Took my cousin out for the opener of the Missouri youth season. Temps around 35, wind blowing 15-25 from the NW, and we had a mix of rain, sleet, and snow.

Lucky for us I had saw 3 toms in this field on Friday evening so we got set up well before daylight. When the birds gobbled they had roosted across the river. I am thinking great, can this day get any better. At around 7 I see some birds pitch into the field across the river from us. I tell my cousin that we have no chance. A continue to make some soft yelps and clucks.

I can't beleive my eyes................he is coming in on a string from 200 yards. He comes to 35 yards and my cousin layed the smack down on him. 25.2 lbs, 10 1/4" beard, and 7/8" spurs.

After he killed him I walked to the river to see where he crossed. This bird came under a 5 barb barbwire fence and crossed the river. Who would have guess it?