Hunting with Mike

The snows melting  the sun is shining and a young mans (and old geezers too) fancy turns toward the spring turkey season.  I don’t know about you, but as a hunter I’m “itching” to get back to big game hunting again.

I love to hunt turkeys, and have taken birds from all over the state.  The last two years my son-in-law Tony, along with my grandson Quinn, and I have ventured to the U.P. in search of Mr.Tom Turkey.  On both occasions we have filled our tags with great birds.  To me nothing gets my heart “thumpin” like watching a 20-plus pound gobbler work its way toward my calling position. Like I said I’ve filled many turkey permits, but I get just as big a thrill calling one in for someone else.  Contrary to some popular misconceptions turkeys are not dumb.  Sure a hunter can get lucky (my mother would say blessed) and have a lovesick gobbler trip over his gun barrel, but to consistantly take a “boss Tom” requires beaucoup knowledge and effort.  You better due your homework.  Scouting, calling techniques, concealment, and a P.H.D. from “Turkey U” are all essential if you plan on putting one in the freezer.  If you fail in any one of these areas you’ll be basting a Farmer Jacks butterball rather than a wild Michigan gobbler.

This year I’m going to try my trusty box call around Hillsdale and see if I can’t outwit “ole longspurs” again.  Nomatter the outcome I plan to thoroughly enjoy being back in Michigans outdoors.  I hope you all have a safe and successful hunt.