Turkey Hunting Tips - In-the-Field Strategy

Successful turkey hunting requires patience, effective calling, and a keen understanding of bird behavior. This guide focuses on strategies to employ once you are set up in the field.

I. Setting the Scene

Proper setup is the foundation of a successful hunt.

When a bird responds to your call, your movement should cease, and you must prepare your position immediately.

• Back to a Tree: Always set up with a tree wider than your shoulders and head to break up your silhouette and protect your back from unexpected approach.
• Clear Shooting Lanes: Clear any brush or debris that might impede your swing or deflect a shot, focusing on the 30-yard mark.
• Maintain Concealment: Use natural features like fallen logs or thick brush for cover, but ensure they don't obstruct your view.
• Use Decoys Wisely: Place decoys in an open area where they are visible to an approaching gobbler, but always positioned so the gobbler must walk past you to reach them.

Once you are set up, patience is your most valuable tool.

• Be Still: A turkey's eyesight is legendary. Move only your eyes, and remain motionless when a bird is in sight.
• Listen Intently: Turkeys communicate constantly. Listen for soft "putts," "clucks," or the sound of drumming, which can indicate a close, quiet approach.

II. Calling Strategy

Calling is about communication, not just noise.

Start with soft, non-aggressive calls to locate a bird.

• Patience with Volume: Start with soft yelps or tree yelps at first light. Increase volume only if the bird is distant or the wind is high.
• Simulate Reality: A single hen rarely yelps in a vacuum. Mix in a few clucks or purrs to simulate a relaxed feeding bird.

Turkeys often roam in the mid-day hours, making this a prime time for aggressive calling.

The most common mistake is over-calling.

• Gobbler is Committed: If a gobbler is steadily moving towards you and sounding off, stop calling. Let his anticipation and natural urge bring him the rest of the way.
• "Henned Up" Bird: If a gobbler is responding but moving away, or is clearly with real hens, move to a new location. Don't waste time on a bird that is focused elsewhere.

III. Ethical Shot Execution

A clean, humane harvest is the goal of every hunt.

• Targeting: The only ethical shot is to the head and neck. Do not shoot at the body or wing.
• Range: Know your effective range. For most turkey guns, this is under 40 yards. Use a rangefinder or pre-measure distances to objects in your setup area.
• Wait for the Right Moment: Wait until the bird raises its head, offering a clear target. If the bird is strutting, wait until it drops its fan or sticks its neck out.