(Left) This is a distant look at the terrain on one of the hunting leases in Chihuahua. Sierra Madres in Chihuahua, Mexico - Gould's Turkey Country.

Gould's Turkeys inhabit the diverse habitats of the arid southwest, specifically Mexico, with the highest densities found in the higher elevations of the State of Chihuahua, where the oak woodlands transition into the mixed conifer forests. This is where Rio Sonora Outfitters conducts hunts offering you a great adventure and a successful hunting opportunity.  

RSO has exclusive hunting rights on two leases totaling over 60,000 acres of previously un-hunted private property located in the heart of the “High Sierra’s” of Chihuahua, Mexico. These ranches are in the Sierra Madre Mountains with a diverse habitat and varying topography from large mesas to long ridges dissected by both steep and gentle canyons with permanent and man-made waters. Elevations range from 6000' in the Oak Woodlands, to over 8000' in the Conifer Forests. Both ranches are a reasonable distance from the local city, Casas Grandes and have extensive road systems, with modern ranch houses making the hunting and camping accommodations very comfortable. RSO has focused on all aspects of the hunt we feel is very important to our clients, from the personal assistance during the trip, travel time to the ranches, camp accommodations, equipment provided, meals, guides and of course the turkey populations! It is all taken into account as we take our hunts very serious, and offer an all exclusive trip with all hunting options available and no hidden costs. We plan our hunts for each client booked and our efforts have been rewarded with your success! This trip is not only a hunt, but an adventure you will not forget. 

During the past six out of eight seasons, our clients have had 100% opportunity in Chihuahua, and for the last five seasons over 100% hunt success, as several hunters have taken two birds, including both shotgun and archery hunters.  On average, our hunts are completed in two days, so hunters have the option of going sight seeing, exploring Indian/cultural sites, video taping/photography or just setting back and telling stories and relaxing in the peaceful setting of camps. Our camps have a friendly environment where new friends and hunting memories are made. Many references are available; please see the Testimonial/Reference Page. 

RSO manages the harvest to maintain a good huntable turkey population to assure your hunt is a success. Experienced American guides will assist hunters in the field along with assistance of ranch guides which complement the RSO Team very well. Our guides will locate and take hunters into areas of know activity, and assists hunters with calling if needed. We put alot of effort into pre-season scouting to locate roosts, feeding sites and activity, as well as day to day planning during the course of the hunt to make sure the hunt is both enjoyable and successful for you. Each group of hunters will hunt previously un-hunted areas on each ranch to assure each trip is a great hunt. Just let us know what your needs are and we will accommodate you. This is where we begin on your hunt, planning is important and the results are "High Success", so get ready for an action packed turkey hunt!  

The hunting season begins in early April and runs into late May. During this time, RSO conducts trips on two large leases (ranches) with high bird densities. The camps located 45 minutes apart. RSO partner, Mike Murray conducts hunts on one of the ranches, and Brad Fulk outfits the other camp. All hunts are based out of Tucson, Arizona where hunters fly into. On a trip, 6-8 hunter/trip depending on the ranch, are provided round trip travel from the Tucson International Airport. The trips are five (5) days in length (3.5 days of hunting). Transportation during the hunts include; ATV's and 4x4 Vehicles. Each guide will assist two hunters in the field (2 on 1), but it will quickly become a 1 on 1 or 1 on 2 hunt as hunters fill out. A camp cook will prepare the meals which include; pork loin, chicken, chili colorado, tortilla soup, ham, bacon, sausage, chorizo, eggs, and we can't forget the beans and tortillas. Oh, and we'll be frying the turkeys in camp (USDA does not allow uncooked wild turkey meat to be transported into the U.S).  Dutch oven deserts or fruit pies will add a finishing touch to a great dinner. All food and drinks are provided (except alcohol). No tent camps here! The ranch houses have electricity, with bedrooms equipped with beds, bathrooms with hot showers, spacious dinning areas and a large front porch to relax on while tell hunting stories. We have great cooks that pay special attention to keeping you pleased and making sure the camp is clean.  

Our "Premium Hunts" cost $1950.00 and include everything mentioned  including; RSO shotguns (Mossberg and Remington 12 Ga. with 3"and 3.5" chambers), ammunition along with Mexico hunting license. and tags . If requested, RSO will complete and submit all required paperwork to register personal shotguns. For each Firearm Transportation Permit (FTP), two shotguns can be registered along with 100 shotshells for each shotgun. Hunting partners can share FTP's and split the $250.00 fee. Firearm Applications must be submitted in February prior to the season.  

Hunters may have the opportunity to take a second bird for $800.00. Hunters must advise RSO and pay for the second bird upon booking the hunt to guarantee the tag and allow us to plan our annual harvest and prevent over-harvest.  To book a second bird send $400.00 along with your hunt deposit and pay the remainder after you pull the trigger on the second bird. Please be aware that second birds may be limited due to the number of tags authorized annually, and birds available. Again, the hunt price includes three and a half (3.5) days of hunting, food, drinks, transportation, Mexico hunting license, tags, shotgun and ammunition. If half of the hunting group or more want second birds, RSO will add one (1) extra day of hunting for a total of four (4) days at no extra cost. RSO will prepare the USFWS Declaration Form, USDA Notice of Arrival Form, Ranch Hunting Contract and Ranch Hunt Authorization Form. These legal documents will be provided to each hunter prior to hunting. Hunters are responsible for the cost of their Visa (approx. $25.00) at the International Border, and all meals and lodging prior to leaving or returning from the ranch. RSO will provide Hotel contact information and a travel schedule well in advance of the hunt. 
A deposit of $1000.00 is required to secure a hunt, and based on the order in which the deposits are received, hunters or hunting groups will be given their choice of hunt dates available. Detailed information on the hunts will be given upon inquiry as well as a travel schedule. Hunt dates may be adjusted to accommodate group hunts, however RSO recommends the dates offered in order to catch the best part of the season. 

The Outfitter and or guides will accompany and assist hunters with attaining their personal Visa's, the Border crossing and all inspection points within Mexico. Turkey capes will be prepared for transport back into the country. All trophies are subject to inspection by the USDA and USFWS at the International Border. Each hunter may personally transport or ship their turkey capes to a USDA Approved Taxidermist for processing. After processing is complete, the cape can then be sent to your Taxidermist of choice for mounting. (this is mandatory for all turkey capes/parts). Hunter are responsible for all transportation,shipping and handling arrangements with the taxidermists.

After the Hunt:
This spectacular area of the Sierra Madre’s is rich with scenic views and was home to many tribes of Indians including the Apache and Paquime.  When the hunt is over we tour areas rich with cultural sites, not to mention incredible landscapes for photography. It’s a great way to finish off an exciting turkey hunt! 

RSO is a professional hunting Outfitter with many years of experience hunting in Mexico. We always take your hunt seriously and provide a safe, enjoyable Mexico hunt. We are looking forward to the next turkey season in Mexico and hunting with you. "Your Success is Our Success". 

- Brad Fulk, Rio Sonora Outfitters -

Client Allen Brooker from Arkansas (L) and  Outfitter Brad Fulk with a first morning bird.

Outfitter Mike Murray (L) and  client Greg Bullington from Alabama.