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Turkey Calls 101

Turkey hunting is a popular sport that has been enjoyed by hunters for centuries. One of the most important tools in a turkey hunter’s arsenal is the turkey call. Turkey calls are used to mimic the sounds of a wild turkey in order to attract them. They come in various shapes, sizes, and types, and choosing the right call can be a bit overwhelming. In this article, we will be discussing some of the most popular turkey calls and what makes them unique.

A turkey call is a device or instrument used by hunters to mimic the sounds of a wild turkey. These calls are used to attract and lure the turkey within shooting range, allowing hunters to successfully bag their prey. The calls are typically made of various materials such as wood, slate, or rubber and come in different shapes and sizes.

Importance of Turkey Calls in Hunting

Turkey calls play a critical role in hunting wild turkeys. A successful turkey hunt requires the hunter to be able to accurately mimic the sounds of a wild turkey to attract their attention. These calls are used to imitate the sounds of a hen or gobbler, which will in turn draw the turkey to the hunter’s location. It is crucial to use the correct call for the situation and to use it correctly. A turkey hunter who understands the importance of turkey calls, the different types of calls, and how to use them correctly, has a better chance of success.

Overview of the Different Types of Turkey Calls

There are several different types of turkey calls that are used by hunters. These include box calls, slate calls, diaphragm calls, mouth calls, and pot calls. Each type of call has its own unique sound and is best suited for specific situations. Box calls are popular among hunters because they are easy to use and produce a loud, realistic sound. Slate calls are favored for their ability to produce a soft, seductive purr that mimics the sounds of a hen. Diaphragm calls are small, lightweight, and highly portable. They are made of rubber or latex and are inserted into the mouth to create the sounds of a turkey. Mouth calls are similar to diaphragm calls and require the user to control the sound with their mouth. Pot calls are versatile and can produce a wide range of sounds, making them a popular choice among hunters. To be a successful turkey hunter, it is important to understand the different types of turkey calls and know when to use each one.
Mouth Calls
How they work
Mouth calls, also known as diaphragm calls, are a type of turkey call that uses the hunter’s mouth to produce the desired turkey sounds. These calls are made of a thin, flexible piece of latex or silicone material that is placed in the hunter’s mouth and vibrated by air from the lungs to produce turkey calls. Mouth calls are a popular choice among hunters because they allow for hands-free operation, making them ideal for use while hunting with a firearm.

Popular brands
Some of the most popular brands of mouth calls include Primos, Knight & Hale, and WoodHaven. Each brand offers a variety of call designs and materials to choose from, allowing hunters to find the call that works best for them.

How to use them
Using a mouth call requires practice and proper technique to achieve the desired turkey sounds. Hunters start by placing the call in their mouth and vibrating their diaphragm to produce a cluck, yelp, or purr. The key to using mouth calls effectively is to produce consistent, realistic turkey sounds that mimic the calls of a wild turkey. Hunters should practice regularly to master their technique and perfect their calling abilities.

Box Calls

Box calls are a traditional and classic type of turkey call. They consist of a box-like chamber and a paddle that is used to strike the sides of the box to produce different sounds. The box is made of a variety of materials such as wood, acrylic, or metal, and the paddle can be made of wood or other materials. Box calls are versatile and can produce various sounds, making them a popular choice among hunters.

How to Use Box Calls:

Box calls are relatively easy to use and are a great choice for beginners. To use a box call, the hunter holds the box in one hand and uses the paddle to strike the sides of the box, producing the desired sound. The sounds produced by a box call can be adjusted by changing the speed, pressure, and angle of the paddle. To create a clucking sound, the hunter moves the paddle quickly across the sides of the box, while to produce a yelp, the hunter moves the paddle slower and with more pressure.

Best-Selling Box Calls:

Some of the best-selling box calls on the market include brands like Primos, WoodHaven, and Knight & Hale. These brands are known for producing high-quality, realistic sounds that attract turkeys, making them popular among hunters. Additionally, they offer different models, finishes, and styles to suit different hunters’ preferences and needs. Ultimately, choosing the best box call depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the hunter.

Slate Calls

Overview of slate calls
Slate calls are a type of turkey call that are made from a thin piece of slate material, typically mounted on a wooden or plastic box. These calls produce a high-pitched, sharp sound, which makes them a popular choice for many turkey hunters. The sound is created by friction between the slate surface and a wooden striker, which is used to create the sounds of a turkey hen.

How to use slate calls
To use a slate call, hunters must first select the call they want to use and determine the type of sound they want to make. Next, they must find the right spot on the slate call to make the desired sound, and then use the striker to create the sound by rubbing it back and forth against the slate. Hunters must also practice their calling techniques to perfect their skills, so they can produce the right sounds to attract turkeys.

Best-selling slate calls
There are many popular slate calls on the market, but some of the best-selling brands include Primos, Knight & Hale, and H.S. Strut. These brands offer a range of slate calls with different types of sounds and designs, allowing hunters to choose the call that is best suited to their needs. Whether you’re looking for a high-pitched yelp or a soft, coaxing purr, you’re sure to find a slate call that will suit your needs.

The Art of Calling

Understanding turkey language:

To be successful at turkey hunting, it’s essential to understand the language of the wild turkey. Turkeys use different calls to communicate with each other and express their emotions. By understanding these calls, hunters can use them to attract or lure turkeys into their hunting area.

Calls and their meanings:

There are several different calls that turkeys use, including clucks, yelps, purrs, cuts, and cackles. Each call has a specific meaning and purpose, such as a cluck being used to signal feeding time, or a yelp being used to signal a hen looking for a mate. It’s important for hunters to know when and how to use each call to effectively mimic the turkey’s natural language.

How and when to use different calls:

The timing and frequency of turkey calls are critical factors in attracting turkeys. Hunters should call often in the early morning and evening, but decrease the frequency as the day progresses. Experimentation with different calls and timing can help hunters find what works best for them and their hunting area. A versatile and realistic call that can imitate multiple turkey sounds can increase the chances of success.

In conclusion, turkey calls are a crucial tool for any turkey hunter. From box calls to mouth calls, each type of call offers different sounds and benefits. It’s important to understand the differences between calls and to know when to use each one. With practice and experience, hunters can master the art of turkey calling and increase their chances of success in the field. Whether you are a seasoned veteran or just starting out, there is a turkey call out there that is perfect for you.

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Hunting with Turkey Decoys: A Guide to Fooling Wild Birds

Hunting wild turkeys can be a challenging and rewarding experience for hunters of all levels. In order to increase your chances of success, it is important to understand the behavior of these birds and how to use decoys effectively to lure them in. One of the best turkey decoys on the market today is Avian X, which provides realistic, life-like decoys that can help you trick even the wisest wild birds. In this blog post, we will dive into the world of hunting with turkey decoys, and provide you with all the information you need to get started.

The Basics of Turkey Hunting Decoys

Before we dive into the specific benefits of Avian X turkey decoys, let’s first discuss the basics of hunting with decoys. When it comes to hunting turkeys, decoys are a great tool to use to help you bring birds in close. By setting up a decoy in a strategic location, you can mimic the behavior of a live turkey and attract other birds in the area. This can make it easier for you to get into position and take your shot.

There are a few different types of turkey decoys on the market, including hen decoys, gobbler decoys, and jake decoys. Hens are the most common type of decoy, as they are a natural attraction for gobblers (male turkeys). Gobbler decoys are also used to attract hens, as the males will often respond to the sight of another dominant male. Jake decoys are used to mimic the behavior of young, inexperienced birds and can be useful for drawing in dominant gobblers.

Different Types of Turkey Decoy

Full-Body Decoys: Full-body decoys are the most realistic and detailed decoys on the market. They are designed to mimic the entire turkey, including its body, head, tail, and feathers. This makes them ideal for hunting in open fields and other areas where turkeys have a clear view of their surroundings.

Strutting Decoys: Strutting decoys are designed to mimic a dominant male turkey displaying his feathers and puffing out his chest. They are great for use during the breeding season when dominant males are looking for mates.

Hen Decoys: Hen decoys are designed to mimic a female turkey and are great for use during the breeding season when toms are looking for mates. They are also useful for calling in jakes and young toms.

Jake Decoys: Jake decoys are designed to mimic a young male turkey and are great for use during the spring hunting season. They are also useful for calling in dominant males.

Why Avian X is the Best Turkey Decoy on the Market

Now that you have a basic understanding of turkey hunting decoys, let’s take a closer look at why Avian X is considered one of the best on the market. Here are just a few of the reasons why Avian X decoys are a great choice for turkey hunters:

  1. Realistic Design: One of the most important factors when it comes to turkey decoys is realism. Avian X decoys are designed with realistic features, such as accurate feathers, lifelike posture, and natural colors, to ensure that they look as close to the real thing as possible. This makes it more likely that you will be able to fool wild turkeys and bring them in close for a shot.
  2. Durable Construction: Another benefit of Avian X decoys is their durable construction. These decoys are made from high-quality materials that are designed to last for many hunting seasons, so you don’t have to worry about constantly replacing your decoys.
  3. Versatile: Avian X decoys are also highly versatile, allowing you to use them in a variety of different hunting situations. Whether you are hunting in open fields, dense forests, or other types of environments, Avian X decoys are a great choice.
  4. Easy to Set Up: Another advantage of Avian X decoys is that they are easy to set up and use. Simply unfold the decoy, stake it into the ground, and you’re ready to start hunting. This makes it simple to use decoys in a variety of different hunting scenarios, even if you are hunting solo.

Tips for Hunting with Turkey Decoys

Now that you have a better understanding of why Avian X decoys are a great choice for turkey hunting, let’s take a look at some tips for using these decoys effectively. Here are a few things to keep in mind when hunting with decoys:

Understanding the Behavior of Wild Turkeys

To effectively use turkey decoys, it’s important to understand the behavior of wild turkeys in the wild. These birds are social creatures that live in flocks and are known for their distinctive gobbling calls. During mating season, male turkeys will puff up their feathers, fan their tails, and make a variety of calls to attract mates. They are also known to be highly territorial during this time, which can make them wary of any intruders in their area, including decoys.

By understanding the behavior of wild turkeys, hunters can better position their decoys and calls to attract the birds to their location. For example, placing decoys in a dominant posture with their tails fanned and feathers puffed can help attract the attention of male turkeys in the area. Additionally, using realistic calls that mimic the sounds of other turkeys can help lure the birds in.

The Importance of Proper Decoy Placement

Proper decoy placement is critical when hunting with turkey decoys. By positioning decoys in a strategic location, hunters can create a convincing illusion of a group of birds and attract turkeys to their location. However, placing decoys in the wrong location can have the opposite effect, causing the birds to become wary and avoid the area altogether.

To properly place turkey decoys, hunters should consider several factors, including the location of potential roosting sites, food sources, and water sources. Additionally, it’s important to consider the direction of the wind and the position of the sun, as these factors can affect the visibility of the decoys and the sounds of the calls.

Using Movement to Your Advantage

One of the key factors in attracting turkeys with decoys is movement. Wild turkeys are naturally curious birds and are attracted to movement in their environment. By incorporating subtle movements into their decoy set up, hunters can create a more convincing illusion and attract the birds closer to their location.

There are several ways to incorporate movement into a decoy set up, including using wind-powered decoys, using decoys with moving parts, and using decoys that are rigged to move with the help of a string or a remote control. These types of decoys can help create a more convincing illusion and increase the chances of attracting turkeys to your location.

In conclusion, hunting with turkey decoys is a highly effective way to attract these birds to your location. With the right decoys, calls, and hunting gear, hunters can increase their chances of success and bring home a prized bird. Whether you’re a seasoned turkey hunter or just starting out, incorporating turkey decoys into your hunting strategy is a great way to add an extra level of excitement and challenge to your next hunting trip.

When it comes to choosing the best turkey decoys on the market, Avian X decoys are among the best. With their realistic design, durable construction, and attention to detail, Avian X decoys are a great investment for any turkey hunter looking to take their hunting game to the next level. So, if you’re looking for the best turkey decoys for your next hunting trip, consider Avian X for the best results.

FAQ

  1. What is the purpose of using turkey decoys while hunting? The purpose of using turkey decoys while hunting is to attract and lure in wild turkeys by mimicking their behavior and appearance. Decoys are used to simulate a mating or feeding opportunity, tricking the turkeys into thinking there is another turkey in the area, causing them to come closer and make themselves vulnerable to hunting.
  2. What is the best time to use turkey decoys while hunting? The best time to use turkey decoys while hunting is during the spring mating season, as the birds are more active and looking for mates. During this time, male turkeys are more likely to come in to investigate the decoys, making them easier targets for hunters.
  3. How many decoys should be used while hunting? The number of decoys used while hunting can vary depending on the hunting situation and the experience of the hunter. Generally, hunters use 1-2 decoys to mimic a mating opportunity, or 3-4 decoys to mimic a feeding group.
  4. What is the difference between hen decoys and jake decoys? Hen decoys are used to simulate a female turkey and attract dominant males, while jake decoys are used to imitate a juvenile male turkey and draw in subordinate males. Hen decoys are typically used during the spring mating season, while jake decoys can be used throughout the hunting season.
  5. What are some important features to look for when choosing turkey decoys? When choosing turkey decoys, it is important to look for decoys that are realistic in both appearance and motion. Decoys should also be lightweight, portable, and easy to set up and take down. Additionally, it is important to look for decoys that have a durable construction, as they will be exposed to the elements while hunting.
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Public Land hunting

At one point or another, we’ve all dreamed of having a private property or exclusive access to land that others cannot hunt on. Whether you currently own such land or not, one thing is clear – hunting on public land will never completely fade away.

For hunters who have access to private land, it can be difficult to hunt through an entire season without putting pressure on the deer and affecting their movement. Mixing in hunts on public land can provide a much-needed break while preserving your private spots until the right time. By strategically hunting on public land, you can increase your chances of success in both places without educating the deer on your private land.

Hunting on public land forces hunters to think through their strategy and process in detail. These strategies can be applied to private land as well, giving hunters a new perspective and making them more effective. By splitting time between public and private land, hunters can take what they learn from the trial and error on public land and apply it to private hunts. Observing the way bucks utilize terrain, concentrate on food sources, and choose bedding locations in response to pressure can help hunters understand key areas to look for bucks on their private property.

Public land is the ultimate test ground for hunters. There’s no better way to sharpen your skills and hone your effectiveness than hunting on an even playing field with other hunters. Hunting public land teaches you to think in the moment and stay adaptable to outside influences. If you can scout and learn how bucks navigate terrain and habitat with hunting pressure on public land, you can put yourself in a position to fill a tag on a hard-earned public land buck while also gaining a better understanding of how to hunt private land more effectively.

Public land is also a great place to try new hunting styles and strategies without worrying about the impact on private ground. Whether it’s still hunting, spot and stalking, or any other approach, public land provides hunters with the freedom to experiment without the concern of long-term effects. Of course, it’s important to be respectful and not blow up a public tract for everyone else, but the beauty of public land is having the freedom to try new things.

Ultimately, public land is a valuable resource that belongs to all of us. As hunters, conservationists, and stewards of the land and wildlife, it’s our responsibility to preserve this incredible resource for future generations to enjoy. Whether it’s for the thrill of the hunt, the beauty of the outdoors, or to try something new, public land is a valuable asset for public deer hunting and the best public land deer hunting experience.

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Saddle Hunting

TETHRD TREE SADDLE

Hunting is an exhilarating and challenging sport that requires the right gear and right equipment. One of the most essential pieces of equipment for hunting is a comfortable and durable hunting saddle. A hunting saddle is a harness that connects to a rope and attaches to the tree which allows the hunter to sit or stand comfortably while hunting.


There are various types of hunting saddles available in the market, from traditional rope or webbing-based saddles to more modern and advanced designs. The choice of saddle will depend on the type of hunting you’re doing, your budget, and your personal preferences. Its always recommended to try a few different ones out to see which works best for you. Perhaps at a hunting or outdoors expo!

One brand that stands out in the market for tree saddle hunting is Tethrd. Tethrd offers a wide range of hunting gear, including their patented tree saddle, the Tethrd Mantis. The Tethrd Mantis is a lightweight and compact saddle that is designed for extreme mobility and versatility. It features a unique, patent-pending design that allows for quick and easy adjustments, making it easy to switch between sitting and standing positions while hunting.

COMFORT AND DURABILITY

The Tethrd Mantis I am using is made with high-quality materials, including a durable and breathable mesh seat, and is built to last. I have been using one for the last 3 seasons and it still looks as it did the day it was purchased.  It also can be customized with a variety of accessories that can be added or removed to suit your needs, such as the SYS hauler or the One Stick roll up Pouch. Compared to other brands the Tethrd Mantis offers a unique combination of comfort, durability, and versatility.

HOW TO MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE

When choosing a hunting saddle, comfort is an essential factor. The size and fit of the saddle are crucial for comfort and safety. A saddle that is too big or too small can be uncomfortable and unstable. It is important to try out different sizes and styles of saddles to find the one that works best for you.

CARE TO MAKE YOUR SADDLE LAST 

To prolong the lifespan of your hunting saddle, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for care and maintenance. This includes regularly inspecting the saddle for any signs of wear or damage, and taking appropriate action. It is also important to store the saddle in a cool, dry place when not in use and during the off season. Prior to the season I hand wash in warm soapy water and hang dry. I use that opportunity to inspect the saddle prior to the upcoming season.

SAFETY

Safety should always be a top priority when hunting, and this applies to saddle hunting as well. It is essential to use a saddle that is designed for hunting and is certified by a reputable organization. It is also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use, and to use appropriate safety equipment.

ACCESSORIES

When hunting from a tree, accessories such as a HYS strap or a recliner for back support can be helpful. Don’t forget to pair your tree saddle with the perfect platform to stand on. With plenty of options available for packs carrying your gear couldn’t get any easier. And last but not least climbing sticks. Using a tree saddle will require a way to climb a tree to get to hunting height and Tethrd makes a variety of options for climbing sticks.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, a comfortable and durable hunting saddle is an essential piece of equipment for any hunter. Tethrd’s tree saddle hunting gear, such as the Tethrd Mantis, offers a unique combination of comfort, durability, and versatility. When choosing a hunting saddle, it is important to consider comfort, durability, and safety. With the right gear and equipment, tree saddle hunting can be a fun and rewarding experien