Fall Safety

By: Rob Keck

With the air cool and crisp and the color of leaves changing to brilliant reds, oranges and yellows, autumn is a great time to be outdoors. But just like spring, safety is always a top priority when hunting. The fall season demands a few special precautions.

Don’t let the fact that hens and gobblers are typically both legal for harvest in the fall cloud your judgement when it comes time to pull the trigger. Always, always be sure of your target and make sure it is a wild turkey and not a fellow hunter or other animal.

Scattering the birds by running toward them and yelling is a common fall tactic. But never run with a loaded gun. If you want to bust a flock by firing your gun, sneak as close as possible and shoot into the air.

Just like in spring, never wear the colors red, white or blue where they can be seen. Use total camouflage and sit against a large tree or rock wide enough and tall enough to shield you from hunters approaching from behind.

If another hunter approaches your setup, call out in a loud, clear voice. Never wave to alert another hunter of your presence.

*Content courtesy of The National Wild Turkey Federation.