Quick Answer
CHANGES IN SEASON IMPACT TURKEY CALL BEHAVIOR BY AFFECTING CADENCE AND VOLUME, WITH TURKEYS REACTING MORE AGGRESSIVELY TO CALLS IN EARLY SEASON AND LESS AGGRESSIVELY IN LATE SEASON, ALONG WITH A SHIFT FROM HIGH-PITCHED YELPS TO DEEPER, MORE SUBDUED CALLS.
Understanding Early Season Call Behavior
In the early season, typically before the first week of May in most regions, turkeys tend to be more aggressive and vocal. This is when hens are actively laying eggs and toms are competing for dominance and mating opportunities. As a result, they are more likely to engage with a turkey call, especially if it sounds like a hen in distress. It’s essential to use high-pitched yelps and clucks to mimic the sounds of a hen, and to maintain a fast-paced cadence to keep the tom’s attention.
Late Season Call Behavior
In contrast, the late season, usually around May and June, sees a shift in turkey behavior. As the breeding season winds down, hens are less vocal, and toms become more cautious and less aggressive. During this time, they are more likely to respond to a call that sounds like a lost or injured hen. To effectively call in a late-season turkey, use a softer, more subdued tone and a slower cadence, focusing on longer, drawn-out calls like a low-pitched yelp or a soft cluck.
Adapting to Seasonal Changes
To successfully hunt turkeys across different seasons, it’s crucial to adapt your calling strategy. Pay attention to the time of year, the weather, and the turkey’s behavior to adjust your cadence and volume accordingly. In the early season, focus on high-pitched yelps and clucks, while in the late season, opt for softer, more subtle calls. By understanding and responding to the seasonal changes in turkey call behavior, you can increase your chances of success and fill your turkey tag.
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