Perfect Start in Alabama

Turkey season here in Alabama kicked off on March 15th this year, but with the usual hustle and bustle of our daily lives, I didn’t manage to get into the woods until about five days after the season opened. My wife and I had gone down to the farm to fish for the last hour or so of the afternoon on the 18th. On our way out, we paused to see if we could hear a bird gobble, a classic move in wild turkey hunting strategies. We were rewarded with more than just a gobble; we spotted four birds crossing the road and flying up to roost for the night. Armed with that crucial piece of information, I immediately told my father-in-law, David, that I’d pick him up the next morning. We simply had to try for those birds.

Those turkeys were fired up the next morning, gobbling the moment we stepped out of the truck. We found a small opening on the edge of the woods for our setup and let out a few calls. Birds were gobbling all around us, but they had a number of hens with them, making things a bit more challenging. We played a careful game of cat and mouse with them until just after sunrise, then went silent to see where they’d move. As luck would have it, one of the hens broke from the group and headed right toward us, passing just a few feet away. The gobblers, not far behind, fired off a volley of gobbles about 80 yards out, and we knew they were following her to our setup. They initially tried to circle around us, but a few soft calls turned the hens back in our direction, and they passed through the opening at about 25 yards. The gobblers followed, circling around and coming up right behind them. They stayed a little further out, but they were still well within range. David couldn’t get a clear shot at first, so I told him I had one and he gave me the green light. When I shot, the bird started flopping, and the others just stood around in confusion. That’s when the real fun began. David picked out one of the remaining gobblers and took his shot, but it didn’t go down for good. After a mad dash towards the bird, and a rather comical tumble over a low strand of fencing he didn’t see, he was able to finish the bird off. We had our first ever double, a moment every hunter dreams of.

For more hunting insights, check out Alabama Gobbler Strut-Off.

It was an awesome morning spent with a great guy, and it resulted in two beautiful birds taking a ride back to the house with us. It’s a rewarding feeling when a hunt comes together perfectly, a testament to the effectiveness of our turkey hunting season preparation. All our hunts don’t go according to the script, so when it all works out like that, it makes the experience that much sweeter. It’s especially awesome when you get to spend that quality time in the woods with your family and friends, making memories that last a lifetime.

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Jeremy Johnson, Backwoods Crew Member – Alabama

Similar hunting experience: What Is an Off-Season?.

VIDEO: Florida Swing and a Miss!

Join Kevin Knighton as he recounts a memorable hunting trip with his brother Brent, deep in the heart of Florida’s wild landscapes. They put their **wild turkey hunting strategies** to the test, hoping to bag an elusive gobbler. Despite their careful planning and deployment of some of the **best hunting techniques**, including various **top calling techniques**, they experienced a classic “swing and a miss” encounter with an up-close Florida gobbler! It’s a reminder that even the most seasoned hunters face unpredictable moments in the field, making every hunt an authentic and thrilling adventure.

 

For more hunting insights, check out Giant Florida Hogs!.

This video captures the raw excitement and occasional frustrations that come with pursuing these magnificent birds. Witness the close call and the genuine reactions that make hunting stories so compelling. Every moment in the wild, whether a success or a “swing and a miss,” contributes to the rich tapestry of the hunting experience.

You might also enjoy reading about Florida Gobbler Sneaks In.


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VIDEO: Osceola at 10 Yards!

In the heart of sunny **Florida**, Kevin was on an exhilarating mission. After a season filled with close calls and frustrating missed opportunities, he was more determined than ever to make this particular morning count. The sun had barely risen, casting a soft, golden glow over the tranquil landscape as he expertly settled into his chosen spot, his senses alert. He knew, with a hunter’s intuition, that a magnificent gobbler was roosted nearby, a prime target for a successful **wild turkey hunting strategy**. “It’s a new morning, a fresh start,” he thought, excitement bubbling within him, a mix of hope and anticipation. “Let’s see if I picked the absolute right spot for this Florida turkey hunt.”

The anticipation was palpable, a thick, almost tangible presence as he listened intently to the symphony of the forest waking up around him. The sweet melodies of nature’s chorus mixed harmoniously with the rhythmic, resonant calls of turkeys echoing through the ancient trees. “Oh man, that joker!” Kevin exclaimed in a hushed whisper, his heart racing with a primal thrill. “I don’t know if that’s the exact same bird I had roosted or not, but I had a turkey that gobbled right here. He must have gobbled a hundred times on the roost, making it an ideal scenario for **turkey hunting season preparation**!”

For more hunting insights, check out Our Quickest Turkey Hunt on.

As he waited with unwavering patience, the minutes stretched and felt like an eternity. “He flew down and hasn’t said a word since,” Kevin muttered to himself, a hint of frustration creeping into his voice, a common sentiment in the unpredictable world of hunting. But he remained steadfast, knowing that turkeys could be incredibly unpredictable creatures, masters of camouflage and silence. Suddenly, another powerful gobble rang out from across the field, a thrilling reminder that the hunt was still very much alive and full of potential.

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“I’ve just been sitting here for probably two hours, completely still,” he said, meticulously scanning the area for any subtle sign of movement, every shadow and rustle analyzed. “I knew that turkey was still somewhere around here, just waiting for the right moment.” Just then, he caught a fleeting glimpse of movement through the dense bushes. “I saw his head coming through the brush!” Kevin whispered excitedly, adrenaline surging through his veins like a powerful river as he prepared himself for what was about to unfold, the culmination of hours of waiting.

Similar hunting experience: Florida Gobbler Sneaks In.

The majestic turkey finally emerged, strutting proudly and confidently as it approached the strategically placed decoys. Kevin had set up his position with expert precision, utilizing the natural cover of the surrounding bushes to expertly hide his presence. “These turkeys have been hunted pretty hard the last few days,” he explained, his voice low and serious. “I didn’t want to give them even a sliver of a chance to bust me.” The thrill of watching this magnificent bird approach, a testament to his patience and skill, was truly exhilarating.

Related story: Gobbler Attack!.

As the turkey strutted even closer, Kevin felt an intense rush of exhilaration, a feeling only a hunter truly understands. “I probably could have zoomed in and got some more pretty turkey footage of him,” he thought, considering his camera, but this time it was about more than just capturing video; it was about sealing the deal, about the ultimate satisfaction of a successful hunt. “It was time for one of them to hit the dirt! This was the moment I’d been waiting for, a true test of my **wild turkey hunting strategies**.”

For more hunting insights, check out Don’t Blink.

Finally, the perfect moment arrived. The gobbler was now well within range—just ten yards away, a stone’s throw. With steady hands, a focused mind, and a heart pounding with anticipation, Kevin took careful aim and released his shot. The thrill of success washed over him in a powerful wave as he watched the magnificent turkey fall. “Man, what a turkey!” he shouted, his voice filled with unbridled joy and triumph.

As he approached his hard-earned prize, Kevin couldn’t help but admire the breathtaking beauty of the Osceola turkey. “Look at these spurs!” he exclaimed, showcasing the sharp, formidable points that glistened brilliantly in the Florida sunlight. “And check out that beard! That’s what I’m talking about, a truly impressive specimen!” Each intricate detail reminded him of why he loved **hunting in Florida**—the vibrant, diverse wildlife, the challenging terrain, and the unparalleled thrill of the chase, making every moment unforgettable.

In Florida, hunting isn’t merely about the kill; it’s a profound experience about embracing the [INTERNAL_LINK: Backwoods life] and forging a deep connection with the untamed beauty of nature. Each hunt is a unique adventure filled with unexpected challenges and immense rewards, and today was certainly no exception. With his heart full of gratitude and his spirit soaring high, Kevin celebrated another incredibly successful day in the wild, a testament to his passion for the outdoors.

Don’t miss out! Check out Kevin’s incredible turkey hunt, captured up close and personal with a stunning Osceola gobbler, showcasing the true essence of **wild turkey hunting strategies**!

VIDEO: Two Yard Turkey Shot!

The sun was just beginning to peek over the horizon, casting a golden glow across the rolling hills of Kansas. The air was thick with anticipation as our crew gathered, eyes locked on a magnificent Rio turkey strutting proudly in the distance. “Here’s the deal,” whispered one of our seasoned hunters, his voice barely above a murmur. “We’ve set up on this bird once before. He’s got a bunch of hens with him, so we’ve slipped around into this gorge to cut him off.” The excitement was palpable, and we could feel our hearts racing at the thought of what lay ahead. The crisp morning air carried the scent of damp earth and distant pines, painting a perfect backdrop for our pursuit. Every rustle of leaves or distant gobble heightened our senses, making the waiting game an art form in itself.

As we crept closer, every footfall was calculated, and the world around us faded into silence. “He’s right up here on this flat,” our guide continued, scanning the area for any sign of movement. “We’ll need to get up there and challenge him with this decoy if we can make it without being seen.” This meticulous approach is a core element of effective wild turkey hunting strategies. The thrill of the chase surged through us as we navigated the rugged terrain, each step bringing us closer to our prize. The dense underbrush provided ample cover, but also demanded careful navigation to avoid snapping twigs that could betray our presence. Our eyes constantly scanned the treeline, anticipating the slightest movement of our wary quarry.

For more hunting insights, check out The Boss Is Coming.

Suddenly, a flurry of feathers erupted as the turkey came into view, and the tension in the air became electric. “Look for four feet, baby!” someone exclaimed, excitement bubbling over as we realized just how close we were. “Woo! Two yards!” came the triumphant shout as one of our hunters prepared to take his shot. It was surreal—so close that we could almost feel the rush of air from the turkey’s wings. The sheer size and vibrant plumage of the Rio turkey were breathtaking, a true spectacle of nature’s grandeur. The unexpected proximity sent a jolt of pure exhilaration through everyone present.

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“That’s what you call up close and personal,” he laughed, adrenaline coursing through his veins. “About two more steps and Ryan would have had a new piercing because he had a spur going through his face!” The humor lightened the mood, but we all understood the seriousness of being so close to such a powerful bird. “Rarely do you see somebody shoot a turkey in self-defense,” he joked, still reveling in the thrill of the moment. But there was no time for distraction; the turkey was still there, and this was our chance.

Similar hunting experience: Stud Illinois Bow Buck.

“You’ve got to love this,” one of us said as we watched the decoy do its job flawlessly. “We’ve been here in Kansas for probably three hours. Kathy’s killed hers, Mark killed his, and now it’s our turn.” With the decoy set and the turkey responding to our calls, a testament to effective top calling techniques, anticipation built to a fever pitch. We were on the brink of something special.

Related story: SCREAMING BULL ELK!.

“I took the old decoy and challenged him with it,” our hunter explained as he crouched behind it, heart pounding with excitement. “I tried to get him to gobble, but he never would.” We waited with bated breath for that perfect moment to strike. And then it happened—the turkey strutted right into range.

For more hunting insights, check out Kansas Turkey Hunting at It’s.

“I shot him at two yards!” he exclaimed, pride evident in his voice as he realized what he had accomplished. The thrill of the hunt surged through him, and we couldn’t help but celebrate his incredible shot. “Oh yeah, I got it on camera!”

“Two yards!” echoed through our group as we reveled in the excitement of the moment. “That’s how far away this turkey was when I shot him,” one of his friends said, still buzzing from the adrenaline rush. “I was right behind you! It was awesome!”

That close encounter would be etched in our memories forever—a testament to our skill and patience in the field. In the world of turkey hunting, moments like these are rare and precious, reminding us why we venture into the wild time and time again. Whether you’re hunting in [INTERNAL_LINK: Kansas], where turkey hunting in Kansas offers unique challenges and rewards, using [INTERNAL_LINK: decoys], or simply enjoying the thrill of nature, every experience adds to our love for the outdoors. It was a moment that perfectly encapsulated the essence of the hunt – a blend of skill, patience, and a deep respect for the wild. Such experiences are what truly define a hunter’s journey and fuel the passion for future expeditions.

What’s your closest shot on a turkey? Here’s one at TWO yards!