The Mississippi Outdoor Hall of Fame has revealed its esteemed class of 2024, with two local outdoorsmen receiving the honor. Mike Giles from Meridian and Mark McPhail from Collinsville will be inducted into the Hall of Fame alongside four other distinguished individuals from across the state. The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on Saturday at the Mississippi Wildlife Heritage Museum in Leland.
Giles and McPhail, recognized figures in the outdoor community, will join the ranks of renowned Mississippi outdoors personalities such as Toxey Haas, Will Primos, and Ronnie “Cuz” Strickland. Their contributions to outdoor sports and conservation have earned them this prestigious recognition.
According to the Hall of Fame press release, Mike Giles is celebrated as a Bass Pro Shop Pro-staff angler, an accomplished outdoorsman, and an award-winning outdoor photographer and writer. Giles has been a fixture in outdoor journalism, having penned a weekly column for The Meridian Star Outdoors for over three decades. His literary contributions extend beyond columns; in 2013, he published his first book, “Passion of the Wild,” reflecting his deep-rooted love for the outdoors and his commitment to mentoring young enthusiasts in fishing and hunting.
Speaking about his impending induction, Giles emphasized his dedication to passing on the outdoor legacy he inherited from his forebears. “Passing the outdoors on to others has always been a big part of what I do. I want to pass on what I learned from my father and grandfather,” Giles remarked during a recent interview.
Similarly, Mark McPhail, the other inductee, boasts a profound passion for the outdoors, particularly in turkey hunting and call making. Recognized as an avid turkey hunter, call collector, and award-winning call maker, McPhail’s scratch box call earned the esteemed National Wild Turkey Federation’s Grand National Champion Award in 2013. His contributions extend beyond personal achievements; McPhail played a pivotal role in establishing the Mississippi Turkey Call Maker’s Exhibit at the Mississippi Wildlife Heritage Museum, showcasing his extensive collection and expertise in turkey call history.
Reflecting on his journey as a call collector, McPhail emphasized his commitment to preserving the heritage of turkey call making. “I’ve specifically collected calls from every Mississippi call maker that I could find,” McPhail remarked, underscoring his dedication to documenting and showcasing this rich tradition.
The induction ceremony, set against the backdrop of the Mississippi Wildlife Heritage Museum, promises to be a celebration of these local legends’ enduring contributions to the outdoors community. The event will commence with a “meet and greet” from 3-5 p.m., followed by the induction ceremony at 6 p.m. Attendees can also participate in a free turkey-calling seminar presented by five-time world champion turkey caller Preston Pittman at 4 p.m.
As we celebrate the accomplishments of Giles and McPhail, their legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of mentorship in fostering a love for outdoor pursuits. Their dedication to passing on their knowledge ensures that Mississippi’s rich outdoor heritage will continue to thrive for generations to come.
As the weekend approaches, let us express gratitude to those who have guided us in our outdoor adventures and consider how we can pay it forward by mentoring others. Until next time, here’s to embracing the wonders of the great outdoors.