Turkey hunting in NC (North Carolina) is one of the most exhilarating experiences for any outdoor enthusiast. From the lonesome calls of male turkeys in the early hours of the morning to the thrill of the chase, turkey hunting is a challenging and rewarding pastime. However, for those hunters who are new to the game, it can be a daunting experience. Here is a comprehensive guide that will help novices become successful turkey hunters in North Carolina by the 2023 season.
Choosing the Right Gear
The type of equipment you use will significantly impact your success rate when it comes to turkey hunting, and it is vital to choose the right gear before hitting the field. The basic gear required for turkey hunting includes a 12 or 20-gauge shotgun, a turkey choke, and a high-visibility shotgun sight or optic. It’s also important to have a reliable turkey vest equipped with a cushioned seat or pad.
Camouflage hunting garments, while not strictly necessary, can greatly improve your chances of success by blending in with the surroundings. Using a face mask or camouflage cream to cover your face and hands is also crucial in concealing your presence.
In addition to the above items mentioned, it is important to carry some other pieces of kit like turkey calls. Different types of turkey calls include slate or glass calls, box calls, mouth calls, and locator calls, and each one has its own benefits. It is a good idea to practice before the season to become familiar with the use of each call and find which works best for you.
Scouting and Planning
The successful turkey hunters in NC always scout their favored hunting grounds before the season starts. It is essential to walk the terrain you plan to hunt so you can mark areas and develop a better understanding of the surrounding area. By doing this, you can locate the roosting spots of the birds, feeding and watering areas, and common travel routes. You can then plan your hunt accordingly.
When planning your hunt, other considerations are safety and permission to hunt on a particular piece of land. You must always make sure your hunt is legal and follow the regulations of hunting in North Carolina.
Understanding Turkey Behavior
Before setting out to hunt, it is essential to have a good understanding of turkey behavior. It will help you locate the birds and get a better understanding of their habits. For example, turkeys are highly social animals, and they have an advanced system of communication. Recognizing these communication patterns and the specific meaning behind turkey sounds and movements can greatly increase your chances of success while hunting.
Turkeys are most active at dawn and dusk, and they are known to roost in trees overnight. During the day, they roam around in search of food, water, and mating opportunities.
Choosing Your Hunting Technique
NC turkey hunters can use either of the two hunting techniques during the season, which are:
– Hunting from a stationary camouflaged location, commonly known as sitting and waiting.
– Stalking the turkey, which requires you to move around the area and make use of turkey calls to attract the bird’s attention.
The stalking method can be a bit more challenging, as it requires you to move quietly, stay hidden, and call the turkeys with a range of different calls. On the other hand, sitting and waiting require you to be patient and observe the surroundings while camouflaged. It can be an excellent method for those who have limited mobility or who struggle with the physical demand of hunting.
The best approach would be to alternate between both the techniques, depending upon the situation and adapting accordingly. It could also be helpful to take tips and tricks from experienced hunters for a better understanding of their hunting techniques.
Patience is Key
One of the essential things to remember when turkey hunting is that patience is crucial. It may take several attempts before you finally bag your first turkey, so you must be prepared to put in the time and effort to succeed.
If you follow the tips mentioned above, you’ll start to see improvements in your success rate over time. Always remember that hunting is a combination of skill, patience, and perseverance.
Conclusion
Hunting wild turkeys in North Carolina is an experience that can be both challenging and rewarding. The key to success is choosing the right gear, scouting regularly, having good knowledge of turkey behavior, and being patient. With a little effort and the proper preparation, you can become a successful turkey hunter by the 2023 season, enjoying the fantastic excitement this sport offers.
