Turkey Season's Public-Land Play

by
posted on May 2, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
gunclub2015_fs.jpg (11)

undefinedField Editor Frank Miniter put the "Public-Land Turkey Playbook" he wrote about in "Know-How" in the March print edition to use this morning in New York. His report:

On the day after opening day, I headed to a big public area. When I pulled into the parking lot there were three other cars there, but I knew all those hunters would stop after the first half-mile, as the terrain gets steep after that. Besides, I doubted any of them know there is good turkey habitat over a ridge and along a swamp. I greeted two hunters who were getting ready and wished them luck, and started hiking.

I knew the terrain and had a plan, but I almost figured too well. I set up on a roosted gobbler, but as it got light I saw that another gobbler was roosted just 70 yards away. The trees haven't leafed out yet here, so I watched him gobble 30-40 times. All I made were a few soft yelps. He started strutting in the tree and kept craning his neck to spot the hen. When he flew down he landed uphill and then slowly circled me. As he did the terrain forced him to come into range. I killed him as he strutted at 40 yards.

For more commentary on hunting and guns, check out Frank Miniter's website.

Latest

Remington Rimfire Ammo Roundup Lead
Remington Rimfire Ammo Roundup Lead

Remington Rimfire Ammo Roundup

Big Green feeds the .22s oh so well.

New for 2025: Kings Camo XKG Shift Collection

Kings Camo has introduced the XKG Shift Collection, a line of quiet, windproof and ultra-versatile apparel designed with whitetail hunters in mind.

Tips & Tricks for Early Season Canada Geese

As anticipated, the first family flock of Canada geese lifted off their nearby river roost, nearly skimmed the big-leafed cottonwoods and set their wings. I called once, letting the half-dozen full-body decoys do the rest. Five birds came in, three left.

First Look: Maven RFZ.1 Zoom Rangefinder

Maven Outdoor Equipment Company, a Wyoming-based brand, has expanded its premium RF series with the launch of the RFZ.1, a laser rangefinder featuring variable magnification.

Elk: A Dream Season

One family of hunters had the perfect September last year. Read on for an all-American story crafted in the mountains.

Waterfowler Bird Flu Precautions

A Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminder, applicable nationwide, includes tips on how waterfowl hunters can protect themselves and domestic animals amid ongoing cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.