What’s the Best Time of Day for Turkey Hunting?

Early Morning Madness

For 20 gauge turkey hunting, capitalize on the morning’s peak activity by setting up before dawn. Aim to arrive at your stand by 4:30 am and get settled before first light. Use this time to quietly prepare, taking care not to alert the birds. As the sun rises, and the world becomes more active, the turkeys will begin to stir.

Understanding Turkey Behavior

At this early hour, turkeys are most receptive to sound. Take advantage of this by using calls to lure them in. For 20 gauge shotguns, focus on using a mouth call or diaphragm call to mimic the soft, high-pitched sounds of a female turkey. A simple “yelp” or “chirp” can often be enough to get the birds moving. As the morning wears on, the birds may become more aggressive and responsive to decoys.

Tactically Timing Your Shot

When a turkey does finally come into range, be prepared to take your shot. For 20 gauge shotguns, aim for a smooth, consistent swing and a gentle touch on the trigger. Aim for the bird’s head or neck, where a solid shot will drop the turkey quickly. Avoid over-shooting, as this can lead to a wounded bird and a difficult recovery. Instead, focus on precision and accuracy, using your knowledge of the bird’s behavior and your hunting skills to make a clean kill.