Turkey hunting in the rain can be a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience.
The rain presents a unique set of problems, from wet and slippery surfaces to reduced visibility, reduced hearing potential, and the challenge of keeping your equipment dry and in working order. Those who are prepared and know what to expect will have an advantage over those who are not.
In this article, we’ll share our secrets for successful turkey hunting in the rain. We’ll cover topics such as what gear to bring, strategies for locating turkeys, and which calls work best in wet conditions. With these tips, you can use the rain to your advantage and have a successful turkey hunting expedition.
What Gear Is Necessary for Turkey Hunting in the Rain?
When you plan to hunt turkeys in the rain, it’s important to equip yourself with the right gear. This includes items such as:
- Waterproof outerwear: Investing in a good, waterproof jacket and pants can help keep you dry and warm while hunting during wet conditions. Look for materials that are lightweight but durable.
- Raingear: A quality raingear set will help keep your skin dry and protect your sensitive areas from the elements. It should be made of breathable fabric that allows sweat or other moisture to escape while still keeping the rain out.
- Waterproof boots: If you plan on trekking through wet terrain, good waterproof boots are essential. Look for a pair that is lightweight but offers good traction on slippery surfaces.
- Hat: A wide-brimmed hat will protect you from rain and wind, as well as low-hanging branches if you’re going through a thick brush. Opt for a model made from waterproof material if possible.
Additionally, if the forecast calls for a heavy downpour and thunderstorms, it might be best to stay home on those days – safety comes first when turkey hunting!
Setting Up for Success When Hunting Turkeys in Wet Weather
Rainy weather can be a great time for turkey hunting. When the rain falls, turkeys hunker down, making them easier to spot in thick cover. In addition, you can use wet weather as an advantage to help bring birds into range. Here are a few tips that you can use to take your wet-weather turkey hunting efforts to the next level.
Setting Up Properly
When hunting in wet weather, it is important that you set up in the right kind of spot. Turkeys will be looking for shelter from the elements and typically head toward thicker cover when it starts raining. That makes it an ideal time to set up near a thicket or use brush piles as blinds. Not only will this make it easier for you to stay dry and comfortable, but it will also provide excellent cover for your decoys and calling setup.
Understanding Your Surroundings
It is also important that you understand your surroundings when setting up for a rainy-day hunt. Take note of how different features of the landscape might impact how turkeys move around and adjust your setup accordingly. For example, if you are hunting near a creek or river, set up downwind from these features so that any birds coming in won’t catch wind of your scent and spook them away before they get within range.
How to Locate Turkeys When It’s Raining
Rainy weather can put a damper on turkey hunting, but it does not have to stop you from being successful. There are a few tips and tricks for locating turkeys in the rain that you should keep in mind:
Listening
When it’s raining, the raindrops can drown out the sound of the turkeys gobbling–but this doesn’t mean you should give up! Turkeys hate the rain just as much as hunters do, so they’ll be seeking shelter under trees or bushes. Pay close attention to any faint calls or noises coming from these areas–they may just lead you to your prize.
Calling
Though it may be difficult to hear turkeys in the rain, one way to ensure they hear you is by using a different sort of calling tactic. Instead of relying solely on call-and-response techniques, use a diaphragm call combined with an owl hoot – this will help carry your voice further than when calling alone.
Scouting
Before heading out on your hunt, study up on the area and locate areas with thick foliage and evergreens that will provide extra cover from the rain. When scouting, look for signs of fresh tracks and droppings that indicate turkeys have recently been in the area – this can help you determine where they may be when it’s time for hunting.
Strategies for Turkey Calling in the Rain
Turkey hunting in the rain can be a challenge, but with the right strategies and preparation, it can also be an enjoyable experience.
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your turkey hunt during inclement weather:
- Slow Down: In rainy conditions, turkeys will take longer to respond to your calls because they’re more liable to spook easily due to their damp feathers. Slow down your calls and try not to startle them by playing soft and subtle sounds that are meant to draw them in rather than scare them away.
- Use Cover: Inclement weather conditions make it harder for turkeys to spot you as quickly as they would when visibility is clear. Make sure you use cover effectively when calling so that you remain undetected until the birds have come close enough for you to take a shot.
- Keep Dry: Wet and cold conditions can lead to decreased performance, so make sure you dress appropriately for the weather and bring extra layers of clothes in case it gets colder or wetter than expected. Stay dry and warm at all times so that you don’t compromise your hunting performance due to discomfort or fatigue.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Hunting Turkeys in the Rain
You may think that hunting turkeys in the rain is a bad idea, but there are actually some advantages and disadvantages to bear in mind.
Let’s start with the advantages, which include:
- The sound of rain can mask your sounds – Many hunters underestimate how important sound is when it comes to turkey hunting. The sound of the rain will mask your calls and footsteps, giving you a better chance of avoiding alerting the turkey to your presence.
- Turkeys typically remain calm during light rain – Heavy rains are usually a deterrent to turkeys, but they can handle light rain relatively well. This means that they may stay out in the open longer than in heavy rains, allowing you more time to get a shot off.
Now let’s look at the disadvantages:
- Rain reduces visibility – One of the most important components of turkey hunting is visibility; if you cannot see the turkey, then there is no way to get a shot off. Heavy rains result in reduced visibility, which means you could miss out on potential opportunities.
- Rain makes calling difficult – Calling turkeys requires hearing the bird’s calls and making sure it is responding correctly; this becomes difficult when it’s raining because of all of the noise from water droplets hitting leaves and trees.
Tips and Tricks to Stay Dry While Hunting Turkeys
Rainy weather can make hunting for turkeys a challenging task, but if you plan ahead and know what to expect, you can still be successful. Here are some tips to ensure you stay dry while turkey hunting in the rain:
Wear Appropriate Gear
Dress for the weather like you would if you were going skiing or snowboarding. This means wearing waterproof or water-resistant clothing, as well as a quality pair of rain boots and an umbrella. You should also consider purchasing a waterproof backpack and carrying a few extra items for emergencies, such as a rain poncho or tarpaulin.
Know Your Terrain
It can be difficult to move around after it has been raining heavily due to the slippery conditions so it is important to be aware of your terrain before heading out. Knowing the areas that are prone to flooding or where the ground may be particularly muddy can help you avoid potential dangers while out in the woods.
Be Mindful of Your Footsteps
One of the biggest mistakes hunters make during rainy weather is trying to move too quickly through thick brush and vegetation. Doing so will only further damage already fragile terrain and make it difficult for you to move stealthily while on your hunt. Instead, take your time when walking through grass or other vegetation and look for dry pathways or rock formations that will provide more stability and traction.
Turkey hunting in the rain: Conclusion
Turkey hunting in the rain doesn’t have to be a lost cause. With the right preparation and equipment, you can make the most of wet conditions and turn a potential disaster into a successful hunt. By paying attention to the signs of the weather, adjusting your strategy, and using the right optics, you’ll be ready to go when the rain starts to fall. Get out there and bag that turkey!
