Late Season Turkey Hunting: Tips, Tactics & Gear You Need
As spring begins to fade and the woods grow thick with green, many hunters hang up their calls and pack away their camo. But for those who stay in the game, late season turkey hunting offers a unique and rewarding challenge. Gobblers are smarter, quieter, and warier—but with the right approach, the odds can still be in your favor.
Why Hunt Late Season?
Late season might not have the explosive gobbling of early April, but it brings its own advantages. Pressure on the birds is lighter, hens are nesting more, and toms that are still searching for mates can be more responsive to calls. You’ll also often have the woods to yourself—just you, the birds, and a fresh test of skill.
Tactics for Late Season Success
1. Call Less, Move More
Turkeys this time of year have heard it all. Overcalling can spook them. Keep your calling soft and infrequent—just enough to pique their interest. Don’t be afraid to change locations if you’re not getting a response.
2. Set Up for Silent Gobblers
Many late-season gobblers come in silently, without giving away their position. Set up in shaded cover, stay alert, and always be ready—even when the woods seem quiet.
3. Scout Smart
Fresh sign is more important than ever. Look for scratchings, droppings, dusting areas, and tracks. Focus your hunts on where the birds are now—not where they were weeks ago.
4. Stay Patient
Late season birds can take their time. Don’t get discouraged if a hunt stretches into mid-morning or later. Persistence pays off.
Essential Gear for Late Season
Lightweight camo: With rising temps, breathable gear that blends with the now-lush vegetation is a must.
Tick protection: Tall grass and warm weather bring more bugs—especially ticks. Treat your clothing or use repellent.
Thermacell or bug spray: Late spring means mosquitoes—don’t let them ruin your setup.
Decoys (optional): A lone hen or jake decoy can still work, but be selective. Sometimes skipping the decoys altogether helps if birds have been pressured.
Final Thoughts
Late season turkey hunting isn’t for the faint of heart. It requires patience, finesse, and an understanding of how birds behave after weeks of hunting pressure. But for the hunter willing to adapt, it’s an incredibly satisfying way to close out the season.
Scott Hart - The Tool Store