Safety gear

While turkey hunting is one of the safest forms of hunting, there are some safety tips hunters should follow.

Be visible when you need to be

The biggest risk in turkey hunting is being in the woods with other turkey hunters. Remember, everyone will be wearing camouflage and sounding like a turkey as they try to call in birds (including you).

Therefore, you’ll want to make sure you and your location are visible while you’re walking to the blind or setting up, while you’re set up behind a tree and while you’re carrying your bird out of the field.

A roll of blaze orange flagging tape and/or a blaze orange hat can help you stand out when you need to.

Consider wearing a blaze orange hat or other something while walking into or out of a hunt. Some turkey vests have a built-in blaze orange panel that can be revealed when you’re moving through the woods and dense brush.

Tie flagging tape to the turkey you’ve harvested so other hunters don’t think the bright red, white and blue head belongs to a live bird (it’s happened).

Finally, use tape to mark your trail or hunting spots. Some turkey hunters who have set up in front of a tree like to hang something bright red or orange on the opposite side of the tree so other hunters know they’re there. Popular choices include a hat, bandana or flagging tape.

Other safety gear: navigation, first aid and more

There is always an element of risk when you venture off-trail – even for a short hunt. Every hunter should be prepared to deal with minor injuries, getting lost and unexpected changes in the weather.

To start, let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. If you’re seriously overdue, they can call for help. (For this reason, also let them know when you've gotten home safely.)

In addition, be sure to carry the following:

  • A GPS unit or map/compass so you can find your way back
  • A first aid kit, with blister treatment and antihistamine for bug bites
  • Plenty of food and water
  • Sunscreen
  • Lip balm with sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Poison oak ointment
  • Rain gear

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