Youth Turkey Season Tips: Gummy Bears, Calls, & Comfort
The best time of the year is almost here, and first up is youth turkey season. There’s nothing better than watching a kid get hooked on turkey hunting.
I thought I’d share a few things I learned the hard way while getting my kids started in the woods. If you’re taking a young hunter this season, these tips might make things go a little smoother.
1. Chokes Matter
I know everyone likes these super-tight chokes in turkey guns that shoot laser beams. Well, I can tell you from experience that ain’t what you need with a kid.
Pattern a full choke or even a modified choke. You might be surprised how it shoots with some TSS 9s.
Kids get nervous and wobble quite a bit. A little more open pattern gives you a lot more room for error. That’s one I definitely learned the hard way.
2. A Little Cover Goes a Long Way
A little bit of blind material with some clothesline clips thrown in the turkey vest can go a long way helping keep these little folks hid.
You don’t need anything fancy. Just enough cover to break up movement when they get excited.
3. Comfort Equals Quiet
Make sure they have a comfortable seat.
Comfortable means quiet and still, and that applies to grown-ups too. I’ve got one of those inner-tube seats and it’s a lifesaver. I simply cannot sit cross-legged anymore.
If they’re comfortable, they’ll stay still longer. And that makes a big difference when a gobbler is coming in.
4. Let Them Call
Find them a call and let them start practicing now.
Whether it’s a push-button call, a Success call, or a Little Boss Hen, calls like these are easier to learn and operate.
Letting them call helps them connect to the whole process. And the truth is, you don’t have to sound like a Grand National calling champion to call in a turkey.
The whole point of youth season is to get them out in the woods and light that fire for the outdoors.
5. Expect Blown Chances
There are going to be blown chances and spooked turkeys. Guaranteed.
That’s just part of hunting, especially when kids are learning. It’s not the end of the world.
Keep pushing and make sure they are having a great time.
6. Snacks
Snacks, snacks, and snacks.
Not sardines or smoked oysters in a can either. You’ve got to have the good stuff to keep them rolling. The gummy bear type stuff works pretty good.
7. The Essentials
I probably don’t even have to say it, but toilet paper is a must in the turkey woods.
Trust me on that one.
Why Youth Season Matters
Youth turkey season is about more than just killing a gobbler. It’s about introducing kids to the outdoors and giving them experiences they’ll remember the rest of their lives.
Those early mornings, the excitement of hearing a gobble, and the stories that come afterward are what make it special.
I sure do miss the days of my kids getting ready for youth season. What a blessing it is to get to introduce them to the outdoors.
A Look Back
Here’s a clip I found of my son Drake when he was just getting to where he loved to turkey hunt.
Get Ready for Youth Turkey Season
If you’re getting ready to take a kid hunting this spring, make sure you’ve got the right calls and gear ready to go. Keeping things simple, comfortable, and fun goes a long way toward making them fall in love with the outdoors.