Thought I would share my first ever turkey and short story about the hunt.
I was lucky enough to draw a spring bear permit for the northeast corner. I decided I would spoil myself and hire a guide for the first time ever. Made a quick phone call to Dale at Bearpaw Outfitters and then just waited anxiously for my trip. In the planning Dale made it clear that I should also bring my shotgun and a turkey tag. He was sure while bear hunting we would have a turkey sighting.
Well day one came and sure enough while bear hunting we found a vocal gobbler. Put down the rifle and grab the shotgun, we were now on a turkey hunt. We hiked up the mountain and spent about a half hour trying to get on the bird. Well as luck would have it...the turkey didn't want anything to do with us....back to the truck..we had a bear to find.
No bears and lots of ground covered. Early afternoon and we were checking a drainage for bears. Daniel, another guide, sees a tom turkey strutting in the grass......we are now turkey hunting again. I grab the shotgun and get on the turkey. He starts out at about 30 yards, but has decided this situation does not look good. He starts to exit stage right putting distance between us fast. Finally a clear shot at about 40 yards and BOOOOOM......BIRD DOWN!!!! My first bird (EVER) and it is a dandy.
If I didn't have bear rug planned and a buck already at the taxidermist, this bird would have gotten a full mount. With that said...I think I made a good decision with a fan and beard mount. This way my wife will allow me in the house.
Beard is 8"
Enjoy the pictures.
