Turkey Shoots: More Than Just Shooting Turkeys

The term “Turkey Shoot” might conjure up visions of hunters roaming the woods hunting for these wily birds. Then you see a sign promoting a Turkey Shoot being held every Sunday from 10 a. m. to 2 p. m. for the next several weeks. You might wonder: How many turkeys can possibly be up in those woods?.

It turns out that a sizable population of turkeys reside in the wooded area that serves as the Boothbay Region Fish and Game Associations’ enclave. You can be certain that during a turkey shoot, none of these wild birds will be shot.

Turkey Shoots always involve shooting targets with shotguns, rifles, and occasionally handguns, though the format varies from location to location. There is a competition for every skill level of shooter, requiring either practiced shooting or pure luck.

The BRF&GA’s 2022 Turkey Shoots are being held starting the first Sunday in October (Oct. 2) and each Sunday through the first Sunday in November (Nov. 6) from 10 to 2 on the club property located at 447 Dover Road, Boothbay.

The following contests are held every Sunday, with prizes including turkeys and other frozen foods going to the winners:

Card Shoot: A shotgun match in which participants fire at a 3″ by 5″ target from 50 feet away. Everyone has an equal chance of winning this contest, regardless of experience level with a gun. The shooter with the pellet closest to the “X” in the middle of the target wins the prize.

Mechanical Target: Shooters use . 22 rimfire rifles are aimed five times at a 25-yard reactive target made of metal “spoons.” The shooter with the most “plinks” wins.

Skeet Shoot: A shotgun event. The mechanical throwing device that launches the clay pigeons aims to shoot both clays before they land. This shoot often takes multiple rounds to determine a winner, making for a great spectator event.

100-Yard Shoots: This event is only for larger caliber rifles that are typically used for hunting. It consists of two different shooting ranges: a bench rest range and a 100-yard range. The object is simply to have the most accurate shot in the bullseye.

All events are open to the public and all ages are welcome. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Hearing and eye protection are required. Food and refreshments will be served for nominal prices. On the day of the competition, the entry fees for each event will be determined; however, they will be minimal because some events will include costs for food prizes and ammunition. Come on up to the club and join in, or just enjoy a juicy burger and watch!.

“Turkey shoots” are a popular pastime in rural America, but they’re not what you might think. While the name suggests shooting live turkeys, modern turkey shoots are all about target practice and winning prizes.

What Happens at a Turkey Shoot?

Instead of shooting live turkeys, participants aim at paper targets with shotguns, rifles, or pistols, depending on the category. The rules vary depending on the organizer, but the most common goal is to get the closest shot to the center mark on the target.

In certain shoots, the player who collects the most pellets inside a predetermined circle wins. This system is known as “pellet count within a circle.” Others employ a “closest to the X” method, in which the winner is the player whose shot comes the closest to the center mark.

Prizes and Participation

Turkey shoots offer a variety of prizes including frozen turkeys hams, potatoes, eggs, and even cash. The entry fee typically covers a certain number of rounds, and participants can purchase additional rounds if they wish.

The atmosphere at a turkey shoot is usually friendly and welcoming, making it a great way to spend a day outdoors and socialize with other shooting enthusiasts.

Variations and History

While most modern turkey shoots involve target practice, some organizers still hold “live bird” shoots. However, these are becoming increasingly rare due to animal welfare concerns.

Turkey shoots have roots in the earliest days of American colonization. In those days, communities would come together to celebrate the shoots, and live turkeys were frequently given out as prizes.

Tips for Participating in a Turkey Shoot

If you’re interested in participating in a turkey shoot, here are a few tips:

Check the rules: Make sure you understand the rules of the specific turkey shoot you’re attending, including the type of firearm allowed, the target distance, and the scoring system.
Bring the right gear: You’ll need your firearm, ammunition, eye and ear protection, and appropriate clothing for the weather.
Be safe: Always handle firearms safely and follow all safety rules.
Have fun: Turkey shoots are a great way to enjoy the outdoors, test your shooting skills, and win some prizes.

Turkey shoots are a unique and fun way to spend a day in rural America. They offer a chance to practice your shooting skills, win prizes, and socialize with other shooting enthusiasts. While the name might be misleading, turkey shoots are all about target practice and community, not harming animals.

Serving Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Southport & Edgecomb since 1876

The following contests are held every Sunday, with prizes including turkeys and other frozen foods going to the winners:

Mechanical Target: Shooters use . 22 rimfire rifles are aimed five times at a 25-yard reactive target made of metal “spoons.” The shooter with the most “plinks” wins.

YOU’RE AIMING WRONG! Turkey Shot Placement | Shotgun Turkey Hunting

FAQ

What do they do at a turkey shoot?

Besides a literal turkey hunt, the term “turkey shoot” may also refer to a shooting contest in which frozen turkeys are awarded as prizes. The shoot is most commonly held using shotguns aimed at paper targets about 25–35 yards away.

What do you do after you shoot a turkey?

Tagging and registering your harvested turkey is required. Do you want to take the bird to a taxidermist? After firing, as long as the spinal cord is intact, a bird may involuntarily move. If you would like to preserve the feathers or the meat from bruising, it’s important to try to secure the bird.

What is the distance for turkey shoots?

Even if you’re a great shot with the bow, you must remember that turkeys have a small kill zone that’s usually moving. There is no practice you can do that will perfectly replicate this, and that’s why keeping those shots inside 25 yards is always best.

Where do you aim to shoot a turkey?

When hunting wild turkeys with a shotgun, greater success is achieved when hunters shoot at the head and neck area of the bird. The most effective firearm shot for a turkey is to the head and neck. The preferred shot angle for bowhunters is broadside, aiming for the heart or lungs.