Turkey Hunting Safety for the Novice Hunter

For many hunters, there is nothing more exciting than hunting turkeys, but it does carry a few risks. If you are a novice to the sport and inexperienced in the field, you should know about the dangers of hunting and how you can potentially hurt yourself---or someone else---while pursuing this exciting sport. If you're planning on turkey hunting this season, follow these safety guidelines that are designed for the novice hunter.

Don't Try Stalking

Many novice hunters make the mistake of trying to stalk their prey, which invariably results in the turkey's attempt to strike. It's best to remain outside striking distance and ask obscured by natural shelter as possible The goal in turkey hunting is to make sure you aren't spotted by the animals, and safety suggests that you should keep your distance.

Watch for Hunters

On rare occasions, another hunter will see your decoys while you're hunting turkey and will think that they are the real thing. Novice hunters are often surprised by this, and act rashly without thinking. Don't abruptly stand up and startle the other hunter, nor should you signal your presence with a call. Instead, remain where you are and loudly announce that another hunter is nearby.

Keep Something at Your Back

Because there are often many people out during turkey hunting season, it is important to take measures to protect yourself. As a novice hunter, you might not realize just how vulnerable you are out in the open. For safety's sake, make sure you always have a tree, log or thick brush at your back as you wait for the perfect bird.

Look Beyond Your Target

It is easy for novice hunters to become fixated on their targets, oblivious to everything else as they concentrate on making that one perfect shot. This is a serious safety issue, however, because if you miss, you could hit something (or someone) else behind the turkey while hunting. Always examine your surroundings before taking a shot.

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