by Ethan O. Tanner
Due to the growing popularity of turkey hunting and ever-increasing numbers of turkey hunters, there is a huge variety of hunting equipment available these days. In the past, Turkey hunting was a much simpler activity. The hunter, dressed in his usual clothes and hat, places his favorite slate call, box call, wing bone or scratch box into his jacket en route out of the house. He collects his double-barreled shotgun and a few shells in his pocket before walking out the door.
This is him, the turkey hunter – all prepared to fight with a wary old tom. But what other gear will he have with him? When it comes to hunting equipment having lots of choices and options is a very good thing.
Today’s current turkey hunter has more choices than he ever had. But at times, it becomes overpowering to a beginner. Prior to going to hunting, you have to determine first what you are going to use to cart all of your equipment. This will also help influence the type and amount of gear you take with you into the woods. The three basic choices for packing turkey hunting gear are turkey Vest, Back pack, and fanny pack.
These vests come in many different ways including the full vest or jacket style. Some prefer vests since there are many separate pockets and the game bag on the back that lets you carry decoys well plus the turkey if you get one. A vest is also another outstanding to organize your basic turkey gear with one hunting garment.
Backpacks allow you to carry much more gear than the vests. They also can be removed and even used as backrest if necessary. The least expensive option are the fanny packs. They are popular to many hunters since you can carry some gear but you are not weighed down as much as with a backpack or vest. They also provide quick access to everything inside.
Many hunters will carry along a laser range finder and this is perfect, especially for those hunting with a bow. Your laser range finder will provide comfort and knowledge on how far your potential shot may be for that big old Tom.
Do you need to carry that lots of calls with you? No, but if you would like to, there are now vests available that allow you to carry them and much more.
Here are some basic needs and optional gears you might consider: Basic needs include shot gun, shotgun shells, full camo outfit including cap, favorite calls. Turkey tag pencil or pen to sign tag. Gloves, head net or face mask. Bug spray for mosquitoes and ticks. Water and drinks, compass, toilet paper and knife are some of the few things that are usually brought.
Elective gears include decoys, turkey tote, extra set of gloves and facemask, extra strikers for slate calls, and other local calls like owl, gobble tube, hawk, goose, coyote, peacock and woodpecker. Leather type multi-purpose tools, flashlight, matches, cell phone, walkie talkie, 2-way radio, GPS, topo map and aerial photos for hunting area. Rain gear, binoculars, camera, camcorder, tripod, laser range finder, ratcheting pruners, folding saw, ground blind or square piece of camo cloth, Snacks/food, moistened hand wipes, seat or pad and snake bite kit.
Having all these gears will for certain not vouch that you would become the best turkey hunter in the world, but they can help advance your chances of having a turkey dinner when you go home for the day. Revel in your Turkey Hunting outdoor experience.
About the Author:
Sportsman and Writer Ethan O. Tanner shares his knowledge of the essentials of
Turkey Hunting the abundant
gearfor your hunt.
