Top Rated Turkey Calls That Make You A Hunting Pro

When it comes to turkey hunting, having the right calls can be the difference between an exciting day in the field and a frustrating experience. 🎯 Using effective turkey calls can help mimic the sounds of turkeys, attracting them closer to your setup. In this guide, we’ll explore the top-rated turkey calls, provide tips on their effective usage, common mistakes to avoid, and even tackle some troubleshooting for when things don’t go as planned. Let’s transform you into a hunting pro!

Understanding Turkey Calls

Before diving into the best calls, it’s crucial to understand the different types of turkey calls available and their unique sounds. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Box Calls: These are user-friendly and perfect for beginners. They create a loud and clear sound, making them great for long-distance calling.
• Diaphragm Calls: These require a bit more skill but offer incredible versatility and can produce various turkey sounds, including purrs and clucks.
• Slate Calls: These are great for soft sounds, making them ideal for close encounters. They need a bit of practice but can be very rewarding.
• Mouth Calls: Similar to diaphragm calls but often more compact and portable. They fit comfortably in your mouth and are great for hands-free operation.
• Electronics: For tech-savvy hunters, electronic turkey calls can provide numerous sounds at the touch of a button.

Here’s a handy table that compares these calls based on ease of use, sound quality, and portability:

<table> <tr> <th>Type of Call</th> <th>Ease of Use</th> <th>Sound Quality</th> <th>Portability</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Box Calls</td> <td>Easy</td> <td>Very Good</td> <td>Medium</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Diaphragm Calls</td> <td>Moderate</td> <td>Excellent</td> <td>High</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Slate Calls</td> <td>Moderate</td> <td>Good</td> <td>Medium</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Mouth Calls</td> <td>Moderate</td> <td>Good</td> <td>Very High</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Electronics</td> <td>Easy</td> <td>Excellent</td> <td>Medium</td> </tr> </table>

Tips for Effective Turkey Calling

Once you've selected your turkey calls, mastering their use is essential. Here are some tips to elevate your calling game:

1. Practice Regularly: Like any skill, calling takes practice. Spend time each week working on your calls. Use videos or sound samples to refine your technique.

2. Listen to Real Turkeys: Spend time in the field just listening to wild turkeys. Understanding their natural sounds will help you replicate them more accurately.

3. Use Different Calls: Mix and match different types of calls. A combination of sounds can make your setup sound more realistic. For example, follow a box call with a few soft purrs from a slate call.

4. Be Patient: Turkeys may not come in right away. If you call and don’t get a response, wait a while before calling again.

5. Change Locations: If a particular area isn't producing, don’t hesitate to move to a new spot. Turkeys can be fickle, and sometimes a short distance can make a world of difference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learning from the missteps of others can save you time and frustration. Here are some common mistakes hunters make with turkey calls and how to avoid them:

• Overcalling: It can be tempting to call frequently, especially if you're excited. However, too much calling can scare off turkeys. Keep your calls to a minimum.

• Poor Timing: Calling too early or too late can lead to missed opportunities. Pay attention to the time of day; early mornings or late afternoons are typically best.

• Neglecting Wind Direction: Always be mindful of the wind. If the wind is blowing towards the turkeys, they may smell you and stay away.

• Inconsistent Sounds: Make sure your calls are clear and consistent. Inconsistency can confuse or scare away the birds.

Troubleshooting Calling Issues

Even the best hunters encounter issues while calling. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Sound Quality: If your calls aren't sounding right, check if your call needs maintenance or if it's been damaged. For instance, box calls can sometimes get sticky, affecting sound quality.

• Lack of Response: If turkeys aren't responding, consider your location. Move to a more active area where you might have better luck.

• Difficulty Producing Sound: If you're using diaphragm calls and struggling to produce sound, try adjusting the position of the call in your mouth. Finding the right placement can significantly affect your output.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What type of call is best for beginners?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Box calls are generally considered the best for beginners due to their ease of use and ability to produce loud, clear sounds.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How do I know if I'm using the right call?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Listen to real turkeys in the wild to compare. If your calls sound authentic and turkeys respond, you’re likely using the right call.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I use more than one type of call at a time?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Absolutely! Using multiple calls can create a more realistic sound that can attract turkeys from further away.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What is the best time of day to call turkeys?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Early mornings and late afternoons are the most productive times to call turkeys, as they are generally more active during these hours.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How do I maintain my turkey calls?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Regularly clean and check your calls for wear and tear. Different types require specific maintenance, so refer to your call’s instructions.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Recapping what we've discussed, mastering turkey calls is an essential part of becoming a successful turkey hunter. By practicing regularly, understanding the different types of calls, and avoiding common pitfalls, you'll be well on your way to improving your turkey calling skills. Don't hesitate to explore various calls, mix them up, and, most importantly, get out into the field and practice!

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, the key is to keep experimenting with different techniques and sounds. The world of turkey hunting is vast, and with the right calling strategies, you’re sure to increase your success rate. Happy hunting!

<p class="pro-note">🦃Pro Tip: Always have a few different calls in your arsenal to adapt to changing situations in the field!</p>