Quick Answer
Aggressive cutting is typically used during the late morning to early afternoon, when toms are most active and competitive. This tactic can be effective in getting a strong, aggressive response from a bird. Cutting too aggressively, however, can be counterproductive and may scare the bird away.
Establishing a Foundation for Aggressive Cutting
When incorporating aggressive cutting into your turkey call cadence, it’s essential to first establish a solid foundation of soft, gentle yelps. This sets the tone for the bird’s expectations and allows you to gradually build up to more aggressive sounds. Aim to use 3-5 soft yelps, spaced about 2-3 seconds apart, to create a gentle yet inviting atmosphere.
Adding Aggressive Cutting to Your Cadence
To add aggressive cutting to your existing cadence, try using a series of 2-3 loud, sharp cuts, each separated by a soft yelp. For example, you might use a sequence of “cut, yelp, cut, yelp, cut.” This combination of soft and loud sounds can effectively mimic the aggressive vocalizations of a dominant tom. When using aggressive cutting, it’s crucial to maintain a consistent pace and avoid over-cutting, which can sound unnatural and scare the bird away.
Timing and Placement for Maximum Effectiveness
The timing and placement of aggressive cutting are critical for maximum effectiveness. Typically, you’ll want to use aggressive cutting during the late morning to early afternoon, when toms are most active and competitive. This is often around 90-120 minutes after sunrise, when the birds are actively moving and vocalizing. When you do use aggressive cutting, aim to place it in a location where the bird is most likely to hear it, such as near a food source or along a game trail.
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