Which turkey calls work best in Louisiana's spring season?

Choosing the Right Call for the Job

When selecting a turkey call for Louisiana’s spring season, consider the terrain and the type of hunting you’ll be doing. For swamp country, where visibility is limited and turkeys are often wary of human presence, a diaphragm-style “cluck” call is a good choice. These calls are discreet and can be used in close proximity to the birds without startling them. They’re also effective for short-range calls, which is often necessary in dense vegetation.

Call Techniques for Swamp Country

When using a diaphragm-style “cluck” call in swamp country, focus on gentle, consistent clucking sounds to mimic the female’s calls. This will help to attract turkeys without spooking them. Aim for a pitch between 200-300 Hz, which is within the vocal range of a female wild turkey. Use a slow, steady pace, pausing occasionally to let the turkey respond. In a typical spring season, this type of call can be used to call birds within 50-75 yards.

Long-Range Calling in Public Areas

For longer shots or when hunting in public areas where turkeys may be more mobile, a high-pitched “yelp” or “cutting” call can be effective. These calls are designed to carry further and can be used to call turkeys from a distance. Use a call with a higher pitch, around 400-500 Hz, and a more aggressive, cutting sound. When using this type of call, focus on making short, sharp notes to mimic the female’s alarm calls. This can help to attract turkeys from a distance and get them moving.