What Is The Best Time Of Day For Turkey Hunting?

What is the best time of day for turkey hunting?

The best time of day to hunt turkeys varies depending on the time of year and weather conditions. In general, early morning and late afternoon are the most productive times due to increased turkey activity. During the spring breeding season (March-May), toms are vocal and active, making it easier to locate them by listening for their gobbles. Hunting from dawn until mid-morning provides the best chance of encountering a responsive gobbler.

Early morning: Just as the sun rises. Gobblers are still on their roosts during this time, providing an opportunity for a close shot.

Mid-morning: As the sun rises higher in the sky, turkeys become less active and less responsive to calls.

Afternoon: Turkeys start to become more active again in the afternoon, and this is another good time to hunt them.

Late afternoon: Just before sunset. The gobblers are heading back to their roosts and may be more willing to come into a call.

Low-light conditions: Turkeys have poor eyesight in low-light conditions, which can make it easier to get close to them.

What is the best type of turkey call for beginners?

For beginners venturing into the exciting world of turkey hunting, choosing the ideal call can be a daunting task. While there are various types of calls available, one that stands out for its ease of use and effectiveness is the box call. With its simplicity, this call allows you to produce a wide range of realistic turkey sounds, making it a great option for those starting out. The push-button box call is particularly beginner-friendly, offering a consistent and controlled sound. Its design eliminates the need for complex mouth calls or diaphragms, making it ideal for those who are new to calling turkeys. When using a box call, start by practicing basic calls such as the cluck, yelp, and purr. These foundational sounds will give you a solid base to build upon as you become more proficient. With patience and practice, you’ll be able to master the art of turkey calling and increase your chances of success in the field.

How should I position my decoys for turkey hunting?

When positioning your turkey decoys, aim to replicate a natural scene that will entice real turkeys. Place a hen decoy 15-20 yards in front of your blind or stand, facing away from you. This decoy will attract the male bird’s attention while also giving him a clear view of you if he decides to approach. Add a jake decoy 10-15 yards behind the hen decoy, facing towards you. This decoy will help to keep the tom’s focus on the hen while also making him feel like he has competition. Finally, position a second hen decoy 5-10 yards behind the jake decoy, but facing away from you. This decoy will add another layer of realism to the scene and help to break up the outline of your blind or stand.

What is the effective range for a shotgun when hunting turkeys?

The effective range of a shotgun when hunting turkeys depends on several factors, such as the choke, shot size, and the shooter’s skill. A shotgun with a full choke and larger shot size will have a longer effective range than a shotgun with a more open choke and smaller shot size. The shooter’s skill also plays a role, as a more experienced shooter will be able to accurately hit a target at a greater distance. Generally speaking, the effective range for a shotgun when hunting turkeys is around 40 yards. However, this range can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.

What is the most challenging aspect of turkey hunting?

Concealing oneself amidst the dense forest while remaining undetected by the keen-eyed toms poses the most formidable challenge in turkey hunting. The hunter must cautiously navigate through the undergrowth, carefully orchestrating every step to avoid betraying their presence. Clothing and accessories must blend seamlessly with the surroundings, while scents and sounds are meticulously controlled to avoid spooking the wary birds. Patience is paramount, as hours may be spent in quiet vigil, observing the elusive quarry and anticipating the opportune moment to strike. The thrill of turkey hunting lies in the delicate balance between stealth, deception, and the unpredictable nature of the wild.

What is the best strategy for locating turkeys?

Turkeys can be elusive creatures, darting into the undergrowth at the slightest disturbance. But with a little patience and preparation, you can increase your chances of locating these wily birds. Start by scouting out potential turkey habitats, such as wooded areas with plenty of cover and water sources. Look for signs of turkey activity, such as droppings, feathers, or tracks. As you move through the habitat, try to minimize noise and movement, as turkeys are easily spooked. Once you’ve spotted a turkey, be still and observe its behavior. Turkeys often feed in groups, so if you see one, there are likely others nearby. Pay attention to the direction the turkeys are moving and try to get ahead of them, as they will often return to the same feeding areas day after day.

What should I do if a turkey spots me while hunting?

If a turkey catches sight of you while you’re out hunting, it’s important to remain calm. Move slowly and try to avoid making any sudden movements that could startle the bird. Find some cover and stay still, as turkeys have excellent eyesight but poor hearing. If the turkey continues to approach, make a clucking sound to distract it and give you time to move out of its sight.

If the turkey continues to move towards you, you can try calling or moving toward it in an attempt to get it to move away or to make it feel safe and comfortable enough to continue eating around you. If all else fails, you will need to leave the area. Even if it’s frustrating, it’s better to give the turkey some space and try again later.