Wild turkey hunting can be a challenging experience, and there are a few things you need to know in order to successfully harvest the bird. First, you need to have a license before you can hunt this game. Then, you’ll need to know where and when to hunt. You’ll also need to know what the license requirements are and how to call wild turkeys.
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Exceptions to hunting wild turkeys
Hunting wild turkeys is illegal between the hours of dusk and dawn. In addition, it is illegal to use or aid in the use of bait or an area that has been baited. Hunting wild turkeys is also prohibited from vehicles or watercraft on public lands or waters.
Hunters who wish to harvest wild turkeys must first obtain a permit from the department. This permit is granted only after thorough research has been conducted in the area. The permit must be obtained at least thirty days before the release of the turkey. The department will provide an electronic confirmation number upon receipt of a completed and valid harvest report.
Calling wild turkeys
Calling wild turkeys is one of the most basic hunting techniques, but it is not always easy to be successful. Turkeys have a hard time understanding that you are calling them. They can be confused if you call too loudly or too softly. In other words, they might think you are trying to attract mates. Even if you call loudly enough, they may still run away from you.
The best time to practice calling wild turkeys is during the late fall and early winter, when huge flocks of turkeys congregate. However, you can practice hunting throughout the fall, which often extends into January. You can also use mouth calls to join the ruckus. While they might not win you any calling contests, they do sound real and will help you make a successful hunt.
There are several common calls that turkeys use when communicating their location. The most common call is the yelp of a hen. This sound is a series of two to eight notes that conveys the message, “I’m here, where are you.” The pitch and volume may vary depending on the attitude of the turkey.
You can use a variety of sounds to attract wild turkeys. You can use the kee-kee (a high pitched whistle) if the birds are scattered. This is the most effective call to draw them close to fifty yards. If you’re not able to attract them within 50 yards, try a soft-toned call. This will reassure the toms of your presence and encourage them to come closer to you.
Positioning yourself in the woods
When wild turkey hunting, positioning yourself in the woods is critical to a successful hunt. You must position yourself to be visible to the bird and he should be able to see you. To position yourself in the woods correctly, sit against a tree that blocks the view of other hunters in the area. Sitting in this way also breaks up the silhouette of the hunter. If you are a right-handed shooter, position yourself so that your left shoulder faces the bird. After positioning yourself in the woods, remain still until the turkey comes in range.
Before entering the woods, scouting is essential for spotting and photographing wild turkeys. Make sure to use binoculars and spend some time in the woods so that you can correctly identify the target. This way, you will be sure to take quality photos.
It is also important to remain silent and remain still when wild turkey hunting. Wild turkeys are very sensitive and can detect humans even if they are completely camouflaged. You should never approach a turkey closer than 100 yards. This is because they can detect movement 10 times faster than human beings.
One of the most important factors in the success of your wild turkey hunting mission is locating the turkey’s roost. During the early morning hours, a gobbler will most likely be in the woods roosting. If you’re lucky, you can hear them breaking branches and flapping their wings. Then, you can position yourself near the area near the roost when it comes time to hunt.
Using a Thermacell
Using a ThermaCELL is an excellent way to keep bugs from bothering you while you are in your stand. This device works by emitting heat through a small pad soaked in a bug repellent. This repellent helps to keep bugs away, especially mosquitoes. You can use a ThermaCELL in any area, including your stand, hunting lane, and planting food plots.
One of the advantages of using a Thermacell is its air-plane-friendly design. This means you can take it with you when flying on a commercial plane. Additionally, you can refill the unit with a new one, if necessary, to keep the area as bug-free as possible. Most of these devices can last for twelve hours with a single refill pack. They also come with a belt clip for easy portability.
Using a Thermacell is an important tool for wild turkey hunters. Mosquitoes are a constant threat in the South, so it’s important to stay protected from these nuisances. Using a Thermacell for wild turkey hunting can prevent your battle against biting insects by creating a 15-square-foot zone of mosquito-free air.
The Thermacell is also useful for protecting yourself against mosquitoes. The mosquito repellent is different from traditional bug sprays because it doesn’t need to be applied directly to your skin. The repellent vapor is held within a mat that is heated, creating a protective zone around the user. This can protect you from mosquitoes for up to four hours.
Getting a mentor
Getting a mentor for wild turkey hunting is vital to the success of your hunt. A mentor can help you understand the nuances of the hunt. A good mentor can also help you develop a hunting lifestyle. Mentors can also teach you the importance of sourcing wild game and conserving wildlife.
In Minnesota, for example, the number of applicants for the mentorship program exceeded the number of available mentors. For the past three years, the number of mentors for new hunters far outnumbered those who applied. A mentor could help you learn the ropes of wild turkey hunting and enjoy the experience. Many mentors are willing to mentor students with no experience.
While the mentoring program is open to anyone, it focuses on young hunters. Mentorships were originally used to secure early hunts. However, a rule change allowed the program to focus on first-time hunters. This year, four of seven youth mentoring with Thundering Toms members had a successful hunt. Among those, Blayne logged a 20-pound tom near Farming.
A mentor can also help you learn how to field dress the game, including how to properly process the meat. Moreover, he or she can share recipes and cooking tutorials with you. Learning the proper way to field dress the game is essential for the success of your wild turkey hunting.
