Osprey Restoration: Understanding Excise Taxes & Wildlife Conservation

How to Pattern Your Shotgun for Turkey Hunting

By Vin T. Sparano, as excerpted from Complete Outdoors Encyclopedia: Camping, Fishing, Hunting, Boating, Wilderness Survival, First Aid Turkey

Turkeys make a tough target. They are difficult to see and even harder to harvest. The head and neck are the only vital areas that ensure a fast, clean hunt, but this will only happen if your shotgun throws a tight, dense shot pattern. The best shotgun choice for turkeys is a 12-gauge magnum, though the 10 gauge is gaining some ground among turkey hunters. The best shot sizes are No. 2, 4, 5, or 6. The best shotgun chokes are Full, Extra Full, and Super Full. Learn more about the Different Shotgun Gauges here.

Pattern Your Shotgun for Turkeys

Patterning Target on Adult Turkey

Patterning your shotgun for turkey hunting is simply a matter of shooting your shotgun with various shot sizes at different ranges to determine the most effective combination. To pattern your shotgun, you will need two loads of each shot size and six targets that show the full-size head and neck of a gobbler. Start by taking one shot at each target at 15, 25, and 40 yards.' With each load and choke combination, count the number of pellets in the vital area of the gobbler’s head. Opinions vary on the number of pellets you will need in a vital area to put a turkey down, but you will need at least six to harvest a turkey. Some experienced hunters, however, claim that a turkey hunter will need up to 30 pellets in a vital area to harvest a gobbler quickly and cleanly. After you have tried all the different loads at 15, 25, and 40 yards, analyze your targets and count the pellets in the vital area. Determine which load gives you the densest pattern in the gobbler’s head and neck. That’s the load to use.

Remember that 40 yards is about the maximum shotgun range on gobblers, regardless of your choke and load combination. Any turkey farther than 40 yards is not in pursuing range and you should not take the shot.

Check out this Turkey Chokes Tip From NWTF

https://youtu.be/L6TamAxpoqw?feature=shared

Wild turkeys are tough animals to harvest and a tight-patterning shot to the head and neck area is required to seal the deal.

Turkey Hunting Safety Reminders

There was a time when duck hunting was considered the most dangerous form of hunting. That’s no longer true. Turkey hunting now accounts for most accidents. There are some good rules for turkey hunters to keep in mind:

Never wear red, white, black, or light-blue clothing that could be visible to other hunters. These are the colors of a spring gobbler. Wear full camouflage, but avoid white socks or T-shirts, which might look like the white part of a gobbler.
Use your turkey call in terrain where you can see at least 50 yards in every direction.
Keep your back against a tree trunk, stump, or boulder that is higher than your head.
If you see another turkey hunter approaching, stay still and whistle or shout loudly.
Never sneak in on a turkey that is gobbling, and avoid using a call when hunters are nearby.
If you use a decoy, position it so that you are not in any possible line of fire with it. Position the decoy so it can be seen from the sides, not from in front of or behind you. Use only hen decoys, never a fake gobbler.
If you plan to hunt from a ground blind, read these safety considerations.

About the Author: Vin T. Sparano is the author of Complete Outdoors Encyclopedia as well as three other guides for Rizzoli. He has been an outdoor editor and writer for more than fifty years. He is editor emeritus of Outdoor Life, and has written and edited more than fifteen books about the outdoors. In 2013, he was inducted into the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame. Special thanks to StepOutside.org for providing this insightful content. You may also be interested in:

https://www.letsgohunting.org/resources/articles/game-birds/five-must-haves-for-turkey-season/

Check out these delicious Turkey Recipes

https://www.letsgohunting.org/resources/articles/recipes/wild-turkey-buffalo-cheese-dip/ https://www.letsgohunting.org/resources/articles/recipes/wild-turkey-schnitzel-recipe/

What are Eurasian Collared Doves?

Collared doves are medium-sized birds with a distinct "collar" of black feathers around their necks. Originally from Europe and Asia, they were introduced to North America and have rapidly expanded their population. These doves are often seen in urban areas, farmlands, and open woodlands.

Hunting Eurasian Collared Doves: A Year-Round Opportunity

One exciting aspect of hunting collared doves in the USA is that they can be hunted year-round in most states. Unlike other game birds with specific hunting seasons, collared doves fall under the category of "non-protected" or "invasive" species in many states. This means they are not native to the USA, and, in some regions, their large populations can cause problems for agriculture and native bird species. As a result, wildlife authorities in certain states allow year-round hunting to control their numbers and manage their impact on the environment.

Where to Hunt Eurasian Collared Doves

Ethically pursuing collared doves means hunting in locations where it's safe, legal, and environmentally responsible. Collared doves are often found in open areas, like farmlands, open woodlands, and urban settings. To hunt them ethically, it's essential to have permission from landowners or use public lands where hunting is allowed. Remember to follow all hunting regulations and seasons set by local wildlife authorities. Always respect the environment and other wildlife while enjoying your hunting experience. Mentored Millenial Dove Hunt

1. Public Lands and Wildlife Management Areas: One of the best and most accessible options for hunting collared doves ethically is on public lands and wildlife management areas. These areas are often managed by state or federal agencies, and hunting regulations are strictly enforced to ensure sustainable practices. Check with your local wildlife agency to find nearby public lands with open hunting seasons for collared doves. 2. Private Lands with Permission: Hunting on private lands can offer excellent opportunities, but it's crucial to obtain permission from landowners before venturing onto their property. Many landowners are open to responsible hunters who respect their land and follow the rules. Establish a respectful relationship with the landowner and adhere to their guidelines to ensure a positive hunting experience. 3. Farmlands and Agricultural Areas: Collared doves are commonly found in farmlands and agricultural areas where they feed on grains and seeds. These locations can be promising spots for ethical hunting, but always seek permission from farmers before hunting on their lands. Respecting their crops and property is essential for maintaining good relationships with landowners. 4. Open Woodlands and Rural Areas: Collared doves often inhabit open woodlands and rural regions. These areas can provide excellent opportunities for hunters looking to experience dove hunting. As with any hunting expedition, ensure that the land is legally accessible and that you follow all hunting regulations. 5. States with Year-Round Hunting Seasons: Certain states offer year-round hunting seasons for collared doves due to their non-protected or invasive status. States with larger dove populations may present the best opportunities for hunters looking to enjoy dove hunting during the summer months.

Hunting Tips and Techniques

Hunting collared doves can be both challenging and rewarding. Here are some simple tips to enhance your chances of success:

Bird Identification: It's extremely important hunters know what they are looking for because mourning doves, white-winged doves, spotted doves, ring turtle doves and Eurasian collared doves look similar, but hunters are expected to know the difference. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife has a graph to help hunters differentiate.
Scouting: Before heading out, scout the area to find locations where collared doves are abundant. Look for areas with food sources like grains and seeds, which attract these birds.
Camouflage: Collared doves have sharp eyesight, so it's crucial to wear camouflage clothing to blend into the surroundings effectively.
Decoys: Using decoys can be a useful tactic to attract collared doves. These decoys mimic other doves and make the area appear more attractive to them.
Shotgun and Ammo: A shotgun is the preferred weapon for hunting doves due to its quick and erratic flight. Use lightweight, small-pellet shotshells for better accuracy and safety. Learn more about Shotgun and ammo types here.
Patience and Practice: Hunting collared doves requires patience and practice. Spend time at the shooting range to improve your shooting skills and be prepared for the fast-moving targets.

Hunting collared doves in the USA during the summer can be an enjoyable experience. Their year-round hunting status provides a unique opportunity for hunters to pursue these birds and help maintain a balanced ecosystem. Just remember to follow all local hunting regulations, get the appropriate licenses, and practice ethical and responsible hunting. So, gear up, head out to the fields, and enjoy the summer hunting adventure with collared doves! Check out these Delicious Dove Recipes https://www.letsgohunting.org/resources/articles/recipes/grilled-dove-poppers/ https://www.letsgohunting.org/resources/articles/recipes/mexican-style-cornbread-and-dove-breast-casserole-recipe/ Dove Hunting Offers a Great Mentoring Opportunity https://www.letsgohunting.org/resources/articles/plus-one/fish-wildlife-agencies-use-mentored-dove-hunts-to-introduce-people-to-hunting/ https://www.letsgohunting.org/resources/articles/game-birds/doves-the-perfect-youth-hunt/