I enjoyed a pretty good first day of Turkey season this year (actually day 2 of the season in Indiana) saw 5-6 birds all outside of bow range. I was hunting public land and hiked in about a mile further than most other hunters I saw; however I wasn't able to get back out the last 3-4 days and am returning tomorrow morning. I am curious being on public land how long it takes turkeys to become educated and what exactly that means? My guess is that they become smart as to decoys and calls but what else should a newer hunter be aware of as the season goes on? Especially on public land where turkeys are hunted more frequently by more hunters. Thanks!
I know I'm really late to this but until they bust a hunter get shot at or hear the same call a few days in a row they won't be educated enough to avoid your setup. As long as the birds aren't spooked year after year they'll be killable just switch it up every now and then don't become too predictable
Imo an educated turkey is one that knows you're after them. I've never seen one turn tail n run when I turkey called at em. It's been said a good box call in the woods is indistinguishable from a hen. That's nonsense, I can hear a box lid drag on the box n I've got some hearing probs. My point is not to bash any call cause it's not the call it's the use or improper use of the call that lets me know its not for real How many times have you yelped at a bird to have em clam up n explode gobbling when a real hen came calling. How come they didnt gooble or come to you? Repetition especially many guys in an area educates em n makes things tougher. On the right day though if you play things smart he'll be just as dead. Don't pressure them more n let em know what you're up to
