Quick Answer
Yes, certain calls work better before dawn, including the low-pitched "keek" and "yelp" sounds, which mimic a hen's morning wake-up calls, and the "cluck" sound, which signals a turkey's return to the roost.
Pre-Dawn Call Strategies
When turkey roost hunting, it’s essential to use calls that mimic the sounds turkeys make before dawn. The low-pitched “keek” sound, typically in the 1-2 kHz range, is effective at 30-45 minutes before sunrise. This sound signals a hen’s morning wake-up call, and turkeys are more likely to respond to it before daylight.
Choosing the Right Call Volume
To increase your chances of success, use a call volume that’s consistent with the time of day. At 30-45 minutes before sunrise, use a softer, more subtle call volume, around 50-60 decibels. As the sun rises, you can gradually increase the call volume to around 70-80 decibels, which is more suitable for the morning wake-up call.
Using the “Cluck” Sound
The “cluck” sound, typically in the 2-3 kHz range, is another effective call to use before dawn. This sound signals a turkey’s return to the roost and can be used to imitate a hen’s call as she moves back to the roost. Use the “cluck” sound in short, 2-3 second bursts, repeating it every 10-15 seconds to create a sense of urgency and movement. This can help to attract a turkey to your location before dawn.
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