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Q&A · Hunting

When should I start calling turkeys in the morning?

May 8, 2026

Quick Answer

Start calling turkeys in the morning 30-45 minutes before sunrise when the birds are most active and vocal, and again about 90 minutes after sunrise when they move to their daily feeding grounds.

Pre-Dawn Calling Techniques

When calling turkeys in the pre-dawn hours, it’s essential to use a soft and gentle approach. Begin by making a series of low, clucking sounds to mimic the early morning chatter of hens. Use a mouth call or a diaphragm call to produce these sounds, and focus on a specific area where you’ve seen turkey activity.

Post-Sunrise Calling Techniques

After the sun rises, it’s time to switch to a more aggressive calling strategy. Use a series of loud, yelping sounds to locate the birds as they move to their daily feeding grounds. Focus on making these sounds in a series of 3-5 yelps, with a brief pause between each series. This will help attract the birds and draw them in closer to your position.

Understanding Turkey Behavior

Understanding the daily routine and behavior of the turkeys you’re hunting is crucial to determining the best time to call them. In general, turkeys are most active during the early morning and late afternoon hours, with a mid-day lull. By calling them during these times of high activity, you can increase your chances of success. Additionally, pay attention to the types of calls the birds are making, as this can help you tailor your calling strategy to match their activity and behavior.

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