Young Hunter's First Gobbler Wins Big!

Get ready for a heartwarming tale of a young hunter and his granddad! Mason McLaughlin, just 11 years old, recently bagged his first ever turkey while hunting with his grandfather, Wallace Walker, on family land in Lowndesboro.

A Rollercoaster of Emotions

The pair spotted a gobbler and its hens strutting their stuff, only to see them disappear back into the woods. Mason was crushed! "I literally started crying," he confessed, overcome with disappointment.

Patience Pays Off

But these hunters didn't give up! Despite the cold, rainy weather, they persevered, eventually luring the gobbler back into range of Mason's trusty .410.

"I Didn't Miss!"

Talk about pressure! "If I miss this shot, I’m going to jump off a bridge," Mason told himself. Luckily, he didn't have to test the bridge! He nailed the shot, bagging his first gobbler.

Winning Photo!

The photo of Mason's first gobbler was entered into the Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association (ALBBAA)’s Big Gobbler Photo Contest… and it won! The image captured the hearts (and votes) of everyone.

Prizes Galore!

As the winner, Mason snagged a sweet prize package worth $275, including an Otis Elite Gun Care Kit, a Dead Ringer shotgun sight, and some awesome turkey calls.

A Cherished Memory

Grandfather Walker was thrilled to share the hunt with Mason, adding that the contest win made it even more special. ALBBAA Director Pam Swanner highlighted the importance of the contest in celebrating family memories.

Black Belt Adventures Await!

The Black Belt region boasts some of the best hunting, fishing, and outdoor adventures in Alabama. The Big Gobbler Photo Contest, held annually during turkey season, encourages folks to get out there and experience it!