How to Hunt Turkeys in the Afternoon: Strategies for Success

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding Turkey Behavior in the Afternoon
3. Scouting and Setting Up
4. Calling Techniques
5. Tactical Approaches
6. Late Afternoon Strategy
7. Conclusion
8. FAQ

Introduction

Imagine the thrill of an afternoon turkey hunt when the woods are alive with the soft rustle of leaves and the occasional call of a distant gobbler. While many avid hunters prefer the excitement of early morning hunts, afternoon hunts hold their own unique charm and potential for success. In fact, with the right strategies and a little patience, you can find yourself in the perfect position to bag that elusive tom.

As the sun climbs higher in the sky and morning activity wanes, turkeys often become more difficult to locate and call in. However, understanding their behavior patterns during the afternoon hours can transform your hunting experience. This blog post aims to provide you with comprehensive insights and proven tactics on how to hunt turkeys in the afternoon, ensuring you make the most of your time in the field.

By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to identify ideal hunting locations, utilize effective calling techniques, and develop a strategy that suits your hunting style and environment. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting, this guide will elevate your turkey hunting game and help you appreciate the thrill of afternoon hunts.

What You'll Learn

1. Understanding Turkey Behavior in the Afternoon: Learn about the natural tendencies of turkeys as the day progresses.
2. Scouting and Setting Up: Discover the importance of scouting and how to choose the right locations for your afternoon hunt.
3. Calling Techniques: Master the art of calling turkeys in the afternoon and how it differs from morning calls.
4. Tactical Approaches: Explore various strategies you can employ, from passive waiting to active movement.
5. Gear Essentials: Find out what gear from Battlbox can enhance your hunting experience and improve your chances of success.

Let’s dive deeper into the strategies that will help you maximize your afternoon turkey hunting experience.

Understanding Turkey Behavior in the Afternoon

The Afternoon Shift

As the morning progresses, turkeys tend to become less vocal and more cautious. After hens have bred, they often retreat to their nests to lay eggs, leaving toms to roam solo in search of companionship. This shift presents an excellent opportunity for hunters. A gobbler, now separated from the hens, may become more responsive to calls, especially if he’s looking for a mate.

During the afternoon, turkeys often move to feeding areas or strut zones, which are typically open fields or clearings where they can display for hens. Understanding this behavior allows you to better predict their movements and set up in areas where they are likely to congregate.

Patterns and Movements

When hunting in the afternoon, it’s crucial to observe and understand the patterns of turkey movement. Here are key points to consider:

• Feeding Habits: Turkeys are likely to head to open fields or food plots in the afternoon hours. This is a prime time to find them as they search for food.
• Strut Zones: These are areas where toms display and strut to attract hens. Identifying these zones can significantly increase your chances of encountering a gobbler.
• Travel Routes: Familiarizing yourself with common travel routes can help you intercept turkeys on their way to and from feeding areas.

Scouting and Setting Up

The Importance of Scouting

Before you even step foot in the field, scouting is paramount. Spend time observing turkey activity in the days leading up to your hunt. Look for signs such as droppings, feather remnants, and tracks to identify where turkeys are frequenting. Utilize binoculars to spot birds from a distance without disturbing them, allowing you to plan your approach strategically.

Choosing the Right Location

Once you have a good understanding of turkey behavior and patterns, it’s time to select your hunting spot. Here are some tips for finding the best locations:

• Proximity to Strut Zones: Set up near known strut zones or feeding areas, ensuring you have a clear line of sight to observe incoming turkeys.
• Cover and Concealment: Choose a location that offers adequate cover to conceal your movements. Natural features like fallen trees, bushes, or logs can help you blend in with the surrounding environment.
• Visibility: While cover is essential, ensure that you have a clear view of the area where you expect turkeys to approach. This will help you spot them early and prepare for a shot.

Setting Up Your Gear

When setting up for an afternoon hunt, the right gear can make a world of difference. Battlbox offers a variety of hunting gear designed to enhance your experience. Consider including:

• Camouflage Clothing: Blend seamlessly into your surroundings with high-quality camo apparel available in the Battlbox Shop.
• Comfortable Seating: A lightweight and portable seat will allow you to stay comfortable for extended periods while you wait for the perfect shot.
• Decoys: Using decoys effectively can attract wandering gobblers. A jake and hen decoy setup can be particularly effective during the afternoon. Create movement in your decoys using fishing line to mimic the natural behavior of turkeys.

Calling Techniques

The Art of Calling in the Afternoon

Calling turkeys in the afternoon requires a different approach than in the morning. Here are some key techniques to keep in mind:

• Soft and Subtle Calls: In the afternoon, turkeys are generally quieter. Therefore, use softer calls such as clucks and purrs, which sound more natural during this time of day.
• Frequency of Calls: Call less frequently than you would in the morning. Waiting 15-20 minutes between calls is a good rule of thumb to avoid over-calling and spooking potential gobblers.
• Responding to Gobblers: If you hear a gobbler respond, adjust your calling accordingly. If he’s coming in, reduce the frequency of your calls and let him approach at his own pace.

Using Locator Calls

In some cases, a locator call can be beneficial. Crow calls are particularly effective for getting a response from a gobbler. Use them sparingly as you move through the woods, listening for any gobblers that may respond. Remember to wait and listen carefully before making your next move.

Tactical Approaches

Passive Waiting

One of the most effective strategies in the afternoon is to adopt a passive waiting approach. Find a spot where you can set up comfortably and remain still for an extended period. This method is particularly effective if you have scouted the area and are confident that turkeys frequent it.

• Stay Alert: While waiting, maintain a quiet demeanor and avoid sudden movements. Use your binoculars to scan the area for any approaching birds.
• Patience is Key: Afternoon hunts can be long and tedious, but patience often pays off. Many hunters have reported success after waiting several hours in a single location.

Active Movement: Trolling

If passive waiting doesn’t suit your hunting style, consider a more active approach known as trolling. This involves moving slowly through the woods while making soft calls. Here’s how to do it effectively:

• Mosey Along: Walk slowly, stopping periodically to call. This mimics the natural movement of turkeys searching for mates.
• Use Terrain to Your Advantage: Utilize natural features to conceal your movements as you navigate through the area. This might include walking along logging roads or trails.
• Listen for Responses: Keep your ears open for any gobbles or other turkey sounds that may indicate nearby birds.

Late Afternoon Strategy

As the day progresses toward evening, turkeys may become more active again. Here’s how to capitalize on this potential:

• Move Closer to Roosting Areas: As you near the end of your hunt, consider setting up near known roosting locations. This can increase your chances of spotting turkeys as they head back to their roost.
• Adjust Your Calls: As the sun begins to set, turkeys may become more vocal. Transition back to more aggressive calling techniques to draw them in.

Conclusion

Hunting turkeys in the afternoon can be an incredibly rewarding experience with the right strategies. By understanding turkey behavior, scouting effectively, and utilizing appropriate calling techniques, you can increase your chances of success in the field. Remember to remain patient and adaptable, as conditions can change rapidly throughout the day.

As you gear up for your next afternoon turkey hunt, consider exploring the offerings at Battlbox. With high-quality gear and essential tools for every outdoor adventure, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any challenge.

Final Thoughts

Afternoon hunts may not be as popular as early mornings, but they can be just as productive, if not more so. So grab your gear, embrace the adventure, and head into the woods—there’s a turkey waiting for you!

FAQ

1. Can I hunt turkeys in the afternoon? Yes, many states allow turkey hunting in the afternoon. It can be a productive time to hunt, especially as toms search for hens.

2. What should I look for when scouting for afternoon turkeys? Look for feeding areas, strut zones, and travel routes. Signs such as tracks, droppings, and feathers can indicate where turkeys are frequently moving.

3. How often should I call while turkey hunting in the afternoon? Call less frequently in the afternoon, typically every 15-20 minutes. Use soft and subtle calls to mimic natural turkey sounds.

4. What gear should I take for an afternoon turkey hunt? Consider bringing camouflage clothing, a comfortable seat, quality binoculars, and decoys. Gear from Battlbox can enhance your experience.

5. What’s the best time to set up for an afternoon hunt? Aim to set up in the early afternoon to give yourself ample time to wait for turkeys to come into your area.

6. Can I use locator calls in the afternoon? Yes, locator calls can be effective in the afternoon. Crow calls, in particular, can elicit a response from gobblers.

7. How should I position my decoys? Place your decoys about 10-15 yards in front of you, ideally where turkeys are likely to approach. Consider adding movement to your decoys to attract wandering toms.

With these insights and strategies, you are now prepared to take on the challenge of afternoon turkey hunting. Happy hunting!