Wild turkey have spread across the prairies in recent years, from Saskatchewan to Northwestern Ontario. A friend of mine first introduced me to the wild birds twenty years ago. Dino Branfield is one of the most experienced turkey hunters in this province.
He first started hunting them 36 years ago. A hardcore hunter and angler, he has worked as a waterfowl outfitter for years. The name of his business, is called Nelsonville Outfitters. You can find him on Instagram at instagram.com/mayordino19.
I talk to Dino on this week’s podcast which you can find here.
The Complete Angler Podcast: Episode 12 – Dino Branfield—The Mayor of Nelsonville
Dino, like many in this line work, relied on American waterfowl hunters in the fall to support his business. Living on the family homestead, with the pandemic, he just adjusted his time to do the things he cares about the most, mentoring young anglers and hunters. Spring turkey season has just started and already Dino has guided two young first time hunters to success. He like, many others in this province understand the value of introducing young people to the outdoors where they can learn about nature and the value of hard work.
Dino first starting hunting wild turkeys 36 years ago. He has made many mistakes along the way in stalking these wary birds. Branfield says people might think a wild turkey is an easy dinner but there is nothing further from the truth.
STEALTH IS THE KEY
When turkey season comes around the last week of April, these birds are ultra wary. Even the slightest noise will make them disappear instantly. Turkey’s have great eyesight as well as hearing, so once in range no movement or sound is key. When setting up you must be comfortable you will be able to get a clear shot without movement or sound, otherwise it will be for naught.
I can relate to that. On my first turkey hunt a few years back, one slight movement by my tree blind and it was over before a shot could be fired. The current turkey population in Manitoba is in good shape but Dino says the different population pockets will shift according to land usage. Farmers that raise cattle are a key to turkey survival says Branfield. During the winter you will see flocks of wild turkeys in farmyards and many farmers will make sure the birds get through the winter. Southern Manitoba is the furthest north of the birds range and a wild turkey needs help to get through a normal winter.
Dino has mentored many first time turkey hunters over the year, including YouTuber Jay Siemens. Jay captured all of his first hunt on video.
If you are interested in finding out about a mentored hunt, you can visit the Manitoba Wildlife Federation website. The wild turkey season runs until May 23 and then starts again for a month in the fall from September 15th until October 15th. Jay talks about this turkey hunt on my podcast at
While Jay enjoyed his first turkey hunt, Dino Branfield explains how to field dress these delicious birds.