Are Calls Necessary When Fanning Turkeys?

Pre-Season Preparation

Before attempting to fan turkeys, understand their behavior and habitat. Familiarize yourself with the types of calls and sounds that can trigger a gobbler’s response. For example, a loud, low-pitched gobble can be effective in the morning, while a softer, more raspy call may work better in the afternoon.

Fanning Techniques

A key aspect of successful fanning is movement. To begin, slowly walk into the area where you’ve spotted the turkeys, keeping a safe distance to avoid spooking them. Use a gentle, consistent pace to create the illusion of a natural movement. As you walk, periodically stop and freeze, allowing the turkeys to become comfortable with your presence. When fanning, use a specific pattern: walk 20-30 yards, stop for 10-15 seconds, and then move another 20-30 yards. Repeat this process, gradually edging closer to the birds.

Call Use

If you decide to use calls, consider the following guidelines: use a loud, clear call to initiate contact, followed by a softer, more subtle call to keep the turkeys engaged. For example, start with a loud gobble, then switch to a soft, raspy call. This can create a sense of uncertainty and keep the turkeys guessing, making them more likely to respond to your presence. However, in open environments, it’s often more effective to rely on movement and patience rather than relying on calls.