The days are getting longer, the temperatures are starting to warm up, and the turkeys are starting to gobble. That can only mean one thing: Spring turkey hunting season is just around the corner! Here in North Carolina, spring turkey hunting starts in mid-April and goes until the end of May. Keep these tips in mind as you begin preparing for any future turkey-hunting trips:
Count On Camouflage. It’s essential that you wear proper camouflage when you decide to go out hunting for turkeys. Don’t forget, always wear bright reflective blaze orange clothing or something that is not a red, blue, or white color. Those colors resemble male turkeys so if there are any other nearby hunters, you could easily be mistaken for a turkey! Your total camouflage attire should include a face mask and gloves. If you don’t wear these things, it can be a lot easier for a turkey to spot you and flee the area.
Bring a Hunting Buddy. If you plan on enjoying turkey hunting this season, bringing a buddy to hunt with can be a lot more effective and rewarding. This way, you and your friend can take turns shooting and calling. It’s also important to remember to ethically harvest a turkey. To do that, just make sure that you aim for the head and neck. This will ensure a quick, clean kill and will also prevent any pellets from getting into the meat.
Never Stalk a Turkey. It’s important that you never stalk a turkey. This will increase your chances of being mistaken for other types of game! Instead, you can position yourself so that your back is against a tree wider than you are. This helps hide your outline and can protect you from accidental shootings from behind.
If you plan on doing some spring-season turkey hunting, contact me today at 919-291-6506 and we’ll preserve your harvest for you to enjoy for a lifetime!
SOURCES:
https://www.ncwildlife.org/Portals/0/Hunting/Documents/HE_Spring_09.pdf
https://www.mass.gov/info-details/spring-wild-turkey-hunting-tips