Should I use a GPS for scouting locations for aggressive calling?

Pre-Scouting and Knowledge

When it comes to aggressive calling, knowing your terrain is crucial. I recommend spending at least 3 days scouting potential locations before the season. During this time, you should be able to identify areas with good habitat, such as food sources and water, as well as areas with natural choke points that can funnel toms into a kill zone. Look for areas with a mix of open fields and wooded areas, as these tend to attract more birds.

Stand Placement and Blind Setup

Once you’ve identified a potential location, it’s time to set up your stand or blind. For aggressive calling, you’ll want a location that’s not only within earshot of a potential tom’s roosting or feeding area but also puts you in a position to be seen by the bird when it comes to call. I recommend placing your stand at least 20 yards from any potential escape routes, such as roads or trails, and at least 10 yards from any potential food sources or water sources that a tom may associate with the area. Use a well-camouflaged blind or a pop-up stand to minimize your visibility, and consider setting up a decoy or two to increase the chances of attracting a tom.

Calling Techniques and Strategies

For aggressive calling, you’ll want to use a series of loud, aggressive calls to mimic a dominant tom’s vocalizations. I recommend starting with a series of 5-7 loud, yelping calls, followed by a series of 3-5 clucking calls. Repeat this sequence every 5-10 minutes, and be prepared to back off and let the bird come to you if it appears to be getting too close. Remember to stay patient and quiet, and be prepared to adjust your calling strategy based on the bird’s response.