Tips for Traveling for Turkeys
Loading up the truck and heading on a cross-country road trip to harvest a turkey is gaining popularity these days. However, embarking on a turkey tour can be daunting if you’re unprepared. I spoke with a veteran of traveling to hunt gobblers, Daniel Holder, product manager at CZ-USA. He is no stranger to the long nights and early mornings. Here are his tips for having a good trip.
Make Use of Driving Time and Comfort
On a long trip, you are driving through multiple states where turkeys inhabit. Even if you don’t buy a license in those states you are crossing, divert to any nearby public land spots and do some scouting for future hunts. It is easier to spend some extra time and divert 20-30 miles to scout a place than show up blind in the future.
Additionally, I always try to bring comfortable bedding and a hoodie. No matter where you are, it will be colder than you anticipated, and if you need to sleep, you can always throw it on and cover your eyes. Take your favorite pillow and blanket. Quality sleep on any hunting trip is a commodity, so maximize the little sleep you get with the comforts of home!
Save Money
I usually camp out of my truck, saving $150-$200 on motels a night. But my big tip is to find friends, family or even acquaintances near where you want to hunt. If they don’t have land or hunt themselves, it could be a free place to stay and a good meal. A hot shower after a hunt is worth driving a little extra. Also, time spent with friends is the true reward of the hunt!
Just Do It
Like many things in life, the quickest way to learn is to try it. Sleep in your truck, go to a spot you have never hunted and see how awesome it can be. Ask many of questions as you encounter knowledgeable, savvy hunters in those states. A little information can help immensely when you are on the road.
The Reward
Traveling to hunt makes you a much better hunter quickly. When you go to a new place seeking success, you must put in a lot of work. As Colonel Tom Kelly said, the best way to get good at hunting turkeys is to have multiple interactions with turkeys and let them tell you what you did wrong. If you can go to a different state on public land and kill a bird, that is an accomplishment. You will gain much experience, though, even if you fail.
Double Up
Bring two complete setups of everything (within reason). Two guns with appropriate optics and batteries dialed in, two turkey vests, three-four decoys, etc. If something breaks, you won’t have to spend precious time repairing or buying a replacement. You can grab your back up and get back out there.