JRA
Well-Known Member
As I mentioned in another thread, this morning I went out alone to hunt turkey for the first time. This is my first year hunting and a buddy took me and called in my first two birds...but I didn't feel like an official turkey hunter until I went solo and called one in for myself. I went to the 90 acre property and got there later than I wanted. I got there at about 5:15am to 5:30am. When I got out of my ride I heard several gobblers hammering away (I assume still on the roost). I walked in their general direction trying to pin point their location (It was about a 5 minute walk). The area has a lot of ridges and valleys so I wasn't sure exactly where they were so I set up on top of a ridge in a flat wooded area in between the two most prominent gobbles. I pulled out my push button call (as a novice I was most confident using that call). I starting hitting the call and ole tom starts cutting me off...he was headed my way. I shifted my position so I could shoot. I hit the push button a couple more times and he cut me off each time. I pawed the leaves around me and pulled my gun to my shoulder. He steps in sight about 60 yards away and at first is coming to me. At this point I should mention I was using a .20 gauge so I knew I had to get him close. At about 40 yards he flattens out and looks like he may come no closer. The whole time he is strutting, shouting, spitting and drumming. I will admit I am not good with the mouth call but I did a couple of very soft yelps as best as I could and he turned and started coming right to me. I let him come to about 15-20 yards and that old .20 gauge dropped him like a rock. It was an awesome experience...it may be beginners luck but I learned a lot from my friend and from reading this message board. Thanks for all the tips! 9.5" beard 3/4" spurs and about 20lbs
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