New Mexico's Rio Grande Turkeys: Spring Hunting Tactics

Welcome to Find A Hunt, your go-to source for expert hunting tips and information. In this article, we will delve into the exciting world of turkey hunting in New Mexico, focusing on the elusive Rio Grande turkey. Springtime in New Mexico offers an incredible opportunity for hunters, and we'll explore some effective tactics to help you bag that prized gobbler.

The Rio Grande Turkey:

Before we dive into hunting tactics, let's get to know our target: the Rio Grande turkey. These birds are known for their distinct appearance, with iridescent bronze and green feathers, long legs, and a pronounced fan-shaped tail. They are a subspecies of the wild turkey and are native to the southwestern United States, including New Mexico.

Spring Hunting Season:

In New Mexico, spring turkey hunting typically opens in April and lasts until late May. This season corresponds with the Rio Grande turkey's breeding season, making it an ideal time to hunt. During this period, male turkeys, known as toms or gobblers, are actively searching for mates, which makes them more responsive to calls and decoys.

Scouting:

Successful turkey hunting begins with scouting. Research your hunting area, locate roosting sites, and look for turkey tracks and droppings. Knowing the turkey's travel routes and feeding areas will increase your chances of a successful hunt.

Camouflage and Concealment:

Turkeys have sharp eyesight and can spot even the slightest movement. Wearing full camouflage, including a facemask and gloves, is essential. Additionally, find natural cover or use a portable blind to conceal yourself effectively.

Turkey Calls:

Mastering turkey calls is crucial for attracting birds. Common calls include yelps, clucks, purrs, and gobbling sounds. Practice your calls beforehand to ensure you sound like the real thing. Box calls, slate calls, and diaphragm calls are all effective tools for mimicking turkey vocalizations.

Decoys:

Using turkey decoys can be a game-changer. Set up a hen decoy to attract toms looking for a mate. Position the decoy within your shooting range, and remember to keep it well-concealed within your hunting setup.

Patience and Stillness:

Turkeys can be skittish, so patience is essential. Once you're set up, remain as still as possible. Avoid unnecessary movements and keep your eyes and ears sharp, as turkeys can approach silently.

Proper Shot Placement:

When the moment of truth arrives, aim for the turkey's vitals, which are located in the upper chest area. This shot placement ensures a quick and humane kill.

Safety First:

Always prioritize safety when hunting. Wear hunter orange when moving to and from your hunting spot, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Conclusion:

New Mexico's Rio Grande turkeys offer an exciting and rewarding hunting experience during the spring season. To maximize your chances of success, remember to scout your hunting area, use proper camouflage and concealment, master turkey calls, employ decoys, practice patience and stillness, and prioritize safety.

At Find A Hunt, we hope these spring hunting tactics help you on your next Rio Grande turkey hunting adventure in New Mexico. Happy hunting!