Can You Hunt Turkeys in High Winds? A Comprehensive Guide

High winds can be a major obstacle for turkey hunters, impacting both the behavior of the birds and the effectiveness of hunting strategies. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a novice trying to navigate your first windy turkey hunt, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to adapt your approach and increase your chances of success.

Impact of High Winds on Turkey Behavior

• Reduced strutting and display: Strong winds make it difficult for toms to strut and display effectively, as their feathers are ruffled and their movements are hindered. This can decrease their responsiveness to calls and decoys.
• Shifting feeding patterns: Turkeys may avoid open areas and seek shelter in wooded draws or other protected areas during high winds. Their feeding patterns may also change, with shorter feeding periods and more frequent movements.
• Increased alertness: High winds can make turkeys more alert and cautious, as they have difficulty hearing and seeing potential threats. This can make it more challenging to approach them undetected.

Adapting Hunting Strategies for Windy Conditions

• Seek quieter locations: Look for areas that are shielded from the wind, such as wooded draws, valleys, or the lee side of hills. These areas will be quieter and provide better opportunities to hear and see turkeys.
• Use a box call: Box calls are louder and cut through wind better than other types of turkey calls. Use sharp, loud yelps and cutts to attract the attention of distant turkeys.
• Be patient and persistent: Turkeys may be more reluctant to respond to calls in high winds, so be patient and persistent. Continue calling at regular intervals and be prepared to wait for a response.
• Move slowly and cautiously: High winds can make it difficult for turkeys to hear your approach, so move slowly and cautiously to avoid spooking them. Use the terrain and vegetation to your advantage to conceal your movements.
• Consider alternative hunting methods: If you’re having difficulty calling in turkeys, consider using decoys or setting up an ambush near a known turkey travel route.

Additional Tips for Hunting Turkeys in High Winds

• Dress in warm, windproof clothing: High winds can make you feel colder, so dress in layers and wear windproof outerwear to stay comfortable.
• Protect your ears and eyes: Wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing from the wind, and consider wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from dust and debris.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to the wind direction and speed, and adjust your hunting strategy accordingly. Be aware of falling branches or other hazards that may be caused by the wind.

Hunting turkeys in high winds can be challenging, but with the right strategies and adaptations, you can still be successful By understanding the impact of wind on turkey behavior and employing the techniques outlined in this guide, you can increase your chances of bagging a gobbler even on the windiest days Remember to be patient, persistent, and adaptable, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of turkey hunting in high winds.