Can electronic calls effectively mimic bugling toms in the mountains?

Choosing the Right Call

When it comes to calling Merriam’s turkeys in mountainous terrain, you’ll want a call that can produce the high-pitched, nasal tones of a bugling tom. Look for electronic calls with adjustable tone and pitch, such as the Hatcher’s, HSS, or Reeltime calls, which can produce sounds in the 500-800 Hz range. These calls often come with interchangeable diaphragms and tone boards, allowing you to fine-tune the sound to mimic the specific characteristics of a bugling tom.

Call Placement and Technique

When using an electronic call in the mountains, it’s essential to place the call in a location where the sound can carry and be amplified by the surrounding terrain. Look for areas with minimal vegetation and steep slopes, as these will help to project the sound. To increase the effectiveness of your call, use a low-volume setting and let the turkey hear the call for a few seconds before adding additional sounds or calling in. This allows the turkey to become habituated to the sound and increases the chances of a response. Consider using a decoy with a wing or tail flag to add visual stimulation and increase the likelihood of a turkey approach.

Calling Strategies in Mountainous Terrain

When calling Merriam’s turkeys in the mountains, it’s crucial to be adaptable and prepared for changing weather conditions and terrain. Use a call that can produce a wide range of sounds, from soft, raspy clucks to loud, ear-piercing yelps. To increase your chances of success, call during the peak breeding season (April-May) and focus on areas with known turkey activity. Be prepared to move quickly and quietly through the terrain, using cover and concealment to get within range of your target turkey.