TheDuckSlayer

I'm not new to turkey hunting but I wouldn't quite call myself more than an amateur for turkey hunting.

However, while hunting geese and duck I found a spot with a lot of Turkeys, so I figured I would give it a go this spring. It will be shotgun unless I cant get one during the season I choose and ill go to a bow.

I have been reading through old threads for advice, but I still have some questions for you veterans. What season would be the best or do you prefer to hunt? Does that depend on the weather forecast? How many decoys do you like to run/what combinations?

I will be hunting public ground but I have sources that said its not heavily pressured if at all.

Thanks Guys

PrairieBelle

This will be my first year turkey hunting -- I can't wait. Spring in the woods is one of my favorite times of year.

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Gude

Seasons: Look at your calendar and see what you have the most availability to hunt. I hunt 1st and 4th generally. If you're hunting public, I'd go earlier in the season if possible.

Weather forecast doesn't usually weigh to heavily unless it's bitterly cold, windy, rainy etc.

Decoys: Over-used for the most part but no reason to use more than a jake/strutter and a hen. In a lot of cases, decoys only cause the bird to hang up.

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btomlin

1st season if you can swing it....last couple of seasons it's been the best for us by a long shot.

Decoys....I use a hen and strutter during 1st season(wouldn't place a strutter deke on public though). Jake during 4th. When I bowhunted I only used a jake.

IowaFowlFever

The earlier the season the better. I have had my best luck in 1st or 2nd season. 4th season is nice though because you get a lot of time in the woods compared to the others (if you don't get one right away).

Condn

Go first season. If you're in the woods you shouldn't need the decoy.

IAtaxidermist

I like 2nd season if hunting south of 80.

ghillie

Remember though...winter goups sometimes are not in the same spot in the spring...they could end up miles away..but in the general area

There is a ton of public where I live..consistantly...winter groups hang on it all winter, every year...come spring they are found on private near by

Scout, scout, and more scouting...and then some more...pattern those birds...

If it is public...hunt it early, then let it set till the end. Scout it and see if they are still there...late season birds can be very rewarding with big payoff's...smarter birds live longer. Also, by then most have either filled tags or have given up..so pressure is usually lighter

hope that gives you some ideas...

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bullcan

You really think your antsy ass can sit still long enough to kill one?

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ghillie

I forgot to mention that i prefer to hunt 1st and 4th for shotgunning only, otherwise it's and archery tag (all season) and then a 4th season tag too.

Weather that is not favorable is heavy rain and significant winds...
winds, however, you can use to your advantage. If terrain allows then get down into the gullies or low points in the timber...they will be trying to get out of the wind...they can hear better

As far as decoys..early i will use a jake and a hen, late just a hen or nothing at all

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"You are responsible, forever, for what you have tamed" Antione de Saint Exupery

bullcan

I like a jake and a hen early also, and a whole harem of hens laters (6-12.)

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gifters

LOL same goes for you

bullcan

This from the guy that has never called a turkey in...

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