While turkey hunting can be a blast, heading out before you’re familiar with the basics can leave you empty-handed. Moreover, embarking on a hunting trip without sufficient knowledge could cause you to hurt yourself, a friend, or the bird. If you’re searching for the beginner’s bird-bagging guide, check out these essential points to teach you what you need to know to hunt turkey.
Turkey hunting essentials
Before you hit the turkey-hunting trail, you should double-check that your hunting bag is packed with essentials. Some must-have supplies and tools for a turkey hunt include camouflage clothing, a decoy, a hunting blind, calls, and a shotgun. Turkey hunting camo will help you blend in with your surroundings and approach the bird without being seen, while a decoy will help lure the turkey closer.
A hunting blind will protect you from the weather and conceal your movement. Finally, calls can attract the turkey, and a shotgun is necessary for taking the bird down. While obtaining the tools needed for your hunt can become costly, you’ll be glad you invested in quality items to have on your side.
Turkey hunting season
Turkey hunting season typically runs from late spring to early fall. Being familiar with when turkeys are most active is critical for a successful hunt. Turkeys are most active in the early morning and late evening hours, so do your best to head out around dawn and dusk.
Turkey hunting tips
When planning a turkey hunting trip, do your homework and research valuable tips that will help you bag a beautiful bird. Tips regarding making sure you are well hidden will suggest that you wear high-quality camouflage clothing and use a hunting blind, which will prove critical to your success. It’s also important to be patient and quiet while waiting for the bird to come within range. Finally, when taking the shot, aim for the head or neck area to make a clean kill.
Land for hunting turkeys
When it comes to finding the right pieces of land to hunt turkey on, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind. Be sure to locate an area known to house a significant population of birds while also offering adequate cover for you and the turkey. You’ll need to access a location with plenty of brush, trees, or tall grass. Make note that turkeys drink water to survive, so large areas with no water source will leave you in a turkey-bagging dry spell.
Before mapping your route, keep in mind that there is a difference between private and public land. Public land is open to the public and usually doesn’t require hunters to have permits. An individual or organization owns private land and typically requires hunters to have a license to pass through the area.
Weapons for turkey hunting
The type of weapon you use for turkey hunting will likely depend on your hunting state and its regulations. However, in most cases, a shotgun is the turkey hunter’s weapon of choice. When choosing a gun, it’s crucial to select an appropriate one for your hunting game. For turkeys, a 12-gauge shotgun is typically the most effective option.
Before you go
Whether you’re hoping to bag a prized bird to feed your family or are simply looking to hunt recreationally, bearing these essential tips in mind will help you up-level your hunting game. By doing your research and getting your hands on the proper supplies, you’ll be on your way home from a successful turkey hunt in no time.
