Turkey Hunting Positioning
A vital part of turkey hunting is the position of the hunter. The hunter must be in the best possible location for proper set up. Positioning is often more important than calling skills.
Position Methods
There are two basic positioning methods for turkey hunting. These are while the turkey is still on the roost and after the turkey is on the ground.
Roosting Position
When it comes to roosting position, it is often best for the hunter to get as close to the roosted turkey as possible. This is done quietly before sunrise. It is important not to get too close as to spook the turkey.
Another factor to consider when positioning near a roosting area is the hens. The hunter should try to get in between the gobbler and the hens whenever possible.
An additional thought to consider is where the gobbler is most likely to go after fly down. By scouting the area to be hunted prior to the hunt, the hunter will have a good idea for proper hunting positioning.
Ground Position
Finding a good set up spot for after the turkey fly down is also important. Sometimes even the best roosting set up will not work. The hunter then has to be prepared for hunting once the turkey hits the ground.
For the most part, the gobbler will be seeking strutting areas and food sources. The hunter must be familiar with or at least be able to locate these areas for proper set up.
Often these areas are found near fields, logging roads, farming roads, or food plots. Once found, the hunter should set up in these areas and wait the gobblers out.
In most cases the gobbler will arrive in these areas later in the morning after the hens have left him.
Calling skills, camouflage, and other factors will apply while turkey hunting. However, often it is the ability of the hunter to find good set up positions that make the difference in success.
