Tips for Safe and Successful Fall Turkey Hunt

LINCOLN – Nebraska’s fall turkey season is now open, and hunters are taking to the woods and fields for a chance to fill their tags.

“Because toms and hens are both fair game during the fall season in Nebraska, it might make it a little easier to bag a bird, but this fact can make it even more important that hunters keep their eyes open and be certain of their targets before firing,” said Wendy Horine, hunter education coordinator for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Horine has the following additional suggestions to make a fall turkey hunt safe and successful:

Dress the Part – Fall turkey hunting requires a slightly different camouflage scheme than spring, in most cases. Since the woods and fields are loaded with browns, gold and yellows, keep these colors in mind when choosing camouflage. Avoid red, blue or white – the colors of a tom turkey’s head.

Camouflage Everything – Just because the temperatures are dipping doesn’t mean a turkey’s eyesight is any less keen. Be sure to properly camouflage guns, bows and other equipment, including arrow shafts, and use caution in selecting colors.

Make Sure Other Hunters Know You Are There – While you might find it frustrating to give away your position, make sure to call out, not wave, if another hunter approaches.

Take Care When Using Decoys and Calls – Although designed to lure in the birds, decoys and calls can also attract other hunters. Make sure this doesn’t happen by watching for other hunters. In addition, don’t position decoys where your location would be a direct shot for a miss from another hunter’s rifle or bow.

Follow Basic Safety Rules – Remember to treat every firearm as if it’s loaded. Never point your gun at anything you don’t intend to shoot. Keep your finger off of the trigger until you’re ready to fire. Always identify your target and what is beyond it.

Fall turkey hunting can be one of the best times in the woods. Playing it safe and using smart tactics can make it even more enjoyable. The season closes Jan. 31, 2016.

Purchase turkey permits at OutdoorNebraska.org.