Paul Sawyer Tags Two Huge Gobblers in Midwest
Paul Sawyer continues his pursuit for wild turkey across the Midwest. Rainy weather keeps things interesting in Kansas, but the conditions are no match for Long Beard XR. In Iowa, Paul meets up with Gabe Adair to take on the toms with Winchester.
As outdoorsmen, we like to take control of the factors that impact the hunt.
We cover up our scent.
We conceal our face.
We watch where the wind blows.
We use powerful Winchester ammunition.
We dial in.
But Mother Nature cannot be completely wrangled. No matter what we do, we cannot change the weather.
When the dark blue skies soak the landscape with blankets of rain, your hunt can drastically change. The power of the elements impact both the hunter, and the hunted. Sometimes, the inclement weather can help. Sometimes, it can hurt. It’s all in how you adapt.
According to biologists, longbeards are more prone to gobbling when the forecast contains clear skies and little wind. Studies also show that thunder can make the toms gobble more…while an all-day drizzle shuts them right up. The birds will either remain perched in their roost, or, if they are on the ground, crouched and looking like a raincoat is draped over their heads…much like how people act when the weather is dreary.
If you find yourself in damp conditions when looking to hook some spurs, make a game plan. Use scouting knowledge to your advantage. In order to tag a turkey, you need to go where the turkeys are. Birds avoid dragging their feathers through the rain and mud, so they’re more likely to stick to open fields and clear areas. Glass in open alfalfa fields and pastures that have shorter vegetation.
An orchestra of rain can drown out the sounds of your call. Call more frequently, and louder. You want to make sure the birds can hear and respond.
Whether the sky is blue or the clouds roll in, one factor plays key in every hunt: Patience. If you play your cards right, the birds will come. When they do, you’ll be ready with Winchester.
For more information, visit the Winchester Pattern Board App or Long Beard XR ammunition page.
