When Turkeys Get Smart

When late season arrives, turkeys have seen it all—calls, decoys, and hunters.

They've become educated and wary, requiring a shift in hunting tactics. In this video, you'll learn how to find success when the pressure is on.

First, recognize that heavily-hunted turkeys respond differently. They've likely heard every call in the book, so tone down your calling significantly. Use soft clucks, purrs, and subtle yelps rather than aggressive calling sequences. Less is more at this stage of the season.

Mobility becomes crucial. Late-season gobblers often travel with hens and move extensively throughout the day. Set up near feeding areas, dusting sites, or even along travel corridors between roosting and feeding locations. Be prepared to make multiple moves throughout the morning.

Patience is paramount. Consider passive hunting methods like ground blinds near feeding areas or water sources. These setups allow you to wait out cautious birds without detection.

Timing matters - try hunting midday when other hunters have left the woods. Many late-season birds become more active during these quieter periods.

Finally, use minimal decoys or none at all. By late season, dominant gobblers may avoid decoy setups after negative encounters with hunters. Sometimes a single hen decoy in a feeding position is all you need.

The key in any late season strategy is adapting your strategy to match the birds' heightened wariness while maintaining the persistence needed to connect with pressured gobblers.

If You Liked This Video Check Out: Real Turkey Hen Calling Up Close.

The Firearm Showcased In This Video Was The Mossberg 940 Pro Turkey.