How to Choose the Right Call for Bugling Toms?

Selecting the Right Call Type

When it comes to bugling Merriam’s toms, you’ll want to focus on calls that can produce high-pitched yelps and low, raspy bugles. Diaphragm calls, such as the Primos Double Diaphragm, are ideal for this type of calling as they allow for precise control over pitch and volume. A good diaphragm call should be able to produce a yelp in the 1,000 to 2,000 Hz range, which is typical for Merriam’s toms.

Call Volume and Pitch Control

Effective Merriam’s turkey calling requires precise control over pitch and volume. A call with adjustable reeds or a diaphragm with a wide range of motion will allow you to easily switch between high-pitched yelps and low, raspy bugles. Look for a call that can produce a minimum of 6 different pitches and has a volume range of at least 6 decibels. This will give you the flexibility to adapt to changing situations and respond to the toms’ reactions.

Additional Tips for Success

When selecting a call for Merriam’s turkey hunting, consider the terrain and visibility you’ll be hunting in. In dense woods or thick cover, a call with a deeper, more raspy tone may be more effective as it will carry less noise and be less likely to alert the toms. In open areas or when hunting in a more vocal environment, a call with a higher pitch and more volume may be necessary to cut through the ambient noise and attract the toms’ attention.