Turkey hunting can be a thrilling and rewarding experience for hunters of all skill levels. However, it can also be a challenging and unpredictable activity, especially when it comes to getting close enough to a turkey to make a clean shot. One solution to this problem is to use a ground blind.
Ground blinds are structures that provide hunters with concealment, allowing them to get closer to their prey undetected.
In this guide, we will discuss the benefits of using a ground blind for turkey hunting, where to set it up, whether turkeys will spook from it, how long it takes turkeys to get used to it, and tips for setting it up.
Are Ground Blinds Good For Turkey Hunting?
Yes, ground blinds are an excellent tool for turkey hunting. One of the main advantages of using a ground blind is that it provides hunters with concealment, allowing them to get closer to their prey without being seen. This is especially important when hunting turkeys, as they have excellent eyesight and are very alert.
A ground blind can also help to break up the hunter’s outline, making it harder for turkeys to detect them. Additionally, ground blinds provide hunters with a more comfortable and stable shooting platform, making it easier to take accurate shots.
Where Do You Put The Ground Blind?
The location of the ground blind is critical to its effectiveness. There are several factors to consider when choosing the location for the blind. Firstly, it is essential to choose an area where turkeys are likely to be present. This can be determined by scouting the area beforehand or by looking for signs of turkey activity, such as tracks, droppings, or feathers.
Secondly, the location of the blind should be based on the wind direction. Turkeys have a keen sense of smell, and if the wind is blowing towards them, they are likely to detect the hunter’s scent and spook. It is best to set up the blind downwind of where the turkeys are likely to approach from.
Thirdly, set up the blind at a location where two different trails intersect, come together, or turn sharply. This spot provides excellent visibility for both the hunter and their decoys, allowing them to spot approaching turkeys from multiple directions.
Will Turkeys Spook From A Blind?
Ground blinds are often used by hunters to conceal themselves and get closer to turkeys during hunts. However, a common concern is whether turkeys will be spooked by the presence of the blind. Based on experience and observations, it seems that turkeys are not easily alarmed by the blinds.
While turkeys have sharp senses and can detect sudden movements or noises, they are more likely to be spooked by these factors than by the mere presence of the blind. Hunters should still exercise caution and remain still and quiet while inside the blind to avoid alerting the turkeys.
By taking these precautions, hunters can improve their chances of a successful hunt without worrying about spooking the turkeys.
How Long Does It Take Turkeys To Get Used To A Blind?
Turkeys can take some time to get used to the presence of a ground blind. It is best to set up the blind well in advance of the hunt, allowing the turkeys to become familiar with its presence in the area. Turkeys are naturally curious animals, and they will investigate anything new in their environment. It is a good idea to leave the blind in place for several days or even a week or two before the hunt to allow the turkeys to get used to it. The more time the turkeys have to become familiar with the blind, the less likely they are to be spooked by it.
Tips For Setting Up A Ground Blind For Turkey Hunting
- Choose a location that provides good visibility of the area and is downwind of where the turkeys are likely to approach from.
- Set up the blind well in advance of the hunt, allowing the turkeys to get used to its presence in the area.
- Choose a blind that blends in with the surrounding environment. The blind should be camouflaged to match the colors and patterns of the area.
- Use natural cover to help conceal the blind. This can be done by placing branches or other vegetation around the edges of the blind to help it blend in with the surrounding vegetation.
- Choose a comfortable and stable shooting platform. A ground blind with a chair or bench can help to make the hunt more comfortable and provide a stable shooting platform.
- Use scent eliminators and cover scents to reduce the hunter’s scent. Turkeys have an excellent sense of smell, and any scent can alert them to the hunter’s presence.
- Practice shooting from the blind before the hunt. This will help the hunter to become familiar with the shooting position and ensure they are comfortable and confident with their equipment.
Tips For Concealing Your Ground Blind
A crucial aspect of a successful turkey hunt is the ability to conceal your presence from the turkeys. Ground blinds provide hunters with the perfect solution to this problem. However, merely setting up a ground blind is not enough; it’s equally important to conceal the blind adequately.
Here are some tips to help you conceal your ground blind effectively and increase your chances of a successful hunt.
Set up the Blind Early in the Season
If you have the option to set up your ground blind on private land, try to do so early in the season. This will allow the turkeys to get accustomed to the presence of the blind in the area, making it less likely to spook them during the hunt.
Use Vegetation to Conceal the Blind
While turkeys may not be super discerning of blinds, using branches or other vegetation to hide the profile of your ground blind can make it even more effective. This will help it blend in better with the surrounding environment and provide additional concealment for the hunter.
Keep Windows Mostly Closed
To avoid letting in excess light that can expose your profile, it’s best to keep the windows of the blind mostly closed. Only the window facing the decoys should remain open, while the others should be kept closed.
Wear Dark Clothing
When hunting inside a blind exclusively, it’s essential to wear dark clothing that will help conceal your profile. The inside of most hunting blinds is black, so your upper layers, face mask, and hat should be dark in color.
Position the Blind Strategically
It’s crucial to position your ground blind strategically to ensure maximum concealment. Remember to position the blind so that the sun is behind you and not shining into the turkeys’ faces when they look towards your blind position. Also, try to position the blind so that the turkeys approach from your side or behind you. This will help to conceal your presence and avoid direct eye contact with the turkeys.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using a ground blind for turkey hunting can provide hunters with a significant advantage. It allows them to get closer to the turkeys undetected and provides a more comfortable and stable shooting platform. However, the location of the blind is critical to its effectiveness.
It should be set up in an area where turkeys are likely to be present, downwind of their approach, and with good visibility. Additionally, it is essential to take steps to reduce the hunter’s scent and camouflage the blind to match the surrounding environment.
By following these tips, hunters can increase their chances of a successful turkey hunt.
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