Call Strategically

Using calls to attract game can be highly effective, but it requires practice and precision. Here are tips for mastering your calling techniques:

1. Know the Right Time to Call:
   • Use calls when animals are most active, such as during feeding times or mating seasons. For example, deer respond best to grunts during the rut, and turkey calls work well in spring.
2. Match the Call to the Situation:
   • Use the appropriate call for the species you're hunting. Some animals respond to mating calls, while others react to distress calls. Be familiar with different types, such as predator, mating, or location calls, to match the behavior of the animal you're after.
3. Practice for Realism:
   • Whether using a grunt tube, duck call, or electronic call, practice often to make your calls sound as natural as possible. Realism is key in convincing the animal that another of its kind is nearby.
4. Don't Overcall:
   • Less is more when it comes to calling. Overcalling can alert animals to your presence or make them suspicious. Call sparingly, and if you're not getting a response, give it time before trying again.
5. Use Cover Sounds:
   • Use the natural sounds of the environment, such as wind or rustling leaves, to mask your movement and calling. This can make your calls blend in with the surroundings, making them more believable.
6. Pay Attention to Animal Reactions:
   • Watch for the animal's reaction to your calls. If they're moving toward you, stay quiet and wait. If they don't respond, try a different type of call or adjust your volume.
7. Combine Calling with Other Strategies:
   • Pair calls with decoys or scents to create a more convincing scenario. For example, combine turkey calling with decoys or use scent attractants when calling deer.

By calling strategically and understanding how different animals respond, you'll increase your chances of successfully luring game within range.