Turkeys, Turkeys

[Huntschool]

Any one else "covered up" with turkeys?  I just got back Tuesday from Texas with my shotgun team, turkey season is open and I have already seen 5 good long beards.  These were just spotting for a hunt.  Heck one, with what had to be an 11"+ beard was in the horse pasture within 40 yards of the house.

I dont think I have ever seen this many big birds this soon.  I knew we had a good population but man ......

[straitera]

Great thanks to State Game Managements around the country. Texas now has many also. Get some pix! Good luck.

[Friend]

My inept skill level dictates the need to be covered up with birds in order to coax at least one gob 15 yards and under or start hunting private land.

[uglyjake]

That is great news.  The people I have spoken with in Texas say the numbers are horribly down and the expectations for a good hatch this year are low.  I am told Texas is drought stricken with temperatures already in the upper 90’s and no rain in the forecast.  Good luck and take someone turkey hunting.

[Huntschool]

Illinois had their first seasons about 1965-68 or so and then it was limited to only several countys.  Now, well, they did a great job of reintroduction....

[SEMO_HUNTER]

I'm happy for ya man, go get em!      

[Huntschool]

Go get em Semo....

[Txnrog]

Texas pops are generally down, If I remember right, they actually closed the season in a couple eastern counties. The area I hunt (hill country) is still in a low cycle and has been for several years, but we had a good hatch about 3 years ago before this drought started, so of the turkeys you do see, quite a few are mature toms.