How to Call Turkeys: 5 Tips from the Pros
- inthaloop1
- Apr 9, 2023
- 4 min read
1. Do your research
Calling turkeys can be a great way to attract them to your hunting grounds. However, it is important to do your research before you start calling. There are a few things you should keep in mind when you are choosing to call turkeys.
First and foremost, you need to know what kind of turkey call you want to use. There are many different types of calls, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. You will also need to know how to use the call you choose.
Once you have selected a call, you need to do some research on the area you will be hunting. It is important to know what turkeys are in the area and what their habits are. This information will help you choose the best place to set up your call and will also help you to be more successful when you are calling turkeys.
2. Make sure you have the right gear
When you are going out turkey hunting, it is important to make sure you have all the right gear. You need to make sure that you have the right clothing, hunting boots, and shelter. You will also want to make sure you have the right shotgun and ammunition. Of course, you will also want to make sure you have the right turkey call.
When it comes to clothing, make sure that you wear something that will help you blend in with your environment. Also, make sure that the clothing is warm and comfortable. Your hunting boots should be waterproof and comfortable, and your shelter should protect you from the elements.
When it comes to shotguns, the type you use will depend on the type of turkey you will be hunting. Make sure the shotgun fits comfortably so that you can easily handle it. The type of ammunition you use should depend on the type of turkey you will be hunting.
Finally, make sure you have the right turkey call. There are many different types of calls, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. Be sure to do your research so that you know which call is best for the type of turkey you will be hunting.
3. Be patient
Patience is key when it comes to turkey hunting. When you are calling turkeys, it may take time for them to respond. Wild turkeys can be very suspicious, and if they are not comfortable with the location or the sounds, they could take their time before responding.
If turkeys don’t respond to your call right away, you shouldn’t give up. Wait for a few moments before you try again. You should also vary the type of calls you use, since turkeys may be more drawn to certain kinds of calls. If you persist and are patient, the turkeys may eventually come.
Another way to increase your chances of success is by spending time in the area where you will be hunting. This will allow you to get a sense of the environment and the behavior of the turkeys. You will also be able to tell if there are other hunters nearby who may be scaring off the turkeys.
Finally, make sure you are well-rested before hunting. This will help you stay alert and be more patient when trying to call turkeys. All in all, patience and persistence will help you have a successful turkey hunting trip.
4. Try different techniques
When it comes to calling turkeys, there are a few different techniques you can use. Each technique has its advantages and disadvantages, so you need to find out which one is best for you.
The most common turkey call is the Yelp call. This technique involves making a soft, raspy sound reminiscent of a hen turkey. To make the call, you need to take a breath, force air through your throat, and then make a sharp sound to produce the yelping sound. It is important to vary the number and pitch of calls you are making.
Another common call is the cluck. This call is deeper and rougher than yelp and can be used to get turkeys to respond from a distance. You can also use the cluck to attract multiple turkeys. To make this call, you need to take a deep breath, and then force air through your throat while making a sharp sound at the end.
One of the more advanced techniques is to use purrs. This is a gentle, guttural call that is often used to calm turkeys down. It can also be used to get the turkeys used to you and your calls. To make the purr, you need to softly hum while forcing air through your throat. It can take some practice to get it right, but it is a great tool to have in your plan.
5. Be aware of your surroundings
When calling turkeys, it is important to be aware of your surroundings. Turkeys have great hearing, so any noise you make could be a distraction and could cause the turkey to run away instead of coming to your call.
Be sure to wear clothing that blends in with the environment and avoid wearing anything that makes a noise, such as jewelry or jingling keys. Try to stay downwind of the turkey you are trying to attract, as this will help you maintain the element of surprise. Also, be sure to set up in a location that provides ample cover from any nearby areas that the turkey could be coming from or going to.
Finally, be sure to call at the right time and in the right place. Turkeys are typically more active and vocal right around sunrise and sunset. Knowing this, it can be beneficial to wait until that hour to call to ensure that your call is heard by the turkey. Additionally, try to set up in locations where turkeys naturally gather together, such as open fields and meadows. This will increase your chances of success.
6. Have fun!
Calling turkeys can be a rewarding experience – and it can also be a lot of fun! Whether you’re an experienced hunter or a beginner, making the perfect call and attracting the bird can be an exhilarating experience with an immense reward.
The key is to practice, practice, practice. Take the time to get your technique just right, and you’ll be surprised by the results. Don’t forget that it’s just as important to listen while you’re calling. It’s the natural response that you’ll be looking and listening for, so make sure you’re prepared to hear it.
Most of all, enjoy yourself. Even if you don’t manage to attract the turkey, the process of learning and challenging yourself is just as rewarding, and can be extremely fun!
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