Using a Game Camera to Scout for Turkeys: A Hunter’s Guide

Scouting for turkeys is essential for a successful hunt, and game cameras are one of the best tools to gather intel before heading into the woods. With proper placement and settings, a trail camera can reveal turkey movement patterns, roosting areas, and feeding spots, giving you the upper hand. Here’s how to effectively use a game camera for turkey scouting.

1. Choose the Right Locations

Turkeys have predictable daily routines, so placing your camera in the right areas is key. Focus on these locations:

• Feeding Areas – Open fields, food plots, or areas with acorns and insects.
• Roosting Sites – Large trees with open understory where turkeys fly up to roost.
• Travel Corridors – Funnels, logging roads, or trails between feeding and roosting areas.
• Strut Zones – Open ridges or field edges where gobblers display for hens.

2. Set the Right Camera Settings

Turkeys are constantly moving, so adjusting your camera’s settings can help capture the best images and videos.

• Use a Fast Trigger Speed – Turkeys move quickly, so a camera with a quick trigger (0.2-0.5 seconds) ensures you don’t miss them.
• Shorter Delay Intervals – Set your camera to take photos every 5-10 seconds to track movement patterns.
• Daytime Video Mode – Video can capture gobbling, strutting, and interactions that photos might miss.
• Wide-Angle View – Since turkeys travel in flocks, a wider field of view helps capture more birds.

3. Proper Camera Placement

To get the best shots, consider these camera placement tips:

• Mount the Camera Lower – Position the camera about 18-24 inches off the ground to capture turkeys at eye level.
• Face the Camera North or South – This avoids glare from the rising or setting sun.
• Use Natural Cover – Camouflage the camera with branches or grass to avoid spooking birds.
• Angle Towards Open Areas – This prevents turkeys from walking past too quickly, improving image quality.

4. Analyze the Data

After collecting footage, study the patterns:

• Time Stamps Matter – Note when turkeys are most active in each location.
• Identify Flock Composition – Look for gobblers, hens, and jakes to determine if the area holds mature birds.
• Track Movement – Use multiple cameras to map out daily routes.
• Monitor Weather Conditions – Compare activity levels with different weather patterns to predict behavior.

5. Adjust Your Hunting Strategy

Once you’ve gathered enough intel, use the information to plan your hunt:

• Set up blinds near frequent strut zones.
• Call more aggressively in areas where gobblers are responsive.
• Adjust your approach based on daily movement patterns.

Final Thoughts

A well-placed game camera can be a game-changer for turkey hunting. By setting up in key locations, optimizing camera settings, and studying movement patterns, you’ll be better prepared for opening day. Whether you're hunting spring gobblers or fall flocks, using trail cameras gives you an advantage in the field.

Scott Hart - The Tool Store