Hunting Tips

"Tricks of the Trade"

Spend as much time as possible scouting . The earlier you can start keeping an eye on them the better off you may be.

Don't get your hopes up "courting" that big tom you see in the corn field every morning on your way to work. Chances are that you're not the only one drooling over him. Don't be afraid to take a morning and try your luck but more often than not, the "visible" bird is hunted more frequently. Most will either talk, talk, talk, or do just the opposite. Nothing.

Put your bird to bed. No, not your children, your bird. Roosting him the night before will help your plan of attack for the next morning. Don't assume that he uses the same roost every night. You might get an unwelcome surprise when he flies out of the tree 75 yards behind you instead of the one 60 yards in front of you. Even if he was in the same tree every night for three days.

Get there early. 1-2 hours before first light so you can get close enough without spooking him.

Don't call too much. I'm sure you have never heard your mother say that but a big gobbler is a different story. The instant you let out that first yelp he know exactly where you are. If he has other hens with him he may only gobble once, twice, or not at all.

"And remember, turkeys don't wear watches. Just because you only have a couple of hours to hunt doesn't mean a thing to them; they have all day. Lots of hunters lose patience when a tom shuts up just after fly-down. Too many decide the birds are gone and get up to hunt somewhere else, only to scare off a flock slowly moving in."-Jim Maturen Founder Pere-Marquette chapter MWTHA

Argue with the women. Meaning- talk to the hens. If you know the tom is with hens and he seems just content with them make HER mad. A series of sharp cackles, or clucks should do the trick. If she feels there is competition she will investigate. Normally the tom will lag behind. NOTE: never try to sneak up on a hen. There is a possibility it's another hunter. Even if you are on private property. Think Safety First!

Remember the three P's-Preseason scouting, Patience and Persistence.

Have a "Tip or Trick" that you want to share. Just send it via email to Lindag10@hotmail.com Please include your personal information if you would like to see your "name in lights".