TURKEY SEASON PRACTICE | BACKWOODS BONUS
The crisp morning air hummed with an almost electric anticipation as Kevin, a seasoned hunter, meticulously prepared for a crucial turkey season practice session. Alongside him were his eager son, Kyler, and his steadfast dad, Gerod, forming a multi-generational hunting trio. With the much-anticipated youth season mere days away, their destination was the familiar range, a place where skills are honed and confidence is built. “We’ve got Kyler getting ready for youth season this Saturday,” Kevin announced, his voice filled with a mix of pride and determination, as he carefully positioned the targets at a challenging 30 yards. “I’m making him practice like it’s the real thing, because when that gobbler steps out, there’s no room for hesitation.” This rigorous preparation is a key component of effective **turkey hunting season preparation**, ensuring young hunters are ready for the real challenge.
Kyler, a picture of youthful determination, donned his camouflage face mask and settled into his turkey chair, a blend of excitement and nervous energy dancing in his eyes. “We’ve got two targets out there,” Kevin explained, his hand sweeping towards the left and right. “I’ll tell you which one to shoot at, and you’ll need to aim and pull the trigger just like you would on a turkey.” The practice was meticulously designed to simulate the authentic hunting experience, immersing Kyler in the moment and ensuring he was fully prepared for when a magnificent gobbler would inevitably strut into view. This hands-on approach is vital for developing sound **wild turkey hunting strategies** from an early age.
“Alright, shoot the left one!” Kevin’s command cut through the quiet. The sharp crack of the shotgun echoed through the woods, followed by Kyler’s triumphant grin. His eyes sparkled with excitement. “How do you think you did?” Kevin inquired as they cautiously approached the target. “Good!” Kyler replied confidently, but Kevin, ever the vigilant mentor, gently reminded him about proper barrel control. “You put your barrel in the dirt when it kicked,” he noted, his tone firm but kind, emphasizing the paramount importance of **beginner hunting safety**—a lesson every hunter, regardless of age, must internalize as they examined the target for shot placement.
For more hunting insights, check out Florida Youth Season Kickoff.
As they drew closer to the target, a warm smile spread across Kevin’s face, mirroring Kyler’s contagious enthusiasm. “That’s a dead turkey right there,” he declared, proudly pointing out the tight pattern of pellets precisely centered in the target’s head. “Now let’s get ready for your next shot.” They transitioned to Apex ammunition, known for its superior performance, and with a few encouraging words, Kyler took aim once more. “Let it rip!” Kevin cheered, and again, the powerful report of the shotgun resonated through the peaceful woodland.
“That’s another dead turkey!” Kevin exclaimed, his voice booming with satisfaction as they walked to inspect the second target. “You shot a little bit to the left on that one,” he observed, offering constructive feedback, but it was abundantly clear that Kyler was making remarkable progress with each shot. “You’re going to be ready for Saturday, no doubt about it!”
You might also enjoy reading about Our Quickest Turkey Hunt on.
With Kyler’s practice session progressing splendidly, it was time for Kevin to sight in some new gear. He had recently upgraded his shotgun with a new scope and was keen to ensure it was perfectly dialed in. “I like to get some regular birdshot first,” he explained, a practical tip born from experience, knowing that the recoil from heavy turkey loads could be quite punishing on the shoulder during initial adjustments. They moved closer to the target, initiating the process of fine-tuning the new optics.
“Let’s see where this scope is sighted in,” Kevin murmured as he squeezed off his shot. The pattern indicated a slight low impact, prompting a series of precise adjustments before they retreated to the 20-yard mark. “This is a Mossberg 835 12 gauge with long beard XR number six,” he noted, detailing his setup as he prepared for another shot. With a steady hand and focused gaze, he pulled the trigger, and the palpable excitement in the air was undeniable.
Similar hunting experience: YOUTH SEASON KICK OFF.
“That’s a very dead turkey!” Kevin laughed, a genuine chuckle of satisfaction, as they scrutinized the target. “You’re patterning exceptionally well, perfectly ready for the field.” With each successful shot, his confidence soared, and both father and son knew they were steadily closing in on being fully prepared for the eagerly awaited opening day.
As Kyler took his turn with the 20 gauge, he was visibly eager to test out the new setup. “Keep your finger off the trigger until you’re ready,” Kevin gently reminded him, reinforcing a crucial safety rule as Kyler prepared for his shot. The anticipation mounted as Kyler aimed down the sights, focusing intently. “Let’s go see how you did!”
Related story: Only One First Turkey.
After taking his shot, Kyler appeared a bit perplexed. “I think I shot high,” he admitted, recognizing that he needed more practice with the traditional bead sight compared to the red dot he was accustomed to. “It didn’t kick too hard though,” he added with a sheepish grin. Kevin, understanding his son’s preference, encouraged him to stick with his reliable .410 for turkey hunting but commended him for his willingness to try something new and expand his skills.
The day culminated in a profound sense of accomplishment as they meticulously reviewed their shot patterns side by side. “You’re going to be ready for Saturday,” Kevin reassured Kyler, his voice brimming with paternal pride, knowing his son was more than ready to pursue his first turkey. The unbreakable bond between father and son was undeniably strengthened through every shared moment spent preparing for the thrilling hunt ahead, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
For more hunting insights, check out FLORIDA TURKEY HUNTING ON FIRE.
Join Kevin and Kyler as they gear up for turkey season and share valuable tips for hunters of all experience levels:
