Choosing the Right Turkey Calls for a Successful Hunt
Turkey hunting is an art that requires patience, skill, and the right equipment. One of the most crucial tools in your arsenal is a quality turkey call. With so many options available, choosing the right call can be overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of turkey calls and how to select the best one for your needs.
Types of Turkey Calls
1. Box Calls
Box calls are one of the easiest and most effective turkey calls to use. They consist of a wooden box with a paddle that creates a high-pitched sound when scraped against the edges. These calls are great for beginners because they are simple to use and produce realistic yelps, clucks, and purrs. They are also loud, making them ideal for long-distance calling.
Swamp Boys Custom Calls- Swamp Box Louise
2. Slate (Pot) Calls
Slate calls, also known as pot calls, consist of a surface made from slate, glass, or aluminum with a striker used to create sounds. These calls offer great versatility, allowing hunters to produce a range of turkey vocalizations with practice. They work well in both close and mid-range situations and can create soft, subtle purrs to entice wary gobblers.
3. Mouth (Diaphragm) Calls
Mouth calls require more skill but offer hands-free operation, which is a major advantage when a turkey is within range. These calls consist of a flexible frame with latex reeds that vibrate to create sounds when air is forced through them. They are lightweight, affordable, and capable of producing a variety of calls, from soft clucks to aggressive yelps and cutting.
Twin Toms Shipwreck Mouth Call
4. Push-Button Calls
Push-button calls are perfect for beginners due to their ease of use. With just the press of a button, these calls produce consistent, realistic turkey sounds. They are great for close-range calling and work well for hunters who prefer a simple, no-fuss approach.
5. Wing Bone Calls
Wing bone calls are one of the oldest types of turkey calls, traditionally made from the wing bones of a turkey. These calls require a sucking motion to create sound, similar to using a whistle. They can produce very realistic, soft clucks and yelps, making them effective for close encounters.
Obe's Calls Wingbone Trumpet Call
How to Choose the Right Turkey Call
- Skill Level: If you’re a beginner, start with a box call or push-button call. As you gain experience, experiment with slate and mouth calls.
- Hunting Environment: For long-distance calling, box calls work best. If you need soft, subtle calls in close quarters, slate or mouth calls are ideal.
- Weather Conditions: Wet conditions can affect wooden box calls and slate calls. Opt for waterproof options like aluminum pot calls or synthetic mouth calls if hunting in rain or high humidity.
- Versatility: If you want to produce a wide range of turkey sounds, consider a combination of calls to cover different scenarios.
Practice Makes Perfect
Regardless of the type of call you choose, practice is key to success. Spend time listening to real turkey sounds and mimicking them with your call. The more realistic your calls, the better your chances of attracting a gobbler.
By selecting the right turkey call and mastering its use, you can significantly improve your chances of a successful hunt. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting, understanding the different call types and their applications will enhance your turkey hunting experience. Happy hunting!
Scott Hart- The Tool Store