how to use a turkey wing bone call

3 min read 20-01-2025

Meta Description: Master the art of turkey hunting with our comprehensive guide on using a turkey wing bone call. Learn different techniques, sounds, and tips to attract gobblers. Discover how to create realistic yelps, clucks, and purrs for a successful hunt. Improve your calling skills and increase your chances of bagging a bird!

Understanding the Turkey Wing Bone Call

The turkey wing bone call, a simple yet effective tool, mimics the sounds of a hen turkey. This natural sound is incredibly alluring to gobblers. Unlike commercial calls, the wing bone call offers a unique, raspy tone that many turkeys find irresistible. This article will show you how to use a wing bone call effectively.

Choosing and Preparing Your Call

Selecting the right wing bone is crucial. Look for a bone from a mature turkey, generally larger and offering a better sound range. Thoroughly clean and dry the bone before use to prevent sticking or unwanted sounds. Some hunters prefer to slightly roughen the bone's surface for improved sound production.

Holding the Turkey Wing Bone Call

The proper grip is essential for controlling the sound. Hold the bone between your thumb and forefinger, near the larger end. Experiment with different grips to find what feels most comfortable and allows for precise control. A relaxed grip is usually best.

Mastering the Basic Turkey Sounds

The turkey wing bone call allows you to create a range of sounds. Mastering these sounds is key to attracting turkeys.

The Yelp: The Foundation of Your Calling

The yelp is the most common and important sound. It's a series of short, sharp calls used to attract the attention of a gobbler. Create yelps by scraping the bone with the other fingers. Practice developing a variable yelp; changing the pitch and intensity keeps it realistic.

The Cluck: Establishing Your Presence

Clucks are short, low-pitched sounds. They sound like a hen is feeding or moving around. Produce clucks using a short, rapid scraping motion of the bone. They signal that a hen is comfortable in the area. Use clucks to keep the gobbler interested.

The Purr: The Soft Approach

The purr is a softer, more intimate sound. It's a low, rumbling sound made by gently rubbing the bone. Purrs are often used to keep a gobbler interested after you've already attracted his attention. Use this sound sparingly and cautiously.

The Kee-Kee Run: Calling in Young Birds

A kee-kee run imitates the sounds of young poults. This can be effective in bringing in a gobbler that's protective of its young. This sound consists of a series of high-pitched, rapid chirps.

Advanced Techniques and Tips for Success

Practicing Your Sounds

Consistent practice is crucial to master the turkey wing bone call. Record yourself to identify areas for improvement. Practice different sounds, varying the speed, pitch, and intensity. The more natural your calls sound, the better your chances of success.

Understanding Turkey Behavior

Learn about turkey behavior to understand when and how to use your calls effectively. Different sounds work best at different times of day and in different situations. Observe their patterns and adjust your calling strategy accordingly.

Blending Calls

Learn to blend your calls smoothly. Don't just make one sound at a time. Combine yelps, clucks, and purrs in a natural-sounding sequence. This mimics a hen's natural vocalizations. Avoid sounding robotic or repetitive.

Patience is Key

Turkey hunting takes patience. Don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately. Keep practicing and experimenting with different calling techniques.

Wind Conditions

Wind can significantly affect your calling. Be mindful of the direction and speed of the wind. Position yourself to allow the sound to carry towards the potential target.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your calls sound unnatural, try adjusting your grip and technique. The bone's moisture level can also affect the sound quality. Ensure the bone is properly dried. If the sounds are too high pitched, use a different section of the bone.

Conclusion

The turkey wing bone call offers a unique and effective way to attract gobblers. With practice and a thorough understanding of turkey behavior and calling techniques, you will dramatically improve your chances for a successful hunt. Remember to always practice ethical hunting techniques. Happy hunting!