Quick Answer
Aggressive calling techniques can be ethical when used in response to and in proportion to the animal's behavior, such as in a heated gobbling sequence, but they should not be used to artificially provoke or harass a tom.
When to Use Aggressive Calling
Aggressive calling techniques, such as loud, harsh, and repeated calling, should be used sparingly and only in response to a tom’s aggressive behavior. A good rule of thumb is to reserve aggressive calling for the late morning or early afternoon, when toms are most active and likely to respond aggressively to your calls. This is typically around 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
How to Use Aggressive Calling Effectively
When using aggressive calling, it’s essential to vary your tone, pitch, and cadence to mimic a real tom’s aggressive gobbling sequence. For example, you can start with a series of 5-7 loud, high-pitched yelps, followed by a 10-15 second pause, and then repeat the sequence with a slightly lower pitch and volume. This sequence can be repeated 2-3 times, with each repetition getting slightly more aggressive. It’s also crucial to pay attention to the tom’s response and adjust your calling accordingly, increasing or decreasing the aggression level as needed.
Avoiding Over-Aggression
One common mistake hunters make when using aggressive calling is over-aggressing, which can lead to the tom becoming frustrated and leaving the area. To avoid this, it’s essential to listen to the tom’s response and adjust your calling to match its level of aggression. If the tom starts to respond with loud, aggressive gobbling, you can increase the level of aggression in your calling. However, if the tom becomes quiet or leaves the area, it’s best to switch to a more passive calling strategy, such as a soft, raspy yelp or a series of gentle clucks.
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