Oh boy do I ever like the wild turkey! At first that was not the case. In fact, on my first hunt down in Lake City in 1984, my buddy and I did not hear a gobble or see a bird. That would change just a couple years later on the outskirts of Red Wing.
I got a taste of it that spring morning and have been consumed with these crazy birds ever since, even more so since they took up residency in our lakes area. My obsession has to be tamed from time to time, but I enjoy the wild turkey and hunting them more than any other hobby (yes, more than fishing). Yes, this is a true statement, and I really do like to fish.
What is it that I like? It's the challenge of drawing one into range without being busted. It's the gobble! It's the time of the year, things are just coming to life in the woods. It's the decisions that need to be made on each hunt. Should I stay or should I go. It's the beauty of the bird, the colors, the everything! The sounds that they make-both male and female. It's the displays that they put on. It's the amazing eyesight and hearing. It's the unpredictability. It's all of the other wildlife that you will hear and see.
It's the wonder if there is one coming in? It's the silence. It's the footsteps. It's the teaching of others about this incredible bird and sport. It's all the tricks of the trade. All the different calls we use, the gear we think we need (and sometimes do). What is it that's going to fool them into striking distance? Why didn't they do this, that or the other? And yes, I do like to eat turkey too! I have had it smoked, grilled, deep fried, burgers and some more. The feathers are so beautiful, the colors of the head can change from red to white to blue, and there is no wonder Benjamin Franklin thought it could be our national bird. I have no clue if he hunted them though.
After all of this, I will have to say that there are some things I don't like about chasing the wild turkey. I do not like the fact that it really can cut into your sleeping patterns, especially when the Minnesota Wild are in the playoffs and don't start until late! The other things I don't like are the ticks and the skeeters, but if you have a Thermacell and some tick repellent you are good to go! Check out the DNR website for turkey zones, time periods and regulations. Oh, a couple more things I don't like. The spring season closes May 31 and I can't guide for hire here in MN!
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P.S. If you see me in a fog, it's because I am #TurkeyTired!
Walleyedan
