Is Calling a Turkey More Effective in the Morning or Evening?

Optimal Calling Times

When hunting turkeys with a 20 gauge shotgun, morning calls between 6:00 and 10:00 AM are the most effective, as birds tend to be more active during this period. Research suggests that 75% of turkey kills occur during these morning hours. The morning sun also provides better visibility for hunters, making it easier to spot birds responding to calls.

Evening Strategies

While morning calls are more effective, evening calls can be successful when birds are settling in for the night. In areas with consistent evening roosting patterns, such as near water sources or in dense woods, calling between 5:00 and 7:00 PM can attract birds. To increase chances of success, hunters should focus on shorter, softer calls that mimic the sounds of a hen turkey, as males are more likely to respond to these sounds in the evening.

Call Volume and Duration

Regardless of the time of day, it is essential to vary call volume and duration to mimic the sounds of a real turkey. For morning calls, hunters should start with soft, gentle calls and gradually increase volume and intensity to simulate a frustrated hen bird. In the evening, hunters should focus on shorter, more subtle calls that sound like a hen’s soft clucks or chirps. This variation in call strategy will help hunters adapt to changing bird behavior and increase their chances of success.