Is Clucking Better Than Yelping for Late-Season Turkeys?

Choosing the Right Call

When it comes to calling in turkeys, especially during the late season, it’s essential to use a call that produces a soft, gentle sound. This is because late-season birds have been hunted extensively, and their hearing is more acute. Clucking is an excellent choice in this scenario, as it produces a low-pitched, raspy sound that can be used to call in birds from longer distances. A good clucking call can be used to mimic the sound of a hen turkey, which is often the primary attractor for late-season gobblers.

Mastering Cluck Cadence

To master a clucking sound, you’ll need to focus on producing a consistent, raspy tone. This can be achieved by using a call with a wide, flat surface, such as a slate or glass pan, and by placing the call near the beak or mouthpiece. Practice clucking by starting with short, 2-3 second bursts, followed by long pauses of 5-10 seconds. Gradually increase the duration of the clucks and reduce the pauses as you become more comfortable with the sound. Aim for a cadence of 3-5 clucks per minute, with a slow, steady pace.

Call Placement and Stealth

When calling in late-season turkeys, it’s crucial to place your call in a location where it will be most effective. Look for areas with good visibility, such as ridgelines or small fields, and set up your call accordingly. Remember to remain still and quiet, as turkeys have excellent eyesight and will quickly spot any movement or noise. Use a push-button turkey call or a slate call to produce a soft, natural sound that won’t give away your position. By mastering the art of clucking and using the right call placement, you can increase your chances of success when hunting late-season turkeys.