In order to bowhunt turkeys, you need a few things. First, you’ll need a bow and arrows. If you don’t already have a bow, you can find a variety of bows online or at your local sporting goods store. You’ll also need some basic knowledge of how to shoot a bow.
If you’re new to bowhunting, it’s a good idea to take a beginner’s class or two before heading out into the field. This will help you learn the basics of shooting and safety.
Once you have your equipment, it’s time to start learning about turkey hunting. There are a variety of resources available to help you get started, including books, websites, and even YouTube videos. Take some time to learn about the different types of turkeys, their habitat, and their behavior. This knowledge will help you be successful when you finally head out into the field.
When you’re ready to go turkey hunting, be sure to check the regulations in your state or province. Each jurisdiction has different rules and regulations regarding turkey hunting, so it’s important to be familiar with the laws before heading out.
With a little preparation, you can start bowhunting turkeys and enjoying this challenging and rewarding sport.
Where to find turkeys
Turkeys can be found in a variety of habitats, but they are most commonly found in open woodlands, fields, and edges. During the spring and fall, turkeys will also use agricultural areas, such as farms and orchards.
The best way to find turkeys is to do some scouting before you head out into the field. Look for signs of turkeys, such as tracks, droppings, feathers, or scratch marks on trees. Pay attention to where you see these signs, as this is likely to be a good spot to hunt.
Another option is to use a game camera. These devices can be placed in potential turkey hunting areas and will take pictures whenever an animal passes by. This can be a great way to pattern turkeys and learn their habits.
When to hunt turkeys
Turkey hunting season varies depending on the jurisdiction, but in most areas, the season runs from late April to early May. This is when turkeys are actively breeding and can be more easily lured in with calls and decoys.
In some areas, there may also be a fall turkey hunting season. This is typically shorter than the spring season and usually runs from October to November. Fall turkey hunting can be a great way to get started in the sport, as the birds are less shy and more predictable at this time of year.
How to call turkeys
One of the most important aspects of turkey hunting is knowing how to call turkeys. There are a variety of calls available, from simple mouth calls to more advanced electronic calls.
Mouth calls are the most popular type of call among turkey hunters. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to use. There are a variety of mouth calls available, each with its own sound.
Electronic calls are another option for calling turkeys. These devices can create a variety of sounds, which can be helpful in attracting birds. However, they can be more expensive than mouth calls and may require some practice to use effectively.
When using a call, it’s important to start softly and gradually increase the volume. You want to sound like a real turkey, not like a hunter trying to imitate one.
How to decoy turkeys
In addition to calling, using decoys can be a great way to attract turkeys. Turkey decoys come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from full-bodied decoys to smaller stakes with just the head and tail feathers.
Decoys can be placed in a variety of positions, depending on the situation. For example, placing a decoy near some brush may help conceal you from the turkey’s sight.
When using decoys, it’s important to use enough to create a realistic scene. Using too few decoys can actually scare turkeys away. A good rule of thumb is to use one decoy for every 10 acres of land.
After the kill – processing and cooking your turkey
After you’ve successfully killed a turkey, it’s important to process the bird properly. This includes removing the feathers, guts, and head. The best way to do this is with a sharp knife and some gloves.
Once the turkey is cleaned, it’s time to cook it. There are a variety of ways to cook a turkey, but one of the most popular methods is to roast it in the oven.
When cooking your turkey, be sure to follow all food safety guidelines. This includes ensuring that the meat is cooked thoroughly and not undercooked.
Turkey is delicious and nutritious game meat that can be enjoyed by the whole family. With a little preparation, you can start bowhunting turkeys and enjoy this challenging and rewarding sport.
