Last Minute Turkey Hunting Advice

As most states have already started their turkey hunting season, the sounds of turkeys yelping in the near distance get me excited for the next hunt. At this point, scouting season should be wrapped up but if you haven't had a chance to scout, get out there soon because many seasons are a few weeks long, which still gives ample time to find that Gobbler.

Where to go for Turkey Hunting Season?

This is a widespread question, especially for new turkey hunters. Just like many species finding excellent habitat is the goal. The NTWF cites 4 Great Wild Turkey Habitats that all hunters should be checking out before and during their hunts. I agree with their assessment, especially in the west, as the number one factor in finding wild turkeys is finding water sources.

I would add, though, that you, as a hunter, need to be willing to get away from roads. Turkeys don't typically hang around roads early in the morning, so be ready to start hiking to find those hot habitat spots that could hold turkeys.

You will want to find oak trees and grassland for much of the country as they provide cover and food sources that turkeys enjoy in the spring. Other significant habitat areas are pine tree areas. It allows for ample ground cover and open grassland sections that give a turkey everything it needs to survive predators and thrive.

How to Turkey Hunt?

Once you are in close, by in close, we mean within 75 yards or so. It is then time to start communicating with the turkey. Communication can be challenging to learn, but it is mainly done in three ways, a mouth call, pot call, and box call. Each of these calls can make slightly different sounds, so it can help to be proficient on more than one of these calls. I have used many styles of mouth calls to help improve my calling, but I also have a very nice slate pot that we wrote about in Hunting Stories.

When Should You Go Turkey Hunting?

The best time of year to go turkey hunting in most states is in the spring, late April, and early May. This is the breeding season for Turkey, which makes them susceptible to calling. The exciting part is that this is the only bird we hunt during the breeding season, which is more like a big game hunt than bird hunting.

You also need to consider the time of day. Turkey hunting is an early morning activity that typically can be wrapped up before noon. However, late afternoon turkey hunting is necessary, too. Even if you are trailing a turkey to find the roost, that will benefit you the following day.

 Whether you are a turkey hunting veteran or a new to the hunt, getting out in spring can be enjoyable for all hunters. Take your time, find those turkeys, and call them close so that you can bring home some wild turkey for your family.

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