From his home near Seattle, Washington, retired NFL defensive lineman Joe Tafoya travels cross-country to central Florida where wild hogs, massive ‘gators and saltwater bow fishing make up the sportsman’s thrilling Florida trifecta the week of June 28 on an episode of the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance’s Brotherhood Outdoors TV series.
After seven seasons in the NFL, where he played defensive end for the Buccaneers, Bears, Seahawks and Cardinals, Tafoya now takes an active role in his local chapter of the NFL Players Association. He lives with his family on a homestead in the Pacific Northwest where they raise chickens, turkeys, goats and horses in pursuit of a natural, self-sustaining lifestyle.
The former pro athlete also enjoys pursuing mule deer and elk with his hunting partners each year, but chasing alligators and hogs in Florida’s backcountry has long been on his wish list.
“I’m a West Coast guy through and through, and all of my outdoors activities and hunting experiences are from the western United States,” he said. “I looked forward to this trip because it was a chance to do something out of my comfort zone and learn about how they do it in the South!”
Tafoya, along with USA Executive Director Scott Vance, begins his adventure with a stalk on a sounder of wild hogs and finds that success requires precise shooting. Then it is on to the swamplands where prehistoric reptiles test Tafoya’s marksmanship. Finally, the pair head to the mangroves to chase saltwater monsters with archery tackle.
In just a few days, the hunters build a lasting bond as Tafoya experiences completely new hunting styles.
“One of the things I miss most about playing football is the camaraderie,” Tafoya added. “The USA gives all unions, including the NFLPA, an opportunity to build new friendships and community spirit through outdoor activities and conservation projects.”
Catch all the action during Tafoya’s unforgettable Florida trifecta when Brotherhood Outdoors airs on the Sportsman Channel on Tuesday, June 29 at 4 p.m. Eastern with re-airings on Friday at 11:30 a.m., Saturday at 1:30 a.m. and Sunday, July 4 at 11 a.m.
For a complete list of upcoming episodes, visit www.brotherhoodoutdoors.tv. To watch episodes from past seasons, visit www.myoutdoortv.com.