The Gerber/Bear Grylls “Priorities of Survival” seminars are one of the highlighted activities during our Go Outdoors Event & Sale. The seminars take place at 12:30, 2:30 and 4:30 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday of the event and highlight the information found in the “Bear Grylls Priorities of Survival Pocket Guide,” available with most of the Gerber/Bear Grylls knife collection.

Bear Grylls is one of the most recognizable faces of survival and outdoor adventure. A trained martial artist, he spent three years in the British Special Forces and is one of the youngest climbers to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Bear went on to star in Discovery Channel’s Emmy nominated Man Vs Wild and Born Survivor TV series, reaching an estimated audience of 1.2 billion people.

The Gerber/ Bear Grylls Ultimate Fixed Blade Knife can be found at your local Bass Pro Shops. The knife has a stainless steel pommel for hammering, and comes with emergency whistle, fire starter and nylon sheath. The handle features a textured rubber grip to reduce slippage. The knife also comes with a sharpener built into the sheath and is packaged with the “Gerber/ Bear Grylls Priorities of Survival Pocket Guide.”               

A variety of Gerber and Bear Grylls-licensed knives are available for in-store and online purchases. See in-store schedules for more Go Outdoors activities.

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Every day is Mother’s Day at your local Bass Pro Shops! Don’t wait for a random Sunday in May to show your Mom how much she means to you.

First off, if she enjoys hunting then head back to our Hunting Counter and take a look at the Haley Heath Buck Knife series. These knives are designed for users with smaller hands and come in a variety of colors. The knives were voted “Best of the Best” by Field & Stream in September 2012.

If fashion is more up her alley, then take a look at our Ladies’ Apparel department.  You are sure to find something she will like, no matter what her taste. From the breezy, casual collections of Natural Reflections to the classic, chic look of Bob Timberlake, you are sure to find something to please anyone, no matter what her style. Don’t forget coordinating footwear from Redhead, Natural Reflections, Crocs, Columbia and more.

Gift items abound at Bass Pro Shops. Artwork, candles, and cookbooks are available in our Gifts Department. You will also find a variety of bedding, throws, towels and decorative items for the home. A huge variety of wind chimes, night lights and garden decorations are available to enhance any area of your home, inside or out.

Bass Pro Shops is the perfect destination for gift-shopping, for any member of the family, anytime of the year.  If you just can’t decide on what to buy, then opt for a Bass Pro Shops gift card. They are available in any denomination and never expire. BPS gift cards can be used for online or in-store purchases.

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Has this happened to you? You are enjoying a warm, summer day on your pool float, completely relaxed, but then have to climb out of the pool to get something to drink. Even worse, you’re enjoying time in your hot tub and have to brave the cold night air when you get thirsty. Need to buy a gift for the person that has everything?  If so, then the Bass Pro Shops Big Bobber Floating Cooler is for you!

The Floating Cooler is a roomy 14”x14”x15 ¾” and is insulated to keep 12 cans, and ice, cool for hours. The whimsical red and white bobber design really floats and works in any water setting or activity. It even comes with a built-in handle for easy transportation. Make sure you pick up your Big Bobber, the next time you’re at your local Bass Pro Shops or place an order online. It's the perfect gift for any water-sports enthusiast or the perfect centerpiece for your next cookout. Check them out at our Go Outdoors Sale & Event, taking place May 17 - 27.

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Get ready to get up and Go Outdoors!  Our annual Go Outdoors event takes place May 17 - 27 and highlights numerous outdoor activities through workshops, seminars, product demonstrations, classes and kids activities.

Two activities that will be highlighted this year are geocaching and the correct way to choose a life jacket.  Geocaching is an outdoor activity in which participants use a Global Positioning System (GPS) to hide and seek containers containing small toys and trinkets.  Typically, a log book will be available, and the item taken or left will be noted for the next treasure hunter.  How to choose the correct life jacket will also receive a good bit of attention during the Go Outdoors event.  Using the correct lifejacket is extremely important (as it may save your life) anytime you are on the water. The different types of lifejackets and their uses will be covered.

Other activities include a survival seminar in cooperation with Bear Grylls, a sweepstakes registration to win a trip for two to the US Open Surf event, outdoor cooking demonstrations and an opportunity to win a Bounty Hunter Metal Detector on May 18.

The focus shifts to kids activities on May 25 - 26.  We'll haven an inflatable Daisy Shooting Range, a Metal Detector Treasure Hunt and a Scavenger Hunt.  We'll also have free, downloadable photos and free crafts. For more details and specific times for activities, please check our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bpsmacon.

Before you hit the trails this summer, head over to your local Bass Pro Shops.  First take a look at the RedHead® Lifetime Guarantee All-Purpose Socks. These socks, made for rugged outdoor use, are made from a blend of 81% wool, 17% stretch nylon and 2% spandex. The wool makes the sock extra soft and the wool fibers wick moisture away from your feet to keep them dry and cool.  The nylon/spandex blend provides durability and fit, so they won't sag. The socks are also  reinforced in the heel and toe areas to make them long-lasting. However, if they ever do wear out, simply return them to Bass Pro Shops for a brand, new pair!

Once you've secured your socks, find the Redhead®  Men's Granite Peak Hikers. These lightweight hiking shoes are suede with a nylon/mesh upper. It comes in olive green with camo accents. The interior is waterproof to keep your feet dry. The rubber outer sole is lugged for improved traction while hiking. The shoe is available in men's size 8 - 13 and comes with the Redhead Shoe Warranty. If the shoe is found to be defective, due to normal wear and tear within one year, simply return it for another pair. The Granite Peak Hiker is a featured footwear product during our annual Go Outdoors Event & Sale (May 17 - 27) and is on sale for 40% off.

Bass Pro Shops - Your Adventure Starts Here!

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Nothing brings back childhood memories of a sunny, summer day faster than a bowl of homemade ice cream. One bite of the creamy vanilla goodness and you're transported back to the backporch, cranking away as Mom's custard mixture turned in a slurry of rock salt and ice. Even though it seemed like it took forever, the lid was finally popped off and there it was.....homemade vanilla ice cream!

Luckily, progress has made the process a little easier and the Elite Maxi-Matic 6-Quart Ice Cream Maker comes with an electric motor. There's even a hand crank included for a real nostalgia trip. The bucket is hand-crafted pine and contains a heavy duty, 6-quart aluminum canister. Find the perfect spot, plug it in and you'll have homemade ice cream (with no tired shoulder) in about 45 minutes.

To speed you on your way to creamy goodness, here is a simple recipe for vanilla ice cream:

2 quarts hand-and-half

1/2 pint heavy cream

1 1/2 cups white sugar

4 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 pinch salt

Directions:  Combine ingredients in ice cream maker. Freeze according to directions.

What could be simpler? Stop by the Camping Department, at your local Bass Pro Shops and get to churning!

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When you are preparing to head out for a day of hunting, whether the target is turkey or deer, don't forget to pack your face paint.  Camo face paint should be part of your hunting clothing routine. You don't want to miss a great shot, due to your face not blending in with your camo clothing.

Head over to to the Hunting Department at your local Bass Pro Shops and take a look a the Hunter's Specialties Woodland Camo Creme Make-Up Kit. The kit comes with three colors:  Mud Brown, Flat Black and Leaf Green.  With a little practice, these three colors can take you through an entire year of hunting, from the vibrant greens of spring to the stark browns of autumn. The Creme Make-Up is easy to apply, comes in 1 oz. squeeze tubes and washes off easily when you return home.

An asymmetrical pattern is recommended to break up the shape of your face. Turkeys, in particular, have excellent eyesight and will be able to discern your face if not adequately covered or camouflaged. Here's an example:

There are other examples and technique videos available on the internet as well.

Take your camouflage to the next level and bag that bird!

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Duck Commander merchandise has taken flight at Bass Pro Shop! Duck Commander is the name of the duck call (and other licensed merchandise) featured on the wildly popular reality show "Duck Dynasty," shown on the A&E network.

Phil Robertson founded the company in 1972, when he began making duck calls in a family shed. The company has since grown into a multi-million dollar empire, which has grown beyond the duck calls made from Louisiana cedar.  In addition to the hit television series, additional merchandise now includes DVDs; CDs; a variety of calls;  and an apparel line, featuring hats, polo shirts and t-shirts for the entire family. There are even books, cookbooks, cookware, posters and huge variety of other novelty items available. You know you've become a cultural icon when you have your own bobble head.

Many of these items are now available at your local Bass Pro Shops.  Next time you're here, pick up one of Si's tea cups, a field box or can cooler.  For more information on the "Duckmen," visit their website at: www.duckcommander.com.  

Everyone looks forward to the arrival of spring weather. It’s a chance to get out of the house after the cold winter and enjoy the great outdoors. However, spring weather can be fickle and is often tumultuous. Thunderstorms and tornadoes are a common, sometimes catastrophic occurrence.  Some pre-planning and a well-stocked emergency kit can help lessen the impact of a negative weather event.

First and foremost, your family needs to have a disaster plan.  Each family member should know where to go and what to do in case of an emergency.  This plan should include contact information for doctors, insurance companies, veterinarians and an out-of-state contact person.

Next, the single most important tool you need to have available is a weather radio. Weather radios can be programmed to broadcast alerts for storm watches/warnings.  A unit with a battery backup will sound an alarm even when the power goes out. Disaster kits are easily assembled, by purchasing a few items at a time.

Finally, you should assemble an emergency kit that contains your disaster plan and emergency supplies.  Keep it in an accessible location, so it is easily retrieved. Some of the very basic items that should be in every emergency kit are:  flashlights, extra batteries, battery-operated or hand-crank radio, a first aid kit and water. Work gloves, toiletries and a basic tool kit may also be included. It is also a good idea to keep supply of cash available in your disaster kit, as ATMs and credit cards may be available following a storm event.

Here is a quick look at additional items to be included in your disaster kit.  First, obtain a waterproof locker or plastic tote and find an easily accessible location for it. Stock it with three days supply of non-perishable food items and water for each family member. Food items include canned meat, fish, fruit and vegetables; cookies, candy, dried fruit; cereal bars, peanut butter, jelly and bread. Don’t forget a manual can opener.

Make sure you have a basic first aid kit packed as well.  Contents should include bandages and gauze pads, antibiotic cream, alcohol, aspirin, bug repellant, sunscreen and any necessary prescription drugs.

Other items to consider including portable battery powered lanterns, emergency candles and holders, trash bags, duct tape, spray paint, rain ponchos and extra eyeglasses/contact lenses. If planning for small children, pack an appropriate amount of diapers, sanitary wipes, food and toys.  Space permitting, it is probably a good idea to pack some entertainment items as well, such as playing cards, board games, magazines, and books.

Tips

• Plan for three to four days of supplies, at a minimum

• Update your kit, with fresh food and batteries, every six months

• Keep your kit safe from the storm, but easily accessible

• Don’t pack more than you can transport, in case you have to evacuate

• Resist the urge to pack non-essential items, such as make-up and extra toys

• Don’t use kit items for everyday use – you’ll need them later

Visit the Weather Center at your local Bass Pro Shops. You’ll find a large selection of weather radios, to fit every budget, as well as numerous other disaster kit supplies. Checklists for assembling a variety of disaster kits are easily found online. A good place to start is at www.redcross.org.  Hopefully, you will never need to use an emergency kit, but you’ll be happy to have it, in the event you need it.

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Natural Reflections has a new line of ladies’ apparel, to take you from spring into summer. Introducing:  Farmer’s Market!

Farmer’s Market is a casual, easy-to-wear collection made of 100% cotton.  The muted colors and understated floral/botanical patterns provide homespun charm to the assortment, featuring tanks; tees; Henley shirts and dresses and cargo skirt. While casual, the line is not short of embellishment. Beadwork, crocheted trim, braided ribbon and cross-stitching provides a whimsical touch, keeping the elements light and fun.

Coordinated accessories are available for Farmer’s Market as well.  Some of the available items include straw fedora, a vibrant straw tote bag, beaded chandelier-style earrings, beaded and solid-color bangles and matching beaded necklaces and bracelets, in a striking summer palette.

For an easy transition into summer, swing by your local Bass Pro Shops and take a look at the Farmer’s Market collection

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A few weeks back, we covered how campfire cooking had been upgraded and was no longer relegated to hobo packets and s'mores. The Easy Campfire Cooking cookbook, available in the Gifts Department at your local Bass Pro Shops,  has over 200 recipes,. divided into several preparation categories such as cooking on a stick/kebab/skewer; Dutch oven; foil packets; pie iron;  skillet;  or on a grate. So, depending on the equipment you have available and your skill level, there are numerous tasty recipes available for you to cook in the great outdoors.

A quick scan of the Table of Contents shows recipes for Meatball Subs, Apple-Glazed Pork and Coconut Cream Pie in the "with a stick" section. Moving on to Kebabs/Skewers, you'll find recipes for Smoky Chile Pepper Shrimp, Tandoori Chicken and Jerk pork with Melon. Offerings in the Foil Packet Hobo-Style recipe selection include Orange-Oatmeal Muffins, Chicken & Rice, Campfire Vidalias and even Pears in Caramel Sauce. The Pie Iron allows for recipes requiring a crust.  Options include Pizza Pockets, Lemon Chiffon Pie and even Cherry Turnovers.

If you're using a Skillet, you can make Corn Fritters, Fireside Fondue, or Chicken Fajitas. Is a Dutch Oven more your style? Then check out the recipes for Fiesta Chicken Soup or One-Pot Lasagna. If you're using a Grate, then stir up some Honey Garlic Pork Chops. The campfire cookbook also features a number of  "Quick Tips," which are time-saving measures to make the process easier.

Here is a sample recipe from the book:

The All-American  Burger

Makes 4 Servings

1 1/2 lbs. ground beef

2 tsp. Worchestershire sauce

2 T. fresh chopped parsley

2 tsp. onion powder

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. pepper

4 hamburger buns, split

Ketchup, mustard, chopped onions relish (optional).

Place grilling grate over campfire. In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, Worchestshire sauce, chopped parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Mix lightly but thoroughly. Shape mixture into four burgers, each about 1/2" thick. Place burgers on hot grate. Cook burgers over grill for 8 - 10 minutes , turning once, until thoroughly cooked to desired doneness. Remove burgers from grate and place burgers on buns. If desired, garnish burgers with ketchup, mustard, chopped onions and/or relish.

Quick Tip:  Prepare burger mix at home by comgining chopped parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Pack mixture in an airtight container until ready to prepare recipe. Add ground beef and Worcestershire sauce at campsite.

While you are in the store, head over to our Camping Department and check out the latest equpment available to you, to make the most of the recipes in Easy Campfire Cooking.  You'll find a selection of skewers, Dutch ovens, skillets, pie irons and grates to suit the needs of every campfire cook!

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The Fishing Department at Bass Pro Shops - Macon  has a brand-new feature designed to help anglers know what fish are hitting at local lakes.  The "What They're Hitting" fixture is located in a high-visibility location adjacent to the Reel Counter.  The four-sided display features notices on water and fishing conditions at nine nearby lakes. Besides the written commentaries on lake levels, temperature, spawning conditions and fish activity, the bulletins also describe which lures or baits are generating the most strikes.  In turn, these items are on display, for easy access.

For example, the fishing conditions bulletin for Lake Jackson indicates the lake level is down 22. feet, the water is stained and 56 degrees.  Bass fishing is fair, but they are on the move, expected to spawn in approximately two weeks.  They are biting crawdad-colored Shad Raps (which are on the fixture, hanging adjacent to the bulletin).

So, before you plan a fishing trip in Central Georgia, stop by our Fishing Department and check out local conditions first. Out expert Fishing Associates, will help you locate any specific items you may need before you hit the water.  A few minutes of research could have a huge payoff later. Lake condition bulletins are updated every Friday, to keep the data as current as possible.

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Just when you thought there was nothing new about a digital camera, along comes GoPro.  GoPro HD wearable cameras are designed to capture ever moment of your sports or other exciting activity. 

The GoPro camera line is designed to be attached to your helmet, surfboard, dog, kayak, snowboard, vehichle...you decide.  These durable, lightweight cameras will record your entire POV (point of view) experience, without having to stop and pose for pictures.  Class 5 rapids - got 'em.  Last year's skyding adventure - got it.  You can now share the iller waves from your trip to the beach....exactly as you experienced them.

These durable cameras are waterproof and are enclosed in a protective case designed to protect it.The camera has room for a 32GB SD card and a USB cable will allow you to transfer videos/still to your computer or display on your television. The HERO3 version has built in Wi-Fi, enabling remote control via a smartphone or tablet running the GoPro app. There are a number of resolution settings for the video function and still photography has a fixed resolution of 5 MP.

For more details, stop by the Camping Department at your local Bass Pro Shops or visit the manufacturer website at www.gopro.com.

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Congrats to GoPro athlete and LEGEND Kelly Slater for his 51st win on the tour at the Quicksilver Pro France.

How would you like to visit the Tracker Marine Boat Center showroom....from the comfort of your own home?  Now you can do just that!  Introducing our new 24-Hour Showroom!   That's right - you can take a look at all of our new and used boats anytime of the day or night. You read that correctly - our entire inventory of Tracker, Nitro, Sun Tracker, Tahoe and Mako boats are right at your fingertips. Oh - you're looking for an ATV?  Don't worry....you will find our complete inventory of Arctic Cat ATVs ready to peruse, entirely at your leisure.

Whether you are in the market for a boat or ATV, the 24-Hour Showroom website can help you find the right fit for your lifestyle and budget. There are a number of filter options, such as Category, Make, Price, Length, Color and Engine Size to help you find just the right piece of recreational equipment for you.  You can also calculate payments and request financing information as well. You can request a full-color brochure, check service prices and even check out the latest Tracker logo items. 

Take it for a spin - the Tracker Marine 24-Hour Showroom, at Bass Pro Shops - Macon,  is now open for you - whenever you want!

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That last bit of unexpected cold weather seems to be long gone and now it's time to get down to business.  Leaves on barren trees are reapparing, robins are back in our yards and the sky is a brilliant shade of blue.  You got it - spring is finally here!

One of the things people look forward to is a return to outdoor activities, after a cold winter. Hunting, fishing, camping and hiking are all ways to enjoy the great outdoors.  The return of the sun also marks the return of boating and water sports.  Before you hit the water, make sure you check your life jackets or PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices) and replace any that may be damaged or worn.  Each boat must be equipped with at least one PFD  (USCG Approved) for each person onboard. If your boat is 16 feet or longer, you must have a minimum of one throwable PFD (Type IV).

There are different types of PFDs for different boating situations. Here is a quick review to make sure you have the correct type of PDF available to you.  Type I (Offshore Lifejacket):  This is designed for extended surivival in rough, open water . It is designed to turn the wearer face up and is the best option when rescue may be slow to arrive.  The Type II(Near Shore Buoyant Vest) is designed for calm, inland water when there is a good chance of a fast rescue.

The PFD that is considered most comfortable and designed for continuous wear is the Type III - Flotation Aid.  This is the type used for general boating activities and water sports. The throwable device or Type IV PFD includes boat cushions, and ring or horseshoe buoys. These devices should be available for immediate use during an emergency and are deisgned to supplement a wearable PFD. 

There are two additional types of PFDs available.  The Type V - Special Use Device includes work vests, deck suits and hybrids. The hybrid type will contain some internal buoyancy and are are inflatabale. Inflatable Life Jackets have interior chambers that are inflated via an attached CO2 cartridge or via mouth. 

Each lifejacket or PFD, available at Bass Pro Shops, comes with a "Think Safe: Choose the Right Personal Flotation Device" booklet. It identifies the type of lifejacket it is attached to and reviews each of the different types that are available. The booklet also contains safety, care and survival tips.  Before you head to the water this spring, head to Bass Pro Shops to pick up PFDs for each person on your boat.

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Bass Pro Shops' annual Kids' Outdoor Skills Challenge returns, even bigger this year!  Now taking place over two weekends, April 20 - 21 and 27 - 28, the event consists of several outdoor-themed components, designed for the "Next Generation" of sportsmen (and sportswomen).

The activities include:  Backpack Challenge, Archery, Casting, and Knot Tying. While performing the Backpack Challenge, kids will have one minute to pack as many essential items (water bottle, whistle, pocket knife) into a backpack as possible.  Be careful, though - you won't want to waste space with non-essential items (toys, candy).  During the Archery Challenge, kids will have the opportunity to "hit a bullseye" with a real bow and arrow (supervised by  our Archery experts) - we'll even have a soft archery option for younger participants. The fun doesn't stop there - the Casting Challenge will test the accuracy of even the most experienced angler. Do you have what it takes to place your practice plug in the ring?  Finally, our Fishing Department will show you how to tie a variety of fishing knots (yes, there's more than one).

The Kids' Outdoor Skills Challenge takes place from noon - 4:00 p.m. on the dates shown above.  In addition to the challenges, we will also have free crafts and giveaways.  Kids will even get to spin the Prize Wheel!  For more information on this and other events taking place at Bass Pro Shops - Macon, visit our Facebook page at:  www.facebook.com/bpsmacon.

Our always-popular flag tee is back, just in time for the summer holidays.  The 100% cotton tees are available in adult sizes, S - 3XL and come in three colors:  white, heather grey and pink.  Show off your patriotism on Memorial Day, Independence Day or any other day of the week with one of these tees, adorned with patriotic icons.

The tee shirts feature a two-color graphic of a bald eagle flying over an American flag, blowing in the wind. Other design elements include a star-spangled, billowing ribbon, emblazoned with the slogan "Authentic Gear Since 1972," hearkening back to the founding of Bass Pro Shops. Finally, the backdrop for  the entire piece of inspirational artwork is a pair of crossed fishing poles.

The flag tees are available in-store or online. However, this is a limited edition item, so make sure you get them while they are available.

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How do you get them, you ask?  By using the Charcoal Companion "Steak Station!" The Steak Station is a digital meat thermometer that tracks the temperature of four individual steaks, using a color-coded, stainless steel probe.  Simply insert the proble into the center of your steak, from the side, and watch the progress on an easy-to-read LCD screen.

Once your steaks reach the desired level of doneness, simply use a pair of tongs to remove the steak from the grill and remove the probe. Cover and let it "rest" for five minutes before serving - that's all there is to it.

Head over to the Camping Department  at  your nearest Bass Pro Shops and check out this innovative new grilling tool. The unit operates on one AAA battery. The probe cables are an impressive 22 inches long and wrap around the unit when not in use. The probes are neatly stored by tucking into the back of the unit.

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Check out the newest collection from our Natural Reflections line:  Painted Desert.  This casual, easy-to-wear collection consists of jackets, dresses, tanks, camisoles, tees, and shorts, in 100% natural cotton. It also comes with an accessory line of totes, backpack and hat.  The collection features a southwestern-style motif, with bandana prints and Native American-inspired accents.

The collection comes complete with its own jewelry line as well.  You can choose from a variety of earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, laden with beads, faux turquoise and rhodonite to complete your outfit.  The necklaces and bracelets are multi-strand, to pick up and accent the colors in the clothing.

Stop by the Ladies' Apparel department, at your nearest Bass Pro Shops, to check out this collection and more. 

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Spring hunting is in full swing and the woods are full of hunters searching for the elusive gobbler. Did you know that the work of the National Wild Turkey Federation helps make this possible?

The NWTF is a wildlife conservation group that exists to conserve wild turkeys.  Through their efforts, they have helped restore and manage North America's population of more than 7 million wild turkeys.  They have also helped improve 17 million acres of turkey habitat, making spring hunting viable.

In addition to wildlife conservation, the NWTF also provides a number of educational programs for families, kids and women to teach responsible hunting techniques and promote outdoor activties such as hunting and hiking.

Throughout the month of April, your local Bass Pro Shops will collect $2 donations to benefit the National Wild Turkey Federation.  Please consider making a donation, so they can keep up their work. For more information, visit their website at:  www.nwtf.org.