If you want to experience the adrenaline rush and the thrill of hunting turkeys with a bow, then you first have to learn the basics of putting your senses against these game birds. The wild birds are the most sought out birds due to the challenge they offer because of their heightened senses of sight and hearing.
It is very hard to know where to shoot a turkey with a bow if you have no past experience. Many states offer hunting experiences during spring and fall season. Some of the top 5 states to hunt are Florida, South Dakota, Missouri, Kansas, and Nebraska. Turkey hunting with a bow has become so famous you can actually book a turkey hunt while vacationing in Hawaii! This article will help bag your bird with a bow.
Before the Hunt
- First and foremost, you shall need to obtain a hunting license. Licenses can be purchases from State-approved license agents, or through online application – depending on your State. Remember to pay close attention to the terms and conditions required.
- Practice, Practice, Practice. These wild birds are very keen creatures and hunting them requires precision. Practice shooting from all sorts of distances and positions i.e. standing, kneeling, sitting, lying down
- Arm yourself with the correct gear. Have your camouflage clothes ready, and your turkey calls devices – the devices are useful because they call the turkeys closer giving you a clearer kill shot
- Choose some decoys. Decoys are another smart way to lure the birds closer for a clearer shot
- Purchase some blinds. They are very helpful concealment tools that a hunter can use to hide in. They are lightweight and easy to transport
Hunting Turkeys with a Bow
After you have purchased and practiced, then on to a turkey hunting ground near you.
Step 1
Check and double check that you have the correct bow. A good bow to have is a short axle-to-axle because the bows are easy to maneuver while crouching down or even seated. The axle-to-axle does not affect the accuracy of the shoot. Another way to choose the correct axle-to-axle length is based on your hunting needs. E.g. if you are hunting from a blind, then a short axle-to-axle bow will make shooting easier
Step 2
Adjust the poundage (this is the amount of force required to draw the bow to a set in order to shoot) of your bow. Keep in mind the poundage is measured in pounds. When shooting a turkey, perhaps try setting your poundage to 60.This will enable you to hold your bow at a full draw for a very long time allowing for a quick, swift shoot.
Step 3
Use expandable broadheads. These arrows are very sharp and have a flat pointed steel head. They open on impact and cut bigger holes.
Step 4
Get into position. Place your decoys maybe 15 yards out from where you are set up and shoot approximately 25 yards out. The decoys will help you estimate how far out the bird is as he approaches the decoy.
Step 5
Hide as best as you can. If you are using a pop-up blind, hiding behind a tree, remember the birds can detect the smallest movements. It might be easier to use a crossbow rather than a bow because they are always cocked and the motion of drawing your bow will not be detected.
Step 6
Take your kill shot. The best places to aim for are the head, the butt of the wing, the rear end, or between the legs. Most of these areas will either kill the bird immediately (especially if you are using the above mentioned broadheads) or leave the bird in a position where they will be at your mercy.
If you need additional information on where to find the best hunting grounds, contact the conservation agents. They have ample information about the number of turkeys hatched in a season and the hot locations. Happy Hunting!