Turkey hunting is a beloved tradition for many outdoor enthusiasts across the country The challenge of outsmarting these wily birds draws hunters back spring after spring. As any experienced turkey hunter knows, success depends on scouting, calling, camouflage, patience, and finding the right setup. For many hunters, that ideal setup is a tree stand
What are the Benefits of Hunting Turkeys from a Tree Stand?
There are several key advantages to hunting turkeys from an elevated perch:
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Better visibility – Being up off the ground gives you a broader view of the landscape so you can spot approaching turkeys sooner You can scout the area better and pinpoint gobbler hot spots,
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Stay hidden – Turkeys have keen eyesight. A tree stand allows you to stay concealed by camouflage and the canopy above. Turkeys are less likely to detect your movements high in a tree.
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Improved shot angles – Gobblers won’t be looking up for danger. Shooting down from a tree stand gives you clearer aim at head and neck shots for clean kills.
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Use calls and decoys more effectively – From a tree you can better position your calls and decoys for maximum effectiveness in drawing in gobblers
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Comfort – Tree stand seats help you stay comfortable for long waits without aching or numbness. You can shift positions quietly while staying concealed.
What Type of Tree Stand Works Best for Turkey Hunting?
Hang-on tree stands that strap to the tree are ideal for turkey hunting. They’re lightweight, portable, and easy to set up. Hang-on stands keep noise to a minimum compared to ladder stands. They also provide flexibility in terms of tree placement. Other options like climbing stands or tripods can also work well. For safety, be sure to use a fall arrest system.
The height for your turkey hunting tree stand can range from 10-20 feet up. Consider the terrain and available cover when choosing height. Just make sure you have a clear shooting lane once turkeys are in range. Too high, and branches can obstruct your shot.
Where Should You Place Your Tree Stand?
Choosing the right tree in the optimal location is key to success. Here are some tips:
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Scout first – Hang your stand where you know turkeys frequent, such as feeding and roosting areas. Look for strutting zones, tracks, and scratching’s.
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Water sources – Place your stand within 100 yards of water sources like streams, ponds, and wetlands where turkeys water.
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Food sources – Situate your stand near food sources like acorns, crop fields, or food plots.
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Roosting trees – Having a stand within view of roosting trees lets you ambush turkeys flying down at dawn.
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Cover – Pick a tree with brush and branches to break up your silhouette. Avoid open woods with sparse cover.
How Do You Stay Safe and Comfortable?
Along with correct treestand placement, a few other tips will keep you safe and comfortable during your hunt:
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Always wear a safety harness secured to the tree even at low heights.
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Choose a large, healthy tree that can support your weight when hanging a stand.
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Use a tree stand seat pad or cushion for all day comfort.
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Bring a lightweight rope to hoist up your gear like a gun, backpack, and decoys.
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Wear safety glasses and hearing protection for eye and ear protection near gunshots.
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Consider a facemask and scent eliminating spray to contain noise and odors.
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Have your flashlight, knife, phone, and emergency gear on your person at all times. Don’t leave items in the stand when not in use.
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Let someone know your exact hunting location and when you plan to return.
Hunting turkeys from an elevated tree stand offers numerous advantages for hunters seeking to outwit these cunning birds come spring. With advantages in visibility, concealment, shot angles, calling, and comfort, a tree stand is an excellent tool to boost your odds of success. Just be sure to scout diligently for optimal stand placement, safely install your tree stand, and use proper gear and precautions. Follow these tips, and you’ll be ready to bag your gobbler this season from a tree stand vantage point.
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Report your turkey harvest via phone or internet. Its not just the law, its good management!
Turkey From The Tree Stand | How To Hunt Turkey
FAQ
Can you shoot a turkey from a treestand?
So, turkeys rarely will look-up. But hunting from an elevated platform like a tree stand is a two-edged sword. Yes, you’re above the turkey, and they don’t look for danger coming from the sky. The problem is you have less cover than if you’re hunting from the ground.
Is it illegal to shoot a turkey off the roost?
(Be sure to check current ammo regulations.) True enough, you can legally shoot a turkey off the roost in some states, while in others you’ll lose your license privileges for it. Right here is where some might interject the idea that just because it’s legal doesn’t make it ethical or sporting.
Can you shoot a turkey roosting in a tree?
Is it Legal to Hunt the Roost? This is the first and most important question you should ask, and the answer is easy: Check your state’s or province’s hunting regulations. I know of nowhere that it is illegal to set up near or even under a roost for a morning hunt as long as you don’t shoot before legal shooting hours.
Is it better to hunt in a tree stand?
Yes, tree stands are effective to hunt from, but if proper procedures and best practices aren’t followed, climbing up into a tree does come with elevated risks.
What is a good ambush site for turkeys?
Wooded cover between roost trees and feeding areas are also good ambush sites, particularly if there are any hawthorn, crabapple, or similar fruit trees. Many fall turkey crops have been full of small apples or fruits after shooting them.
How do you hunt a Turkey in the fall?
Most people associate hunting turkeys with ground blinds, and that is definitely the most common approach. In the fall, many people also choose a run and scatter tactic, which can use the bird’s confusion to bring them right back in for a shot.
What are the best stands for turkeys?
If you don’t have some existing ladder stands or pre-hung lock on stands, your best bet is to choose mobile stands (i.e., lock on stands). That way, you can adjust your location easily depending on where the turkeys are or are not.
Can You turkey hunt from a tree stand?
Not gonna happen in a tree stand, unless you can somehow “Tarzan rig” the thing and swing from the vines. If you have a KNOWN strut zone with good trees in range, sure, you could do it and probably pull it off. Much more versatility on the ground. Get yerself a Matrix and kill em all! RE:
Do turkeys like tree stands?
But in most cases and places, people already have tree stands in place for deer hunting throughout the fall, which means turkeys are used to seeing them. Why not use them? Generally, they are also already very concealed and located on food plots or good travel routes, which are good spots for turkeys as we’ll discuss below.
How do I hunt a Turkey?
For hunting a Turkey, a sharp knife is sufficient. You will also need nice medical hand gloves for hygiene and disposable aid during the process. Here’s how to do it: