Turkey calling is an essential skill for hunters looking to attract these elusive and wily birds. Mastering various turkey calling techniques can significantly increase your chances of a successful hunt. After all, creating the sounds turkeys want to hear is the key to drawing them in so you can set up your shot and bring home the bird. Here, we’ll explore five popular turkey calling techniques that every aspiring turkey hunter should know.
Yelping
Yelping is the most fundamental call during hunting turkey season ca, and it’s used by both hens and gobblers. It imitates the basic vocalizations of a turkey and can be used in various situations. The yelp consists of a series of clear, rhythmic notes that can vary in volume, length, and pitch. Soft yelps are suitable for maintaining contact with a flock while louder and more aggressive yelps can be used to challenge gobblers or bring in birds from a distance.
Cutting
Cutting is an excited and aggressive call that imitates a hen turkey as she becomes increasingly agitated. It involves a rapid series of erratic and high-pitched notes. Cutting can be highly effective during the peak of the breeding season when hens are more responsive and receptive to gobblers. This call can trigger a tom’s curiosity, making him eager to investigate. Different types of cutting calls can be used to catch turkeys’ attention, and experts are quick to point out that this isn’t always the right technique to use. It should be used at the appropriate times for optimal effectiveness.
Clucking and Purring
Clucking and purring are two distinct turkey vocalizations often used together. Clucks are short, low-pitched calls produced by a single or a few notes at a time. They’re typically used by hens to maintain contact with other flock members or to express contentment. Purring is a soft, rolling sound produced by quick, repetitive notes. It is used to communicate calmness and relaxation. Clucking and purring can be employed when turkeys are nearby to create a sense of security and relaxation.
Gobbling
Gobbling is the signature sound of a male turkey and is primarily produced by mature toms during the breeding season. It is a loud, booming call that carries over long distances. The gobble is meant to attract hens and assert dominance over other gobblers. While traditionally used by hunters to locate gobblers, it should be used sparingly as it can also alert other hunters to your presence. Gobbling is a challenging call to master, and it’s crucial to ensure your safety and be aware of local regulations before attempting it.
Kee-Kee Run
The kee-kee run is an effective call for mimicking the sounds of young turkeys or lost poults. It’s most successful during the fall season when young turkeys are more vulnerable and seeking contact with others. The kee-kee run consists of a high-pitched series of notes that rise and fall rapidly, imitating the kee-kee call of young turkeys. This call can bring in both curious adult turkeys and mother hens looking for their lost offspring.
Becoming a Master Turkey Caller
Mastering these turkey calling techniques requires practice, patience, and a keen understanding of turkey behavior. Remember to observe and listen to real turkeys in their natural habitat to refine your skills. Additionally, familiarize yourself with local hunting regulations and be sure to practice ethical hunting. With dedication and experience, these calling techniques will become valuable tools in your turkey hunting arsenal.
Leave a Reply