakota so its not to bad of a trip.

[cw642]

We've been going to Nebraska for several years now and when I say we, I mean my 10 year old and myself. We don't quite go all the way out to Valentine but have had tons of success hunting public land in the early youth/archery seasons. One word of caution though, the stuff along the rivers and creeks can be hard on the youngsters. Steep and thick are the two words I'd use to describe it.

The last bird for the boys first Grand Slam was taken on Nebraska public land when he was 6. It's a little tougher than hunting food plots like some prefer up here but definitely a very enjoyable place to hunt. As a matter of fact it's the only State we absolutely hunt every year. Not sure if you are tenting or maybe own a camper but we stay right where we hunt a lot of the time. Being able to harvest 6 birds between the two of us over a weekend is ten times better than we'll ever see in MN so even our drive is worth it. Go for it and have fun!!

[brittman]

A slam at 6?

[cw642]

He was 6, and even lost his first tooth riding around in the truck right after completing it.

[Bothun]

Headed out the 8th to the Ainsworth area. Hoping for a good trip!

[123fish]

Good luck and be sure to let us know how it goes.

[sticknstring]

Good luck!