The Ultimate Turkey Hunting Checklist
The thrill of the chase and landing the ultimate prize are part of the buzz that comes with an exciting turkey hunting adventure.
If you are planning to do some turkey hunting in Minnesota, for instance, here is the ultimate list of what you need to make the hunt an unforgettable experience.
Is this your first time turkey hunting?
If you are a new recruit to the world of turkey hunting it can be very tempting to go all in and buy everything you need all at once.
The best advice is to set yourself a realistic budget and only spend what you can afford for your first turkey hunting trip. There are a number of items that should be the focus of your spending.
Consider buying a turkey vest and invest in a good chair. Also, some knee-high rubber boots and a good pair of quality hiking boots would be worth buying if your budget will stretch to these items.
A waterproof suit and a decent pair of binoculars would also be worthwhile investments if you think that turkey hunting is going to be an ongoing hobby.
A good tip would be to talk to the organizer of the turkey hunt to check what you need and what’s provided as part of the package.
What are the must-have items?
One of the most important items that should be at the top of your list is your license.
Make sure you have your license with you at all times and consider making a couple of copies just to be sure that you have this very important document.
Another key decision to make is whether to use a gun or a bow. Depending on your preference, gather together your arrows, and broadheads. If you are going to use a shotgun, ammo, and a choke tube are needed for your packing list.
Camouflage clothing is essential for turkey hunting. It would be wise to dress in layers so that you can add or remove items depending on the temperature. Pack enough items to allow you to do this.
The right hat, gloves, and facemask are also must-have items. The reason for this is that turkeys have amazing eyesight, so you need to blend in with your surroundings from head to toe if you are going to be successful with your turkey hunt.
A sharp knife will be needed to enable you to field dress your bird when you enjoy success in the hunt.
Don’t forget to pack a compass and a map of the area. These will help keep you oriented and make it easier to pinpoint hunting hotspots.
Other essentials for your kit include a first-aid kit, a flashlight, and a suitable bug spray. Bear in mind that if you are troubled by bugs and mosquitos it can spoil the hunt experience. Avoid that scenario with a suitable bug spray.
Once you have sorted out the practicalities of what you need for your trip, you can start to get excited about the thrill of the turkey hunt that lies ahead.