Using a locator call

These calls have nothing to do with calling in turkeys, but everything to do with finding toms. Owl, crow, peacock, woodpecker and hawk sounds all can elicit a reactionary gobble from a tom – sometimes called a “shock gobble.” These calls are usually used when birds are on the roost early in the morning or late in the evening.

Using a hen call to locate a tom can put the tom on the move before you’re ready to set up. If a tom comes in too quickly, it can mean a blown opportunity.

Locator calls encourage toms to gobble without encouraging them to move towards you.

Types of locator calls

Carry a selection of locator calls in your vest, because toms won’t always respond to the same sounds.

  • Owl hooter calls are one of the most popular locator calls. Owl calls aren’t very loud, so they’re most effective on calm mornings in open, flat country, or in timbered areas where turkeys are nearby. 
  • Crow calls are another popular locator call. Practice by listening to real crows in your neighborhood and trying to imitate their sounds.
  • Hawk, peacock and even coyote calls also can be used to locate a tom. In the evening, a louder, more aggressive locator call often works best. This is when coyote and peacock calls seem to be most effective.

Using calls to find a turkey

Deliver locator calls in quick, short, loud bursts. Don’t drag out the calls. The goal is to create loud, crisp sounds that make a gobbler react.

If you’re hunting alone, it can be hard to hear a tom answer back. Especially if he does so early in your calling sequence. Therefore, keep your locater calls brief and loud, then be ready to listen. Once you’ve delivered your call, don’t move or shuffle. You don’t want to miss a faint, distant gobble that may mean the difference between filling a tag or not.

If you're hunting with a partner, have them stand 10 steps to the side of you where they might have a better chance of hearing a shock gobble from a tom.

Locator calls can save a lot of time by helping find toms you otherwise might have missed. Practice with these calls and be ready to make a game plan. When a tom gobbles back, you’ll want to move into position quickly.

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