Early Hunter Gets the Bird

Getting in close to roosted birds means getting in early—at least an hour before first light. Turkeys tuck their heads under their wings while they sleep or lean their heads against their bodies. If you can slip within seventy yards or closer while keeping some terrain between you and the bird, your chances of success increase significantly.

Timing and Calling Strategy

Never call to a bird that close until he flies down. Once he is on the ground, start with some soft calls and leaf scratching if he is out of sight. If he doesn’t respond, get more aggressive with cutting and hard yelping. Being this close often gives the bird confidence that you are the real thing.

Gaining an Advantage Over Other Hunters

Positioning yourself near a roosted bird gives you an edge over other hunters. While they listen from a distance and plan their strategy, you’re already in the bird’s bedroom, working the bird before anyone else spooks him.

Scouting and Terrain Familiarity

This tactic reinforces the importance of scouting. Knowing the terrain in advance helps you navigate in the dark without making unnecessary noise. If you know where you're going, you have a much better chance of moving in quietly and setting up in the perfect spot.

Here’s a final trick you can use to get close: If you accidentally make a noise while sneaking into position, cover it up with a doe grunt or a very soft buck grunt. Move slowly and avoid making consecutive noises that could alert sleeping birds.

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Gear Up for Your Next Hunt

• Turkey Hunting Calls – A variety of soft and aggressive turkey calls to match different situations.

• Camouflage Hunting Gear – Stay concealed while getting close to roosted birds.

• Hunting Headlamps – Navigate the woods in darkness without alerting turkeys.

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