Turkey hunting can be an exhilarating experience, especially when it comes to mastering the art of calling. Whether you are a novice or an experienced hunter, effective turkey calls can mean the difference between a successful hunt and going home empty-handed. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the best tips for calling turkeys.
1. Understand Turkey Vocalizations
Turkeys have a variety of sounds, and understanding what each sound means can enhance your calling strategy:
Gobble: Typically used by males to attract females or assert dominance.
Yelp: A basic communication call that can convey many messages.
Purr: A soft sound indicating contentment.
Cluck: A simple sound that turkeys use to communicate, often during flock movements.
2. Choose the Right Call
There are several types of calls to choose from, each with its advantages:
Box Calls: Great for beginners, easy to use, and produce loud, clear sounds.
Slate Calls: Offer a versatile range of sounds while providing excellent realism when mastered.
Mouth Calls: Require practice but allow for hands-free operation. Experiment with different calls to see which one you feel most comfortable with.
3. Practice Regularly
Like any skill, practice is key. Spend time honing your calling techniques to improve your accuracy and realism. You can practice alone, or listen to real turkey sounds online or in the field to compare and refine your imitation.
4. Use a Sequence of Calls
Turkeys are social creatures and often respond to a sequence of calls instead of a single sound. A combination of yelps and clucks can mimic natural turkey communication, making you more effective. A classic approach is to start with soft yelps, progress to louder yelps, and then use clucks as the turkey approaches.
5. Be Patient
Patience is critical in turkey hunting. After calling, give turkeys time to respond. If they don't come immediately, try varying your calling strategy or waiting for a while before calling again. Sometimes, they require a little encouragement.
Short Intervals (15-30 Seconds): In areas where turkeys are active and responsive, a short interval may work well. After their initial call, wait about 15 to 30 seconds before making a call back.
Longer Intervals (10-15 Minutes): If you don't receive a response, consider increasing the interval to 10-15 minutes. This mimics natural turkey behavior, allowing time for them to move closer without feeling pressured.
6. Pay Attention to Your Surroundings
Positioning and awareness of your environment are essential. Take note of natural barriers, open areas, and the direction of the wind. Choosing the right spot to call can either attract or repel turkeys. Sitting against a tree or in a natural blind can also help you remain hidden.
7. Time Your Calls
Timing can significantly influence the effectiveness of your calls. Early morning is often the best time to start calling, as turkeys are more active and vocal. Pay attention to the surrounding sounds and call in intervals to mimic the natural rhythm of turkey conversations.
8. Don’t Overcall
While it might be tempting to keep calling to get their attention, overcalling can make turkeys suspicious. A few well-timed, realistic calls often yield better results than constant calling.
Conclusion
Calling turkeys effectively requires knowledge, practice, and patience. By understanding turkey vocalizations, choosing the right call, and applying these tips, you'll enhance your chances of a successful hunt. Remember, every hunting experience is different, so stay adaptable and observe the behavior of the turkeys in your area. With time and practice, you'll become a skilled turkey caller ready to attract those wary birds. Happy hunting!