Mouth calls for turkey have become an essential tool for turkey hunters, allowing them to mimic the sounds of wild turkeys and attract these elusive birds within close range. These calls are designed to replicate the various sounds that turkeys make, such as clucks, purrs, and yelps, enabling hunters to communicate with the birds and increase their chances of a successful hunt.
In recent years, the use of mouth calls has become increasingly popular among turkey hunters. These calls are portable, easy to use, and can be a game-changer when it comes to bagging a gobbler. Unlike mechanical calls, which can be noisy and require batteries, mouth calls are silent until the hunter is ready to use them. This stealth factor can make all the difference in a successful turkey hunt.
There are several types of mouth calls available on the market, each designed to produce different turkey sounds. The most common types include:
1. Cluckers: These calls are used to mimic the soft clucking sound that hens make. They are ideal for setting up a feeding pattern and drawing in a tom.
2. Purrs: Purrs are deep, guttural sounds that turkeys make when they are excited or when they are in the presence of a hen. These calls can be used to entice a tom to investigate the source of the sound.
3. Yelps: Yelps are the most common turkey call and are used to attract both hens and toms. They can be loud or soft, depending on the situation.
4. Cutts: Cutts are short, sharp sounds that turkeys make when they are in a hurry or when they are disturbed. These calls can be used to create a sense of urgency and draw a tom in quickly.
To effectively use mouth calls for turkey hunting, hunters must first learn how to make the various sounds. This can be achieved through practice and listening to real turkey sounds. Many hunters also use instructional videos and online tutorials to improve their calling skills.
Once a hunter has mastered the different turkey calls, the next step is to understand when and how to use them. Here are some tips for using mouth calls effectively:
1. Patience: Give the turkey time to respond to your call. Don’t rush the process and be prepared to wait for a few minutes before the bird approaches.
2. Volume: Adjust the volume of your call based on the distance between you and the turkey. A softer call is usually better when the bird is close, while a louder call may be needed when the bird is further away.
3. Pattern: Use a consistent pattern when calling. This will help the turkey recognize the sound and respond more readily.
4. Practice: Practice your calling skills regularly to improve your technique and become more confident in your ability to mimic turkey sounds.
In conclusion, mouth calls for turkey are a valuable tool for hunters looking to increase their chances of success. By learning the different turkey calls and practicing your technique, you can become a more effective turkey hunter and enjoy a more rewarding hunting experience.
