What’s the Deal with Jake Turkeys? A Comprehensive Guide to Identifying and Hunting These Young Gobblers

So you’re a turkey hunter, huh? You’ve got your sights set on a big, beautiful gobbler, strutting his stuff and gobbling like a champ. But what about those smaller, younger turkeys you see hanging around? Are those jakes, and if so, should you be targeting them?

Fear not, fellow hunter, for this guide is here to answer all your burning questions about jake turkeys. We’ll delve into the world of these young birds, exploring their characteristics, how to identify them, and whether or not they’re worth adding to your hunting bag.

Let’s get started!

What is a Jake Turkey?

A jake turkey is a young male wild turkey under two years old. They’re essentially the teenage boys of the turkey world, full of energy and enthusiasm, but still lacking the experience and maturity of their older counterparts

Identifying a jake turkey can be tricky, especially for novice hunters. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are some key characteristics to look for:

1. Size: Jakes are smaller than adult gobblers, typically weighing between 8 and 12 pounds.

2. Plumage: Jakes have a duller, more brownish plumage compared to the iridescent feathers of adult gobblers. Their heads are also less colorful, lacking the vibrant red and blue hues of older birds.

3. Tail Feathers: Jakes have shorter tail feathers than adult gobblers. The tips of their tail feathers are often rounded, while adult gobblers have pointed tips.

4. Beard: Jakes may have a small beard, but it’s usually less than 6 inches long. Adult gobblers, on the other hand, can have beards that are 8 inches or longer.

5. Spurs: Jakes lack the long, sharp spurs of adult gobblers. Their spurs are typically short and blunt.

6. Behavior: Jakes are often more active and vocal than adult gobblers. They may gobble frequently, but their gobbles are usually higher-pitched and less resonant.

Now that you know how to identify a jake turkey, let’s talk about whether or not you should hunt them.

Should You Hunt Jake Turkeys?

The decision of whether or not to hunt jake turkeys is a personal one. There are pros and cons to consider, and ultimately, the choice is up to you.

Here are some factors to weigh in your decision:

Pros:

• More plentiful: Jakes are more abundant than adult gobblers, making them easier to find and harvest.
• Less wary: Jakes are less experienced and cautious than adult gobblers, making them easier to approach and call in.
• Good table fare: Jake turkeys are still delicious to eat, even if they’re not as big as adult gobblers.
• Population control: Harvesting jakes can help to control the turkey population, which can benefit the overall health of the flock.

Cons:

• Smaller size: Jakes yield less meat than adult gobblers.
• Less challenging: Hunting jakes can be less challenging than hunting adult gobblers, which may not appeal to some hunters.
• Ethical considerations: Some hunters believe that it’s more ethical to harvest older, mature gobblers.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to hunt jake turkeys is a personal one. Consider the factors we’ve discussed and make the choice that feels right for you.

Remember, responsible hunting is always important. Be sure to follow all hunting regulations in your area and only harvest turkeys that you are comfortable taking.

Jake turkeys are an interesting and often overlooked part of the turkey hunting world. By understanding their characteristics and behavior, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to include them in your hunting plans.

Happy hunting!