Learn About Essential Turkey Hunting Equipment

Turkey hunting is a popular and challenging sport that requires not only skill and patience but also the right equipment. Whether you're a novice or an experienced hunter, having the essential gear can significantly enhance your hunting experience and increase your chances of success. This guide will provide an in-depth look at the essential turkey hunting equipment you'll need to make your next hunt productive and enjoyable.

1. Shotgun

The most critical piece of equipment for turkey hunting is the shotgun. Choosing the right shotgun involves considering several factors, including gauge, barrel length, choke, and ammunition.

Gauge

The 12-gauge shotgun is the most popular choice among turkey hunters due to its versatility and availability. It provides a good balance between power and recoil. However, the 20-gauge shotgun is also a viable option, especially for younger or smaller hunters who may find the 12-gauge's recoil too harsh.

Barrel Length

For turkey hunting, a barrel length between 24 and 28 inches is ideal. This length provides a good balance between maneuverability and accuracy. Shorter barrels can be easier to handle in dense cover, while longer barrels may offer better shot patterns.

Choke

A tight choke, such as a full or extra-full, is recommended for turkey hunting. This constriction helps to keep the shot pattern tight at longer ranges, increasing the chances of a successful hit. Many modern shotguns come with interchangeable choke tubes, allowing hunters to customize their choke based on their specific needs.

Ammunition

High-quality turkey loads are essential. These typically come in shot sizes of 4, 5, or 6, with 5 being the most common. Heavier loads with a higher pellet count can provide better coverage and increase the likelihood of a lethal shot.

2. Turkey Calls

Turkey calls are indispensable tools for attracting turkeys. There are various types of calls, each with its unique advantages and uses.

Box Calls

Box calls are easy to use and produce realistic turkey sounds. They consist of a wooden box and a paddle that, when scraped against the box, creates a sound that mimics a turkey's call. Box calls are great for beginners due to their simplicity.

Slate Calls

Slate calls, also known as pot calls, consist of a circular piece of slate or other materials that is scratched with a striker. They produce a variety of realistic turkey sounds and are favored for their versatility and sound quality.

Mouth Calls

Mouth calls, or diaphragm calls, are placed in the mouth and operated by blowing air through them. They require more practice to master but offer the advantage of hands-free operation, which can be crucial when a turkey is close.

Locator Calls

Locator calls mimic the sounds of other animals, such as owls or coyotes, to elicit a "shock gobble" from turkeys, revealing their location. These calls are especially useful in the early morning or late evening when turkeys are roosting.

3. Camouflage Clothing

Turkeys have excellent eyesight, so wearing the right camouflage clothing is essential. Your clothing should match the environment you'll be hunting in, whether it's early spring with lots of green foliage or late fall with more browns and grays.

Camo Patterns

Choose a camouflage pattern that blends well with the terrain. Patterns like Mossy Oak or RealTree offer a variety of designs tailored to different environments.

Ghillie Suits

For those who want to take camouflage to the next level, a ghillie suit can be highly effective. These suits break up your outline and make you almost invisible in the woods.

Face and Hand Coverings

Don't forget to camouflage your face and hands. A face mask or face paint and gloves are essential, as any exposed skin can be easily spotted by a turkey.

4. Decoys

Decoys are another critical piece of equipment. They can be used to lure turkeys into shooting range by mimicking the appearance and behavior of real turkeys.

Hen Decoys

Hen decoys are the most commonly used. They attract gobblers looking for a mate. Positioning a hen decoy in an open area can entice a gobbler to come into range.

Jake Decoys

Jake decoys represent young male turkeys. These can provoke a response from dominant gobblers looking to assert their dominance, drawing them in for a closer look.

Full-Strut Gobbler Decoys

Full-strut gobbler decoys are highly effective at attracting dominant males. These decoys mimic a gobbler in a full strut, challenging other males and triggering a territorial response.

5. Turkey Vest

A turkey vest is a specialized piece of gear designed to carry all your hunting equipment. It typically has numerous pockets and compartments to organize calls, ammunition, decoys, and other essentials.

Comfort and Storage

Look for a vest with padded shoulder straps and a padded back for comfort during long hunts. The vest should have plenty of storage options, including dedicated pockets for specific items like box calls, slate calls, and mouth calls.

Seat Cushion

Many turkey vests come with a built-in seat cushion, which can be a lifesaver during long periods of sitting and waiting. A comfortable seat cushion can make a big difference in your overall comfort and patience during a hunt.

6. Binoculars

A good pair of binoculars is essential for scouting and spotting turkeys from a distance. They allow you to scan the terrain and identify potential targets without revealing your position.

Magnification

A magnification of 8x or 10x is ideal for turkey hunting. This provides a good balance between field of view and detail, allowing you to spot turkeys at a distance without losing too much context of the surrounding area.

Size and Weight

Choose binoculars that are compact and lightweight, as you'll need to carry them for extended periods. Models with good low-light performance are also beneficial for early morning and late evening hunts.

7. Hunting Boots

Proper footwear is crucial for turkey hunting, as you'll often need to walk long distances and navigate challenging terrain. Comfortable, durable, and waterproof boots are essential.

Support and Comfort

Look for boots that provide good ankle support and cushioning. A comfortable pair of boots will prevent fatigue and reduce the risk of injury during long hunts.

Waterproofing

Hunting often involves wet and muddy conditions, so waterproof boots are a must. Gore-Tex or similar materials provide excellent waterproofing while still allowing your feet to breathe.

Insulation

Depending on the time of year, you may need insulated boots. Early spring hunts can be cold, so having boots with proper insulation will keep your feet warm and comfortable.

8. Hunting Blind

A hunting blind can be a valuable asset, providing concealment and allowing you to set up in prime locations without being detected by turkeys.

Types of Blinds

There are several types of hunting blinds, including pop-up blinds, hub-style blinds, and natural blinds. Pop-up and hub-style blinds are portable and easy to set up, making them ideal for turkey hunting.

Placement

Place your blind in a location with good visibility and shooting lanes. Brush in the blind with natural vegetation to help it blend into the surroundings and make it less noticeable to turkeys.

Comfort

Ensure the blind is large enough to accommodate you and your gear comfortably. Look for blinds with silent entry and exit points to avoid spooking turkeys.

9. Rangefinder

A rangefinder is a useful tool for accurately measuring the distance to your target. Knowing the exact range can help you make more accurate shots, especially when turkeys are at the edge of your shooting range.

Features

Look for a rangefinder with a clear display, good range capability (up to 800 yards or more), and fast readout times. Some models also include angle compensation, which can be helpful when hunting in hilly or uneven terrain.

Size and Weight

Choose a compact and lightweight rangefinder that can be easily carried in a pocket or attached to your vest.

10. GPS and Mapping Tools

Having a GPS device or smartphone with mapping apps can be invaluable for navigating unfamiliar terrain and marking locations where you've spotted turkeys.

GPS Devices

Dedicated GPS devices are rugged and reliable, with features like topographic maps, waypoints, and tracking. Brands like Garmin offer models specifically designed for hunters.

Smartphone Apps

There are several hunting apps available for smartphones that provide detailed maps, weather forecasts, and other useful information. Apps like OnX Hunt allow you to mark waypoints, track your movements, and access public and private land boundaries.

11. Safety Gear

Safety should always be a top priority when hunting. Carrying the right safety gear can help prevent accidents and ensure a successful and enjoyable hunt.

Blaze Orange

While camouflage is crucial, wearing some blaze orange when moving to and from your hunting spot is essential for safety. This helps other hunters see you and reduces the risk of accidental shootings.

First Aid Kit

A compact first aid kit should always be part of your gear. It should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.

Communication Devices

Carry a fully charged cellphone or a two-way radio to communicate with other members of your hunting party or call for help in an emergency.

12. Miscellaneous Gear

There are several other items that can enhance your turkey hunting experience and make your hunt more comfortable and successful.
Knife

A good hunting knife is essential for field dressing your turkey. Look for a knife with a sharp, durable blade and a comfortable grip.
Water and Snacks

Staying hydrated and fueled is important during long hunts. Carry a water bottle or hydration pack and pack some high-energy snacks to keep your energy levels up.
Scent Control

While turkeys primarily rely on their eyesight, minimizing your scent can still be beneficial. Use scent control sprays or wear scent-blocking clothing to reduce your scent signature.

Turkey hunting is a rewarding and challenging pursuit that requires the right equipment for success. From shotguns and calls to camouflage clothing and safety gear, each piece of equipment plays a crucial role in ensuring a successful hunt. By investing in high-quality gear and taking the time to understand how to use it effectively, you'll be well-prepared for your next turkey hunting adventure. Remember, preparation and practice are key, and with the right equipment, you'll increase your chances of bagging that elusive gobbler. Happy hunting!

About the Author: Earnest Sherrill

Earnest Sherrill is a passionate outdoor enthusiast and writer who resides in the warm and breezy state of Texas. With a deep love for nature, Earnest enjoys exploring the great outdoors and sharing his experiences through his writing. He writes about various aspects of outdoor life and the intriguing happenings of everyday experiences. When not writing, Earnest cherishes spending time with his youngest grandchildren, who bring vibrant energy and robust attitudes to his life. Stay connected with Earnest to discover more about the wonders of the outdoors and the joys of life's adventures.

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