Quick Answer
Some hunters rely on shock gobbles to locate roosted turkeys by making a loud, high-pitched call during the early morning hours to simulate a flock of turkeys taking flight, which often prompts the roosted birds to respond with their own gobbling.
The Art of Shock Gobbling
Shock gobbling is a technique used to locate roosted turkeys by creating a ruckus that simulates a group of turkeys taking flight. This method is most effective during the early morning hours when turkeys are still roosted and haven’t yet begun their daily activity. By making a loud, high-pitched call, you can often prompt the roosted birds to respond with their own gobbling, giving away their location.
Choosing the Right Call
To effectively use shock gobbling, it’s essential to choose the right call. A box call or a diaphragm call that can produce a loud, high-pitched sound is ideal. Experiment with different calls and techniques to find what works best for you. Some hunters also use a combination of calls, such as a low-pitched call to get the turkeys’ attention and a high-pitched call to simulate the takeoff.
Timing and Placement
When using shock gobbling, timing and placement are crucial. The best time to shock gobble is during the early morning hours, typically between 5:30 and 7:00 am. It’s also essential to place the call in an area where turkeys are likely to have roosted, such as a ridgeline, a power line, or a large tree with a commanding view. Stand back from the call and wait for the turkeys to respond, then move in to set up for a shot.
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