Can You Use Electronic Calls for Turkey Hunting?

It’s debatable whether or not states should permit the use of electronic calls while go turkey hunting. Here’s what you need to know:

States that allow electronic calls for turkey hunting:

• Wyoming: Wyoming allows the use of electronic calls for turkey hunting, but there are some restrictions. For example, you can only use them on private land with the landowner’s permission, and you must be at least 100 yards away from any occupied dwelling.
• Texas: Texas also allows the use of electronic calls for turkey hunting, but there are no restrictions on where you can use them. However, you must be at least 100 yards away from any public road or right-of-way.
• Other states: There may be other states that allow the use of electronic calls for turkey hunting, but it’s important to check your local regulations before heading out.

States that prohibit electronic calls for turkey hunting:

• Kansas: Kansas does not allow the use of electronic calls for turkey hunting.
• Kentucky: Kentucky also prohibits the use of electronic calls for turkey hunting.
• New York: New York has a strict ban on the use of electronic calls for hunting any type of wildlife, including turkeys.
• Other states: There are many other states that prohibit the use of electronic calls for turkey hunting. Be sure to check your local regulations before heading out.

Arguments for and against electronic calls:

Arguments for:

• Increased success: Proponents of electronic calls argue that they can help hunters increase their success rate by mimicking the sounds of turkeys and attracting them closer.
• Accessibility: Electronic calls can be helpful for hunters with physical limitations who may have difficulty using traditional mouth calls.
• Reduced disturbance: Electronic calls can help reduce the disturbance to other wildlife in the area, as they do not require the hunter to make loud noises.

Arguments against:

• Unfair advantage: Opponents of electronic calls argue that they give hunters an unfair advantage over turkeys, as they can mimic a wider range of sounds and attract turkeys from a greater distance.
• Unsportsmanlike conduct: Some hunters believe that using electronic calls is unsportsmanlike and takes away from the challenge of turkey hunting.
• Potential for misuse: There is a concern that electronic calls could be misused by poachers or unethical hunters.

The use of electronic calls for turkey hunting is a controversial topic. Some states allow it, while others prohibit it. It’s important to check your local regulations before heading out. There are arguments for and against the use of electronic calls, and ultimately it’s up to each individual hunter to decide whether or not they want to use them.

Additional resources:

• National Wild Turkey Federation: https://www.nwtf.org/
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: https://www.fws.gov/

Please note: This information is for general knowledge and should not be considered legal advice Always check your local regulations before using electronic calls for turkey hunting