Turkey hunting is not only one of the only chances avid hunters get in the spring to take the shot, but it also requires a level of skill (and patience) that cannot be outmatched. If you’re looking for some tips to up your game this spring, our friend Rut Daniel’s from Catchin’ Deers has you covered. Whether you’re looking for a good laugh, or maybe a little bit of inspiration, check out our favorite words of turkey hunting wisdom from the man himself in our turkey hunting tips video compilation below.
Rut is second to none when it comes to satirical hunting humor, but within his crazy antics you may find some helpful turkey hunting tips. Below are what we consider to be the translations of some of his famous lines and our favorite one-liners.
1. Turkeys have great eyesight – three times greater than a human with perfect vision, and a field of view of 270 degrees. This means it’s important to stay still, quiet and hidden using appropriate attire and blinds.
2. Get to the field bright and early to increase your chances of success. It’s pretty simple – the first hunter to the field is going to have much greater odds since the area has yet to be disturbed.
3. Include bait such as worms in your setup to bring in the hens. If there’s hens, you can bet the jakes and toms are not far behind.
4. Your success will rely on your skills in callings, waiting and shooting. Being good at calling will bring the birds, waiting will allow you to take a good shot, and well, a good shot brings home the bird!
5. Patience is key! Experienced turkey hunters know that it can be a long process to successfully call in and eventually harvest that gobbler. Make sure you’re set up comfortably and settled in for the long haul.
6. Don’t overdo it with the call. This is a much debated topic amongst turkey hunters and overcalling has been considered a myth by some, used as an excuse by an unsuccessful hunter. Calling a turkey is a skill and takes some strategy. Follow the lead of the bird you are calling – after all, the idea is to lead him to believe you’re a hen looking for a mate. Overcalling may lead him to believe you’re over eager, and will come to him, so strategize accordingly.
7. The bird is never guaranteed, so stay focused! A lot can happen between the first yelp on your call and the moment the turkey walks into shooting range. Stay diligent with your call strategy once you have him hooked and never get ahead of yourself.
8. It’s important to have an accurate shot. As ethical hunters, we know how important it is with any animal to have a clean shot. Turkeys are relatively small game compared to say, a whitetail, and when hunting with a firearm your target is going to be the neck/head area of the bird. This is a rather small area and will require a skilled shot – so get to the range and practice up!
9. Hunting later in the season may result in larger birds. Many hunters consider the beginning of the season to be the best time to cash in as those eager gobblers searching for a mate, but as the spring rolls on, and many hens begin to sit on their nests, there will still be longbeards who are seeking hens and will be receptive to your calls. Because these birds have had longer to enjoy the spring smorgasbord, you might even end up with a little extra meat on the breast!
10. Everything’s better with bacon! Who doesn’t agree with that?
Stay connected with rut and catchin’ deers
If you want to see more from Rut, you can subscribe to his channel over on YouTube. Interested in Rut Daniels and Catchin’ Deers apparel? HUNTINGsmart! & Campfire Collective members get awesome deals. Register and take a course today.
