First Timer

[cmoredrakes]

I drew a license this year and want to know what style of call would be a good choice for a rookie.

[30 inch eyes]

a slate is probably the easiest to learn to use. You could also try one of the crystal calls, they are pretty easy too.

[cmoredrakes]

Thanks, I'll have to try it out. What brand would you recommend? because I have a Quaker Boy and I just think it is to high pitched. Should I stick with that one or get a new one that isn't so high?

[WallyGator12000]

When I first started I used the Primos Power Crystal and I really like it. One of my favorite parts is the thing is darn near indestructable, that was a big plus for me right away. It also was relatively easy to use, I didn't really have more than a vague idea my first season on how to use it and I called in two gobblers, unfortunately couldn't bag either one! Though, that wasn't the fault of the call! lol Also, I don't know when your season is, but if you can get your hands on a diaphragm call, and get a video or have someone show you how to use it, though difficult at first, with practice I feel they really are the ticket because of the hands free operation. Now that you got me going...I have some friends that have had good success with the push button calls, if you don't feel comfortable with anything else, it can't get more simpler than them! I guess I can be done rambling now...so many options, so little time!

[IceHawk]

I prefer to use slate calls. I use a HS slate and have been very happy with it. I do use alot of differnet strikers as I have found that all birds are not equal and sometimes a differnet pitch is all it takes to bring in a hung up gobbler.

[cmoredrakes]

Also, I drew area 345 and I was wondering if any body Knew people from Rushford, Utica, Altura, St. Charles, or Lewiston 'cause my dad wants to take me down anywhere where turkeys are active. Some info would be great, thanks.

---Livin' large at 14---

[FOOT]

cmoredrakes, It's unfortunate that you are asking about what type of call to use now since you state you drew a permit this year.

I, along with 3 other guys, were fortunate in drawing a permit the first year in 1978. Long before we knew we were drawn we were practicing with our calls and contacting land owners to obtain permission just in case we were drawn.

The point here is practice, get permission and scout long before you know you have the license. That way you are prepared and a better hunter then starting late.

Don't get me wrong this note is not to chew you out, at 14 I probably would have done the very same thing.

As far a calls I started with the box call but now carry a slate, a friction and 2 wing bone calls made out of the turket wings from the turkey I got in 1978 along with a box call. I just have not been able to get over the choke responce of a mouth call.

By the way we all scored on turkeys that first year.

Good luck in your hunting, it will be something that hooks you for years to come.

[cmoredrakes]

FOOT, I know I should't be asking what type of calls I should use right before my season so I could practice and all. But, I practice every day on my slate. Plus, I got my dad with me and he's got 3 in the last 4 years . So, I have him incase I don't feel confident. Thanks for the info though.

---Livin' large at 14---