Kyle Thissell
Executive DirectorKyle is an accomplished hunter with over 28-years of experience, specializing in big game hunting. Kyle grew up in Oregon and developed a passion for the outdoors at an early age. His love for nature led him to pursue a career as a guide, where he could share his expertise with others while promoting responsible outdoor practices.
Kyle specializes in hunting big game animals and is a strong advocate for conservation and sustainable practices. Before starting Northern Nevada Outfitters, Kyle was a sub-guide for nine years working with multiple outfitters. During his time as a sub-guide, Kyle harvested multiple world class animals. He has hunted all the west coast states, in New Zealand and British Columbia. Kyle is passionate about mentoring young outdoor enthusiasts and believes that sharing knowledge and experiences is key to developing a new generation of responsible and skilled outdoor adventurers.
After surviving his own harrowing battle with cancer, Kyle felt a profound calling to make a difference in the lives of others facing similar struggles. His journey was marked by the isolation, financial strain, and emotional upheaval that often accompany a cancer diagnosis. Driven by his firsthand understanding of the recovery journey, and his reliance on the outdoors to get him through some of his toughest times, Kyle is determined to turn his experience into a source of hope for others.
Brandy Wadford
SecretaryWife, mother and lifelong Elko resident, Brandy developed a passion for hunting later in life with the encouragement of her husband. As a cancer survivor, Brandy values providing wholesome, self-sourced food and the time her family shares, both in the field and at the table. She is proud to serve in support of Northern Nevada Outfitters and its mission to provide free guided hunts to youth, veterans and cancer survivors. This work reflects her commitment to giving back, strengthening community, and passing on the values of stewardship and responsibility to the next generation.
Tyce Grate
Youth Mentor/VolunteerTyce is our first Youth Mentor Volunteer for Northern Nevada Outfitters. Tyce started hunting when he was three years old. His first trip was with his dad in area 10. Tyce’s favorite game to hunt is Bull Elk and he is happiest with a bow in his hands. Tyce learned how to shoot a bow from his dad and began competition archery at 8 years old. In addition to Nevada, Tyce has hunted in Oregon, California, Utah, Colorado, Indiana, Georgia, Alaska, and Africa. Tyce joined NNO to teach youth about the outdoors and share what he loves to do with the next generation of hunters. To Tyce, hunting is important for the youth because it develops the next generation of hunters to conserve Nevada wildlife and protect our public lands.
JT Wadford
Volunteer Subguide