Whether it’s the spring or fall turkey hunt, gear up to make this hunt the most rewarding! Investing in the right turkey gear can make all the difference when bagging your prized bird. Surprisingly, hunting for turkeys seems to have the lowest barrier of entry, meaning it’s easier to start than waterfowl, deer, bear, moose and so on.
This article will cover how to turkey hunt, turkey hunting gear for beginners, tips for picking the right equipment, and what essential turkey gear you shouldn’t leave home without. So, what are you waiting for? Don’t let another wild turkey hunting season pass you by without the right gear for success – let’s get started and discover the gear needed to help you bag your wild turkey!
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Turkey Hunting Gear: Shot Size for Hunting Turkeys
The Ol’ Big Tom Turkey – the bird you’re after!
Hopefully, you didn’t forget that a turkey is a bird 🙂 That means it’s time to dust off the turkey hunting shotgun and secure the correct turkey loads.
Unlike waterfowl, we can get away with good old lead for this hunt. Ideally, a minimum 3″ shotgun shell. 3.5″ is even better, but be forewarned – it kicks both ways! You’ll want your shells to have some power, as these turkeys are hearty birds. You’ll also need choke tubes, like a full choke or an extra full (turkey choke) if you want to add a little range.
The rule of thumb with turkey hunting ammo is if you are in some brush, go with a number 4 shot size – it’s more likely to get through. If hunting in a field, use number 6 – it will give you more pellets to play with. A happy medium is #5, which is what I use. Winchester Long Beard ammunition is a favoured choice among turkey hunters.
Looking for a New Shot Gun? Explore our review of the Custom 870 Remington. It’s worth the read!
What Gun Do You Use for Turkey Hunting?
Hands down, the best weapon for hunting a wild turkey is a shotgun – it’s the most common, easy and uttermost deadly weapon for the turkey hunter. It’s also why we start the post with shells – if you intend to harvest a bird, it’s the most important thing other than perhaps calling the turkeys in.
You can also use bows, which are legal use for hunting wild turkeys in Canada! That technically gives the turkey hunter two viable options.
For anyone who doesn’t have a turkey shotgun, or better yet, wants one but is waiting to get licensed for firearms, nothing is stopping you from hunting turkey. I would suggest using a bow and calling the turkeys in closer. But then again, some bows are so good nowadays they help bridge the gap between a bow and a gun! If you’re in the market for a reliable shotgun, among the turkey hunters, the Mossberg 835 is popular.
What are the Different Types of Calls for Turkey Hunting?
Test different types of turkey calls to find what works best for you. Pictured: Quaker Boy Easy Yelper, Primos Bamboozled, and Primos Shot Caller
My first turkey hunt was downright amazing – if you are a newbie, I highly suggest you hunt with someone who knows what they are doing for some beginner turkey hunting tips, at least when it’s your first time turkey hunting!!!
On my first spring turkey hunt, we were out early morning, all camouflaged out, dropped a couple of turkey decoys and sat by the tree line and brush cover – right where the forest meets an open field.
As a beginner, you would think nothing is out there. But as my friend started turkey calling, the turkeys responded within minutes. It’s surreal as the bird comes in and gets closer – the intensity and excitement get louder and bulkier. It also directly relates to your adrenaline levels as it’s an experience like none other.
The point is, you don’t just sit there – you need to call your birds in! Knowing how to do that is pivotal to turkey hunting success. So, let’s look at the different turkey call types for beginners.
The easiest and best turkey call for beginners is the box call. Box calls can imitate a lot of clucks and purrs with these and it’s a turkey hunting must-have.
The skills required are on the lower side. Put bluntly, if you can’t figure out how to use this call, then maybe turkey hunting is not for you. I use the Primos Shot Caller. Below, you will find an easy-to-understand tutorial from Primos on how to use the shot caller box call for turkey hunting.
Besides being the easiest to learn, box calls are the ones that are most likely to always work. I never go out hunting without this essential piece of hunting gear. In fact, you should never go hunting without carrying a few different types of turkey calls!
Plate Call
Another call you can try is a turkey plate call, aka pot call or friction call. These will be either glass, slate or ceramic.
Hold the pot in one hand and the striker in the other, which you use to make the turkey sounds. Pot calls and slate calls are quite a bit harder to use and require some practice. If you go this route, I highly suggest practicing long before you ever go out with it.
Practice using the plate call anytime you are sitting around or watching TV. Keep working away at it until your calling is on its A-game. Better yet, watch YouTube videos, specifically on how to use these calls and try to replicate the calling techniques and sounds you see in the video. For the most part, you can find tutorials directly from the manufacturers on how to use these calls, as with the box call above – there’s no better source to trust than the call makers themselves.
One thing to note is the weather. When in the bush, on occasion, you’ll notice the turkey call doesn’t work the way it should. In other words, keep it dry and carry a backup turkey call, even if the plate becomes your go-to.
Lastly, remember to bring a piece of sandpaper with you! These calls need to be scuffed to work and require periodic re-scuffing.
The best turkey call is the mouth calls, aka diaphragm calls, which are remarkable.
Not only are the sounds incredible, but they also keep your hands free. My hunting buddy is superb at using one, and between the mouth and the slate call, he can chat up a storm with the gobblers.
Be forewarned that the diaphragm call is the hardest turkey call to learn. I gag easily, and these calls are just not in the cards for me. If that sounds like you, don’t worry about it.
While the diaphragm call is superior, you can still get away with the other turkey calls. Some hunters fashion together a small box call to strap to their gun. It allows your hands to softly work the call for a purr as the turkey gets closer while having your gun ready. A case in point is the Quaker Boy Easy Yelper.
REMEMBER
When using calls, it’s essential to mimic the sounds of a turkey as accurately as possible. Spend the time learning the various turkey sounds, such as clucks, purrs, etc. In addition, learn when to use them.
Remember, the manufacturer’s websites and YouTube are great resources for instructional videos and audio recordings. If it’s per the turkey hunting regulations for your region, you can invest in a turkey call app. If not, as is the case in Ontario, no worries – you can still use it to practice in your living room!
Turkey Hunting 101: “Friend” or Turkey Hunting Guide
So you ran out, bought some turkey calls, and found yourself struggling. And you really want to get out there to hunt!!! Now what? Find a friend or hire a guide.
I know many successful turkey hunters who can’t call in a turkey worth squat. They either don’t like it, can’t learn it or can’t be bothered because they hunt with a friend or family member who rocks the call. And that’s perfectly fine. Hunting with a good partner is way better than being in the bush alone, at least in my mind.
If you are serious about turkey hunting and a friend is not an option, consider getting a hunting guide! They know the right location and proper turkey hunting techniques, including calling! The odds of you harvesting a bird will skyrocket, and it’s a good investment in general. You will learn beginner hunting tips and tricks that some hunters do not want to share.
You won’t always need a guide – guides are fantastic if you are hunting new locations or hunting a specific animal new to you and could use the help.
Hunting with Turkey Decoys and Blinds
Using an array of turkey decoys helps lure in wild turkeys
After mastering the art of turkey calls, you best create a realistic hunting environment to attract turkeys. In this regard, another item to add to your turkey hunting starter kit are realistic decoys, which are a hunter’s best friend.
These life-like plastic or foam birds draw in turkeys while you conceal yourself in a blind (or brush with the extensive use of camo).
I use the Primos Lil’ Gobbstopper turkey decoy as the go-to. It’s the better of my decoys, and I may toss a foam decoy into the mix if needed.
Setting up a turkey decoy rig involves strategically placing your decoys in a realistic turkey hen position to convince the adult male bird it’s safe to move in on your location. Your decoy birds should mimic the stance and appearance of a real turkey, including feathers, colours and height off the ground. I like to use breeding hen decoys and jake decoys for my spring turkey hunts. A jake decoy can be particularly effective in attracting dominant toms. Using two to three decoys is sufficient, and you might want to consider adding a tom decoy to create a more realistic scene.
A more advanced setup would be using a laydown hen decoy to mimic a receptive female, paired with a breeder jake decoy – this will entice dominant toms to approach. This combination works real well during the spring turkey hunting season when toms are most territorial.
Similarly, a turkey hunting blind serves as a go-to hiding place to help you remain concealed while making the necessary adjustments for a shot. A well-placed ground blind helps you, the turkey hunter, to blend in with your surroundings and stay hidden from sight. You can build a blind in advance of your hunt, or you can buy a pop-up blind.
Turkey Hunting Clothing
Wearing a camo hat and gaiter conceals shine
Camouflaged in the woods
One crucial aspect of turkey hunting is blending in with your surroundings, and this is where turkey hunting clothes come in. The right camo patterns can help you disappear into the trees and brush, making turkeys less likely to spot you. With deer, you’ll hear hunters talk about smell. Turkey is mainly sight! Understanding turkey vision and behaviour is important when choosing the right camouflage and positioning yourself effectively.
Where to Buy Turkey Hunting Camo Clothes?
You can find a great selection of camo hunting clothing in stores like Cabela’s/BassPro, Kuiu, and even military surplus stores.
For a vast selection of hunting clothing brands at various price points, Cabela’s/BassPro is your best bet. If money is not an issue, check out Kuiu turkey gear. Before making any turkey camo purchase, consider the terrain you will be hunting. Many turkey hunters sport Mossy Oak camo – it features realistic patterns that blend well in various environments.
In the above photo, my first turkey hunt, and based on my surroundings, you’ll notice I opted to wear the military woodland camo pattern. It’s also military surplus and very cheap turkey hunting gear. A viable option if you are trying to save a buck or two!
The neck gaiter works well with the spring leaves. I am not sure what pattern of Realtree the hat is – but it doesn’t matter! The point is, you can mix and match camo. The sole purpose of camo clothing is to provide a breakup and help you hide, which is apparent in the photo on the right. Even though this is a closeup, you can see the camo pattern is working.
Whether you are participating in the spring turkey hunt or fall turkey hunt, be mindful of the weather. The last thing you want is sweating buckets in heavy camo when the weather is warm, nor should you freeze in light camo during a cold snap. The turkey season starts during a challenging time of year, and temperature can fluctuate wildly throughout the day. Layers can be your best friend here, adding or shedding as needed.
A final consideration when it comes to camo for turkey hunting or, better yet, hunting clothing, in general, is noise. Should your clothing rustle too loudly, it will spook the animal. Look for camo hunting clothes made from quiet fabrics that help hide your position.
Depending on the time of year, your hunting outfit should look something like this – remember all layers should be in a camo pattern, just in case you decide to shed a layer.
Merino wool base layers
Long sleeve shirt
Softshell jacket and pants
Neck gaiter
Face mask
Hunting gloves
Insulated boots or mud boots
Turkey vest (optional)
Rain gear (quiet fabric)
Clothing Accessories
Weather-dependent, turkey hunters may wear face coverings, neck gaiters, hats, gloves, etc. While camo provides breakup and helps you disappear, it’s doubly useful when hiding anything shiny – including your face and skin. If you look ready to engage in gorilla warfare, you are ready to hide from this elusive bird!
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What Not to Wear When Turkey Hunting?
Anything with shine! Generally, this is not an issue with camo clothing, but make sure nothing on you is shiny. Perhaps leave your watch at home or in your pocket and be careful with your hunting accessories and gear. Ie. Don’t sip on your coffee from a shiny thermos as the birds come in. Also, avoid wearing anything red, white or blue.
REMEMBER
Wearing anything red, white or blue can get you mistaken for a gobbler, and the potential outcome can be fatal!!!!! Sorry to our American friends, but patriotism does not work when turkey hunting. Even the use of black should be cautioned against.
What to Bring Turkey Hunting? Something to Sit On!
A seat cushion is a piece of gear needed for turkey hunting! The forest floor can get wet or cold, shortening your comfort level. Most often, I will use the Heat-A-Seat by ThermaSeat. Being small and light, it can clip to a pack for a journey into the woods. Throw this on a log or stump, and you should be good to go and in a nice low position. Often, the simplest and budget-friendly pieces of gear make the most sense.
If you can get away with a chair, the go-to hunting chair in our house is the Primos Double Bull. I LOVE this chair! My family calls me the armchair hunter! Not sure why, as my chair has no arms:) But it is comfy, and if using a blind, a chair is a must. The Double Bull is a portable outdoor chair that doubles for camping and even finds a winter home in the garage by the wood stove. It’s a must-buy if you can get one.
For turkey hunting, I think the ThermaSeat turkey hunting seat is better, and some hunters may even balk at the idea of a chair. But there are hunters out that are older, not well or have physical impairments that prevent them from sitting on the ground. Unfortunately, you have to work harder to conceal it, but if having that chair gets you out hunting, then go for it.
What Turkey Hunting Equipment Do Beginner Turkey Hunters Need?
Wearing camo helps break up your silhouette in the woods
While this post is about getting the right gear for your next turkey hunt, the more you look at it, you realize you really do not need much to get started in hunting wild turkeys. Here is a turkey hunting gear list in a nutshell:
A few turkey decoys (a couple of hens and a jake decoy). You can start with one and work your way up to three, including tom decoys and a laydown hen.
A couple of turkey calls (box calls, pot calls, or mouth calls).
Hunting backpack or a turkey hunting vest / chest pack.
A seat for turkey hunting, binoculars, rangefinder, ear protection, and hunting knife.
First aid kit, tourniquet and tick repellent.
Your turkey hunting license and a GPS if you’re hunting unknown grounds.
Proper turkey hunting clothing, including turkey hunting camo and insulated boots.
While it may be the better or ‘standard procedure’, you certainly don’t NEED a blind! I have hunted waterfowl and turkey with seasoned pros and even a guide, NONE of which used a blind! All that matters is to get out there and try to camouflage yourself from head to toe as best you can, using turkey hunting clothes like woodland camo or mossy oak camo patterns that match your surroundings.
Safety Gear and Turkey Hunting Tips
A hunter’s safety is of utmost importance when out in the field. We will not get into firearms safety, as it’s an entire post of its own and doubly, we assume you already know these things since you are licensed.
Do carry some earplugs! The standard tiny foam or silicon earplugs work great and are out of the way. PPE can be a nuisance, I know, but the alternative is permanent hearing damage. Whether my friends are hunters or range shooters, most have hearing loss, so please don’t skip this step!
Besides the foam or silicon earplugs, you can use a pair of earmuffs. My go-to is the Walker Razor earmuffs, which are phenomenal! They have a built-in mic and speakers that help you hear BETTER and cut the sound during shooting! So, if you’re already partially deaf because of your dislike for PPE, here’s some fancy PPE to the rescue:)
Finally, I recommend that every hunter carry a first-aid kit and some essential gear items in your pack. The further you head out, the more survival-type items you may want to carry. Back to first aid, accidents can happen, which means a basic first-aid kit. Included items should be bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze for wound packing and pain relievers. Emergency medical gear can get pretty cumbersome, but at least carry a tourniquet anytime guns are involved.
Remember NOT to wear red, white or blue, which we covered but will stress again. And while that may seem silly to some, considering the size difference between a human and a bird, remember that you don’t look so big from a distance!
Also, remember, NEVER follow or pursue a turkey call. It could be another hunter calling. The best thing to do is stay put and try to sit so you have a big tree covering your back. This tip is based on understanding turkey behaviour (they LOVE oak trees) and ensuring your safety during the hunt.
When it comes to spring turkey hunting, scent control is important. While turkey’s don’t have a strong snse of smell, other animals in the area do and may alert them.
Post Video
Below is a YouTube video we put together covering much of the turkey hunting essentials in this post. It also elaborates on some of the hunting items covered in the post.
Conclusion to the Gear Needed for Turkey Hunting
Turkey hunting is all about not being seen, and that’s pretty hard with a bird that can see pretty much everything! A successful hunt depends on wearing the right turkey hunting gear and being mindful of safety. Make sure not to skimp on the hunting essentials that matter. Gear up with the proper turkey hunting clothing, turkey calls, decoys, weapon, shells, and safety equipment. And don’t forget to brush up on your turkey hunting regs before you head out, and carry your turkey tags with you.
Remember, the only way to bag a turkey is to get out there and hunt it down!
👉 What’s your favourite call to use when hunting turkeys?
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Stelios comes from the corporate world where he was a highly successful executive. Inspired by his love for the outdoors he has re-located with his family to live to the BushLife where he blogs about his adventures. Finding inspiration in the never-ending questions from aspiring outdoors people, Stelios aims to share his knowledge, one post at a time.
