Quick Answer
Hen calls are generally used to locate turkeys, while gobbler calls are used to communicate with the birds and draw them in. The key difference lies in the cadence and tone of the calls, which can be adjusted to mimic the sounds made by hens or gobblers. This understanding allows hunters to tailor their calls to the situation.
Understanding Hen Calls
A hen’s call is typically a series of soft, high-pitched yips or chirps that convey a sense of excitement or alarm. When using a hen call, hunters should focus on quick, staccato tones that mimic the frantic sound of a hen trying to locate her group. For example, a good hen call might consist of a series of 5-7 short yips, each lasting around 0.2-0.3 seconds.
Mastering Gobbler Calls
A gobbler’s call, on the other hand, is usually a deep, resonant gob that conveys confidence and dominance. When using a gobbler call, hunters should focus on long, low-pitched tones that mimic the sound of a mature tom trying to attract a mate. A good gobbler call might consist of a series of 2-3 long gobs, each lasting around 0.5-0.7 seconds. To add realism, hunters can also incorporate pauses or “cuts” between the gobs, which can help to convey a sense of anticipation or excitement.
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