1. DON’T MOVE
Although a seasoned turkey hunter will know this, someone just getting into it may not. Turkeys have some of the best eyesight of any game out there. Any movement you make, they will see. Be extremely careful when moving. If you do need to move, do so as slowly as possible or wait until they are behind trees or brush.
2. Develop a Style
I consider myself a very patient turkey hunter. I don’t call as much as most people. Here in Pennsylvania, by the time the season comes around, turkeys are typically moving away from calls. So, when I call, it is extremely calculated and timely. I know some people who are very aggressive and still have success. To consistently fill a tag year after year, being able to read the situation and adjust your response is the biggest key to success.
3. Don’t Call Too Loud or Too Long
Many people I’ve hunted with call too aggressively, and the birds seem to dislike it—especially in areas with heavily pressured turkeys. In certain states or areas where the birds haven’t bred as many hens, you might get away with it, but in most cases, it will not work.
4. Get to the Woods Early
If you are able and disciplined enough, getting to the woods early can give you the biggest advantage on a sleeping tom. Waking up at 4 AM is incredibly difficult for most people, but if you can push yourself and avoid hitting snooze, it will significantly increase your chances of success.
5. When a Turkey Cuts You Off, Stop Calling
This is my biggest and most underrated tip. Many hunters keep calling even when a turkey is coming right to them. In some areas, that might work, but if you’re hunting pressured birds, stop calling and get ready. Let the bird come in naturally.
6. You Can’t Get Them on the Couch
Your chances of success are much better in the woods than on the couch. Get out there and hunt. Skipping a hunt to watch a baseball game or sleep in won’t fill your tag.
7. Have Multiple Calls
Most hunters only use a mouth call. I’ve been guilty of this myself. However, sometimes a different sound or reach is necessary to get a tom’s attention. For example, I once tried calling at three or four toms a couple of hundred yards away with a mouth call and got no response. My dad pulled out a box call, and we got an almost immediate reply. Always carry an array of calls—whether it’s a pot, box, or mouth call.
8. DO NOT SIT IN THE OPEN
If you’re hunting out of a blind (which I rarely do), find a spot where turkeys can’t see you. If you sit in the open, you’ll likely get busted. Finding the right tree and cover to sit next to is a crucial skill that develops over time.
9. DO NOT SET UP ON TOP OF THEM
Choosing the right spot to set up is essential. You don’t want to be too close, as it may spook the birds and ruin your chance of success. Proper decoy placement is also key—typically 25-40 yards away, depending on the situation.
10. GO HUNT TURKEY
The best way to learn turkey hunting is by doing it. Experiment with different setups, calling strategies, and decoy placements. Over time, you’ll develop your own style and increase your success rate in the spring.
Author: Nate Mellott (Mellott Outdoors)
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