GOBBLE WATCH

Once the returning warm spells prevail over yet another period of cold rainy and snow weather, Southern Maryland turkey hunters can begin an important but exciting task. Wild turkey flocks begin moving into their spring ritual this time of year which makes many gobbler hunters happy. Once the big dominant gobblers break away from their bachelor groups and get into strut time, the hunting season will almost be here. Next month, youth gobbler hunting day comes first and provides opportunity to introduce the next generation of hunters to the excitement that turkey hunting is. The week following the youth gobbler hunt Saturday brings opening day for all and by that time, both the challenge and excitement that spring gobbler hunting is will be in full swing. Until then, some discreet scouting is in order.

Scouting Time

A cautious observation from a vantage point that won’t startle wild turkeys is the primary strategy. The weeks of scouting turkeys before opening day means hunter are not encumbered with carrying a firearm. Calls should not be used either as they can educate the birds, prior to hunting season. Scouting wild turkeys prior to the opening day of hunting season is all about stealth and observation while being quiet and still. Thus, camouflage is the high priority not only while hunting but during scouting time. Best locations will provide natural cover for you for concealment, or a light portable blind can be carried.  While you may have opportunity to see turkeys at anytime of the day, Roosting the birds provides the best insight as to choosing a hunting location on opening day.

Listen, Watch, Be Still

Early morning, pre-dawn hours are the times when the tree talk of wild turkeys begins. Soft cackles from hens eventually invoke gobbles from the roosted males, indicate where they are roosting. By the first hours of dawn, the wing beats of fly downs begin which then shows where the roosted birds first start their day of foraging and mating.  Another pre-season scouting tactic is to observe wild turkeys going up on roost. While this can provide important information for opening day, there is no cover of early morning darkness to conceal your movements in getting to the observation point.  

Talk to Landowners, Ask Permission

Landowners and farmers can provide some of the best pre-season hunting information, especially when it comes to spring gobbler season. They are able to make observations and see changes in flock or individual bird habits, more frequently then the visiting hunter can. This is also the time of year hunters need to ensure they still have written permission to hunt their chosen locations during the 2007 spring gobbler season. If you haven’t already done so, secure written permission for hunting. This is also the time to ask landowners if they need any help with tasks or chores around the property.

Hunter Ed Requirements

A complete list of hunting and boating education classes can be viewed by visiting the Maryland DNR website at  www.dnr.state.md.us/nrp/ . Once there, select the hunting safety link. Information by phone can be gained by calling (410) 260-3280.

Maryland’s DNR notes the following requirements, in order to purchase a hunting license or to hunt in Maryland:

·        Presentation of a Certificate of Competency in Firearms and Hunter Safety (required for junior licensees), or

·         Certification that the applicant held a hunting license issued prior to July 1, 1977, or

·         Certification that the applicant hunted on private property prior to July 1, 1977, and was legally exempt from purchasing a hunting license, or

·         Certification that the applicant is purchasing a nonresident license and will only hunt waterfowl.