The Best Time to Hunt Turkey: Timing is Key to a Successful Hunt
If you're serious about turkey hunting, you need to know when to strike. Our article on the best time to hunt turkey will give you the inside scoop on when and where to find your next big catch.
Gobble gobble, it's turkey hunting season! Thanks to the hard work of the National Wild Turkey Federation, the turkey population in the USA has been on the rise.
However, with low bag limits and a short season, it's essential to make the most of your hunting time.
So, when is the best time to hunt these elusive birds? Don't wing it! Timing is everything in turkey hunting, and knowing the right time of day and weather conditions can improve your chances of success.
In this article, we'll explore the secrets of the best time to hunt turkey and how to adapt your strategy to weather conditions. Get ready to gobble up some knowledge!
Best Time of Day to Hunt Turkey
The two main times of day for turkey hunting are morning and afternoon. Each time has its advantages and disadvantages, and it's essential to know how to maximize your chances of success during each.
Morning Hunting
Early mornings are a popular time for turkey hunters because turkeys are most active during this time, especially during the early season. They come off their roosts in search of food, water, and companionship. If you can locate a roosting area and set up your position before daylight, you increase your chances of hearing turkeys calling and seeing them move.
When you are calling turkeys in the morning, for successful turkey hunting, it's best to respond immediately when the Toms start making noise. They become less responsive as the morning progresses. Since most turkeys are harvested before 8 or 9 am, a beginner turkey hunter should aim to hunt during this time for better chances of success.
One of the primary advantages of hunting in the morning is that turkeys are often more vocal during this time. They will gobble in response to your calls, making it easier to locate them. You can also use decoys to attract them closer to your position.
However, the weather can play a significant role in morning hunting success. Cold and windy mornings can make it more difficult to hear turkeys calling, and they may not move as much as they would on a calm and warm morning.
Here are some tips for early morning turkey hunt:
Afternoon Hunting
Afternoon hunting is a viable option for those who can't make it out in the morning. But you have to scout for turkeys properly and might find them to be feeding during this time, making it easier to catch them off-guard. They are also more likely to be in open fields, making them easier to spot. You can set up shop ambush at these locations and wait for the turkeys to come.
One of the primary advantages of hunting in the afternoon is that the weather is often warmer and calmer than in the morning. This can make it easier to hear turkeys calling, and they may be more vocal than they were in the morning.
However, the disadvantage of afternoon hunting is that turkeys may not be as active during this time, they are much less responsive to calls and their movements can be unpredictable. They may have already found food and water, making them less likely to move. You'll need to be patient inside your turkey blinds and persistent in the use of your turkey call (but don't overdo it) to attract them to your position.
Here are some tips for an afternoon turkey hunt:
Evening Hunting
To have a successful evening hunt, it's important to scout beforehand. This means finding out exactly where the flock is roosting at night and where they typically approach from. Typically, they roost in the same places every night and approach from the same direction.
To hunt turkeys effectively, you can position yourself facing their approach near their roost at least an hour before sundown. You don't need to use any calls as they will naturally come to you.
This technique works well during the late season when they are not responding to calls well. Waiting patiently in a well-scouted position might seem less exciting, but if you enjoy planning and strategizing, it can be a great way to hunt.
Impact of Weather on Turkey Hunting Success
Weather conditions can have a significant impact on turkey behavior and hunting success. Here are some tips for adjusting your hunting strategy based on weather conditions:
Temperature
Turkeys are more active in warm weather than in cold weather. They will move more in search of food, water, and companionship. However, if the weather is too hot, they may be less active during the middle of the day. They will seek shade and may not move as much as they would on a cooler day.
Wind
Similar to deer hunting, strong winds can make it challenging to hunt turkeys too. It can be difficult to hear turkeys calling and to keep your position hidden. However, a light breeze can help carry your calls and make it easier to locate turkeys. It's essential to pay attention to wind direction and use natural cover to keep yourself hidden from the turkeys.
Precipitation
Rain can make it more difficult to hear turkeys calling, but it can also make them more active. In light drizzle, they will move more in search of food, and they will be more likely to be in open areas where they can dry off, but a heavy downpour will cause them to stop most activities. However, you'll need to be prepared for wet and muddy conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you struggling to understand the perfect timing for turkey hunting? Fret not, as we're here to help you out!
Our FAQ section will provide answers to the common questions that often arise among turkey hunters regarding the ideal timing for turkey hunting.
What time of day are most turkeys killed?
The best time of day to hunt turkey and kill a gobbler is during the first two hours of daylight. This is when the greatest number of turkeys are active and gobbling, making them easier to locate. Mid-morning hunts can also be effective all season long, but especially in early and late seasons when hens have begun nesting activity.
Weather conditions can also play an important role in successful turkey hunting - look for days with winds less than 10 mph, temperatures between 55-70 degrees Fahrenheit, and barometric pressure between 29.50-30.10 inches Hg. With the right conditions and timing, you'll be sure to bag your turkey!
What time is the best time to turkey hunt?
The best time to turkey hunt depends on the specific situation and location. Generally, mornings and afternoons are the most popular times for hunting turkeys. It's important to scout the area beforehand and consider the weather conditions to determine the best time to hunt.
What time of day is best for fall turkey hunting?
Fall turkey hunting is a bit different than spring turkey hunting, as the turkeys are less vocal and more focused on feeding. In general, the best time to hunt fall turkeys is in the late afternoon, when they are more likely to be feeding.
What time of day are wild turkeys most active?
If you're planning to hunt wild turkeys, you'll want to know when they are most active to increase your chances of success. Wild turkeys are known to be most active during the early morning hours and late afternoon, just like their domestic counterparts.
During these times, they're more likely to be out foraging for food or socializing with other birds in their flock. Male turkeys also tend to be most active during the early spring breeding season, when there are fewer hens so keep that in mind when planning your hunt.
Ultimately, the best time to hunt turkeys can vary depending on the day and location, so it's important to do your research and scout the area ahead of time. With a bit of patience, skill, and a little luck, you can have a successful turkey hunting season.
Final Thoughts
That's a wrap, turkey hunters! Hunting these elusive birds can be tough, but totally worth it. It's true that turkey hunting can be a challenging yet fulfilling adventure for hunters.
Take the time to store up knowledge and adjust your hunting strategies to fit the environment, terrain, and weather conditions you find yourself in. This will do wonders for you as you head out on your next turkey hunt.
But it doesn't end here! If you loved this article, make sure to check out our arsenal of other turkey hunting gear guides that can maximize your chances of a successful hunt. There's so much to learn about bagging these elusive birds, and we're here to help you gobble up all the knowledge.
Happy hunting!
