Wild Turkey Hunting Information

Hunting wild turkey is exciting and full of adventure. 

When the winter snows finally begin to melt and springtime brings green colors back to the landscape it is time to hunt wild turkeys.  The warmth of the springtime sun on your back as you sit quietly in the woods and call in a gobbler is great fun. 

Wild turkey hunting is a great way to introduce a new hunter to the sport.  It is safe and takes place in less inclement conditions that other types of hunting.  Similar to the thrill of hearing a bull elk bugle in the fall, wild turkey hunting offers the thrill of hearing the birds gobble and strut as the come into your call.

Wild Turkey Behavior and Ecology for the Hunter

There are several types of wild turkeys in North America. 

The most common and numerous is the eastern wild turkey which is native to the eastern part of the country. 

The southwestern variety is known as the Merriam’s wild turkey and it also has been introduced to many Rocky Mountain state’s. 

Both of these sub species behave similarly.  Breeding and mating behavior occurs in early spring.  Many males or gobblers compete with each other to mate with the available hens.  It is during this breeding period that turkeys are the most fun to hunt.  By mimicking the call of a courting gobbler it is possible to lure one, or several gobblers to within shooting range.

Guided Wild Turkey Hunts

Throughout the southeastern United States there are many special opportunities to pay an access fee on private agricultural lands and plantations to hunt wild turkeys.  Many of these private land turkey hunts have a beautiful lodge and fine dining for the turkey hunter to enjoy. 

Turkey hunting outfitters are a fun option if you do not know a landowner or public land location to pursue a turkey.  Many turkey hunting outfitters also will call in the turkey foe the hunter and provide all of the turkey hunting equipment.   Outfitters and turkey hunting lodges also provide other amenities such as fine dining and local character.

Do It Yourself (DIY) Public Land Wild Turkey Hunts

It is easy and simple to hunt wild turkeys on your own.  Most DIY turkey hunters plan their hunts on public lands such as National Forest and State lands.  It is important to be aware of other turkey hunters to avoid potential hunting accidents.  You do not want to call in and mistake another hunter for a gobbler. 

Scouting turkey hunting locations can provide information on bird abundance and identify evening roost trees.  Once roost trees are discovered or feeding areas a turkey hunter can locate a successful calling location.  All of this can be done on your own and at low cost to the hunter.

Wild Turkey Hunting Equipment

Shotguns are used to hunt wild turkeys.  There are a host of shotgun styles and models for the turkey hunter to choose from.  Most turkey hunters prefer a 12 gauge to pursue these large game birds. 

Check online or at your local sporting goods store for different types of turkey calls.  Most hunters prefer a box call or a mouth instrument. 

Camouflage hunting clothing is an essential part of any turkey hunter’s equipment.  Camouflage hunting pants, shirts and a facemask can conceal the hunter and ensure that the gobbler approaches to within shooting range. 

Wild turkey hunters can also use an electronic GPS unit and topographic maps to locate hunting spots and prevent getting lost in the woods.  Tick and mosquito spray can make a turkey hunt more enjoyable in the springtime.