In this episode of Bowhunt or Die, Tim and Troy head to northwest Illinois with just one evening to scout and one morning to hunt. After using trail camera intel and a sunset observation to pinpoint a gobbler's movements, the plan comes together exactly as drawn up when a big tom walks into range on the final day of the Illinois turkey season.
After days of getting outplayed by call-shy gobblers, changing blind locations, dealing with storms, silent birds, and frustrating close calls… it finally all came together.
This episode follows two different turkey hunts and two hunters grinding through the chaos of spring turkey season. From birds hanging up across the water to split-second encounters inside bow range, nothing came easy.
A slow start doesn’t mean the hunt is over. After a tough morning filled with close calls, shifting flocks, and blown opportunities, the decision is made to switch gears and go mobile. With birds disappearing and the heat setting in, it’s time to cover ground, glass new areas, and take a shot at public land. What follows is a fast-paced spot-and-stalk play—closing the distance, reading terrain, and making a bold move with a fan setup to pull a fired-up tom into range.
Bowhunt or Die Season 17 is here, and we’re kicking things off in Texas with Tyler Barron on an unforgettable turkey opener. Perfect way to launch the 2026 season.
