Deer Hunting Supplies List
what do I need to bring with me to go turkey hunting?
Turkey hunting for the first time. Need all of the supplies to go turkey hunting…if someone could just make a list thatd be great. I deer hunt so all i have is a 20 gauge and maybe some camo
Shotgun
Camo
Calls
License
water
decoy(s)
knife
cell phone
Blaze orange vest and/or hat
snack
flashlight/headlamp
Your shotgun will be fine. I recommend buying a new choke tube for it to get to extra full, and definitely go to an outdoor range to pattern your shotgun at different ranges to see your effective range with the gun/shell combinations. Start at 20, go to 30, then 40 yards. Buy a turkey patterning target, and count the number of pellets that hit the kill zone in the neck and head. I look for at least 6-10 pellets in the vitals with good pellet density in 12 inch circle. If you aren’t getting that, try a different type of shell or a smaller shot – just make sure you stay legal. If you can’t buy another tube, just pattern your fullest current tube.
Camo is a must, or a blind. Blinds are great for concealing bodies and movement, but are not very mobile. Cover your face with a hunting mask or paint – Turkey’s have excellent vision.
Try a few of the easiest calls – you will want at least 2 types because they work differently. The easiest ones to use are box calls and push/pull. I like to use slate calls, some folks live by the mouth call. Only take the ones you can use effectively.
Decoys are not necessary, but may be helpful in distracting the toms. They are not always effective – if the tom can see you from 100 yards away, decoys are better than if he will not see you until he is 40 yards away.
Some of the items are safety items – flashlight for walking in, knife for who knows what, cell phone for emergency, blaze orange for walking out and after the kill.
People have been shooting turkeys with less for a long time. The key is to not get frustrated and to scout before the hunt. If you know where turkeys are before you hunt an area, it will help you find them when you are on the clock.
Good luck and have fun!
The Reticulated Python. survivor Cretaceous