Quick Answer
Yelps are more effective in the fall, particularly during the early morning and late afternoon hours when turkeys are most active.
Understanding Turkey Behavior
In the spring, turkeys are often more vocal and vocalization can be a challenge, as the yelp can sound similar to the hen’s loud, long call. However, when it comes to the fall, turkeys have already established their dominance and are less vocal, making the yelp a more effective call. The fall yelp is typically shorter and higher-pitched than the spring version.
Effective Fall Call Cadence
To effectively use the yelp in the fall, hunters should aim for a cadence of two to three yelps, followed by a short pause of 10-15 seconds. This cadence allows the hunter to mimic the natural, high-pitched sound of a female turkey. It’s essential to focus on the yelp rather than the pause, as the goal is to get the toms to respond to the call. A good rule of thumb is to use the yelp in a series of three, with the final yelp being slightly louder and higher-pitched to simulate the hen’s increasing urgency.
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