A Spectacular Hunting Destination

The Shooting Sportsman Endorsed Lodge Program is pleased to add Prairie Wildlife to its growing list of top-rated wingshooting destinations. Prairie Wildlife is a spectacular upland and waterfowl hunting lodge with a sky-high guest-satisfaction rate in the heart of western Mississippi's Black Belt region. Lodge Manager Bennie Atkinson shared a few insights into what makes the lodge so successful in this “behind the scenes” interview . . . .

How long have you been at Prairie Wildlife, and what compelled you to get involved with the lodge?

I have been at Prairie Wildlife for seven years. I have always loved training bird dogs and wingshooting—especially quail hunting, which we grew up doing in South Carolina. My previous career—sales and management—plus my love for the dogs and hunting led to this opportunity to couple everything together.

What is a typical day of hunting like at Prairie Wildlife?

Breakfast is at 8 AM. After breakfast, the hunting groups meet with their guides to have a safety meeting, and then break up and travel to the field for the morning hunt. At the end of the morning, they return to the lodge for a nice Southern lunch and an opportunity to relax and rest. The guides are back at the lodge at 2 for pick-up and another safety meeting before everyone travels to the field for the afternoon hunt. Returning to the lodge before dark, guests can enjoy a cocktail and hors d’oeuvres before dinner is served.

What aspects of your operation seem to impress guests the most?

We have a beautiful property that we have worked diligently to return to native habitat, to allow for the propagation of wild quail. We also have a beautiful lodge with many amenities that provide guests with a memorable stay.